The Revelation of the Quran (610-633 CE)

The Revelation of the Quran (610-633 CE)

• The Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years, from 610 to 633 CE, marking a significant period in Islamic history.
• First revelation occurred in 610 CE while Muhammad meditated in the cave of Hira, near Makkah.
• Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared and commanded Muhammad to "Recite!" (Iqra'), leading to the recitation of the opening verses of Surah al-Alaq (The Clot).
• Muhammad, being unlettered, was initially overwhelmed but memorized the verses recited by Jibreel, which would later be shared with his companions.

The Role of Angel Jibreel

• Jibreel acted as the divine messenger throughout the Quran's revelation, ensuring the authenticity of the verses delivered to Muhammad.
• Regular visits by Jibreel allowed Muhammad to memorize and subsequently teach the verses to his followers.
• His role was crucial in maintaining the accuracy and preservation of the Quran as the infallible word of God.

Gradual and Context-Specific Revelation

• The Quran was revealed gradually, addressing specific needs and challenges faced by Muhammad and early Muslims.
• Early verses emphasized core Islamic beliefs, including monotheism, prophethood, worship, and moral living.
• Later revelations provided guidance on social, legal, and ethical matters, contributing to the establishment of the Islamic community.

Persecution in Makkah and Migration to Madinah

• Early Muslims faced severe persecution from Makkah's leaders and the Quraysh tribe due to their new faith.
• This persecution intensified as Muhammad spread Islam, culminating in the migration (Hijrah) to Madinah in 622 CE.
• In Madinah, Muhammad and his followers found refuge and began to build the first Islamic state.

The Completion of the Revelation

• The final verses of the Quran were revealed in 632 CE, shortly before Muhammad's death, marking the completion of the divine message.
• The revelation laid the foundation for Islamic beliefs, practices, and community structure, shaping the emerging Islamic civilization.
• Efforts by Muhammad and his companions to preserve the content ensured the integrity of the Quran as the primary guide for Muslims around the world.

Overview of Revelations from 610 to 632 A.D.

• Revelation is defined as the divine communication of Allah's words to a messenger, primarily delivered through Angel Gabriel.
• The prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) began with revelations in 610 A.D. and continued for 23 years until 632 A.D.

Process of Revelation

• Revelations occurred gradually, involving parts of Surah or entire Surah delivered over the 23 years to Prophet (PBUH).
• The first revelation took place in cave Hira during the last ten nights of Ramadan. The night is referred to as the Night of Power.
• Initial preaching was quiet for three years, followed by public invitations in Makkah after receiving instructions from Surah Hijr.
• Facing opposition and persecution from the Quraish, Allah provided motivation and comfort through revelations during difficult times.
• Key moments include the instruction to migrate to Abyssinia for safety, and later to Madinah, which marked significant growth and the establishment of a Muslim community.
• Important obligations such as fasting, Zakat, and Hajj were revealed during this period.
• The Qiblah was changed from Jerusalem to the Ka'bah, emphasizing the shift in Islamic practice.
• Revelation culminated with the final sermon delivered at Arafat, receiving the last verse that affirmed the completion of the religion.

Methods of Revelation

• The Quranic revelations occurred via three distinct methods:
  • Inspiration: Direct infusion of Allah's words into the Prophet's soul, as seen in dreams.
  • From Behind the Screen: Audible communication from an unseen source, which impacted the Prophet physically and emotionally.
  • Messenger: Direct communication through Angel Gabriel, who sometimes appeared in human form to deliver messages.

Division of Revelation

• Revelations are categorized into two main types:
  • Makki Surahs: Revealed in Makkah (610-622 A.D.), addressing core beliefs, Prophethood, and stories of previous Messengers, typically starting with "O you who believe!"
  • Madni Surahs: Revealed after Hijrah (622-632 A.D.), focusing on social laws, obligations, and the community's interactions with non-believers.

Nature of Prophethood

• The initial experience of revelation in the cave Hira reveals God's selection of messengers through surprising and overwhelming events, leaving the recipient in confusion.
• The sudden nature of the visit from Angel Gabriel highlights that prophethood comes without prior warning.
• Support from Hazrat Khadija (RZ) and Waraqah helped the Prophet (PBUH) overcome confusion and fear following his first revelation.
• This aspect of prophethood emphasizes the miraculous occurrences that accompany the designation of a messenger, which were common among other prophets as well.

Explore the significant period of divine revelation of the Quran, which occurred from 610 to 633 CE. This transformative event not only shaped the course of Islam but also the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Learn about the first revelation and its impact on the Islamic faith.