Known by multiple names drawn from its opening verses—including "Al-Dahr" (The Time) and "Hal ata"—this thirty-one-verse chapter addresses human origins. It is also titled "Al-Amshaj" (The Mixed Drop) for its second ayah, and "Al-Abrar" (The Righteous). While placed ninety-eighth in revelation order, its focus on monotheism marks an overwhelmingly Makkan style, chronologically preceding Surat Al-Mursalat. The Prophet customarily paired it with Surat Al-Sajdah during Friday Fajr prayers.

The text opens by affirming humanity was brought from nothing into existence, proving the certainty of the Resurrection. It immediately splits the human response into two paths: the grateful and the ungrateful. After briefly warning those who deny the Hereafter, the narrative dedicates its core to detailing the eternal bliss and spiritual stature reserved for those who thank their Creator.

The closing ayahs shift away from the Hereafter to console the Prophet in the face of rejection. The final verses ground the believer against disbelief, commanding steadfast patience and the continuous remembrance of Allah through prayer at specific times of the day and night.