When you first begin studying the Qur’an, it’s easy to pick up simple associations: “Makki” sounds like Makkah, and “Madani” sounds like Madinah. But as highlighted in Junaid Hussain’s video, that popular idea is a misconception. The key difference isn’t where the revelation occurred—it’s when it was revealed in relation to the Hijrah.
Makki and Madani: the real meaning
The Qur’an is comprised of 114 surahs divided into 30 sections, and the overall text is over 600 pages. Within this structure, surahs are broadly categorised into Makki and Madani—and the defining factor is not geography.
According to the explanation in the video, a surah is classified as:
- Makki if it was revealed before the Hijrah (the Prophet ﷺ’s migration from Makkah to Madinah)
- Madani if it was revealed after the Hijrah
In other words, the dividing line is time, not the map. That means a verse could be revealed in a specific place after the Hijrah, yet still be counted as Madani—because what matters is whether it came before or after that pivotal moment.
The Hijrah is the dividing line, not the city
A helpful way to frame it is to remember: the term “Makki vs Madani” is about the era of revelation. The Hijrah marks a major transition in the Prophet ﷺ’s life and the early Muslim community’s circumstances.
So if you’ve ever heard someone say, “This surah is Madani because it was revealed in Madinah,” the video gently corrects that logic. The correct approach is:
- First determine whether it was revealed before the Hijrah or after the Hijrah.
- Then understand its classification (Makki or Madani), even if the specific location mentioned or implied is different.
How many surahs are Makki and Madani?
Junaid Hussain shares approximate numbers from the Qur’an’s total of 114 surahs: roughly 86 are Makki and 28 are Madani. He also notes that a small number are disputed among scholars.
While scholars may differ on a few classifications, the overall principle remains consistent: Makki and Madani are based on revelation timing relative to the Hijrah.
Why this matters when you read the Qur’an
At first, this may feel like a technical detail. But the video makes a deeper point: “a small detail completely changes how you understand the context of what you’re reading.”
When you understand whether a surah is Makki or Madani, you’re better positioned to consider the broader background of the message—how it relates to the early stages of revelation before migration, or to the community’s life after the Hijrah. Even without going into every verse, that contextual awareness can enrich your reflection and study.
A quick takeaway you can share
If you’d like a one-sentence reminder from the video, it’s this:
Makki and Madani are defined by time—before or after the Hijrah—not by the location of revelation.
Plan a meaningful next step
If this concept sparked your curiosity, consider continuing your learning in a structured way. Many students find it helpful to choose a daily surah and, before reading in depth, note whether it is generally classed as Makki or Madani. That simple habit can make your study feel more grounded in the Qur’an’s historical flow.
And if you’re travelling to deepen your connection—whether it’s through visiting the places linked to the Prophet ﷺ’s life or attending study sessions on the ground—Sakina Tours can help you shape a meaningful itinerary. From spiritual learning to reflective moments in historic settings, we design journeys that support both heart and mind.
Would you like travel inspiration tied to the Hijrah and the story of the Qur’an’s revelation journey?
