Hadith Text & Reference

"The moon split during the time of the Messenger of Allah(s.a.w), so the Messenger of Allah(s.a.w) said: 'Bear witness.'"

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2182 | Book: Chapters On Al-Fitan

Authenticity & Context

This hadith is classified as Sahih (authentic) by Imam at-Tirmidhi and other scholars. The miraculous event occurred in Mecca approximately five years before the Hijrah, when the polytheists challenged the Prophet(s.a.w) to prove his prophethood.

Scholarly Commentary

The splitting of the moon (inshiqāq al-qamar) is one of the greatest evidentiary miracles (muʿjizāt) given to Prophet Muhammad(s.a.w). When the command "Bear witness" was issued, it addressed both believers and deniers - calling them to testify to this manifest sign of Allah's power supporting His Messenger.

Scholars note this miracle is explicitly mentioned in Surah al-Qamar (54:1): "The Hour has come near, and the moon has split." The event was witnessed by people in various regions, serving as universal proof that transcended geographical boundaries.

Significance & Lessons

This miracle demonstrates Allah's absolute power over creation and serves as eternal proof of Muhammad's(s.a.w) prophethood. It confirms that celestial bodies submit to Allah's command, just as the sea split for Musa(AS) and the fire cooled for Ibrahim(AS).

The polytheists' response - attributing it to magic - shows how stubborn disbelief can blind people to clear evidence. For believers, it strengthens faith and serves as a reminder that Allah's support for His messengers is manifest and undeniable.