The Clot
•19 verses
A Meccan surah of 19 verses, Al-'Alaq contains the first five verses revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the Cave of Hira by the angel Jibril, marking the beginning of revelation.
Al-'Alaq commands reading and learning in the name of Allah, states that mankind was created from a clinging substance ('alaq), and warns against the arrogance of those who consider themselves self-sufficient.
Tell your child the story of the beginning of revelation in the Cave of Hira to awaken in them the love of reading and knowledge.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Recite in the name of your Lord who created –
Created man from a clinging substance.
Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous -
Who taught by the pen –
Taught man that which he knew not.
No! [But] indeed, man transgresses
Because he sees himself self-sufficient.
Indeed, to your Lord is the return.
Have you seen the one who forbids
A servant when he prays?
Have you seen if he is upon guidance
Or enjoins righteousness?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away -
Does he not know that Allāh sees?
No! If he does not desist, We will surely drag him by the forelock1 –
A lying, sinning forelock.
Then let him call his associates;
We will call the angels of Hell.1
No! Do not obey him. But prostrate and draw near [to Allāh].
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