The Nature of Divine Revelation

This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari provides profound insight into the experience of wahy (revelation) as described by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself. The question posed by Al-Harith bin Hisham addresses the fundamental nature of how Allah communicates with His Messenger.

Two Modes of Revelation

The Prophet ﷺ described two primary forms of revelation: The first resembles the ringing of a bell - this is the most intense form where the Angel conveys revelation without assuming physical form. Scholars explain this as a powerful spiritual experience where the Message penetrates the heart directly.

The second form occurs when the Angel Gabriel appears in human form, speaking clearly to the Prophet ﷺ. This was often how companions witnessed revelation occurring, as the Angel would appear as a familiar companion named Dihyah al-Kalbi or others.

Physical Manifestations of Revelation

The testimony of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) provides crucial eyewitness evidence. Despite extreme cold weather, the Prophet ﷺ would perspire heavily during revelation, demonstrating the tremendous physical and spiritual intensity of receiving divine communication.

This physical response indicates the immense weight and responsibility of conveying Allah's words perfectly. The sweat serves as tangible proof of the authentic nature of the prophetic experience.

Scholarly Commentary

Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that the bell-like sound represents the most powerful form of revelation because it comes directly from Allah without intermediary forms. The human form represents accommodation to human perception.

This hadith establishes the authenticity of Quranic revelation and refutes claims that the Prophet ﷺ authored the Quran himself. The physical transformations witnessed by companions confirm the supernatural nature of the experience.