The First Revelation
The story of the first revelation of the Quran marks a significant turning point in Islamic history and the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). We will discuss the details about it, including when and how it happened and what was revealed.
That was a deeply transformative moment for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). At 40, Prophet Muhammad developed a habit of retreating for quiet reflection and also worship in the Cave of Hira, located on the outskirts of Mecca. This retreat was a time of reflection and also seeking closeness to Allah. During one of these solitary periods, a powerful experience unfolded, forever altering his life and mission.
One night, in the blessed month of Ramadan, Prophet Muhammad was meditating in the Cave of Hira. Then, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) visited him. Besides, Jibreel appeared to the Prophet with the first verses of the Quran.
The first revelation given to Prophet Muhammad was the beginning of Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1-5), which says: “Recite in the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clinging substance. Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous—Who taught by the pen—taught man that which he knew not.”
The first revelation is in various Hadith, particularly in Sahih Bukhari. In this Hadith, the Prophet recounts the overwhelming experience of seeing Angel Jibreel and also hearing the command to “Recite.” When the Prophet hesitated, stating that he could not read, Jibreel embraced him tightly and repeated the command three times. Each time, Prophet Muhammad responded that he was unable to read until the angel revealed the verses to him.
The Hadith describes how Prophet Muhammad returned to his home in a state of awe, even feeling physically shaken. He sought comfort from his wife, Khadijah, saying, “Cover me, cover me!” his wife Khadijah took him to her cousin who was a Christian monk, his name was Waraqah ibn Nawfal, who confirmed that Muhammad had indeed encountered the angel Gabriel, the same messenger who had visited previous prophets.
The angel who delivered the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad was Jibreel (Gabriel). Known in Islam as the chief of all angels, Jibreel served as Allah’s trusted messenger, delivering the divine words to prophets throughout history, including Moses and Jesus. In Islam, Jibreel is a revered figure who played a significant role in shaping the prophetic messages that would guide countless followers.
In conclusion, through this revelation, Allah began a new era of guidance for humanity, laying down principles that would serve as the foundation for the Islamic faith and guide millions in their spiritual and moral lives.
Related Post: What is Quran?
The first verse of the revelation in Islam is: “Read in the name of your Lord who created.” (Surat Al-‘Alaq, Ayah 1).
The first revelation in Islam was the command “Read,” which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad in Cave Hira by Allah through Jibreel.
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