10 Lessons from Surah Al-Alaq That Allah Mentioned

Rukhsar Rehman

May 23, 2025

Surah Al-Alaq was the First revelation of the Quran.

Surah Al-Alaq (Chapter 96 of the Qur’an) holds a special place in Islam as the very first revelation sent down to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Table of Contents

Comprising just 19 verses, it was revealed in the Cave of Hira during a life-changing moment that marked the beginning of Prophethood.

This surah lays the foundation of Islamic values—knowledge, humility, obedience, and accountability.

Let’s read about ten powerful lessons from Surah Al-Alaq that Allah Himself has mentioned.

1. The Command to Read Came First (Verse 1)

“Read in the Name of your Lord who created.” (Quran 96:1)

The very first command from Allah was not to pray or fast—but to read. This highlights the value of seeking knowledge, but with a clear purpose: doing so in the name of Allah, not for ego or status.

2. Remember Where You Came From (Verse 2)

“Created man from a clinging clot.” (Quran 96:2)

This verse reminds us of our humble origins. No matter how much power, wealth, or knowledge we gain, we were once nothing but a clot—showing the importance of staying grounded.

3. Allah Is the True Source of Knowledge (Verse 4)

“Who taught by the pen.” (Quran 96:4)

It is Allah who taught mankind to write, record, and preserve. This shows the divine nature of learning and how education is a gift from the Creator Himself.

4. We Know Nothing Except What Allah Teaches (Verse 5)

“Taught man what he did not know.” (Quran 96:5)

All human advancement—whether in science, medicine, or art—comes from Allah’s mercy in teaching us. It reminds us to always stay grateful and humble.

5. Arrogance Leads to Rebellion (Verse 6)

“No! [But] indeed, man transgresses.” (Quran 96:6)

This verse warns that humans, once they think they are self-sufficient, often cross boundaries. It’s a warning against pride and independence from Allah.

6. Wealth or Status Does Not Make Us Self-Sufficient (Verse 7)

“Because he sees himself self-sufficient.” (Quran 96:7)

Just because we have worldly success doesn’t mean we don’t need Allah. This verse teaches that true success lies in dependence on the Creator, not the creation.

7. Allah Sees Everything We Do (Verse 14)

“Does he not know that Allah sees?” (Quran 96:14)

This is a powerful reminder that nothing escapes Allah’s watch. Whether it’s a public act or a private sin, Allah is always aware—and we should act accordingly.

8. Preventing Worship Is a Serious Sin (Verse 9-10)

“Have you seen the one who forbids a servant when he prays?” (Quran 96:9-10)

Trying to stop someone from worshiping Allah is a grave sin. It shows the importance of Salah (prayer) and the high status of those who commit to it.

9. Arrogance Will Be Humbled (Verse 15-16)

“We will surely drag him by the forelock.” (Quran 96:15)

Those who rebel against Allah with pride and mock His signs will be brought low. These verses are a warning to those who act arrogantly without fear of accountability.

10. The Way to Allah Is Through Prostration (Verse 19)

“Prostrate and draw near [to Allah].” (Qur’an 96:19)

The surah ends with a beautiful command: make sujood and come close to Allah. No matter how far we’ve gone, the way back is simple—lower your head and open your heart.

Surah Al-Alaq is not just the beginning of the Qur’an—it’s the beginning of a divine relationship between the Creator and His creation. It tells us who we are, who Allah is, and what path we must walk. These ten lessons serve as a timeless guide for living a life of knowledge, humility, and devotion.

May Allah help us internalize these lessons and live by them. Ameen.