Surah 96
العلق
Al-'Alaq
The Clot
Surah
Which was revealed in Makkah This was the First of the Qur'an revealed The Beginning of the Prophethood of Muhammad and the First of the Qur'an revealed Imam Ahmad recorded that `A'ishah said: The first thing that began happening with the.
Classical references: Ibn Kathir (Abridged).
Source: Ibn Kathir (Abridged) (96:1).
Last reviewed: 2026-04-10.
This is a short orientation note and does not replace full tafsir.
Recite in the name of your Lord who created
Created man from a clinging substance.
Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous -
Who taught by the pen
Taught man that which he knew not.
No! [But] indeed, man transgresses
Because he sees himself self-sufficient.
Indeed, to your Lord is the return.
Have you seen the one who forbids
A servant when he prays?
Have you seen if he is upon guidance
Or enjoins righteousness?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away -
Does he not know that Allāh sees?
No! If he does not desist, We will surely drag him by the forelock1
A lying, sinning forelock.
Then let him call his associates;
We will call the angels of Hell.1
No! Do not obey him. But prostrate and draw near [to Allāh].