752 - AL MUDASSIR (TAMHEED)
The initial revelation to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a foundational event in Islamic history. While some traditions suggest Surah Al-Muzzammil’s first seven verses were the first revealed, scholarly consensus points to the opening five verses of Surah Al-Alaq as the very first. A period of pause followed the initial verses of Surah Al-Alaq, Surah Al-Muzzammil’s initial seven verses, and the first ten verses of Surah Al-Mudaththir. During this pause, the Prophet experienced a deep longing for continued revelation. Allah entrusted the instruction of the Prophet through Archangel Gabriel, but not through conventional means of literacy. The Prophet was unlettered, yet received divine instruction directly. This period culminated in a profound encounter where Gabriel appeared in his true form, filling the horizon. This event marked the beginning of the Prophet’s *risalah* (prophetic mission), while the revelation of Surah Al-Alaq initiated his *nubuwwah* (prophethood). The emphasis on *qiyaam al-layl* (night vigil) in both Surah Al-Muzzammil and Surah Al-Mudaththir indicates the importance of spiritual preparation for the immense burden of conveying Allah’s message, a burden that required a strength beyond ordinary human capacity.
