Second: Sura al-Tawbah is introduced without the basmalah because it is a chapter that speaks of jihad and fighting the unbelievers, and because it contains stern warnings to the hypocrites, exposing their scandals and disgrace. The phrase “In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy” is customarily recited where mercy is being invoked, whereas the subject matter here revolves around warfare and the traits of the hypocrites; it is therefore a setting of threat and intimidation, not one of mercy.

Dhu’l-Qarnayn — a righteous king
Question: Who is Dhu’l-Qarnayn, mentioned in Sura al-Kahf? What is his story?

Answer: Dhu’l-Qarnayn was a righteous king in ancient times to whom Allah granted dominion over both the East and the West, as related at the end of Sura al-Kahf. He reached the place where the sun rises and the place where it sets, striving in Allah’s cause and calling people to Him. He constructed the barrier between the two mountain passes — the barrier of Yajuj and Majuj — because that wicked nation would spread corruption on earth if they were able to roam freely. With Allah’s help, this virtuous servant-king erected that great wall, which now prevents those corrupt people from sweeping across the land until the appointed time draws near. When the Hour approaches, the barrier will crumble, those people will surge forth, and the earth will witness what Allah has foretold:

“He said, ‘This is a mercy from my Lord; but when my Lord’s promise comes to pass He will level it. My Lord’s promise is ever true. And on that Day We shall let some of them surge over others, and the trumpet will be blown, and We shall gather them all together.’” (Sura al-Kahf 18:98–99)