The correct answer is 28. The 114 chapters (Surahs) of the Holy Quran are traditionally divided into two primary categories: Makki and Madni. This division is not based on the physical location of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at the exact moment... Read More
The correct answer is 28. The 114 chapters (Surahs) of the Holy Quran are traditionally divided into two primary categories: Makki and Madni. This division is not based on the physical location of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at the exact moment of revelation, but rather on the timeline of the Hijrah (the migration from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE). Any revelation that occurred after this pivotal migration is classified as Madni, even if the verses were revealed during journeys or during the conquest of Makkah. Out of the total 114 Surahs, 28 are identified as Madni, while the remaining 86 are classified as Makki.
The transition from Makkah to Madinah marked a significant shift in the needs of the Muslim community. In Makkah, the focus was primarily on the core tenets of faith (Aqeedah), the Oneness of God (Tawheed), and the realities of the Hereafter. However, in Madinah, the Muslims established an independent socio-political entity. Consequently, the 28 Madni Surahs are characterized by their focus on legislation, social justice, and the governance of a state.
These chapters contain the majority of the "Ahkam" (legal rulings). Detailed instructions regarding marriage, divorce, inheritance, financial transactions, and the penal code (Hudood) are found almost exclusively in the Madni period. Surah Al-Baqarah, the longest chapter in the Quran, is a prime example of this era, providing a comprehensive framework for the life of an individual and the collective community.
Linguistically, Madni Surahs differ noticeably from their Makki counterparts. While Makki verses are typically short, rhythmic, and intensely forceful—designed to stir the hearts of the pagan Arabs—the Madni verses (Ayat) are generally much longer and more descriptive. They utilize a prose-like structure that is better suited for explaining complex legalities and social regulations.
The Madni chapters often begin with the address "O you who believe" (Ya ayyuhalladhina amanu), reflecting the fact that the audience was now a committed community of believers looking for divine guidance on how to conduct their daily lives. In contrast, Makki Surahs more frequently use "O mankind" (Ya ayyuhan-nas), addressing a broader, often skeptical audience.
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