The inception of revelation to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was an extraordinary moment in human history, marked by profound simplicity yet immense significance. It began with the divine command: “Read in the name of your Lord who created, created man from a clinging substance. Read, and your Lord is the most Generous, who taught by the pen, taught man that which he knew not.” (Surah Al-‘Alaq, 96:1-5).
This inaugural passage, revealed in the stillness of the Cave of Hira, emphasized the power of knowledge and its connection to spiritual awakening. The call to “Read,” though directed to someone who had never studied letters, transcended mere literacy. It was a summons to ponder, to reflect, and to recognize the Creator through His signs in creation.
This opening revelation set a foundation for a faith deeply rooted in intellectual and spiritual pursuit. It heralded the Qur’an as a timeless guide for humanity, intertwining divine wisdom with an invitation to seek knowledge, thus elevating the act of learning as a sacred endeavor.
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How Was the Prophet Muhammad, May God Bless Him and Grant Him Peace, Before the Revelation?
Before the divine call to prophethood, Muhammad (peace be upon him) lived a life of exceptional moral and ethical conduct, earning him the title Al-Amin (the Trustworthy) among the Quraysh tribe. His character was a reflection of integrity, humility, and compassion. He was a man of few words but profound wisdom, known for his ability to mediate disputes and foster harmony.
Despite living in a society rife with idolatry, social inequities, and moral degradation, Muhammad never partook in these practices. Instead, he was deeply introspective, often retreating to the solitude of the Cave of Hira to meditate on the mysteries of existence. These retreats were not acts of withdrawal but rather profound engagements with the metaphysical, a search for answers to the injustices and spiritual void he observed around him.
He was also a devoted husband, a caring father, and a benevolent member of his community. His marriage to Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, a noblewoman of great character, provided him with a partner who not only supported him but also shared his values and vision.
This period of his life was one of preparation. It was as if his innate virtues and contemplative nature were divinely cultivated to shoulder the monumental responsibility of conveying God’s final message to humanity.
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When Was the Revelation First Sent Down to Him?
The first revelation descended upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during one of his meditative retreats in the Cave of Hira, located in the rugged mountains surrounding Mecca. It was the year 610 CE, during the blessed month of Ramadan, a month that would later hold unparalleled significance in Islamic tradition.
The event took place on a night now celebrated as Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree). This night, described in the Qur’an as being “better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr, 97:3), was the moment when the veil between the heavens and earth was lifted, and the divine message was delivered.
The angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared to Muhammad in a majestic yet overwhelming form, commanding him to “Read.” Despite his insistence that he could not, the command was repeated thrice. Each time, he felt the angel’s profound embrace, and finally, he was able to repeat the words of revelation.
This experience left him shaken, not out of fear but due to the sheer magnitude of what had transpired. He hurried back to his home, seeking solace in Khadijah’s comforting presence. She reassured him of his noble character and steadfastness, affirming that someone of his virtues could never be abandoned by God.
This marked the beginning of a 23-year journey of prophethood, during which the Qur’an would be revealed piecemeal, addressing the evolving needs, challenges, and triumphs of the nascent Muslim community.
Conclusion
The first revelation was a moment of divine grace that reshaped the course of human history. It began with a call to knowledge, setting the tone for a religion that champions reflection, understanding, and the pursuit of truth. The Prophet Muhammad’s life before prophethood exemplified integrity and a deep yearning for spiritual clarity, preparing him for his monumental mission.
The descent of revelation during Laylat al-Qadr was not just the beginning of a spiritual journey for the Prophet but a transformative event for all of humanity. It serves as a reminder of the power of divine guidance and the enduring legacy of one man’s unwavering commitment to the truth.