86:1
By the Sky and the Night-Visitant (therein); –
The appeal here is to a single sign, namely the sky with its night. The substantive proposition is found in verse 4: “There is no soul but has a protector over it.” In the previous sura, we discussed the persecution of Allah’s followers and how Allah protects them. In this sura, the same theme is presented from a different perspective. Just as the most brilliant star shines in the darkest sky, in the spiritual darkness—whether due to ignorance or distress—the light of Allah’s revelation shines brightly. Similarly, the person of faith and truth has nothing to fear, as Allah will protect His own. This is further explained in verse 3. The “star of piercing brightness” is interpreted by some as the morning star, by others as the planet Saturn, and still others as Sirius, the Pleiades, or shooting stars. However, it seems most fitting to view the “star” in a collective or generic sense, as stars shine throughout the year, with their piercing brightness being most noticeable on the darkest nights.
References:
Yusuf Ali, Abdullah. Translation and Commentary of the Quran. (surah 86 verse 1)