Description

Al-Ḥijr[1][2] (ِArabic: الْحِجْر‎, lit. 'The Stoneland') is the 15th Quranic chapter. It has 99 verses.

Regarding the timing and contextual background of the revelation (asbāb al-nuzūl), it is an earlier Meccan surah, believed to have been received by Prophet Muhammad shortly after chapter 12, Yusuf, during his last year in Mecca. Like other surahs of this period, it praises God. Parts of Q15:4-74 are preserved in the Ṣan‘ā’1 lower text.[3]

This Surah takes its name from 80th ayat [4] which refers to Mada'in Saleh, a pre-Islamic archaeological site, occasionally called Al-Hijr, or Hegra.

Time of Revelation

The revelation of this surah occurred at a similar time to that of Surah Ibrahim. Its also repeats the admonitions. Muhammad had been spreading the message for a long time. His kin had become increasingly stiff-necked and obstinate in their hostility, hatred and mocking. Muhammad had started to feel tired in his attempts against disbelief and restrictions of his people. Allah reassured him again.[5]

Central Theme

This surah contains brief mentions of Tawhid, and provides an admonition to the disbelievers. The primary subjects of the surah are:

1. cautioning the individuals who dismissed the message and
2. providing solace and support to Muhammad,

The Quran never limits itself to mere rebuke; reproach and reprimand. It depends on its statute. The surah contains brief contentions for Tawhid and admonition in the tale of Adam and Satan.[6]

15:9 We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We [note 1] will assuredly guard it (from corruption). Translation  Yusuf Ali (Orig. 1938)  [7]

Ibn Kathir says, "God, may He be exalted, stated that He is the One Who revealed the Dhikr to him, which is the Qur'an, and He is protecting it from being changed or altered".[2]