Surah Al-Hijr (The Rocky Tract)

Named "Al-Hijr" after the rocky region once inhabited by the people of Thamud, referenced within the chapter.

Surah Al-Hijr is the 15th chapter of the Quran, traditionally classified as Meccan, comprising 99 ayahs. It reassures the Prophet in the face of rejection and mockery, affirming that God Himself has sent down the revelation and pledges to preserve it. The surah reflects on signs in creation, the ordered heavens, and God's provision as evidence of purposeful design. It narrates the account of the creation of the first human and the refusal of Iblis to prostrate, followed by his respite and vow to mislead, and God's assurance that sincere servants remain beyond his sway. Further passages recall the guests of Abraham and the destruction of the people of Lot, and the fate of the dwellers of Al-Hijr who rejected their messenger. The chapter closes by consoling the Prophet, urging patience, worship, and steadfastness.

Surah number: 15
Revelation: Meccan
Ayahs: 99
Arabic: الحجر

Read Surah Al-Hijr online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

Divine preservation of the revelation
Signs of God in the created order
The account of Adam's creation and Iblis's refusal
Warnings drawn from destroyed nations
Consolation and patience for the Prophet
Mercy paired with accountability

Why this surah matters

Al-Hijr is well known for its explicit affirmation that God has sent down the reminder and will guard it, a verse frequently cited in discussions of the Quran's preservation. As a Meccan surah, it strengthens the Prophet and early believers during a period of hardship by recalling how past communities met their messengers. Its narrative of Iblis's defiance is among the Quran's principal accounts of that episode. The chapter blends warning with reassurance, a balance many readers find characteristic of the middle Meccan period.

Frequently asked questions

What does "Al-Hijr" refer to?

It refers to a rocky tract in northern Arabia associated with the people of Thamud, mentioned in the surah as a community that rejected its messenger.

Why is this surah significant for the preservation of the Quran?

It contains a well-known verse affirming that God sent down the reminder and will Himself protect it, which scholars often reference on this theme.

Is Surah Al-Hijr Meccan?

Yes, it is commonly held to be a Meccan surah revealed during a period of opposition to the Prophet's message.

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