How was the Quran revealed to Muhammad (PUBH)?

The Divine Revelation: How the Quran Unfolded

hussainLast Updated: September 10, 2023

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The Quran is the holy scripture of Islam, believed to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the central figure in Islam, considered the last prophet and messenger of God.

Introduction

The Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, is believed by Muslims to be the word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The process through which the Quran was revealed to Muhammad is a fundamental aspect of Islamic history and theology. This article explores the fascinating journey of revelation that culminated in the Quran, which has served as the spiritual and moral compass for over a billion Muslims worldwide.

The Prophet Muhammad

To understand how the Quran was revealed to Muhammad, one must first delve into the life of the Prophet himself. Born in the city of Mecca in present-day Saudi Arabia around the year 570 CE, Muhammad grew up as an orphan and later worked as a trader. His life took a profound turn when, at the age of 40, he began receiving revelations from God.

The First Revelation

The process of revelation began in the year 610 CE, while Muhammad was meditating in the cave of Hira, located in the mountains near Mecca. It was during this solitary contemplation that the angel Gabriel, known as Jibril in Arabic, appeared before him. It is said that Gabriel conveyed the first words of the Quran to Muhammad with the following command:

“Read in the name of your Lord who created.
Created man from a clinging substance.
Read, and your Lord is the most Generous—
Who taught by the pen—
Taught man that which he knew not.”

These verses, which comprise the opening of Surah Al-‘Alaq (The Clot), marked the initiation of divine revelation to Muhammad.

Gradual Revelation

The Quran was revealed to Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years. This extended revelation allowed the Prophet and the early Muslim community to receive guidance and directives from God in response to various situations and challenges they encountered. The revelations were often triggered by specific events, questions, or issues raised by the community.

The Quranic revelations were conveyed to Muhammad in various forms, primarily as spoken words, which he then recited to his companions. These revelations covered a wide range of topics, including theology, morality, law, and guidance for personal conduct.

The Final Revelation

The last revelation of the Quran occurred during the Farewell Pilgrimage in the year 632 CE, shortly before the Prophet Muhammad’s passing. It took place at the plain of Arafat, where the Prophet addressed a large gathering of Muslims. During this sermon-like event, the final verses of the Quran were revealed:

“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.” (Quran 5:3)

These verses signify the culmination of the divine message, confirming that God’s guidance to humanity through the Quran was now complete.

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Compilation of the Quran

After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, the task of preserving the Quran fell upon his companions. They had carefully memorized the Quranic verses during the Prophet’s lifetime. Under the caliphate of Abu Bakr, the first caliph after Muhammad, a systematic effort was made to compile the Quran into a single written manuscript. This compilation ensured the preservation of the Quran for future generations.

Conclusion

The revelation of the Quran to Muhammad is a central event in Islamic history and theology. It began with the first encounter between the Prophet and the angel Gabriel in the cave of Hira and continued over a span of 23 years, culminating in the final revelation during the Farewell Pilgrimage. The Quran was revealed to provide guidance, laws, and spiritual insight for Muslims and remains a source of inspiration and guidance for over a billion people around the world. Its preservation, both in memory and in written form, attests to the sacred nature of this divine text in Islam, making it an enduring symbol of faith and submission to God’s will.

FAQs: How was the Quran revealed to Muhammad?

What is the Quran, and who is Muhammad?

How was the Quran revealed to Muhammad?

The Quran was revealed to Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years through angel Gabriel (Jibril in Arabic). These revelations were received in various forms, primarily as verbal messages.

Where did the revelations to Muhammad occur?

The revelations to Muhammad took place primarily in the cave of Hira near Mecca and later in Medina. The cave of Hira is where the first revelation, known as “Iqra” or “Read,” was received.

What was the first revelation to Muhammad?

The first revelation to Muhammad was the command to “Read” (Iqra) in Surah Al-Alaq (Chapter 96) of the Quran. This marked the beginning of the prophethood.

How did Muhammad receive the revelations?

Muhammad received the revelations in a state of deep spiritual concentration and meditation. He would often isolate himself in contemplation, and during these moments, the angel Gabriel would bring God’s messages to him.

In what language was the Quran revealed to Muhammad?

The Quran was revealed in Classical Arabic. It is considered the purest form of the Arabic language and is distinct from modern Arabic dialects.

Were the revelations to Muhammad written down as they were received?

Initially, the revelations were not written down but memorized by Muhammad and his companions. Later, during Muhammad’s lifetime, the revelations were transcribed onto various materials such as palm leaves, parchment, and pieces of bone.

When and how was the Quran compiled into a single book?

The compilation of the Quran into a single book occurred during the Caliphate of the third Caliph, Uthman ibn Affan, around 20 years after Muhammad’s death. Under his direction, the Quranic revelations were gathered, compiled, and standardized into a single written text.

Is the Quran believed to be the exact words of God?

Yes, Muslims believe that the Quran is the exact and unaltered word of God, revealed to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. It is considered the final and ultimate source of guidance for Muslims.

What is the significance of the Quran in Islam?

The Quran holds paramount importance in Islam as it serves as a guide for all aspects of life, including theology, morality, law, and spirituality. It is regarded as the ultimate source of authority for Muslims and a source of spiritual and ethical guidance.