Living Quran

Surah Taha (Ta-Ha)

Named "Taha" after the two disjoined Arabic letters that open the chapter, letters whose meaning is left to God.

Surah Taha is the 20th chapter of the Quran, traditionally classified as Meccan, comprising 135 ayahs. It opens with reassurance to the Prophet that the revelation was not sent to cause distress but as guidance and a reminder. The bulk of the surah is devoted to an extended account of Moses: his call at the sacred valley, his commissioning to confront Pharaoh, the granting of signs, his request for his brother Aaron as a helper, and the confrontation with Pharaoh's magicians who ultimately believe. It recalls the deliverance of the Israelites, the episode of the calf fashioned in Moses's absence, and his response upon returning. Toward its close, the surah turns to the Day of Resurrection, briefly recalls the story of Adam, and counsels patience, prayer, and contentment. The chapter is noted for its consoling, encouraging tone toward the Prophet.
Surah number
20
Revelation
Meccan
Ayahs
135
Arabic
طه

Read Surah Taha online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

  • Revelation as guidance, not hardship
  • The extended narrative of Moses and Pharaoh
  • Aaron's role as helper and the calf episode
  • Reassurance and consolation for the Prophet
  • The Resurrection and final accountability
  • Patience, prayer, and reliance on God

Why this surah matters

Taha holds a cherished place in Islamic tradition and is associated in well-known narrations with the early spread of the message in Mecca. Its detailed, moving portrayal of Moses is among the fullest in the Quran, offering the Prophet and believers a model of perseverance against tyranny. Many Muslims hold the surah in special affection for its tender, reassuring address to the Prophet. Its opening letters place it among the chapters beginning with disjoined letters, whose interpretation scholars leave to God.

Frequently asked questions

What does "Taha" mean?

It consists of two disjoined Arabic letters that open the surah; their precise meaning is not definitively known, and scholars leave it to God.

Which prophet features most in Surah Taha?

Moses is the central figure, with an extended account of his mission to Pharaoh and his leadership of the Israelites.

Is Surah Taha Meccan?

Yes, it is commonly held to be a Meccan surah from the period of the Prophet's early preaching.

Read Surah Taha

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