طسٓمٓ 1
Translations
Ṭā, Seen, Meem.
Transliteration
Tā Sīn Mīm
Tafsir (Explanation)
These are the Qur'anic initials (muqatta'āt) that open Surah Al-Qasas, similar to other surahs beginning with such letters. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir note that while the precise meaning of these letters is known only to Allah (ilm al-ghayb), their presence serves to draw attention and emphasize the miraculous nature of the Qur'an, challenging those who doubt its divine origin. The letters prepare the listener for the profound stories and lessons that follow in this surah.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Qasas is a Meccan surah revealed during the middle Meccan period, primarily addressing the polytheists and confirming the message of the Qur'an through narratives. The opening initials are characteristic of Meccan surahs and serve as a rhetorical device to captivate the audience before presenting the story of Prophet Musa and other historical accounts that demonstrate Allah's guidance and power.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly explains the meaning of these specific letters, the principle is referenced in various traditions about the Qur'an's inimitability. Imam Al-Suyuti documented in his works that the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not explain these letters to the companions, indicating that their detailed meaning is part of Allah's hidden knowledge.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that the Qur'an's structure and composition itself constitute a miracle that transcends human comprehension and capability. It encourages trust in the Qur'an's divine origin and invites listeners to reflect on the profound messages contained within, rather than becoming preoccupied with understanding every linguistic element.