5. The Qur'an's Own Description of Its Revelation
The Qur'an describes itself as a revealed and recited message rather than as a book initially delivered in a single bound volume.
For example: “And it is a Qur'an which We have revealed in stages so that you may recite it to the people at intervals; and We have sent it down progressively.”— Qur'an 17:106.
“By the star when it descends. Your companion [Muhammad] has never strayed nor erred, nor does he ever speak from his own personal inclinations. It is but a Revelation divinely inspired”
“There has certainly come to you great enlightenment from your Lord. So whoever chooses to see [by it], it will be for the benefit of his own soul, and whoever chooses to be blind [to it]; say [O Prophet]: I am no guardian over you.”
Similarly:
“Those who disbelieve say, ‘Why was the Qur'an not revealed to him all at once?’ Thus We have strengthened your heart with it and revealed it gradually.” —Qur'an 25:32.
This gradual mode of revelation is historically important.
The Qur'an did not initially exist as a single physical codex. It emerged over approximately two decades through proclamations delivered in different circumstances.
