Many wonder, what was the first surah revealed in the Quran? While the Quran we read today begins with Surah Al-Fatihah, the actual first surah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was Surah Al-Alaq.
In this article, we explore the difference between the first surah in the Quran and the first surah of Quran revealed, and why this moment marked the beginning of divine guidance for all humanity.
What Was the First Surah Revealed to the Prophet?
Many people ask: What is the first surah in the Quran? While the first surah of the Quran as it appears in the Mushaf is Surah Al-Fatihah, the first surah revealed in the Quran to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was Surah Al-Alaq, specifically its opening verses.
Was the Quran Revealed in Order?
No, the Holy Quran was not revealed in its final order. Revelation occurred gradually over 23 years in response to events, situations, and divine wisdom.
After the Prophet’s passing, the verses and surahs were compiled and arranged during the Caliphates of Abu Bakr and Uthman ibn Affan, with Zaid ibn Thabit leading the collection process.
So, while Surah Al-Fatihah is the first surah in Quran by order, the first surah revealed to the Prophet was Surah Al-Alaq, according to the majority of scholars.
The First Surah Revealed in the Quran: Surah Al-Alaq
If you’ve been wondering, “what was the first surah revealed?”, the answer is Surah Al-Alaq (96:1–5). It begins with the powerful command:
“Read in the name of your Lord who created”
ٱقْرَأْ بِٱسْمِ رَبِّكَ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَ (1)
These verses mark the beginning of revelation and emphasize the value of knowledge, creation, and divine mercy.
This moment represents a turning point in history, where the final message to humanity began. It is a moment deeply honored in Islam.
Read also about: How is the quran organized?
Reciting the First Revealed Surah
Here is the beginning of Surah Al-Alaq, the first surah revealed in Quran:
Recite in the name of your Lord who created (1)
Created man from a clot (2)
Recite, and your Lord is the Most Generous (3)
Who taught by the pen (4)
Taught man what he did not know (5)
اقرأ باسم ربك الذي خلق (1)
خلق الإنسان من علق (2)
اقرأ وربك الأكرم (3)
الذي علم بالقلم (4)
علم الإنسان ما لم يعلم (5)
These verses remind Muslims of the importance of knowledge, humility, and the connection between creation and the Creator.
That’s why Surah Al-Alaq holds a special place in the hearts of believers and students of the Quran.
First Surah in Quran vs. First Surah Revealed
- The first surah in the Quran (by order) is Surah Al-Fatihah
- The first surah of Quran revealed is Surah Al-Alaq
- Some scholars debated between Al-Alaq and Al-Muddaththir, but consensus favors Al-Alaq as the first revelation
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