16. The Smoke (Dukhan) and Its Meaning

The title of Surah Ad-Dukhan (The Smoke) derives from a significant sign mentioned in the following verses:

This smoke (dukhan) has been understood in two ways by scholars of Quranic exegesis. Some interpret it as referring to a historical event that occurred in Makkah during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). During this period, the Makkans experienced a severe famine that caused such extreme hunger that people became disoriented, seeing what appeared to be smoke before their eyes due to physical weakness and dehydration.

In this interpretation, the verses describe how the leaders of Quraysh, including Abu Sufyan, approached the Prophet (peace be upon him) despite their hostility toward him, asking him to pray for the removal of this affliction:

Though Allah (swt) lifted this hardship in response to the Prophet's supplication, the Makkans quickly returned to their disbelief:

The other interpretation suggests that the smoke refers to a major sign that will appear closer to the Day of Judgment. This view sees it as one of the major signs of the end times that will envelop humanity, bringing with it great suffering.

Regardless of which interpretation one follows, the central message remains clear: Allah (swt) sends signs as warnings and opportunities for people to turn back to Him in repentance. The temporary relief from punishment is a manifestation of Allah's mercy, giving people another chance to believe and reform.

Allah (swt) then warns that despite such mercy, if people return to disbelief, a greater punishment awaits: