Tonight, the moon over North America is full or nearly full – the middle of the Islamic month of Jumada al-Awwal. Have you ever stopped to look at it and think about what Allah says about the moon in the Quran? The moon is not just beautiful – it is one of Allah's signs.
The Moon Has Phases
Allah says: "And the moon – We have determined for it phases, until it returns (appearing) like the old date stalk." (Surah Ya-Sin, 36:39)
Every month, the moon grows from a thin crescent to a full moon and then becomes thin again – like an old, curved date-palm stalk. This perfect, repeating pattern is how Muslims count the Islamic months.
The Moon Helps Us Count Time
Allah says: "It is He who made the sun a shining light and the moon a derived light and determined for it phases – that you may know the number of years and account (of time)." (Surah Yunus, 10:5)
Notice the words: the sun is a "shining light" and the moon a "derived light". The moon does not produce its own light – it reflects the light of the sun. A beautiful reminder of how precise the words of the Quran are.
The Sun and Moon Follow Their Paths
Allah says: "It is not allowable for the sun to reach the moon, nor does the night overtake the day, but each, in an orbit, is swimming." (Surah Ya-Sin, 36:40)
Everything in the sky moves in perfect order, exactly as Allah has decreed.
A Surah Named After the Moon
Surah 54 of the Quran is Surah Al-Qamar ("The Moon"). In it Allah repeats four times: "And We have certainly made the Quran easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?" (54:17, 22, 32, 40). What a perfect encouragement to learn and memorise the Quran!
Reflection Activity for Families
- Go outside tonight after 'Isha and look at the moon together.
- Say "SubhanAllah" and talk about how it changes during the month.
- Ask children: "Who keeps the moon in its path?" – and let them answer: "Allah!"
- Keep a "moon diary" for a month – draw the moon each night and write the Islamic date.
Signs for Those Who Reflect
Allah describes the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of night and day as "signs for those of understanding" (Surah Al 'Imran, 3:190). Looking at creation and thinking about its Creator is an act of worship.
Remember – the Quran Is Easy to Learn
Allah has made the Quran easy for remembrance. Take the first step with Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy – one-on-one online classes for kids and adults. Book a 3-day free trial.