How Many Surah in the Qur'an: Understanding Its Structure, Divisions, and Wonders

The Qur'an is the holy book of Islam, serving as a guiding light for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. However, for many—especially those new to learning about Islam or non-Muslims intrigued by its teachings—questions often arise. How many surah in the Qur'an? What is the system of division for the chapters and sections in this sacred text? Let’s explore these fascinating aspects together!

How Many Surah in the Qur'an?

Before diving deeper, let’s look at some key figures that frequently pique curiosity:

• Number of Surah: The Qur'an consists of 114 surah (chapters).
• Number of Verses: There are approximately 6,236 verses (ayahs) in the Qur'an. However, this number can vary slightly depending on how verses are counted (for instance, some versions consider the Bismillah as a separate verse).
• Number of Sections: The Qur'an is divided into 30 sections (juz). This division facilitates the reading of the Qur'an over a month, especially during Ramadan.

The System of Division in the Qur'an

1. Division of Surah

Each surah in the Qur'an has its own theme and context. These chapters are broadly categorised into two main types:

Makki Surahs:

These are chapters revealed in Makkah before the Prophet Muhammad's migration to Madinah. They generally focus on themes of faith, morality, and the foundational teachings of Islam. Have you ever wondered how the context of a surah can influence its message?

Madinah Surahs:

These chapters were revealed after the migration. They often address legal matters, worship practices, and social interactions within the Muslim community.

1. Division of Sections

The division of the Qur'an into 30 sections serves to make reading more manageable. Each section comprises several surahs and verses, allowing Muslims to complete the Qur'an in a month. This division also aids in memorisation and gradual understanding of the text.

3. Division of Verses

Each surah consists of verses, which are the smallest units in the Qur'an. These verses contain not only commands and prohibitions but also stories, moral lessons, and guidance for life. Isn’t it fascinating how each verse can hold such profound meaning?

Why Is This Division Important?

The division of the Qur'an into surahs, sections, and verses is not merely a matter of numbers. It is a divine method that facilitates understanding, memorisation, and application of its teachings. With this system, every Muslim can easily locate verses relevant to their circumstances or questions. 

For instance, do you know which surah is the longest and which is the shortest in the Qur'an? Understanding these distinctions can deepen your appreciation of the text.