The Embryo (Al-Alaq)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
(Muhammad), read in the name of your Lord who created (all things). 1 created man out of a germ-cell 2 Read - for thy Sustainer is the Most Bountiful One 3 who taught by the Pen, 4 Taught man that which he knew not. 5 Nay! Verily, man does transgress all bounds (in disbelief and evil deed, etc.). 6 for he believes himself to be self-sufficient. 7 Surely your returning is to your Lord. 8 Have you (O Muhammad (Peace be upon him)) seen him (i.e. Abu Jahl) who prevents, 9 a worshipper from praying? 10 Hast thou seen if he relieth on the guidance (of Allah) 11 Or enjoins piety? 12 Tell me if he (the disbeliever, Abu Jahl) denies (the truth, i.e. this Quran), and turns away? 13 Does he not know that Allah sees? 14 Let him know that if he does not desist, We shall certainly drag him by his forelocks, 15 A lying, sinful forelock! 16 Then, let him call (for help) to his council (of comrades): 17 We will call the guards of hell. 18 By no means! Obey not thou him. Continue to adore, and continue to draw nigh. ۩ 19
True are the words of Allah the Almighty.
End of Surah: The Embryo (Al-Alaq). Sent down in Mecca. First revelation of the Quran before
The Pen (Al-Qalam)