In 610, Islamic tradition marks the beginning of the prophetic mission of Muhammad, who is said to have received his first revelations while meditating in the Cave of Hira on the Jabal al-Nour mountain near Mecca. According to the accounts, the angel Jibril appeared to him and commanded him to recite, an event that initiated a period of divine communication spanning over two decades.

These revelations form the essential basis of the Qur'an, which Muslims believe to be the literal word of God. This transformative experience fundamentally altered the religious landscape of the Arabian Peninsula, establishing the core tenets of Islam and defining the nature of prophethood within the faith. The messages received during this time provided the guidance for the community's spiritual practices, moral framework and communal organisation.

The significance of this event is central to Islamic history, as it marks the transition of Muhammad from a merchant in Mecca to the messenger of a new monotheistic tradition. The revelations addressed a wide range of theological and social concerns, ultimately shaping the development of Islamic law and worship. The key aspects of this foundational period include:

• The initial encounter with the angel Jibril in the Cave of Hira.
• The commencement of the transmission of the Qur'an.
• The establishment of Muhammad's role as the final prophet.
• The introduction of core monotheistic principles to the region.
• The beginning of a new era for Islamic scripture and practice.

The process of receiving these revelations continued throughout the remainder of Muhammad's life, providing the faithful with a comprehensive guide for living. By documenting these early interactions with the divine, the tradition preserves the origins of a faith that would soon expand far beyond its Meccan roots, influencing global history and culture for centuries to come.