قُلْ أُوحِىَ إِلَىَّ أَنَّهُ ٱسْتَمَعَ نَفَرٌ مِّنَ ٱلْجِنِّ فَقَالُوٓا۟ إِنَّا سَمِعْنَا قُرْءَانًا عَجَبًا 1
Translations
Say, [O Muḥammad], "It has been revealed to me that a group of the jinn listened and said, 'Indeed, we have heard an amazing Qur’ān [i.e., recitation].
Transliteration
Qul uhiya ilayya annahu istama'a nafrun minal jinni faqalū inna sami'nā Qur'ānan 'ajabā
Tafsir (Explanation)
The Prophet Muhammad is commanded to announce that a group of jinn listened to the Qur'an and were amazed by its eloquence and power. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this incident demonstrates the universal appeal of the Qur'an across creation, transcending human boundaries, and highlights the jinn's acknowledgment of the Qur'an's miraculous nature ('ajab - wondrous/marvelous). Al-Qurtubi notes this serves as evidence for the truth of the Qur'an, as even beings from the unseen realm recognized its extraordinary qualities.
Revelation Context
This surah was revealed in Mecca and marks the beginning of the account of the jinn's encounter with the Qur'an. Islamic tradition holds that a group of jinn came to listen to the Prophet reciting Qur'an near Nakhlah, and this ayah documents their immediate response and amazement. The surah itself represents a direct address to the jinn and humanity regarding the Qur'an's guidance.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari records that the jinn came to the Prophet while he was reciting Qur'an at night, and when they heard it, they called out to their people saying the Qur'an was indeed wondrous. Additionally, Surah Al-Ahqaf (46:29-32) provides a related account of jinn believing in the Qur'an after hearing it.
Themes
Key Lesson
The Qur'an's miraculous nature transcends all boundaries of creation, appealing even to beings beyond human perception, reminding us that its truth is undeniable and its guidance is meant for all creation. This should inspire believers to reflect deeply on the Qur'an's extraordinary eloquence and to recognize that accepting Islamic truth is not merely a human choice but an acknowledgment that aligns with the very fabric of creation.