What is the difference between Makki and Madani Surahs?

The science of "Makki and Madani" is a terminology that distinguishes between the verses and surahs revealed before the Hijrah (Makki) and those revealed after it (Madani), with the time of revelation being the primary criterion.

The importance and benefits of this science lie in: 1. Knowing the abrogating from the abrogated verses. 2. Understanding the history and stages of legislation. 3. Arriving at a correct understanding of the verses and surahs of the Qur’an. 4. Demonstrating the great care Muslims have for the Holy Qur’an. 5. Appreciating the linguistic taste of Qur’anic eloquence styles. 6. Knowing the Prophetic biography (Seerah).

The difference between Makki and Madani is evident in content and style: - In terms of style: Makki is often characterized by strong style, intense address, and short verses, whereas Madani is characterized by softness, ease of address, and long verses. - In terms of subject matter: Makki focuses on affirming monotheism (Tawhid), creed (Aqidah), and belief in resurrection, while Madani elaborates on acts of worship ('Ibadat) and transactions (Mu'amalat), and mentions jihad and its rulings, and the hypocrites.

Scholars have deduced standard criteria for both Makki and Madani. Among the criteria for Makki are that every surah containing a prostration (sajdah), or the word "kalla" (Nay!), or stories of prophets and past nations (with the exception of Al-Baqarah), or Adam and Iblis (with the exception of Al-Baqarah), is Makki. As for the criteria for Madani, every surah containing an obligatory duty (faridah) or a legal punishment (hadd), or mentioning hypocrites (with the exception of Al-'Ankabut), or disputing with the People of the Book, is Madani.