Surah
Juz
Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas, despite being distinct chapters in the Quran with their own names, are deeply interconnected in content and purpose. They are commonly referred to collectively as "Mu'awwidhatayn," meaning "the two chapters in which refuge with God has been sought." According to Imam Baihaqi in Dala'il an-Nubuwwat, these two chapters were revealed together, which is why they are often mentioned together under this combined name. While they are separate entities, their subject matter and themes closely resemble each other, focusing on seeking refuge and protection with God from various forms of harm and evil. Therefore, it is appropriate to introduce and discuss them together, as they address similar topics and complement each other in their spiritual significance. In the subsequent sections, both Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas will be individually explained and commented on, allowing for a deeper understanding of their respective verses and meanings. The debate over whether Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas are Makkan or Madinan in origin is rooted in various traditions and interpretations among scholars. Some, like Hasan Basri, ‘Ikrimah, ‘Ata, Jabir bin Zayd, and ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abbas, argue that these chapters are of Makkan origin. They believe that these chapters were revealed during the early period of the Prophet's mission, when opposition in Makkah was intense. On the other hand, there are traditions, such as the one narrated by ‘Uqbah bin ‘Amir, that suggest these chapters were revealed in Madinah. This hadith indicates that the Prophet ﷺ mentioned these chapters to ‘Uqbah bin ‘Amir, who had become a Muslim in Madinah after the migration. Additionally, some scholars argue that the context of the verses, especially regarding magic, aligns more closely with the Madinan period when the Prophet ﷺ faced opposition from hypocrites, Jews, and polytheists, as well as when he fell ill due to magic. However, it is essential to consider that the occasion of revelation mentioned in a tradition does not necessarily imply that the chapter or verse was revealed for the first time at that moment. It is possible that these chapters were revealed earlier in Makkah but were recited again in Madinah in response to specific incidents or situations, such as the Prophet's ﷺ illness caused by magic. Therefore, while the incident of magic may be connected to only one verse in Surah Al-Falaq, it is plausible that the chapters were recited in Madinah due to their relevance to the challenges faced by the Prophet ﷺ at that time. In conclusion, while there are differing opinions among scholars regarding the origin of Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas, the view that they were revealed in Makkah seems more reliable, considering their subject matter and the intensity of opposition faced by the Prophet ﷺ during the early years of his mission.
The circumstances surrounding the revelation of Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas in Makkah were deeply challenging for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers. As he began preaching the message of Islam, opposition from the disbelieving Quraysh intensified, particularly as the Prophet ﷺ refused to compromise on matters of faith. Families whose members had embraced Islam harboured intense hostility toward the Prophet ﷺ, resorting to curses, secret plots, and even the use of magic to harm him. Jealousy also fueled the opposition, with individuals unable to tolerate the rise of someone from a different family or clan becoming prominent. For example, Abu Jahl's hostility toward the Prophet ﷺ stemmed from his rivalry with the Banu Hashim, to which the Prophet belonged. Abu Jahl refused to acknowledge the Prophet's message, fearing the loss of his own status and influence. In this hostile environment, the Prophet ﷺ was commanded to seek refuge with the Lord of mankind from various evils, including those of the night, magicians, envious individuals, and whisperers. These verses echo the refuge sought by previous prophets, such as Moses, when confronted with powerful adversaries like Pharaoh. Both Moses and Muhammad ﷺ stood firm in their commitment to truth, despite facing formidable opponents with material resources and strength. Their unwavering resolve was grounded in their conviction that the power of their Lord surpassed all worldly powers, and that seeking refuge with Him provided ultimate protection. By declaring their reliance on God's sovereignty, they demonstrated their readiness to face any adversity and continue preaching the message of truth, regardless of the threats and schemes of their enemies.
