Surahs are divided into Makkan and Madni surahs depending on which stage of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)’s life they were revealed. Surah al Waqiah is a Makkan surah as agreed by majority of scholars, since it talks about the events that will occur on the Day of Judgement.

“Waqiah” itself means judgment day or the day of judgement. Hence, this surah describes the Last Day in a powerful manner, depicting how mankind will be divided into three groups. These three groups will have distinct conditions, punishment, and rewards based on the deeds they performed in this life.

Surah Waqiah talks about the Companions of the Right, Companions of The Left, and The Forerunners. Each will be rewarded or punished after facing Judgement. The people on the right will be blessed, the people on the left will be miserable, and the forerunners will be foremost in Paradise as the believers closest to Allah.
The Surah describes the rewards that the righteous will have in Paradise, such as jewelled thrones, a non-intoxicating pure wine, fruit and other blessings. Whereas the people of the left will be suffering as a result of their actions in this world.