The Sixth and Last Period of Revelation
Introduction
The sixth and last period of revelation in Islam refers to the final phase of the Qur’anic revelations, which were primarily revealed in al-Madīnah. This period is crucial in understanding the legal, social, and political frameworks of the Islamic community as it matured.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الفَتْرَةُ السَّادِسَةُ وَالأَخِيرَةُ (al-Fatrah al-Sādisa wa al- Akhīra)
- Turkish: Altıncı ve Son Dönem (Altıncı ve Son Dönem)
Major Chapters and Themes
Chapter XCVII - The Chapter of the Night of Decree (Sūrat al-Qadr)
- Overview: This chapter emphasizes the significance of the Night of Decree (
Laylat al-Qadr), believed to be the night when the Qur’an was first revealed. - Themes: Divine decree, the night better than a thousand months, peace until the break of dawn.
Chapter XCVIII - The Chapter of the Clear Evidence (Sūrat al-Bayyinah)
- Overview: This chapter provides a rebuke to Jews and Christians for doubting the manifest signs of Muhammad’s mission.
- Themes: Clear evidence (
bayyinah), the role of the Torah and the Gospel, the division among People of the Book over accepting Islam.
Chapter II - The Chapter of the Heifer (Sūrat al-Baqarah)
- Overview: The longest chapter in the Qur’an, which addresses a wide array of topics relevant to the new Muslim community.
- Themes: Guidance, creation of man, the story of Adam, legal rulings, social conduct, and divine laws.
Chapter III - The Chapter of ‘Imran’s Family (Sūrat Āl-‘Imrān)
- Overview: This chapter underlines God’s unity and highlights events from the life of Jesus.
- Themes: Family of Imran, unity of God, early Islamic battles, the concept of true religion (
Islām).
Chapter VIII - The Chapter of the Spoils (Sūrat al-Anfāl)
- Overview: It primarily deals with the Battle of Badr and the spoils of war.
- Themes: Lawful and forbidden aspects of war, the division of spoils, divine intervention during battles.
Key Components in this Period
The Importance of Revelation Context
The socio-political backdrop of Madīnah greatly influenced the nature of the revelations. These chapters deal less with theological arguments and more with laws, societal norms, and governance.
Development of Islamic Jurisprudence
The revelations led to the foundation of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), guiding personal and communal behavior, as well as setting the rules for interactions with non-Muslims.
Relationship with People of the Book
Many chapters address the interactions with Jews and Christians, either inviting them to accept Islam or criticizing their deviations from previous scriptures.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “The History of al-Tabari” by Tabari: Offers a chronological history of the revelations.
- “The Qur’an: An Encyclopedia” edited by Oliver Leaman: Provides detailed entries on various themes, chapters, and concepts in the Qur’an.
- “Introduction to the Qur’an” by M. A. Draz: Excellent for understanding the stylistic and thematic consistency of the Qur’an.
Takeaways and Conclusion
The sixth and last period of revelation encapsulates the maturity of the Islamic community in Madīnah, highlighting Islamic law, social justice, and the final consolidation of faith. These chapters reflect the divine guidance provided to shape a cohesive and ethical Muslim society, addressing internal and external challenges.
By understanding these chapters, we can gain insights into the foundational principles that governed early Islamic society and their relevance to contemporary Muslim life.
This structured summary offers a concise yet detailed understanding of the crucial developments and chapters in the sixth and last period of Qur’anic revelations.
