The Splitting of the Moon: A Manifest Miracle

The splitting of the moon (inshaq al-qamar) is among the greatest manifest miracles (mu'jizat) bestowed upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It is explicitly mentioned in the Noble Qur'an: "The Hour has come near, and the moon has split [in two]." (Surah Al-Qamar, 54:1). This event occurred in Makkah before the Hijrah, when the disbelievers demanded a sign from the Prophet ﷺ.

Narration from the Companions

This momentous event is authentically reported by numerous Companions. Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: "The people of Makkah asked Allah's Messenger ﷺ to show them a miracle, so he showed them the splitting of the moon." (Sahih al-Bukhari 3871, among others).

Ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) testified: "The moon was split into two separate parts during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger ﷺ. One part was behind the mountain and the other part was on this side of the mountain. So Allah's Messenger ﷺ said to us, 'Bear witness.'"

Scholarly Commentary on its Significance

The scholars have explained that this miracle served multiple divine purposes. Primarily, it was a definitive response to the polytheists' challenge, providing clear proof of the Prophet's truthfulness. Despite witnessing this cosmic sign, the obstinate disbelievers dismissed it as mere magic, demonstrating how prejudice can blind one to the clearest of evidences.

Imam Al-Qurtubi notes that the splitting was both visual and physical - the moon actually divided into two distinct parts that were separated, with the mountain of Hira visible between them. This was not an eclipse or an optical illusion, but a temporary suspension of the natural order by the Command of Allah, the Almighty.

Enduring Testimony

This miracle remains an eternal testimony mentioned in the Qur'an until the Day of Judgment. Its mention serves as a reminder that the Hour is indeed near and that the signs of prophethood were clear for those who reflect. The Helpers in Madinah (Ansar), upon hearing of this and other miracles, recognized the truth and embraced Islam wholeheartedly, may Allah be pleased with them all.