The Holy Qur’an stands for spiritual guidance, divine wisdom, and eternal truth. One of the most powerful and vivid surahs in the 30th Juz is Surah Al-Naba. It is also known as “The Tidings” and “The Great News”. It plays an immense role in awakening the human conscience to the realities of the afterlife, the power of Allah, in this article we will write surah al naba transliteration and all details.

What is Surah Al-Naba?

Surah Al-Naba (Chapter 78) is a Makki surah consisting of 40 verses. It is placed at the beginning of the 30th Juz (Juz Amma), which is commonly memorized by children and beginners in reciting the Qur’an. “An-Naba” is an Arabic word meaning “The Great News,” or the Day of Judgment, which is the main topic of this chapter.

This surah begins by inquiring from the disbelievers about the “great news” and continues to describe the signs of Allah’s greatness in the creation of the earth, the heavens, and the mountains. It then turns to a dire warning concerning the Resurrection and the final judgment between the inhabitants of Paradise and Hellfire.

Surah Al Naba Reading

Basically, for the beginners of Qur’an reading, correct reading of the surah with tajweed and understanding is a must. In order to improve pronunciation and understanding, recitation of Surah Al-Naba under the guidance of an authorized tutor while listening to correct recitals and side-by-side reading along with transliteration and translation should be practiced. 

You may listen to Surah Al-Naba on YouTube, Spotify, or Qur’an applications with the audio recitations of renowned qaris Mishary Alafasy, Abdul Basit, and Saad Al-Ghamdi.

Surah Al Naba Transliteration

Here is the transliteration of Surah Al-Naba to help non-Arabic speakers read the Arabic sounds:

Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

1. ‘Amma yatasā’alūn
2. ‘Anin-naba’il-‘aẓīm
3. Alladhī hum fīhi mukhtalifūn
4. Kallā sa-ya‘lamūn
5. Thumma kallā sa-ya‘lamūn
6. Alam naj‘alil-arḍa mihādā
7. Wal-jibāla autādā
8. Wa khalaqnākum azwājā
9. Wa ja‘alnā naumakum subātā
10. Wa ja‘alnal-layla libāsā
11. Wa ja‘alnan-nahāra ma‘āshā
12. Wa banaynā fawqakum sab‘an shidādā
13. Wa ja‘alnā sirājan wahhājā
14. Wa anzalnā minal-mu‘ṣirāti mā’an thajjājā
15. Linukhrija bihī ḥabbaw wa nabātā
16. Wa jannātin alfāfā
17. Inna Yawmal-Faṣli kāna mīqātā
18. Yawma yunfakhu fis-ṣūr fāta’tūna afwājā
19. Wa futiḥatis-samā’u fakānat abwābā
20. Wa suyyiratil-jibālu fakānat sarābā
21. Inna Jahannama kānat mirṣādā
22. Lit-ṭāghīna ma’ābā
23. Lābithīna fīhā aḥqābā
24. Lā yadhūqūna fīhā bardanw wa lā sharābā
25. Illā ḥamīman wa ghasṣāqā
26. Jazā’an wifāqā
27. Innahum kānū lā yarjūna ḥisābā
28. Wa kadh-dhabū bi-āyātinā kidh-dhābā
29. Wa kulla shay’in aḥṣaynāhu kitābā
30. Fadhūqū, falan nazeedakum illā ‘adhābā
31. Inna lil-muttaqīna mafāzā
32. Ḥadā’iqa wa a‘nābā
33. Wa kawā‘iba atrābā
34. Wa ka’san dihāqā
35. Lā yasma‘ūna fīhā laghwan wa lā kidh-dhābā
36. Jazā’an mir-Rabbika ‘aṭā’an ḥisābā
37. Rabbis-samāwāti wal-arḍi wa mā baynahumar-Raḥmān, lā yamlikūna min-hu khiṭābā
38. Yawma yaqūmur-rūḥu wal-malā’ikatu ṣaffan, lā yatakallamūna illā man adhina lahur-Raḥmānu wa qāla ṣawābā
39. Dhālika Yawmul-Ḥaqq, fa-man shā’a ittakhadha ilā Rabbihi ma’ābā
40. Innā an-dharnākum ‘adhāban qarībā, yawma yanẓurul-mar’u mā qaddamat yadāh, wa yaqūlul-kāfiru yā-laytanī kuntu turābā

Surah Naba Translation in English

Here is a simple English translation of Surah Al-Naba:

1. About what are they asking one another?
2. About the Great News –
3. That over which they are in disagreement.
4. No! They will come to know.
5. Again, no! They will come to know.
6. Have We not made the earth as a bed,
7. And the mountains as pegs?
8. And We created you in pairs,
9. And made your sleep for rest,
10. And made the night as a covering,
11. And made the day for livelihood
12. And built above you seven strong [heavens],
13. And made therein a burning lamp,
14. And sent down from the rain clouds pouring water
15. That We may bring forth thereby grain and vegetation
16. And gardens of entwined growth.
17. Indeed, the Day of Judgement is an appointed time –
18. The Day the Trumpet is blown and you will come forth in multitudes
19. And the heaven is opened and will become gateways
20. And the mountains are removed and will be [but] a mirage.
21. Indeed, Hell has been lying in wait
22. For the transgressors, a place of return,
23. In which they will remain for ages [unending].
24. They will not taste therein [any] coolness or drink
25. Except scalding water and [foul] purulence –
26. An appropriate recompense.
27. Indeed, they were not expecting an account
28. And denied Our verses with [emphatic] denial.
29. But all things We have enumerated in writing.
30. “So taste [the penalty], and never will We increase you except in torment.”
31. Indeed, for the righteous is attainment –
32. Gardens and grapevines
33. And full-breasted [companions] of equal age
34. And a full cup
35. No ill speech will they hear therein or any falsehood –
36. [As] reward from your Lord, [a generous] gift [made due by] account –
37. [From] the Lord of the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them, the Most Merciful. They possess not from Him [authority for] speech.
38. The Day that the Spirit and the angels will stand in rows, they will not speak except for the one whom the Most Merciful permits, and he will say what is correct.
39. That is the True Day; so he who wills may take to his Lord a [way of] return.
40. Indeed, We have warned you of a near punishment on the Day when a man will observe what his hands have put forth, and the disbeliever will say, “Oh, I wish that I were dust!”

Translation of Surah An-Naba

This is a slightly more refined translation suitable for deeper understanding and reflection. You may find various interpretations by scholars such as Muhammad Muhsin Khan, Yusuf Ali, or Saheeh International for further study.

Surah Al Naba (Video)

You can watch recitations of Surah Al-Naba with English subtitles and transliteration on platforms like YouTube. Recommended channels include:

• Quran Weekly
• The Daily Reminder
• Mishary Rashid Alafasy Recitations
• MercifulServant

Surah Naba Benefits

1. Strengthens Belief in the Afterlife

Surah An-Naba emphasizes the reality of the Resurrection, judgment, and the hereafter. Reciting it regularly can help strengthen one’s faith in the unseen and reinforce the concept of accountability before Allah.you can learn more about it if you enroll into Quran classes

Verse Themes:

• The surah opens with a question about “the Great News”—referring to the Day of Judgment.
• It then describes scenes of the earth’s destruction, resurrection, and the sorting of people into two groups: the righteous and the wicked.

2. Instills Fear and Awe of Allah

The vivid descriptions of Hellfire (Jahannam) and the punishment awaiting disbelievers serve as a reminder to stay away from sin and hypocrisy. This fear is not meant to paralyze but to awaken the soul and encourage self-purification.

Key Verse:

“Surely, Hell is lying in wait a home for the transgressors.” (78:21-22)

3. Encourages Righteousness

Surah An-Naba contrasts the fate of the disbelievers with the rewards awaiting the righteous: lush gardens, peace, and companionship. This inspires believers to strive for good deeds and seek closeness to Allah.

Key Verse:

“Indeed, for the righteous is a place of triumph: gardens and grapevines…” (78:31-32)

4. Part of Night Prayer (Qiyam al-Layl)

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have recited long surahs such as Surah An-Naba in night prayers. Its powerful reminders make it a suitable surah to reflect upon during worship.

5. Powerful Reminder for Da’wah

The surah’s opening rhetorical style (“What are they asking one another about?”) and its strong warning makes it a compelling chapter for calling others to reflect on the reality of life, death, and purpose.

6. Recitation Brings Spiritual Benefits

Even though there is no sahih hadith that states a specific reward or merit unique to Surah An-Naba, the general reward for reciting any part of the Qur’an applies here:

“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one hasanah (good deed) as a reward, and one hasanah is equal to ten like it.”
(Tirmidhi)

7. Preparation for the Afterlife

Surah An-Naba is particularly powerful in preparing the heart for death and the hereafter. Reciting it regularly reminds one of their ultimate journey and inspires repentance and spiritual growth.

Lessons from Surah Al-Naba

1. Life Has a Purpose and an End

The first verses of the surah open with a rhetorical question:

“What are they asking one another about? About the great news- over which they disagree.” (78:1-3)

The “great news” here refers to the Day of Resurrection. The opening verses of the surah remind us that life is not meaningless or random. There is a purpose behind our creation, and that has to do with an end.

Lesson:

Stay away from things that can distract you from the way. Every action you do is important, and your life is said to be moving towards an appointed end. So, make wise use of time and live intentionally.

2. Signs of Allah Are All Around Us

In verses 6–16, Allah gives us several signs of His power and immense precision in the creation of all:

• The Earth is set as a resting place. 
• Mountains are set as pegs. 
• Humans created in pairs. 
• Day and night alternate. 
• Rain is sent down to make the earth grow.

These are not just beautifully constructed verses about nature; these verses constitute evidence of divine order.

Lesson:

Think about what is around you. The signs of Allah are everywhere. Allow them to increase your faith and thankfulness. Do not take for granted the things that form the rhythm of life such as sunrise, going to sleep, rain, and food. These are extremely calculated blessings, not accidental occurrences.

3. Real and Inevitable: The Day of Reckoning

From 17 onwards, the surah switches tone to expound on the Day of the Judgment:

“Verily, the Hour of Decision is a fixed time.” (78:17)

It refers to the sounding of the trumpet, the opening of the skies, and the realization of atrocities in Hell for the violators.

Lesson:

No one escapes accountability; all, irrespective of being rich or poor, believer or disbeliever, will be in the presence of Allah. So always keep in mind that the actions of each day will be judged. This should not instill fear in you, rather awaken you. 

4. There Will Be Two Very Different Outcomes

Verses 21 through 30 describe the agonizing fate of the deniers and the transgressors:

Boiling water to drink 

The agony of burning 

To be admonished, but no respite is given, nor an avenue of excuse 

The opposite thereof is described in verses 31 through 36-the happiness of the righteous:

• Gardens
• Grapevines
• Company
• Perpetual peace and contentment

“Indeed for the righteous is the place of success…” (78:31)

Lesson: 

Not all roads lead to the same conclusion. Our choices matter. There is a stark difference between the fate of the obedient and rebellious. Choose wisely your path-every prayer, word, and kind act counts. 

5. Speech in the Eyes of Allah

Verse 38 is clear to convey that nobody shall speak on a Day apart, except by the permission of Allah. What was once freely spoken in this world is locked within the ears of the next.

Lesson:

Guard your testimonies. Your testimonies are spiritual weight. Never lie, never gossip, never nameof:slander or slandermas. Fill your speech with dhikr,”:awareness of Allah, truth, and essence. Whatever you say now shall bear witness against you or for you tomorrow.

6. Warning and Mercy Both Belong to Allah Alone

The final verse is so sobering:

“Indeed, We have warned you of an imminent punishment… So let him who wills take a way back to his Lord.” (78:40)

It is not just a threat really; it is an invitation. Allah warns in order for people to be saved. The choice is still theirs.

Lesson:

Never disregard a divine warning. But also never lose hope. The path to Allah is forever open. Every warning verse is an invitation to repent, to return, and to align one’s life in good.

7. Quranic Messages Are Meant for Deep Thinking

The very formula of Surah Al-Naba, which first invites reflection and then lists signs, and then gives the starkest descriptions of the Hereafter, teaches us something else: there is no Qur’anic knowledge for mere entertainment. It is meant to change hearts and lives.

Lesson:

Read the Qur’an not only for the sake of reward, but for transformation as well. Pause at every verse and reflect. Ask: how does this apply for me? What must I change?

How to Memorize Surah An-Naba

1. Understand the Meaning First

Before you memorize anything, read the translation and tafsir (explanation) of the surah. Understanding the meaning helps your brain form stronger memory connections, and your heart absorbs the message more deeply.

 Tip: Use a trusted tafsir like Tafsir Ibn Kathir or Al-Muyassar for short and clear explanations.

2. Divide the Surah into Manageable Sections

Surah An-Naba has 40 short verses. You can divide it into sections of 5–7 ayahs each for easier memorization.

Suggested Breakdown:

• Verses 1–5: Introduction & people questioning the Resurrection
• Verses 6–16: Signs of Allah in creation
• Verses 17–20: The beginning of the Day of Judgment
• Verses 21–30: Description of Hell and punishment
• Verses 31–36: Description of Paradise and reward
• Verses 37–40: Allah’s authority & closing warning

3. Use the Listen-Repeat-Recite Method

This is one of the most effective memorization techniques, especially for rhythmic surahs like An-Naba:

Step-by-Step:

1. Listen to a skilled reciter (e.g., Mishary Alafasy, Maher Al-Muaiqly) and follow along with the mushaf.
2. Repeat one ayah or phrase aloud 5–10 times while looking at the words.
3. Recite it from memory without looking. If you forget a word, check and try again.
4. Connect the next ayah only after you’re confident in the current one.

4. Stick to a Daily Memorization Plan

Consistency > Speed.
Aim to memorize 3–5 ayahs per day, depending on your capacity. That way, you’ll complete the entire surah in 7–14 days.

Day	Verses
1	1–5
2	6–10
3	11–15
4	16–20
5	21–25
6	26–30
7	31–35
8	36–40

Tip: Review the previous day’s portion before learning a new one.

5. Write It Down by Hand

Writing engages a different part of your brain and reinforces memory. After memorizing a section, write it out from memory, then check it against the mushaf.

6. Use a Memorization App or Companion

Use Qur’an apps like:

• Tajweed Quran
• Quran Companion
• Quranly
• Ayat App

These tools help you track progress, listen to recitation, and review efficiently.

 Tip: If possible, memorize with a friend or teacher who can correct your mistakes.

7. Daily Review & Weekly Revision

Memorization is only half the work—retention is the key.

• Daily Review: Spend at least 10 minutes revising previously memorized ayahs.
• Weekly Review: At the end of the week, recite the entire surah from beginning to end.

 Tip: Try reciting it in your prayers (salah), especially Fajr or Qiyam, once you’ve memorized sections.

8. Use Visual & Audio Cues

• Highlight similar-sounding ayahs to avoid confusion.
• Listen to the surah while walking, cooking, or commuting.
• Make use of visual mushaf formats with color-coded tajweed to help remember phrasing and rhythm.

9. Don’t Rush—Connect Spiritually

While memorization is important, the goal is also spiritual connection. Take moments to reflect on the meanings during your memorization. Let the surah speak to your heart, especially the sections about Paradise and the Day of Judgment.

10. Make Du’a for Ease and Barakah

Ask Allah to make it easy for you and to allow the surah to remain firmly in your heart:

اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلِ الْقُرْآنَ رَبِيعَ قَلْبِي وَنُورَ صَدْرِي
“O Allah, make the Qur’an the spring of my heart and the light of my chest…”

How to Recite Surah An-Naba

1. Begin with the Right Intention (Niyyah)

Before you recite, pause and make the intention:

• To seek the pleasure of Allah
• To connect with His words
• To reflect and be transformed by the message

Reciting the Qur’an is an act of worship—begin it with purpose, not just habit.

2. Start with the Basmalah

Before reciting the first verse, say:

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ
Bismillāhi Ar-Raḥmāni Ar-Raḥīm
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

This is said silently or aloud, depending on the context (personal recitation vs. prayer).

3. Observe Tajweed Rules (Correct Pronunciation)

Tajweed refers to the set of rules that govern how the Qur’an is recited. Some key tips for Surah An-Naba:

• Clear articulation (makhārij al-ḥurūf):
  Make sure each letter comes from its proper point of origin. For example:
  • عَمَّ (‘Amma): The letter ‘Ayn (ع) must be deep and clear.
  • نَبَأِ الْعَظِيمِ: Elongate the Alif in Naba’ and emphasize the ‘Ayn in ‘Aẓīm.
• Ghunna (nasal sounds):
  Hold the sound for نَّ (as in عَمَّ يَتَسَاءَلُونَ) for two counts with a nasal tone.
• Madd (elongation):
  Lengthen vowels where appropriate. For example:
  • كَانَتْ مِرْصَادًا – stretch the alif in Kānat
• Stop (waqf) correctly:
  Know where to pause and where to continue. Many mushafs include small symbols to guide this. For example:
  • A small مـ indicates a full stop is recommended.
  • A لا means do not stop.

4. Use a Slow, Measured Tone

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“He who does not recite the Qur’an in a pleasant tone is not of us.” (Abu Dawood)

Avoid rushing. Instead:

• Recite slowly and clearly (this is called tarteel).
• Let the rhythm of the surah carry you—it has strong rhyming patterns that help with pacing.

Tip: Listen to a skilled reciter like Mishary Alafasy, Abdul Basit, or Husary to internalize rhythm and melody.

5. Understand What You’re Reciting

Recitation is most meaningful when you connect with the meaning of the verses. Surah An-Naba speaks about:

• The Resurrection
• Signs of Allah in creation
• The Day of Judgment
• Rewards for the righteous
• Punishment for the rebellious

Conclusion

Surah Al-Naba is a profound chapter of the Qur’an that urges reflection, inspires awe of Allah’s power, and emphasizes the reality of the afterlife. Whether you’re learning to recite it, understand its message, or simply want to bring its wisdom into your daily life, this surah is essential for spiritual growth. The transliteration makes it accessible to all, and the benefits of its recitation are countless—both in this world and the next.

FAQs

Q1: What does “An-Naba” mean?

A: It means “The Great News” or “The Tidings.”

Q2: How many verses are in Surah Al-Naba?

A: 40 verses.

Q3: Is Surah Al-Naba Makki or Madani?

A: It is a Makki surah.

Q4: Can I read the transliteration instead of Arabic?

A: Transliteration helps with pronunciation, but it’s recommended to learn the Arabic for reward and accuracy.

Q5: Is it okay to memorize using audio?

A: Yes, audio is very helpful, especially when paired with a teacher or a script.

Q6: What’s the best time to recite Surah Al-Naba?

A: Anytime, but it’s especially effective for reflection in the morning or before sleeping.