Surah An-Najm, meaning “The Star,” is the 53rd surah (chapter) of the Quran and is a Meccan surah, revealed in Mecca. It’s known for its focus on the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) ascension to heaven during the Night Journey (Isra wal Mi’raj). The surah also addresses the disbelievers’ claims about goddesses and angels, while highlighting God’s power and the imminent Day of Judgement. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Key Themes:

• Confirmation of the Prophet’s Message:The surah begins by swearing by the stars to emphasize the divine source of the Prophet’s message and its authenticity.
• The Night Journey:It mentions the Prophet’s ascension to heaven during the Night Journey, a significant event in Islamic tradition.
• Refutation of Pagan Beliefs:The surah refutes the pagan beliefs of the Quraysh about idols and angels, particularly the claim that angels are God’s daughters.
• God’s Power and the Hereafter:It showcases God’s power and emphasizes the reality of the Day of Judgement, where individuals will be resurrected.
• Warning and Reminder:The surah serves as a warning to those who reject the truth and a reminder of the importance of adhering to the teachings of Islam. 

Distinguishing Features:

• Prostration Verse:Surah An-Najm is known for containing a verse that requires Muslims to prostrate (sajdah) during its recitation, as indicated by Tafsir Ibn Kathir and several hadiths. 
• High Tempo:The surah is characterized by its powerful and fast-paced style, with short verses. 
• Seerah-focused:It’s considered a Seerah-focused surah, meaning it deals with the Prophet’s life and journey. 
• The Star as a Symbol:The term “najm” (star) is used in the first verse, and some scholars interpret it as a symbol of the Quran itself, with the “star” being the revealed verses that shine in the darkness of ignorance. 

The Holy Quran – TheQuran.org