Surah
Juz
The debate over whether this Surah is of Makkan or Medinan origin remains unresolved. Abu Hayyan, in Al-Bahr al-Muhti, contends that the majority of scholars consider it a Madinan Surah. However, Ibn Mardayah cites Ibn Abbas, Ibn Zubair, and Ā’isha, who assert that it was revealed in Makkah. An examination of the content supports the argument for a Makkan origin, as we will elucidate below.
The theme of this Surah is to emphasise the value, significance, and importance of the Qur’an. Its placement immediately following Surah 96: al-‘Alaq (The Clinging Substance) in the arrangement of the Qur’an suggests that the revelation of the Holy Book, beginning with the first five verses of Surah 96, occurred during the Night of Destiny, a night of immense significance. The Surah begins by asserting that the Qur’an was sent down by God Himself, emphasising its divine origin and not as a composition of Muhammad ﷺ. It highlights that the revelation of the Qur’an during the Night of Destiny signifies a momentous event that will shape destinies, not just of the Quraysh or Arabia, but of the entire world. The Night of Destiny holds dual significance: it is a night during which destinies are decided, and it is a night of unparalleled honour, dignity, and glory, better than a thousand months. This emphasises to the disbelievers of Makkah that the Qur’an, which they perceive as a calamity, is actually a source of immense blessing and guidance for humanity. In conclusion, the Surah underscores that during this blessed night, the angels and Gabriel descend with divine decrees, all aimed at promoting peace and goodness. Even decisions that may seem destructive are ultimately for the greater good, reflecting the wisdom and mercy of God.
