Over time, the nomenclature of Surahs has evolved, influenced by diverse cultural and linguistic factors. Nonetheless, it is noteworthy that despite variations in names, the content of the Surahs remains consistent across both versions.
The South Asian script, predominantly employed in the Indian subcontinent, adheres to a naming tradition where Surahs are designated based on their central themes or subject matter. This particular tradition originated with early Muslim scholars, who derived their interpretations of the Quranic text.
Conversely, the Madinah script, widely regarded as the principal version of the Quran, follows a distinct tradition of Surah nomenclature. In this tradition, Surahs are named after a specific word or phrase occurring within each respective Surah. The genesis of this tradition can be traced back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who provided guidance and teachings in this regard.
Examples*:
| Surah No. | South Asian Script | Madinah Script |
|---|---|---|
| 94 | Sūrah Inshirāḥ | Sūrah Sharḥ |
| 99 | Sūrah Zilzāl | Sūrah Zilzāl |
| 111 | Sūrah Lahab | Sūrah Masad |
*There are more examples found in other surahs. These examples are relevant to Safar Juz Amma.
