Surah al-Falaq (The Daybreak ) 113 : 3

Explanatory Note

What is probably meant here is the night, with all that accompanies it when it rapidly engulfs the world. This is terrifying in itself. In addition it fills our hearts with the possibility of an unknown, unexpected discomfort caused by a savage beast, an unscrupulous villain, a striking enemy or a hissing poisonous creature, as well as anxieties and worries [which may lead to depression and uneasiness], evil thoughts and passions that are liable to revive in the dark, during one’s state of solitude at night. This is the evil against which the believer needs God’s protection.

غَاسِقٍ ghasaq - the first part of the night. When the blue sky has gone and the sky is black. The word Ghaasiq in arabic literature refers to that which disappears. I.e. When the sun disappears, and it has become dark. Ghasaq al Qamar - Lunar Eclipse.

وَقَبَ Waqab - Darkness. waqab ad-dhalam - darkness so things become invisible. There's a ditch in a mountain at night, so when something falls into it - you cannot see it. That is waqaba. [Ref: Nouman Ali Khan, Dream Tafsir Notes]