Anas reported that the people of Mecca demanded from Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) that he should show them (some) signs (miracles) and he showed twice the splitting of the moon. This hadlth has been narrated on the authority of Anas through another chain of transmitters.
The Splitting of the Moon: A Manifest Miracle
This profound narration from Sahih Muslim (2802 a, b) recounts one of the clearest physical miracles bestowed upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. When the polytheists of Mecca demanded a sign confirming his prophethood, Allah manifested the moon splitting into two distinct parts before their very eyes.
Scholarly Commentary on the Lunar Miracle
Classical scholars emphasize that this miracle occurred in response to the disbelievers' challenge, serving as definitive proof of Muhammad's ﷺ truthfulness. The moon visibly separated into two portions—one appearing on one side of the mountain and the other on the opposite side—before reuniting.
This event is among the "irrational" miracles (mu'jizat) that transcend natural laws, demonstrating Allah's absolute power over creation. Unlike spiritual miracles perceived only by the righteous, this was a public spectacle witnessed by believers and disbelievers alike.
Theological Significance and Contemporary Relevance
The splitting of the moon affirms the Quranic verse: "The Hour has come near, and the moon has split" (54:1). Scholars note this serves as both a prophecy fulfilled and a warning of the approaching Day of Judgment.
This miracle remains eternally relevant as it establishes the authenticity of Islamic revelation and provides tangible evidence for seekers of truth throughout generations, reinforcing the fundamental Islamic doctrine of Allah's omnipotence over the cosmos.