What does the term 'Fatrat al-Wahi' refer to in Islamic history?

Explanation

'Fatrat al-Wahi' literally means the cessation or pause of revelation. In Islamic history, it specifically refers to the period of temporary break in divine revelation after the first revelation (Surah Al-Alaq, verses 1-5) in the Cave of Hira. This pause lasted for a period—commonly reported as six months to two and a half years—during which no new revelation came to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), causing him great distress until Jibreel علیہ السلام returned with the revelation of Surah Al-Muddaththir, marking the resumption of prophethood duties.

Good to know

The first revelation occurred in the Cave of Hira in 610 CE when Jibreel علیہ السلام brought the first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq. After this initial encounter, revelation ceased temporarily, a period known as Fatrat al-Wahi. During this pause, the Prophet (PBUH) experienced deep anxiety and even contemplated throwing himself from mountains, but Jibreel علیہ السلام would appear reassuring him of his prophethood. The revelation resumed with the opening verses of Surah Al-Muddaththir, after which revelation continued for approximately 23 years until the Prophet's passing.

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