Surah
Juz
The story about the 'splitting of the moon' talked about in this Surah helps us know exactly when it was revealed. Experts and scholars agree that this event happened in Mina, Makkah, about five years before the Prophet ﷺ moved to Madinah.
In this chapter, the people of Makkah who rejected the Prophet's ﷺ message are warned about their stubbornness. The splitting of the moon, a remarkable event witnessed by many, was a clear sign of the impending Resurrection the Prophet ﷺ spoke about. The moon visibly split into two parts before rejoining, demonstrating that the universe is not eternal and can be disrupted. This event, along with other signs mentioned in the Qur'an, indicates that the Resurrection is near. Despite this, the disbelievers dismissed it as magic and continued to deny the truth. The chapter highlights their refusal to believe despite clear warnings and reminders from history. The stories of past nations who faced punishment for their disbelief serve as a cautionary tale. These stories are intertwined with a line explaining that Allah has made the Qur'an easy to remember. The Qur'an is presented as a clear guide to avoid such punishment, but those who persist in disbelief will face consequences. The disbelievers of Makkah are warned that they will not be spared from punishment if they continue in their arrogant ways. The chapter emphasises that God does not need extensive preparations for the Resurrection; it will happen swiftly when commanded. Everything in the universe, including human destiny, follows a predetermined course. Ignoring warnings and persisting in rebellion will only lead to further suffering, as all deeds are recorded by Divine agents.
