تَنزِيلُ ٱلْكِتَـٰبِ مِنَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلْعَزِيزِ ٱلْحَكِيمِ 1
Translations
The revelation of the Book [i.e., the Qur’ān] is from Allāh, the Exalted in Might, the Wise.
Transliteration
Tanzīlu al-Kitābi mina-Allāhi al-'Azīzi al-Hakīm
Tafsir (Explanation)
This opening ayah declares that the Qur'an is a revelation (tanzīl) sent down from Allah, emphasizing His attributes of might (Al-'Azīz) and wisdom (Al-Hakīm). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that this introduction establishes the divine origin and authority of the Qur'an, affirming that every word comes from the Mighty and Wise God, whose power ensures its preservation and whose wisdom ensures its perfect guidance for humanity.
Revelation Context
Surah Az-Zumar is a Meccan surah revealed during the period of intense opposition to the Prophet Muhammad. This opening serves to remind the Meccan believers of the Qur'an's divine authenticity amid rejection and mockery from disbelievers, grounding their faith in the certainty that this is revelation from the All-Powerful, All-Wise God.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027). Additionally, 'Verily this Qur'an is the word of Allah' affirms its divine origin (as referenced in various hadith collections emphasizing the Qur'an's authority).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that the Qur'an is not merely human speech but a divine message from the Almighty and All-Wise God, deserving complete respect, deep study, and faithful implementation in daily life. For modern readers, it strengthens conviction that guidance for all life's challenges comes from a source of infinite power and perfect wisdom.