Sura al-Najm

II. The Concept of Prophecy in Shia Thought

Sura al-Najm emphasizes the role of the Prophet Muhammad as the quintessential messenger of Allah. This concept resonates deeply within Shia theology, which regards the Prophet not merely as a deliverer of divine messages but as an embodiment of divine attributes. The sura delineates the mechanisms of revelation, confirming both the authenticity of the Prophet’s experience and the supernatural endorsement of his prophetic status.

Shia interpretations underscore the necessity of acknowledging the Prophet’s unparalleled connection with the divine, which is communicated through the verses of Sura al-Najm. The assertion that the Prophet “does not speak from his own desires” (Quran 53:3) reinforces the credibility of his guidance, which holds a pivotal role in Shia Islamic practice.