This Sura was probably an early Medina Sura, or possibly a late Meccan Sura.
In subject matter it carries forward the argument of the last Sura. The mystic night of revelation is indeed blessed: But those who reject Truth are impervious to Allah's Message, however clear may be the evidence in support of it.
C.278-(Verses 1 to 8)-But those who reject the light of Truth are obstinate. Why should they persist in evil ways when the Clear Evidence has come before them? The straight Religion is simple: To adore with a pure heart the Allah of Truth, to draw nigh to Him in Prayer sincere, and to serve our fellow creatures in charity and love. To do aught else is to fall from Grace. But Faith and Good Life lead straight to the goal, -- the beauteous Gardens of Bliss Eternal, and the mutual good pleasure of the Soul in her Lord.
98:1 SURA 98. Baiyina, or The Clear Evidence. In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Those who reject (Truth) among the People of the Book and among the Polytheists, were not going to depart (from their ways) until there should come to them Clear Evidence, --
98:2 An apostle from Allah rehearsing scriptures kept pure and holy:
98:3 Wherein are laws (or decrees) right and straight.
98:4 Nor did the People of the Book make schisms, until after there came to them Clear Evidence.
98:5 And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being True (in faith); to establish regular Prayer; and to practice regular Charity; and that is the Religion Right and Straight.
98:6 Those who reject (Truth), among the People of the Book and among the Polytheists, will be in Hellfire, to dwell therein (for aye). They are the worst of creatures.
98:7 Those who have faith and do righteous deeds, -- they are the best of creatures.
98:8 Their reward is with Allah: Gardens of Eternity, beneath which rivers flow; they will dwell therein forever; Allah well pleased with them, and they with Him: All this for such as fear their Lord and Cherisher.
