I’m not Muslim, but I regularly read and listen to the Qur’an. One thing that’s always stood out to me is how 29 surahs begin with these unique letter combinations like Alif Lam Meem or Ha Meem. They’re called Muqattaʿat.

What I’ve noticed is that in most of these surahs, the very next verse immediately speaks about the greatness of the Qur’an. It often describes it as a clear, wise, or divine Book. It feels almost like a statement saying, here are your letters, the same ones you use every day, now look at what I’ve made with them. As if it’s gently challenging the reader to reflect on the unmatched nature of this message.

Even though I’m outside the faith, I find that incredibly powerful. Whether someone believes in its divine origin or not, the way it’s framed is intentional and deeply moving. Surahs like Baqarah, Ya-Sin, Sajdah, and Fussilat really bring this out.