Surah 97: Al-Qadr (The Power)

Lore & Background

The sura centers on the Night of Decree, a night when the Qur'an was sent down (Surah 97:1). This night is described as being better than a thousand months (Surah 97:3), indicating its immense spiritual significance. The sura does not specify which night this is, leaving its exact timing open to interpretation across different traditions. On this night, the angels and the Spirit descend by permission of their Lord for every matter (Surah 97:4). The identity of 'the Spirit' is not defined in these passages, though it is often understood in Islamic tradition to refer to the angel Gabriel. The descent is for every matter, suggesting a comprehensive divine decree or blessing. The sura concludes by describing the night as peace until the emergence of dawn (Surah 97:5). This emphasizes the tranquility and safety of the night, contrasting with the unknown nature of the night itself. The passages do not explain what happens after dawn or provide further details about the night's events.

Reader's Guide

The passages portray the Night of Decree as a singular, divinely appointed time when the Qur'an was revealed (Surah 97:1). The sura immediately emphasizes the night's extraordinary value by stating it is better than a thousand months (Surah 97:3), a comparison that highlights its superiority over ordinary time. The rhetorical question in Surah 97:2 underscores the night's mystery—human knowledge cannot fully grasp its significance. The descent of angels and the Spirit (Surah 97:4) is presented as a cosmic event, occurring by God's permission for every matter. This suggests the night is a time of divine activity and decree. The final verse (Surah 97:5) frames the night as a period of peace that lasts until dawn, implying a bounded, sacred time. The passages do not specify the night's date, the number of angels, or the exact nature of 'every matter,' leaving these details to broader Islamic tradition. The sura's focus remains on the night's unparalleled status and the revelation of the Qur'an.

Did You Know?

• The Qur'an was sent down during the Night of Decree (Surah 97:1).
• The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months (Surah 97:3).
• The angels and the Spirit descend on this night for every matter (Surah 97:4).
• The night is described as peace until the emergence of dawn (Surah 97:5).