Which Surah was the first to be revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?

Explanation

Surah al-Alaq (Chapter 96), also known as "Iqra," was the first revelation sent down to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through Angel Jibreel in the Cave of Hira. The first five verses beginning with "Iqra bismi rabbika alladhi khalaq" (Read in the name of your Lord who created) were revealed during this initial encounter. This marked the beginning of prophethood and the commencement of the Quranic revelation, which continued over a period of approximately 23 years.

Good to know

The first revelation of Surah al-Alaq occurred in the month of Ramadan, when the Prophet (PBUH) was around 40 years old and was engaged in meditation in the Cave of Hira near Makkah. Angel Jibreel appeared and commanded him to "Read" three times, and the Prophet responded that he could not read. After the initial revelation of the first five verses, there was a period of pause (fatrat al-wahi) before subsequent revelations resumed. Surah al-Muddaththir was among the earliest revelations that followed after this pause.

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