The moon was split ( into two pieces ) while we were with the Prophet (ﷺ) in Mina. He said, "Be witnesses." Then a Piece of the moon went towards the mountain.
The Splitting of the Moon: A Divine Miracle
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 3869 describes one of the greatest miracles bestowed upon Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), where the moon was visibly split into two distinct parts before the companions' eyes in Mina.
Scholarly Commentary
The splitting of the moon (inshiqāq al-qamar) is among the clear signs (ayāt) mentioned in the Quran: "The Hour has come near, and the moon has split" (54:1). This event occurred approximately five years before Hijrah when the polytheists of Mecca demanded a miracle.
The Prophet's command "Be witnesses" establishes this as a public miracle witnessed by numerous companions, making it an undeniable proof of his prophethood. The location in Mina during pilgrimage season ensured maximum witnesses.
Classical scholars note this miracle demonstrated Allah's power over creation and served as a response to the disbelievers' challenge. The mountain mentioned likely refers to Mount Hira or surrounding peaks where one portion became visible.
Significance and Lessons
This miracle affirms the truth of Islamic revelation and serves as a reminder of Allah's absolute power over celestial bodies. It establishes the authenticity of Prophet Muhammad's mission through tangible evidence.
The event also teaches about the importance of bearing witness to truth and the transient nature of worldly phenomena compared to divine power. Scholars emphasize that such miracles were granted to strengthen the faith of early Muslims and confound the opponents of Islam.