Meccan and Medinan — The Difference and Its Importance
terms
Level: basic
quran-sciences
trm-001
شَهۡرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِيٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانُ هُدٗى لِّلنَّاسِ
— البقرة 185
Definition:
Meccan: revealed before the Hijra regardless of physical location.
Medinan: revealed after the Hijra regardless of location.
Criterion: Time (the Hijra), not place.
Meccan characteristics: Monotheism, creed, stories for lessons, "O people."
Medinan characteristics: Detailed legal rulings, "O you who believe," social organization.
Value: Understanding Meccan/Medinan helps grasp the gradual legislation and phases of da'wah.
Source: Al-Suyuti, Al-Itqan (1/9); Al-Zarqani (1/187)
Question: What is the correct criterion for distinguishing Meccan from Medinan?
Answer: Time not place — Meccan is pre-Hijra; Medinan is post-Hijra, regardless of physical location.