الٓر ۚ كِتَـٰبٌ أُحْكِمَتْ ءَايَـٰتُهُۥ ثُمَّ فُصِّلَتْ مِن لَّدُنْ حَكِيمٍ خَبِيرٍ 1
Translations
Alif, Lām, Rā. [This is] a Book whose verses are perfected and then presented in detail from [one who is] Wise and Aware
Transliteration
Alif Lam Ra. Kitabun uhkimat ayatuhu thumma fusssilat min ladun hakimin khabir.
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah introduces Surah Hud by presenting the Quran as a perfectly structured divine book whose verses are firmly established (muhkam) in their meanings and then detailed (mufassal) for clarity and guidance. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that 'Alif Lam Ra' are among the mysterious letters (Huruf Muqatta'ah) whose exact meaning is known only to Allah, though they serve to draw attention and affirm the Quranic miracle. The attributes of 'Hakeem' (All-Wise) and 'Khabeer' (All-Aware) underscore that this perfection comes from Allah's complete wisdom and knowledge of all affairs.
Revelation Context
Surah Hud is a Meccan surah revealed during the middle Meccan period when the Prophet faced intense opposition. This opening ayah establishes the Quran's divine authority and coherence as a response to those who questioned its origins, affirming that it emanates from the All-Wise, All-Aware Creator who orchestrates all divine guidance with perfect knowledge.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari). Additionally, 'Verily, this Quran leads to that which is most just' (Quran 17:9) reflects the theme of Quranic guidance and perfection mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that the Quran is not a random collection of teachings but a meticulously structured divine guidance, encouraging believers to study it systematically and with the understanding that every verse serves a purpose rooted in Allah's infinite wisdom. For modern readers, it reinforces trust in the Quran as a reliable source of comprehensive guidance for all human affairs and spiritual growth.