Surah Abasa is the 80th chapter (sura) of the Qur'an with 42 verses (ayat). It is a Meccan sura. The Surah is so designated after the word `abasa with which it opens.

Surah Abasa (عَبَسَ), which means “He frowned,” is the eightieth chapter and third surah in the last juz’ of the Quran (i.e. juz’ 30). It has been given this name because it tells the story of a man who frowned and distanced himself from a poor, blind, yet pious man who sat next to him. By revealing this surah, God criticizes that person for this wrongful act.

Most importantly, this surah draws attention to (1) the tremendous value of the Quran, (2) the creation of the human being, (3) the blessings that God has given him and the ungratefulness of man toward them, (4) the horrifying events of Qiyamah, and (5) the fate of righteous and wicked people on that day. In this article, we will take a look at the (a) occasion of revelation, (b) the tafseer (تَفسير: interpretation), (c) the virtues, and (d) benefits of reciting this chapter.

Surah Abasa is short, but contains various important subjects, which especially emphasize on the Resurrection and can be summarized under five topics:

1. Allah’s serious admonishment to the one who did not show suitable behavior to a truth‑seeking blind man.

2. The importance of the Holy Qur'an.

3. Man's ungratefulness toward the blessings of Allah.

4. A partial description about His blessings in the field of nutrition for Men and animals in order to stimulate a sense of thankfulness.

5. Some hints about the terrible incidents of the Day of Judgment' and the fate of the believers and unbelievers on that Day.

The name of the Surah is derived from its first verse.

The Virtue in Studying this Surah
A tradition from Prophet Muhammad (S) says:

“One who studies Surah 'Abasa will arrive at the Gathering Place smiling and rejoicing will arrive at the Gathering Place smiling and rejoicing on The Day of Judgment.”