that one; one of them lengthens while the other shortens, their alternation unfolding in that astonishing, unfailing order which never falters or changes.

This is a clear proof of Allah’s power. Then consider what transpires within that span of time—events and calamities, misfortunes and blessings, favors and bounties; all that occurs in this interval is full of lessons. Night and day are likewise a field for righteous deeds. The Exalted says, “It is He who made the night and the day follow one another for whoever desires to take heed or desires to be thankful” (al-Furqan 62); another reading has, “for whoever desires to take heed.”

Night and day, therefore, are a tremendous gain for anyone who puts them to use in obedience to Allah. Your only arena for action is night and day—nothing else is truly at your disposal. They are the field of work and wholesome earnings for this world and the Hereafter. In night and day lie many lessons and benefits; for that reason Allah swore by al-ʿAsr.

What, then, is the response to the oath? It is His statement: “Indeed, mankind is in loss.” Mankind—all the children of Adam—He excluded no one: neither kings nor presidents, nor the wealthy, nor