يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلْمُدَّثِّرُ 1
Translations
O you who covers himself [with a garment],
Transliteration
Ya ayyuha al-muddaththir
Tafsir (Explanation)
This opening ayah addresses the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as 'O you wrapped in garments' or 'O you cloaked one,' calling him to arise from rest and begin his prophetic mission. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this represents Allah's command to the Prophet to leave his seclusion and actively convey the message of Islam to humanity, marking a significant shift from personal spiritual preparation to public preaching.
Revelation Context
This surah was revealed early in the Meccan period, following the initial three years of the Prophet's retreat for spiritual contemplation after receiving the first revelation (Surah Al-'Alaq). The address marks Allah's command for the Prophet to publicly proclaim Islam and warn the people, transitioning from private to open da'wah (invitation to Islam).
Related Hadiths
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the first revelation was Surah Al-'Alaq, followed after some time by Surah Al-Muddaththir (Sahih Bukhari 3). This hadith contextualizes the progression of revelation in the Prophet's early mission.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that spiritual retreat and personal development are necessary, but ultimately faith must manifest in active service to Allah's cause and community. Modern readers can reflect on how periods of personal reflection should lead to greater engagement and contribution to society.