Virtues and Merits of the Prophet (pbuh) and his Companions

Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 3637

The Incident of Moon-Splitting

The polytheists of Mecca demanded from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) a clear sign to validate his prophethood. In response to their persistent demands, Allah manifested this great miracle where the moon was split into two distinct parts before their very eyes.

Scholarly Commentary

This miracle occurred during the Meccan period when opposition to Islam was at its peak. The Quraysh challenged the Prophet to prove his message by performing an extraordinary sign. The splitting of the moon was not merely an optical illusion but a physical reality witnessed by people across the Arabian Peninsula.

Ibn Kathir explains that this event is among the greatest proofs of Muhammad's prophethood, as it demonstrates Allah's power responding directly to the disbelievers' challenge. The moon separated into two clear halves, with one part moving toward Mount Abu Qubays and the other toward Quayqi'an, then rejoined.

Al-Qurtubi notes that despite witnessing this undeniable miracle, the disbelievers attributed it to magic, showing how stubbornness in disbelief can blind people to even the most evident truths. This incident is also mentioned in the Quran (54:1): "The Hour has come near, and the moon has split."

Spiritual Significance

This miracle serves as eternal evidence for all generations of the truth of Islam and the authenticity of Prophet Muhammad's message. It demonstrates that Allah's power transcends all natural laws when confirming His messengers.

The event teaches believers that miracles are granted by divine wisdom, not merely to compel belief, but as clear signs for those who reflect. True faith requires internal conviction, not just external proofs.