1. http://www.iiie.net/index.php?q=node/47
2. http://www.justquran.com/
3. http://www.allahsquran.com/
4. http://scienceislam.com/
5. http://www.sunnahonline.com/ilm/quran/qms.pdf
6. http://iknowledge.islamicnature.com/quran/
7. http://www.alghurabaa.org/books/quran/
8. http://www.beconvinced.com/archive/en/main.php?action=showcat&catid=04
9. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/75/
10. http://www.islaam.net/main/display.php?category=2
11. http://kalamullah.com/al-quran.html
12. http://kalamullah.com/quran.html
13. http://www.dhikrullah.com/knowledge/category/quran/
14. http://www.911bible.com/
15. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/70/
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
7 Reasons to Read The Glorious Quran
http://english.islamway.com/bindex.php?section=article&id=162
by Shabir Ally
1. Intimate: It dares you to disprove it. How? It says that humans can not write a book like this even if they pooled all their resources together and got help also from the spirits. The Quran said this fourteen hundreds years ago and yet no one has been able to disprove it. Billions of books have been written - but not another one like the Quran.
2. Incorruptible: It is the only religious sacred writing which has been in circulation for such a long time and yet remains as pure as it was in the beginning. The Quran was kept intact. Nothing was added to it; nothing was changed in it; and nothing was taken away from it ever since it was completely revealed 1400 years ago.
3. Unsurpassable: The Quran is God's final revelation to humankind. God revealed the Torah to Moses, the Pslams to David, the Gospel to Jesus, and finally the Quran to Muhammad. Peace be upon all of them. No other book will come from God to surpass his final revelation.
4. Indisputable: The Quran withstands the test of time and scrutiny. No one can dispute the truth of this book. It speaks about past history and turns out right. It speaks about the future in prophecies and it turns out right. It mentions details of physical phenomena which were not known to people at the time; yet later scientific discoveries confirm that the Quran was right all along. Every other book needs to be revised to accord with modern knowledge. The Quran alone is never contradicted by a modern discovery.
5. Your Roadmap for Life and Afterlife: The Quran is the best guidebook on how to structure your life. No other book presents such a comprehensive system involving all aspects of human life and endeavor. The Quran also points out the way to secure everlasting happiness in the afterlife. It is your roadmap showing how to get to paradise.
6. God's Gift of Guidance: God has not left you alone. You were made for a reason. God tells you why he made you, what he demands from you, and what he has in store for you. If you operate a machine contrary to it's manufacture specification you will ruin that machine. What about you? Do you have an owner's manual for you? The Quran is from your function for success lest you fail to function. It is a healing mercy from God. It satisfies the soul, and cleans the heart. It removes doubts and brings peace.
7. Your Calling Card to Communicate with God: Humans are social creatures. We love to communicate with other intelligent life. The Quran tells us how to communicate with the source of all intelligence and the source of all life- the One God. The Quran tells us who God is, by what name we should address God, and the way in which to communicate with God.
Are these not seven sufficient reasons for reading the Quran?
by Shabir Ally
1. Intimate: It dares you to disprove it. How? It says that humans can not write a book like this even if they pooled all their resources together and got help also from the spirits. The Quran said this fourteen hundreds years ago and yet no one has been able to disprove it. Billions of books have been written - but not another one like the Quran.
2. Incorruptible: It is the only religious sacred writing which has been in circulation for such a long time and yet remains as pure as it was in the beginning. The Quran was kept intact. Nothing was added to it; nothing was changed in it; and nothing was taken away from it ever since it was completely revealed 1400 years ago.
3. Unsurpassable: The Quran is God's final revelation to humankind. God revealed the Torah to Moses, the Pslams to David, the Gospel to Jesus, and finally the Quran to Muhammad. Peace be upon all of them. No other book will come from God to surpass his final revelation.
4. Indisputable: The Quran withstands the test of time and scrutiny. No one can dispute the truth of this book. It speaks about past history and turns out right. It speaks about the future in prophecies and it turns out right. It mentions details of physical phenomena which were not known to people at the time; yet later scientific discoveries confirm that the Quran was right all along. Every other book needs to be revised to accord with modern knowledge. The Quran alone is never contradicted by a modern discovery.
5. Your Roadmap for Life and Afterlife: The Quran is the best guidebook on how to structure your life. No other book presents such a comprehensive system involving all aspects of human life and endeavor. The Quran also points out the way to secure everlasting happiness in the afterlife. It is your roadmap showing how to get to paradise.
6. God's Gift of Guidance: God has not left you alone. You were made for a reason. God tells you why he made you, what he demands from you, and what he has in store for you. If you operate a machine contrary to it's manufacture specification you will ruin that machine. What about you? Do you have an owner's manual for you? The Quran is from your function for success lest you fail to function. It is a healing mercy from God. It satisfies the soul, and cleans the heart. It removes doubts and brings peace.
7. Your Calling Card to Communicate with God: Humans are social creatures. We love to communicate with other intelligent life. The Quran tells us how to communicate with the source of all intelligence and the source of all life- the One God. The Quran tells us who God is, by what name we should address God, and the way in which to communicate with God.
Are these not seven sufficient reasons for reading the Quran?
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Belief in Scriptures
http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/36/
Belief in the scriptures revealed by God is the third article of Islamic faith.
We can identify four main reasons for the revelation of scriptures:
1. The scripture revealed to a prophet is a point of reference to learn the religion and obligations towards God and fellow human beings. God reveals Himself and explains the purpose of human creation through revealed scriptures.
2. By referring to it, disputes and differences between its followers in matter of religious belief and practice or in matters of social practice could be settled.
3. The scriptures are meant to keep the religion safe from corruption and deterioration, at least for some time after the death of the prophet. At the present time, the Quran revealed to our Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is the only scripture to remain safe from corruption.
4. It is God’s proof against human beings. They are not allowed to oppose or overstep it.
A Muslim firmly believes that divinely revealed books were actually revealed by the compassionate God to His prophets to guide mankind. The Quran is not the only spoken word of God, but God also spoke to prophets before Prophet Muhammad.
“…and to Moses God spoke directly.” (Quran 4:164)
God describes true believers are those who: “…believe in what has been sent down to you (Muhammad) and what has been sent down before you…” (Quran 2:4)
The most important and central message of all scriptures was to worship God and God alone.
“And we sent never a prophet before you except that we revealed to him, saying, ‘there is no God but I, so worship Me.’” (Quran 21:25)
Islam is more inclusive in the holy revelations it affirms than any other heavenly religion in its present form.
Muslims uphold and respect the following scriptures:
1. The Quran itself, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. The Torah (Tawrah in Arabic) revealed to the Prophet Moses (different from the Old Testament read today).
3. The Gospel (Injeel in Arabic) revealed to Prophet Jesus (different from the New Testament read in churches today).
4. The Psalms (Zaboor in Arabic) of David.
5. The Scrolls (Suhuf in Arabic) of Moses and Abraham.
Third, Muslims believe whatever is true in them and has neither been altered or deliberately misconstrued.
Fourth, Islam affirms that God revealed the Quran as a witness over the previous scriptures and confirmation of them, because He says therein: “And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the book (the Quran) in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it and trustworthy in highness and a witness over it (the collection of old scriptures)…” (Quran 5:48)
Meaning the Quran confirms whatever is true in previous scriptures and rejects whatever alterations and changes human hands have made to them.
Original Scriptures and the Bible
We must distinguish between two matters: the original Torah, Gospel, and Psalms and the present day Bible. The originals were God’s revelation, but the present day Bible does not have the exact original scripture.
No divine scripture exists today in the original language it was revealed in, except the Quran. The Bible was not revealed in English. Different books of today’s Bible are at best tertiary translations and different versions exist. These multiple translations were done by people whose knowledge, skill, or honesty is not known. As a result, some bibles are larger than others and have contradictions and internal inconsistencies! No originals exist. The Quran, on the other hand, is the only scripture in existence today in its original language and words. Not one letter of the Quran has been changed since its revelation. It is internally consistent with no contradictions. It is today as it was revealed 1400 years ago, transmitted by a rock-solid tradition of memorization and writing. Unlike other sacred texts, the entire Quran has been memorized by almost every Islamic scholar and hundreds of thousands of ordinary Muslims, generation after generation!
The previous scriptures essentially consist of:
1. Stories of man’s creation and earlier nations, prophesies of what was to come like signs before the Judgment Day, appearance of new prophets, and other news.
The stories, prophecies, and news in the Bible read in churches and synagogues today are partly true and partly false. These books consist of some translated fragments of the original scripture revealed by God, words of some prophets, mixed with explanations of scholars, errors of scribes, and outright malicious insertions and deletions. Quran, the final and trustworthy scripture, helps us sort out fact from fiction. For a Muslim, it is the criterion to judge the truth from the falsehood in these stories. For example, the Bible still contains some clear passages pointing to God’s unity [1]. Also, some prophecies regarding the Prophet Muhammad are found in the Bible as well [2]. Yet, there are passages, even whole books, almost entirely recognized to be forgeries and the handiwork of men [3].
2. Law and rulings, the allowed and prohibited, like the Law of Moses.
If we were to assume the law, that is the lawful and the prohibited, contained in the previous books did not suffer corruption, the Quran still abrogates those rulings, it cancels the old law which was suitable for its time and is no longer applicable today. For example, the old laws pertaining to diet, ritual prayer, fasting, inheritance, marriage and divorce have been cancelled (or, in many cases, reaffirmed) by the Islamic Law.
The Holy Quran
The Quran is different from other scriptures in the following respects:
1. The Quran is miraculous and inimitable. Nothing similar to it can be produced by human beings.
2. After the Quran, no more scriptures will be revealed by God. Just as the Prophet Muhammad is the last prophet, the Quran is the last scripture.
3. God has taken it upon Himself to protect the Quran from alteration, to safeguard it from corruption, and to preserve it from distortion. On the other hand, previous scriptures suffered alteration and distortion and do not remain in their originally revealed form.
4. The Quran, for one, confirms early scriptures and, for another, is a trustworthy witness over them.
5. The Quran abrogates them, meaning it cancels the rulings of the previous scriptures and renders them inapplicable. The law of the old scriptures is no longer applicable; the previous rulings have been abrogated with the new Law of Islam.
Footnotes:
[1] For example the declaration of Moses: “Hear, O Israel The Lord our God is one Lord” (Deuteronomy 6:4) and the announcement of Jesus: “...The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; the Lord our God is one Lord.” (Mark 12:29).
[2] Refer to (Deuteronomy 18:18), (Deuteronomy 33:1-2), (Isaiah 28:11), (Isaiah 42:1-13), (Habakkuk 3:3), (John 16:13), (John 1:19-21), (Matthew 21:42-43), and more.
[3] For example, refer to books of the Apocrypha.
Belief in the scriptures revealed by God is the third article of Islamic faith.
We can identify four main reasons for the revelation of scriptures:
1. The scripture revealed to a prophet is a point of reference to learn the religion and obligations towards God and fellow human beings. God reveals Himself and explains the purpose of human creation through revealed scriptures.
2. By referring to it, disputes and differences between its followers in matter of religious belief and practice or in matters of social practice could be settled.
3. The scriptures are meant to keep the religion safe from corruption and deterioration, at least for some time after the death of the prophet. At the present time, the Quran revealed to our Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is the only scripture to remain safe from corruption.
4. It is God’s proof against human beings. They are not allowed to oppose or overstep it.
A Muslim firmly believes that divinely revealed books were actually revealed by the compassionate God to His prophets to guide mankind. The Quran is not the only spoken word of God, but God also spoke to prophets before Prophet Muhammad.
“…and to Moses God spoke directly.” (Quran 4:164)
God describes true believers are those who: “…believe in what has been sent down to you (Muhammad) and what has been sent down before you…” (Quran 2:4)
The most important and central message of all scriptures was to worship God and God alone.
“And we sent never a prophet before you except that we revealed to him, saying, ‘there is no God but I, so worship Me.’” (Quran 21:25)
Islam is more inclusive in the holy revelations it affirms than any other heavenly religion in its present form.
Muslims uphold and respect the following scriptures:
1. The Quran itself, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. The Torah (Tawrah in Arabic) revealed to the Prophet Moses (different from the Old Testament read today).
3. The Gospel (Injeel in Arabic) revealed to Prophet Jesus (different from the New Testament read in churches today).
4. The Psalms (Zaboor in Arabic) of David.
5. The Scrolls (Suhuf in Arabic) of Moses and Abraham.
Third, Muslims believe whatever is true in them and has neither been altered or deliberately misconstrued.
Fourth, Islam affirms that God revealed the Quran as a witness over the previous scriptures and confirmation of them, because He says therein: “And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the book (the Quran) in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it and trustworthy in highness and a witness over it (the collection of old scriptures)…” (Quran 5:48)
Meaning the Quran confirms whatever is true in previous scriptures and rejects whatever alterations and changes human hands have made to them.
Original Scriptures and the Bible
We must distinguish between two matters: the original Torah, Gospel, and Psalms and the present day Bible. The originals were God’s revelation, but the present day Bible does not have the exact original scripture.
No divine scripture exists today in the original language it was revealed in, except the Quran. The Bible was not revealed in English. Different books of today’s Bible are at best tertiary translations and different versions exist. These multiple translations were done by people whose knowledge, skill, or honesty is not known. As a result, some bibles are larger than others and have contradictions and internal inconsistencies! No originals exist. The Quran, on the other hand, is the only scripture in existence today in its original language and words. Not one letter of the Quran has been changed since its revelation. It is internally consistent with no contradictions. It is today as it was revealed 1400 years ago, transmitted by a rock-solid tradition of memorization and writing. Unlike other sacred texts, the entire Quran has been memorized by almost every Islamic scholar and hundreds of thousands of ordinary Muslims, generation after generation!
The previous scriptures essentially consist of:
1. Stories of man’s creation and earlier nations, prophesies of what was to come like signs before the Judgment Day, appearance of new prophets, and other news.
The stories, prophecies, and news in the Bible read in churches and synagogues today are partly true and partly false. These books consist of some translated fragments of the original scripture revealed by God, words of some prophets, mixed with explanations of scholars, errors of scribes, and outright malicious insertions and deletions. Quran, the final and trustworthy scripture, helps us sort out fact from fiction. For a Muslim, it is the criterion to judge the truth from the falsehood in these stories. For example, the Bible still contains some clear passages pointing to God’s unity [1]. Also, some prophecies regarding the Prophet Muhammad are found in the Bible as well [2]. Yet, there are passages, even whole books, almost entirely recognized to be forgeries and the handiwork of men [3].
2. Law and rulings, the allowed and prohibited, like the Law of Moses.
If we were to assume the law, that is the lawful and the prohibited, contained in the previous books did not suffer corruption, the Quran still abrogates those rulings, it cancels the old law which was suitable for its time and is no longer applicable today. For example, the old laws pertaining to diet, ritual prayer, fasting, inheritance, marriage and divorce have been cancelled (or, in many cases, reaffirmed) by the Islamic Law.
The Holy Quran
The Quran is different from other scriptures in the following respects:
1. The Quran is miraculous and inimitable. Nothing similar to it can be produced by human beings.
2. After the Quran, no more scriptures will be revealed by God. Just as the Prophet Muhammad is the last prophet, the Quran is the last scripture.
3. God has taken it upon Himself to protect the Quran from alteration, to safeguard it from corruption, and to preserve it from distortion. On the other hand, previous scriptures suffered alteration and distortion and do not remain in their originally revealed form.
4. The Quran, for one, confirms early scriptures and, for another, is a trustworthy witness over them.
5. The Quran abrogates them, meaning it cancels the rulings of the previous scriptures and renders them inapplicable. The law of the old scriptures is no longer applicable; the previous rulings have been abrogated with the new Law of Islam.
Footnotes:
[1] For example the declaration of Moses: “Hear, O Israel The Lord our God is one Lord” (Deuteronomy 6:4) and the announcement of Jesus: “...The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; the Lord our God is one Lord.” (Mark 12:29).
[2] Refer to (Deuteronomy 18:18), (Deuteronomy 33:1-2), (Isaiah 28:11), (Isaiah 42:1-13), (Habakkuk 3:3), (John 16:13), (John 1:19-21), (Matthew 21:42-43), and more.
[3] For example, refer to books of the Apocrypha.
The Belief in the Kutub
Kutub is the plural of Kitab which means Maktoob (written). The (legal) meaning that is intended in this chapter is: The books which Allah has sent down unto His Messengers as a mercy and guidance to mankind so that they may utilize to achieve their happiness in this life and in the hereafter.
The Belief in the Books Includes 4 Matters:
First: To believe that the descent of the books is truly from Allah.
Second: To believe in the books whose names we know, each according to its name, like Al-Qur’aan which was sent down unto Muhammad (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa sallam), At-Tawraat which was revealed to Moosaa (alayhis-salaam), the Injeel which was brought down to ‘Eesaa (alayhis-salaam), and Az-Zaboor which was given to Daawood (alayhis-salaam). As to those books which we don’t know their names, we believe in them on the whole.
Third: To attest to their authentic information like the news told in the Qur’aan and (or) in the old scriptures as long as they are not altered or changed.
Fourth: Acting upon its un-abrogated statutes, accepting and submitting to them whether we realize the wisdom behind them or we don’t. All of the old scriptures are abrogated by the great Qur’aan. Allah (Ta’aalaa) said: “And We have sent down to you the book in truth confirming the scripture that came before it and Muhayminan (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old scriptures).” [1] [Qur’aan 5:48]
The Qur’aan, therefore, is a judge over all the old scriptures and accordingly it is forbidden to act upon any of the statutes of the old scriptures except what is authentic and acknowledged by the Qur’aan.
The Belief in the Books Yields Great Benefits, Including:
First: Acknowledging Allah's concern for His creation whereby He sent to every nation a book to guide through it.
Second: To recognize the wisdom of Allah in His Shar’a (judicial laws) whereby He legislated for each nation what suits its conditions, as Allah (Ta’aalaa) said: “To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way.” [Qur’aan 5:58]
Third: To be grateful for Allah's favor of sending down His books of revelation.
Footnotes:
[1] Muhayminan: Testifies the truth that is therein and falsifies the falsehood that is added therein.
Taken from Explaining The Fundamentals of Faith by Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen translated by Dr. Saalih as-Saalih
The Belief in the Books Includes 4 Matters:
First: To believe that the descent of the books is truly from Allah.
Second: To believe in the books whose names we know, each according to its name, like Al-Qur’aan which was sent down unto Muhammad (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa sallam), At-Tawraat which was revealed to Moosaa (alayhis-salaam), the Injeel which was brought down to ‘Eesaa (alayhis-salaam), and Az-Zaboor which was given to Daawood (alayhis-salaam). As to those books which we don’t know their names, we believe in them on the whole.
Third: To attest to their authentic information like the news told in the Qur’aan and (or) in the old scriptures as long as they are not altered or changed.
Fourth: Acting upon its un-abrogated statutes, accepting and submitting to them whether we realize the wisdom behind them or we don’t. All of the old scriptures are abrogated by the great Qur’aan. Allah (Ta’aalaa) said: “And We have sent down to you the book in truth confirming the scripture that came before it and Muhayminan (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old scriptures).” [1] [Qur’aan 5:48]
The Qur’aan, therefore, is a judge over all the old scriptures and accordingly it is forbidden to act upon any of the statutes of the old scriptures except what is authentic and acknowledged by the Qur’aan.
The Belief in the Books Yields Great Benefits, Including:
First: Acknowledging Allah's concern for His creation whereby He sent to every nation a book to guide through it.
Second: To recognize the wisdom of Allah in His Shar’a (judicial laws) whereby He legislated for each nation what suits its conditions, as Allah (Ta’aalaa) said: “To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way.” [Qur’aan 5:58]
Third: To be grateful for Allah's favor of sending down His books of revelation.
Footnotes:
[1] Muhayminan: Testifies the truth that is therein and falsifies the falsehood that is added therein.
Taken from Explaining The Fundamentals of Faith by Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen translated by Dr. Saalih as-Saalih
Monday, October 12, 2009
Quran: Your Gateway To A New World (Young Muslims brochure)
If we are like most Muslims, we probably have a copy of the Quran somewhere in our home. We may not know where it is, but that is only because we never needed to look for it. Most often, it occupies the top shelf in any stack of books (ensuring maximum accessibility!), or found wrapped in multiple layers of decorated cloth (ensuring optimum visibility!). More likely than not, it's the one book with the most dust on it and the one we are least likely to pick for our night-time reading. There is a reason we treat this 'holy book' in such a disgraceful manner: we do not know why we have it and why we need it in the first place.
By our indifference, we have ignored its awesome power to change people and transform societies. By our misguided love for the physical book, we have made it "untouchable", suitable only for occasional mouthing of its syllables, but otherwise to be stored away. By our overemphasis on minute details, we have erected barriers between the Quran and ourselves, counting on someone else to tell us how to understand it, so that we hardly ever interact with it personally!
The Quran as Reality
"Allah. There is no god but He, the ever-living, the self-subsisting [by whom all subsist]. He has sent down upon you the book with the truth ... as a guidance unto mankind" (3: 2-3)
For those who heard it for the first time from the lips of the Prophet, blessings and peace be on him, the Quran was a living reality. They had no doubt that, through him, Allah was speaking to them. Their hearts and minds were therefore seized by it. Their eyes overflowed with tears and their bodies shivered. They found each word of it deeply relevant to their concerns and experiences, and integrated it fully into their lives. They were completely transformed by it - both as individuals and as a community - into a totally new, alive and life-giving entity. Those who grazed sheep, herded camels and traded petty merchandise became the shepherds and leaders of mankind!
How do we make the Quran, again, a living, relevant force, as powerful for us now, 1420 years away, as it was then? Only by entering the world of the Quran as if Allah were speaking to us through it now and today, and by fulfilling the necessary conditions for such an encounter.
Encountering the World of the Quran
Firstly, we must realize what the Quran, as the word of God, is and what it means to us, and bring all the reverence, love, longing, and will-to-act that this realization demands. Secondly, we must read it as it asks to be read, as Allah's Messenger instructed us, as he and his Companions read it. Thirdly, we must bring each word of the Quran to bear upon our own realities and concerns by transcending the barriers of time, culture and change.
The New World that Awaits You
As you come to the Quran, you come to a new world. No other venture in your life can be so momentous and crucial, so blissful and rewarding, as your journey to and through the Quran.
It is a journey that will take you through the endless joys and riches of the words that your Creator and Lord has sent to you and all mankind. Here you will find a world of untold treasures of knowledge and wisdom to guide you on the pathways of life, to mould your thoughts and actions. In it, you will find deep insights to enrich you and steer you along the right course. From it, you will receive a radiant light to illuminate the deeper reaches of your soul. Here you will encounter profound emotions, a warmth to melt your heart and bring tears running down your cheeks.
Undertaking the Journey
To remain determined and steadfast on our road to its discovery, and to derive the maximum benefit from our undertaking of studying the Quran, we must approach it with certain convictions.
First, our lives will remain meaningless and ruined unless they are guided by the Quran, the word of God.
Second, the Quran, being the eternal guidance given by the ever-living God, is as relevant for us, today; as it was fourteen centuries ago, and will remain so forever.
Third, we almost have a right, in some sense and measure, to receive its blessings today as its first believers did; provided, of course, that we come to it and move in it in a manner that may entitle us to share its rich harvest.
Fourth, every Muslim has a duty to devote himself to reading, understanding, memorizing and implementing the Quran.
Fifth, one must abandon oneself totally, in thought and deed, to whatever the Quran has to offer. Any pride, arrogance, sense of self-sufficiency, reservation, or ingenuity that can mistakenly be read into it, is fatal to its understanding and would shut the door to its blessings.
Sixth, the path of the Quran is the path of self-surrender, of practicing what it tells you, even if one learns only one ayah. One ayah learnt and acted upon is better than a thousand explained beautifully but which do not impart any beauty to the reader's life.
Obedience, after all, is the real key to understanding.
Living the Quran
Reading the Quran will be of little benefit to you, it may even bring misery and harm, unless you, from the first moment, begin to change and reconstruct your life in total surrender to God who has given you the Quran. Without the will and striving to act, neither the states of heart and enraptures of the soul, nor the ecstasies of mood, nor intellectual enrichment will be of any use to you. If the Quran does not have any impact upon your actions and if you do not obey what it enjoins and avoid what it prohibits, then you are not getting nearer to it.
Reading the Quran should induce faith inside your heart; that faith should shape your lives. It is not a gradual piecemeal process, by which you first spend years reading the Quran, then understanding it and strengthening your faith, and only then act upon it. All things take place simultaneously: as you hear or recite the words, they kindle faith inside you; as you have faith inside you, your life begins to change.
What we must remember is that to live by the Quran requires a major decision on our part: we have to completely alter the course of our life, irrespective of what may be the dominant thought-patterns around us, or what our society may be dictating, or what others may be doing. This decision requires major sacrifices. But unless we, as believers in the Quran being the word of God, are prepared to take the plunge, not much good will come out of the time spent with the Quran.
O people! There has come to you an exhortation from your Lord - a healing for what is in the hearts, a guidance and a mercy for the believers. Say: In this bounty of Allah, and in His mercy, in it, let them rejoice!" (10: 57-8)
Let us rejoice then and re-acquaint our selves with Allah through His book.
Aids for further study:
1. "The Holy Quran : Text, Translation and Commentary " by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
2. "The Meaning of the Quran" by Sayyid Abul A'la Mawdudi
3. "In the Shade of the Quran" by Sayyid Qutb Shaheed
4. "Way to the Quran" by Ustad Khurram Murad
By our indifference, we have ignored its awesome power to change people and transform societies. By our misguided love for the physical book, we have made it "untouchable", suitable only for occasional mouthing of its syllables, but otherwise to be stored away. By our overemphasis on minute details, we have erected barriers between the Quran and ourselves, counting on someone else to tell us how to understand it, so that we hardly ever interact with it personally!
The Quran as Reality
"Allah. There is no god but He, the ever-living, the self-subsisting [by whom all subsist]. He has sent down upon you the book with the truth ... as a guidance unto mankind" (3: 2-3)
For those who heard it for the first time from the lips of the Prophet, blessings and peace be on him, the Quran was a living reality. They had no doubt that, through him, Allah was speaking to them. Their hearts and minds were therefore seized by it. Their eyes overflowed with tears and their bodies shivered. They found each word of it deeply relevant to their concerns and experiences, and integrated it fully into their lives. They were completely transformed by it - both as individuals and as a community - into a totally new, alive and life-giving entity. Those who grazed sheep, herded camels and traded petty merchandise became the shepherds and leaders of mankind!
How do we make the Quran, again, a living, relevant force, as powerful for us now, 1420 years away, as it was then? Only by entering the world of the Quran as if Allah were speaking to us through it now and today, and by fulfilling the necessary conditions for such an encounter.
Encountering the World of the Quran
Firstly, we must realize what the Quran, as the word of God, is and what it means to us, and bring all the reverence, love, longing, and will-to-act that this realization demands. Secondly, we must read it as it asks to be read, as Allah's Messenger instructed us, as he and his Companions read it. Thirdly, we must bring each word of the Quran to bear upon our own realities and concerns by transcending the barriers of time, culture and change.
The New World that Awaits You
As you come to the Quran, you come to a new world. No other venture in your life can be so momentous and crucial, so blissful and rewarding, as your journey to and through the Quran.
It is a journey that will take you through the endless joys and riches of the words that your Creator and Lord has sent to you and all mankind. Here you will find a world of untold treasures of knowledge and wisdom to guide you on the pathways of life, to mould your thoughts and actions. In it, you will find deep insights to enrich you and steer you along the right course. From it, you will receive a radiant light to illuminate the deeper reaches of your soul. Here you will encounter profound emotions, a warmth to melt your heart and bring tears running down your cheeks.
Undertaking the Journey
To remain determined and steadfast on our road to its discovery, and to derive the maximum benefit from our undertaking of studying the Quran, we must approach it with certain convictions.
First, our lives will remain meaningless and ruined unless they are guided by the Quran, the word of God.
Second, the Quran, being the eternal guidance given by the ever-living God, is as relevant for us, today; as it was fourteen centuries ago, and will remain so forever.
Third, we almost have a right, in some sense and measure, to receive its blessings today as its first believers did; provided, of course, that we come to it and move in it in a manner that may entitle us to share its rich harvest.
Fourth, every Muslim has a duty to devote himself to reading, understanding, memorizing and implementing the Quran.
Fifth, one must abandon oneself totally, in thought and deed, to whatever the Quran has to offer. Any pride, arrogance, sense of self-sufficiency, reservation, or ingenuity that can mistakenly be read into it, is fatal to its understanding and would shut the door to its blessings.
Sixth, the path of the Quran is the path of self-surrender, of practicing what it tells you, even if one learns only one ayah. One ayah learnt and acted upon is better than a thousand explained beautifully but which do not impart any beauty to the reader's life.
Obedience, after all, is the real key to understanding.
Living the Quran
Reading the Quran will be of little benefit to you, it may even bring misery and harm, unless you, from the first moment, begin to change and reconstruct your life in total surrender to God who has given you the Quran. Without the will and striving to act, neither the states of heart and enraptures of the soul, nor the ecstasies of mood, nor intellectual enrichment will be of any use to you. If the Quran does not have any impact upon your actions and if you do not obey what it enjoins and avoid what it prohibits, then you are not getting nearer to it.
Reading the Quran should induce faith inside your heart; that faith should shape your lives. It is not a gradual piecemeal process, by which you first spend years reading the Quran, then understanding it and strengthening your faith, and only then act upon it. All things take place simultaneously: as you hear or recite the words, they kindle faith inside you; as you have faith inside you, your life begins to change.
What we must remember is that to live by the Quran requires a major decision on our part: we have to completely alter the course of our life, irrespective of what may be the dominant thought-patterns around us, or what our society may be dictating, or what others may be doing. This decision requires major sacrifices. But unless we, as believers in the Quran being the word of God, are prepared to take the plunge, not much good will come out of the time spent with the Quran.
O people! There has come to you an exhortation from your Lord - a healing for what is in the hearts, a guidance and a mercy for the believers. Say: In this bounty of Allah, and in His mercy, in it, let them rejoice!" (10: 57-8)
Let us rejoice then and re-acquaint our selves with Allah through His book.
Aids for further study:
1. "The Holy Quran : Text, Translation and Commentary " by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
2. "The Meaning of the Quran" by Sayyid Abul A'la Mawdudi
3. "In the Shade of the Quran" by Sayyid Qutb Shaheed
4. "Way to the Quran" by Ustad Khurram Murad
The Qur'an - The Final Revelation to Mankind (IISNA pamphlet)
What is the Qur’an?
The Word of God
The Qur’an is the literal word of God, the almighty (Allah in Arabic), revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the angel Gabriel.
“The revelation of the book is from Allah, the mighty, the wise.” Qur’an 39:1
Guidance for Mankind
The Qur’an is “a guidance for mankind… and the distinction (between right and wrong).” Qur’an 2:185
It provides direction to help mankind judge between right and wrong, without which, man would surely be in loss.
The Final Revelation
The Qur’an is the last scripture revealed by almighty Allah (God), confirming what little truth remains in parts of previous scriptures and refuting and correcting fabrications and additions which have crept into current day versions of such scriptures.
“O you who have been given the scripture! Believe in what We have revealed confirming what is (already) with you...” Qur’an 4:47
How was the Qur’an Revealed?
The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him) and exists only in the language in which it was revealed - Arabic. However, the translation of the meaning of the Qur’an is available in many languages.
The Qur’an was not sent down as a complete book in one revelation; rather, the revelation spanned over a period of 23 years.
For this reason, it is essential to know in what circumstances the verses were revealed, in order to have a proper understanding of the Qur’an; otherwise, its teachings could be misunderstood.
How do I know that it is from God?
Preservation
The Qur’an is the only religious sacred text that has been in circulation for a lengthy period, and yet remains as pure as the day it was revealed. Nothing has been added, removed or modified from it, since its revelation over 1400 years ago.
“We have, without doubt, sent down the message; and We will certainly guard it (from corruption).” Qur’an 15:09
Not only has the Qur’an been preserved in written form, but also in the hearts of men, children and women. Today, millions of people have memorized the Qur’an from cover to cover.
Scientific Miracles
The Qur’an does not contradict modern science but rather, supports it. One of the most remarkable aspects about the Qur’an is that it contains many verses which accurately describe natural phenomenon in various fields such as embryology, meteorology, astronomy, geology and oceanography. Scientists have found its descriptions incredibly accurate for a book dating back to the 7th century.
“We shall show them our signs in the universe and within their own selves, until it becomes clear to them that this is the truth.” Qur’an 41:53
In fact, many of the scientific miracles mentioned in the Qur’an have been discovered only recently, through the modern advancement of technological equipment. Consider the following:
1. The Qur’an gives a detailed description of the development of the human embryo. These details were unknown to the scientific community until recent times.
2. The Qur’an states that the astronomical objects (stars, planets, moons etc...) were all formed from clouds of dust. Previously unknown, this fact has now become an undisputed principle of modern cosmology.
3. Modern science has discovered the existence of barriers that allow two seas to meet yet maintain their own temperature, density and salinity.
These signs of God were clearly stated in the Qur’an more than 1400 years ago.
Uniqueness
Ever since its revelation, no person has been able to produce a single chapter like that of the Qur’an in its beauty, eloquence, splendor, wisdom, prophecies, and other perfect attributes.
“And if you are in doubt as to that which We have revealed to Our servant, then produce a chapter like it and call on your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful.” Qur’an 2:23
The people that rejected Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) failed this challenge, even though they were extremely eloquent in the language of the Qur’an. This challenge remains unanswered to this very day.
No Contradictions
When people write, they are bound to make mistakes such as spelling and grammar, contradictory statements, incorrect facts, omission of information, and other various errors. Allah says, “Had it been from other than Allah, they would surely, have found in it (the Qur’an) many contradictions.” Qur’an 4:82
The Qur’an has no contradictions whatsoever – be it in scientific explanations of the water cycle, embryology, geology and cosmology; historical facts and events; or prophecies.
Couldn’t Muhammad have authored it?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known in history to be illiterate; he could not read nor write. He was not educated in any field that could account for neither the scientific and historical accuracy, nor the literary beauty of this magnificent book. The precision of historical recounts of previous peoples and civilizations mentioned in the Qur’an is also too great to be authored by any man.
“And this Qur’an is not such as could ever be produced by other than Allah.” Qur’an 10:37
Purpose of Revelation
To Believe in One True God
“And your god is one God. There is no god but He, the most gracious, the most merciful.” Qur’an 2:163
The most important topic mentioned throughout the Qur’an is the belief in the one, true God. God informs us that He has no partner, no son, no equal, and that none has the right to be worshipped except Him alone. Nothing is comparable to God and none of His creation resembles Him. The Qur’an also rejects the notion of attributing human qualities and limitations to God.
To Reject All False Gods
“And worship Allah and associate none with Him.” Qur’an 4:36
Since Allah alone is the only one worthy of worship, false deities and false gods must be rejected. The Qur’an also rejects the notion of attributing divine qualities to anyone or anything other than Allah.
To Narrate the Stories from the Past
The Qur’an contains many narratives with beneficial lessons, including the true stories of previous Prophets such as, Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jesus and Moses. Of these stories, Allah says, “Indeed in their stories, there is a lesson for men of understanding.” Qur’an 12:111
To Remind us of the Day of Judgment
This noble book reminds us that everyone will taste death and will be held accountable for all their actions and sayings: “We shall set up scales of justice for the Day of Judgment, so that not a soul will be dealt with unjustly in the least…” Qur’an 21:47
To Fulfill the Intended Way of Life
Importantly, the Qur’an teaches that the purpose of life is to worship God alone, and live one’s life according to the way of life prescribed by Him. In Islam, worship is a comprehensive term that includes all actions and sayings (whether private or public) that Allah loves and is pleased with. Therefore, by doing what Allah commands, a Muslim is worshipping God and fulfilling his purpose in life. The following are examples of worship from the Qur’an:
1. To pray: “O you who believe! Bow down and prostrate yourselves and worship your Lord, that you may succeed.” Qur’an 22:77
2. To give charity: “…And spend, it is better for your souls; and whoever is saved from the greediness of his soul, these it is that are the successful.” Qur’an 64:16
3. To be honest: “Cover not truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth when you know (what it is).” Qur’an 2:42
4. To be modest: “Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty.” Qur’an 24:30-31
5. To be thankful: “And Allah has brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers-- you did not know anything-- and He gave you hearing and sight and hearts that you may give thanks.” Qur’an 16:78
6. To be just: “O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to God, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor…” Qur’an 4:135
7. To be patient: “And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.” Qur’an 11:115
8. To do good: “Allah has promised to those who believe and do good deeds (that) they shall have forgiveness and a mighty reward.” Qur’an 5:9
Conclusion
In summary, the Qur’an teaches mankind how to worship the one true God, hence fulfilling their true purpose in life, and attaining success in both this world and the next.
“Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the book for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his own self; and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his own loss.” Qur’an 39:41
Don’t you owe it to yourself to at least read this noble book?
The Word of God
The Qur’an is the literal word of God, the almighty (Allah in Arabic), revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the angel Gabriel.
“The revelation of the book is from Allah, the mighty, the wise.” Qur’an 39:1
Guidance for Mankind
The Qur’an is “a guidance for mankind… and the distinction (between right and wrong).” Qur’an 2:185
It provides direction to help mankind judge between right and wrong, without which, man would surely be in loss.
The Final Revelation
The Qur’an is the last scripture revealed by almighty Allah (God), confirming what little truth remains in parts of previous scriptures and refuting and correcting fabrications and additions which have crept into current day versions of such scriptures.
“O you who have been given the scripture! Believe in what We have revealed confirming what is (already) with you...” Qur’an 4:47
How was the Qur’an Revealed?
The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him) and exists only in the language in which it was revealed - Arabic. However, the translation of the meaning of the Qur’an is available in many languages.
The Qur’an was not sent down as a complete book in one revelation; rather, the revelation spanned over a period of 23 years.
For this reason, it is essential to know in what circumstances the verses were revealed, in order to have a proper understanding of the Qur’an; otherwise, its teachings could be misunderstood.
How do I know that it is from God?
Preservation
The Qur’an is the only religious sacred text that has been in circulation for a lengthy period, and yet remains as pure as the day it was revealed. Nothing has been added, removed or modified from it, since its revelation over 1400 years ago.
“We have, without doubt, sent down the message; and We will certainly guard it (from corruption).” Qur’an 15:09
Not only has the Qur’an been preserved in written form, but also in the hearts of men, children and women. Today, millions of people have memorized the Qur’an from cover to cover.
Scientific Miracles
The Qur’an does not contradict modern science but rather, supports it. One of the most remarkable aspects about the Qur’an is that it contains many verses which accurately describe natural phenomenon in various fields such as embryology, meteorology, astronomy, geology and oceanography. Scientists have found its descriptions incredibly accurate for a book dating back to the 7th century.
“We shall show them our signs in the universe and within their own selves, until it becomes clear to them that this is the truth.” Qur’an 41:53
In fact, many of the scientific miracles mentioned in the Qur’an have been discovered only recently, through the modern advancement of technological equipment. Consider the following:
1. The Qur’an gives a detailed description of the development of the human embryo. These details were unknown to the scientific community until recent times.
2. The Qur’an states that the astronomical objects (stars, planets, moons etc...) were all formed from clouds of dust. Previously unknown, this fact has now become an undisputed principle of modern cosmology.
3. Modern science has discovered the existence of barriers that allow two seas to meet yet maintain their own temperature, density and salinity.
These signs of God were clearly stated in the Qur’an more than 1400 years ago.
Uniqueness
Ever since its revelation, no person has been able to produce a single chapter like that of the Qur’an in its beauty, eloquence, splendor, wisdom, prophecies, and other perfect attributes.
“And if you are in doubt as to that which We have revealed to Our servant, then produce a chapter like it and call on your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful.” Qur’an 2:23
The people that rejected Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) failed this challenge, even though they were extremely eloquent in the language of the Qur’an. This challenge remains unanswered to this very day.
No Contradictions
When people write, they are bound to make mistakes such as spelling and grammar, contradictory statements, incorrect facts, omission of information, and other various errors. Allah says, “Had it been from other than Allah, they would surely, have found in it (the Qur’an) many contradictions.” Qur’an 4:82
The Qur’an has no contradictions whatsoever – be it in scientific explanations of the water cycle, embryology, geology and cosmology; historical facts and events; or prophecies.
Couldn’t Muhammad have authored it?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known in history to be illiterate; he could not read nor write. He was not educated in any field that could account for neither the scientific and historical accuracy, nor the literary beauty of this magnificent book. The precision of historical recounts of previous peoples and civilizations mentioned in the Qur’an is also too great to be authored by any man.
“And this Qur’an is not such as could ever be produced by other than Allah.” Qur’an 10:37
Purpose of Revelation
To Believe in One True God
“And your god is one God. There is no god but He, the most gracious, the most merciful.” Qur’an 2:163
The most important topic mentioned throughout the Qur’an is the belief in the one, true God. God informs us that He has no partner, no son, no equal, and that none has the right to be worshipped except Him alone. Nothing is comparable to God and none of His creation resembles Him. The Qur’an also rejects the notion of attributing human qualities and limitations to God.
To Reject All False Gods
“And worship Allah and associate none with Him.” Qur’an 4:36
Since Allah alone is the only one worthy of worship, false deities and false gods must be rejected. The Qur’an also rejects the notion of attributing divine qualities to anyone or anything other than Allah.
To Narrate the Stories from the Past
The Qur’an contains many narratives with beneficial lessons, including the true stories of previous Prophets such as, Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jesus and Moses. Of these stories, Allah says, “Indeed in their stories, there is a lesson for men of understanding.” Qur’an 12:111
To Remind us of the Day of Judgment
This noble book reminds us that everyone will taste death and will be held accountable for all their actions and sayings: “We shall set up scales of justice for the Day of Judgment, so that not a soul will be dealt with unjustly in the least…” Qur’an 21:47
To Fulfill the Intended Way of Life
Importantly, the Qur’an teaches that the purpose of life is to worship God alone, and live one’s life according to the way of life prescribed by Him. In Islam, worship is a comprehensive term that includes all actions and sayings (whether private or public) that Allah loves and is pleased with. Therefore, by doing what Allah commands, a Muslim is worshipping God and fulfilling his purpose in life. The following are examples of worship from the Qur’an:
1. To pray: “O you who believe! Bow down and prostrate yourselves and worship your Lord, that you may succeed.” Qur’an 22:77
2. To give charity: “…And spend, it is better for your souls; and whoever is saved from the greediness of his soul, these it is that are the successful.” Qur’an 64:16
3. To be honest: “Cover not truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth when you know (what it is).” Qur’an 2:42
4. To be modest: “Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty.” Qur’an 24:30-31
5. To be thankful: “And Allah has brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers-- you did not know anything-- and He gave you hearing and sight and hearts that you may give thanks.” Qur’an 16:78
6. To be just: “O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to God, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor…” Qur’an 4:135
7. To be patient: “And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.” Qur’an 11:115
8. To do good: “Allah has promised to those who believe and do good deeds (that) they shall have forgiveness and a mighty reward.” Qur’an 5:9
Conclusion
In summary, the Qur’an teaches mankind how to worship the one true God, hence fulfilling their true purpose in life, and attaining success in both this world and the next.
“Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the book for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his own self; and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his own loss.” Qur’an 39:41
Don’t you owe it to yourself to at least read this noble book?
Sunday, October 11, 2009
What They Say About The Quran (III&E brochure)
Humanity has received the Divine guidance only through two channels: firstly the word of Allah, secondly the Prophets who were chosen by Allah to communicate His will to human beings. These two things have always been going together and attempts to know the will of Allah by neglecting either of these two have always been misleading. The Hindus neglected their prophets and paid all attention to their books that proved only word puzzles which they ultimately lost. Similarly, the Christians, in total disregard to the Book of Allah, attached all importance to Christ and thus not only elevated him to Divinity, but also lost the very essence of TAWHEED (monotheism) contained in the Bible.
As a matter of fact, the main scriptures revealed before the Qur'an, i.e. the Old Testament and the Gospel, came into book-form long after the days of the Prophets and that too in translation. This was because the followers of Moses and Jesus made no considerable effort to preserve these Revelations during the life of their Prophets. Rather, they were written long after their death. Thus, what we now have in the form of the Bible (the Old as well as the New Testament) is translations of individuals' accounts of the original revelations which contain additions and deletions made by the followers of the said Prophets. On the contrary, the last revealed Book, the Qur'an, is extant in its original form. Allah Himself guaranteed its preservation and that is why the whole of the Qur'an was written during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself though on separate pieces of palm leaves, parchments, bones etc. Moreover, there were tens of thousands of companions of the Prophet who memorized the whole Qur'an and the Prophet himself used to recite it to the angel Gabriel once a year and twice in the year he died. The first Caliph, Abu Bakr, entrusted the collection of the whole Qur'an in one volume to the Prophet's scribe, Zaid Ibn Thabit. This volume was with Abu Bakr till his death. Then it was with the second Caliph Umar and after him it came to Hafsa, the Prophet's wife. It was from this original copy that the third Caliph Uthman prepared several other copies and sent them to different Muslim territories.
The Qur'an was so meticulously preserved because it was to be the Book of Guidance for humanity for all times to come. That is why it does not address the Arabs alone in whose language it was revealed. It speaks to man as a human being: "O Man! What has seduced you from your Lord."
The practicability of the Qur'anic teachings is established by the examples of Muhammad (PBUH) and the good Muslims throughout the ages. The distinctive approach of the Qur'an is that its instructions are aimed at the general welfare of man and are based on the possibilities within his reach. In all its dimensions the Qur'anic wisdom is conclusive. It neither condemns nor tortures the flesh nor does it neglect the soul. It does not humanize God nor does it deify man. Everything is carefully placed where it belongs in the total scheme of creation.
Actually the scholars who allege that Muhammad (PBUH) was the author of the Qur'an claim something which is humanly impossible. Could any person of the sixth century C.E. utter such scientific truths as the Qur'an contains? Could he describe the evolution of the embryo inside the uterus so accurately as we find it in modern science?
Secondly, it is logical to believe that Muhammad (PBUH), who up to the age of forty was marked only for his honesty and integrity, began all of a sudden the authorship of a book matchless in literary merit and the equivalent of which the whole legion of the Arab poets and orators of the highest caliber could not produce? And lastly, is it justified to say Muhammad (PBUH), who was known as AL-AMEEN (the trustworthy) in his society and who is still admired by the non-Muslim scholars for his honesty and integrity, came forth with a false claim and on that falsehood could train thousands of men of character, integrity and honesty, who were able to establish the best human society on the surface of the earth?
Surely, any sincere and unbiased searcher of truth will come to believe that the Qur'an is the revealed Book of Allah.
Without necessarily agreeing with all they said, we furnish here some opinions of important non-Muslim scholars about the Qur'an. Readers can easily see how the modern world is coming closer to reality regarding the Qur'an. We appeal to all open-minded scholars to study the Qur'an in the light of the aforementioned points. We are sure that any such attempt will convince the reader that the Qur'an could never be written by any human being.
1. Goethe, quoted in T.P. Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, p. 526: "However often we turn to it [the Qur'an] at first disgusting us each time afresh, it soon attracts, astounds, and in the end enforces our reverence... Its style, in accordance with its contents and aim is stern, grand, terrible – ever and anon truly sublime – Thus this book will go on exercising through all ages a most potent influence."
2. G. Margoliouth, Introduction to J.M. Rodwell's The Koran, New York: Everyman's Library, 1977, p. vii: "The Koran admittedly occupies an important position among the great religious books of the world. Though the youngest of the epoch making works belonging to this class of literature, it yields to hardly any in the wonderful effect which it has produced on large masses of men. It has created an all but new phase of human thought and a fresh type of character. It first transformed a number of heterogeneous desert tribes of the Arabian peninsula into a nation of heroes, and then proceeded to create the vast politico-religious organizations of Mohammedan world which are one of the great forces with which Europe and the East have to reckon today."
3. Dr. Stiengass, quoted in T.P. Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, pp. 526-527: "A work, then, which calls forth so powerful and seemingly incompatible emotions even in the distant reader - distant as to time, and still more so as a mental development- a work which not only conquers the repugnance which he may begin its perusal, but changes this adverse feeling into astonishment and admiration, such a work must be a wonderful production of the human mind indeed and a problem of the highest interest to every thoughtful observer of the destinies of mankind."
4. Maurice Bucaille, The Bible, the Qur'an and Science, 1978, p. 125: "The above observation makes the hypothesis advanced by those who see Muhammad as the author of the Qur'an untenable. How could a man, from being illiterate, become the most important author, in terms of literary merits, in the whole of Arabic literature? How could he then pronounce truths of a scientific nature that no other human being could possibly have developed at that time, and all this without once making the slightest error in his pronouncement on the subject?"
5. Dr. Steingass, quoted in Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, p. 528: "Here, therefore, its merits as a literary production should perhaps not be measured by some preconceived maxims of subjective and aesthetic taste, but by the effects which it produced in Mohammed’s contemporaries and fellow countrymen. If it spoke so powerfully and convincingly to the hearts of his hearers as to weld hitherto centrifugal and antagonistic elements into one compact and well organized body, animated by ideas far beyond those which had until now ruled the Arabian mind, then its eloquence was perfect, simply because it created a civilized nation out of savage tribes, and shot afresh woof into the old warp of history."
6. Arthur J. Arberry, The Koran Interpreted, London: Oxford University Press, 1964, p. x: "In making the present attempt to improve on the performance of my predecessors, and to produce something which might be accepted as echoing however faintly the sublime rhetoric of the Arabic Koran, I have been at pain to study the intricate and richly varied rhythms which – apart from the message itself – constitute the Koran's undeniable claim to rank amongst the greatest literary masterpieces of mankind. This very characteristic feature – 'that inimitable symphony', as the believing Pickthall described his Holy Book, 'the very sounds of which move men to tears and ecstasy' – has been almost totally ignored by previous translators; it is therefore not surprising that what they have wrought sounds dull and flat indeed in comparison with the splendidly decorated original."
7. Maurice Bucaille, The Qur'an and Modern Science, 19812, p. 18: "A totally objective examination of it [the Qur'an] in the light of modern knowledge, leads us to recognize the agreement between the two, as has been already noted on repeated occasions. It makes us deem it quite unthinkable for a man of Mohammed’s time to have been the author of such statements on account of the state of knowledge in his day. Such considerations are part of what gives the Qur'anic Revelation its unique place, and forces the impartial scientist to admit his inability to provide an explanation which call solely upon materialistic reasoning."
Qur'an on Qur'an
1. Hence, indeed, We made this Qur'an easy to bear in mind: who, then, is willing to take it to heart. (Chapter 54:Verses 17, 22, 32, 40 [self repeating])
2. Will they not meditate on the Qur'an, or are there locks on the hearts? (Chapter 47:Verse 24)
3. Surely this Qur'an guides to that which is most upright and gives good news to the believers who do good works that they shall have a great reward. (17:9)
4. Surely We have revealed the Reminder (Qur'an) and We will most certainly guard it (from corruption). (15:9)
5. Praise be to Allah Who has revealed the Book (Qur'an) to His slave (Muhammad) and has not placed therein any crookedness. (18:1)
6. And certainly We have explained in this Qur'an every kind of example; and man is most of all given to contention. And nothing prevents men from believing when the guidance comes to him, and asking forgiveness of their Lord, except that what happened to the ancients should overtake them, or that the chastisement should come face to face with them. (18:54-55)
7. And We reveal (stage by stage) of the Qur'an that which is a healing and a mercy for believers and to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss. (17:82)
8. And if you are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad) then produce a Surah (chapter) of the like thereof, and call your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful. (2:23)
9. And this Qur'an is not such as could be forged by those besides Allah, but it is a verification (of revelations) that went before it and a fuller explanation of the Book – there is no doubt – from the Lord of the Worlds. (10:37)
10. So when you recite the Qur'an, seek refuge in Allah from Satan the Outcast. (16:98)
As a matter of fact, the main scriptures revealed before the Qur'an, i.e. the Old Testament and the Gospel, came into book-form long after the days of the Prophets and that too in translation. This was because the followers of Moses and Jesus made no considerable effort to preserve these Revelations during the life of their Prophets. Rather, they were written long after their death. Thus, what we now have in the form of the Bible (the Old as well as the New Testament) is translations of individuals' accounts of the original revelations which contain additions and deletions made by the followers of the said Prophets. On the contrary, the last revealed Book, the Qur'an, is extant in its original form. Allah Himself guaranteed its preservation and that is why the whole of the Qur'an was written during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself though on separate pieces of palm leaves, parchments, bones etc. Moreover, there were tens of thousands of companions of the Prophet who memorized the whole Qur'an and the Prophet himself used to recite it to the angel Gabriel once a year and twice in the year he died. The first Caliph, Abu Bakr, entrusted the collection of the whole Qur'an in one volume to the Prophet's scribe, Zaid Ibn Thabit. This volume was with Abu Bakr till his death. Then it was with the second Caliph Umar and after him it came to Hafsa, the Prophet's wife. It was from this original copy that the third Caliph Uthman prepared several other copies and sent them to different Muslim territories.
The Qur'an was so meticulously preserved because it was to be the Book of Guidance for humanity for all times to come. That is why it does not address the Arabs alone in whose language it was revealed. It speaks to man as a human being: "O Man! What has seduced you from your Lord."
The practicability of the Qur'anic teachings is established by the examples of Muhammad (PBUH) and the good Muslims throughout the ages. The distinctive approach of the Qur'an is that its instructions are aimed at the general welfare of man and are based on the possibilities within his reach. In all its dimensions the Qur'anic wisdom is conclusive. It neither condemns nor tortures the flesh nor does it neglect the soul. It does not humanize God nor does it deify man. Everything is carefully placed where it belongs in the total scheme of creation.
Actually the scholars who allege that Muhammad (PBUH) was the author of the Qur'an claim something which is humanly impossible. Could any person of the sixth century C.E. utter such scientific truths as the Qur'an contains? Could he describe the evolution of the embryo inside the uterus so accurately as we find it in modern science?
Secondly, it is logical to believe that Muhammad (PBUH), who up to the age of forty was marked only for his honesty and integrity, began all of a sudden the authorship of a book matchless in literary merit and the equivalent of which the whole legion of the Arab poets and orators of the highest caliber could not produce? And lastly, is it justified to say Muhammad (PBUH), who was known as AL-AMEEN (the trustworthy) in his society and who is still admired by the non-Muslim scholars for his honesty and integrity, came forth with a false claim and on that falsehood could train thousands of men of character, integrity and honesty, who were able to establish the best human society on the surface of the earth?
Surely, any sincere and unbiased searcher of truth will come to believe that the Qur'an is the revealed Book of Allah.
Without necessarily agreeing with all they said, we furnish here some opinions of important non-Muslim scholars about the Qur'an. Readers can easily see how the modern world is coming closer to reality regarding the Qur'an. We appeal to all open-minded scholars to study the Qur'an in the light of the aforementioned points. We are sure that any such attempt will convince the reader that the Qur'an could never be written by any human being.
1. Goethe, quoted in T.P. Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, p. 526: "However often we turn to it [the Qur'an] at first disgusting us each time afresh, it soon attracts, astounds, and in the end enforces our reverence... Its style, in accordance with its contents and aim is stern, grand, terrible – ever and anon truly sublime – Thus this book will go on exercising through all ages a most potent influence."
2. G. Margoliouth, Introduction to J.M. Rodwell's The Koran, New York: Everyman's Library, 1977, p. vii: "The Koran admittedly occupies an important position among the great religious books of the world. Though the youngest of the epoch making works belonging to this class of literature, it yields to hardly any in the wonderful effect which it has produced on large masses of men. It has created an all but new phase of human thought and a fresh type of character. It first transformed a number of heterogeneous desert tribes of the Arabian peninsula into a nation of heroes, and then proceeded to create the vast politico-religious organizations of Mohammedan world which are one of the great forces with which Europe and the East have to reckon today."
3. Dr. Stiengass, quoted in T.P. Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, pp. 526-527: "A work, then, which calls forth so powerful and seemingly incompatible emotions even in the distant reader - distant as to time, and still more so as a mental development- a work which not only conquers the repugnance which he may begin its perusal, but changes this adverse feeling into astonishment and admiration, such a work must be a wonderful production of the human mind indeed and a problem of the highest interest to every thoughtful observer of the destinies of mankind."
4. Maurice Bucaille, The Bible, the Qur'an and Science, 1978, p. 125: "The above observation makes the hypothesis advanced by those who see Muhammad as the author of the Qur'an untenable. How could a man, from being illiterate, become the most important author, in terms of literary merits, in the whole of Arabic literature? How could he then pronounce truths of a scientific nature that no other human being could possibly have developed at that time, and all this without once making the slightest error in his pronouncement on the subject?"
5. Dr. Steingass, quoted in Hughes' Dictionary of Islam, p. 528: "Here, therefore, its merits as a literary production should perhaps not be measured by some preconceived maxims of subjective and aesthetic taste, but by the effects which it produced in Mohammed’s contemporaries and fellow countrymen. If it spoke so powerfully and convincingly to the hearts of his hearers as to weld hitherto centrifugal and antagonistic elements into one compact and well organized body, animated by ideas far beyond those which had until now ruled the Arabian mind, then its eloquence was perfect, simply because it created a civilized nation out of savage tribes, and shot afresh woof into the old warp of history."
6. Arthur J. Arberry, The Koran Interpreted, London: Oxford University Press, 1964, p. x: "In making the present attempt to improve on the performance of my predecessors, and to produce something which might be accepted as echoing however faintly the sublime rhetoric of the Arabic Koran, I have been at pain to study the intricate and richly varied rhythms which – apart from the message itself – constitute the Koran's undeniable claim to rank amongst the greatest literary masterpieces of mankind. This very characteristic feature – 'that inimitable symphony', as the believing Pickthall described his Holy Book, 'the very sounds of which move men to tears and ecstasy' – has been almost totally ignored by previous translators; it is therefore not surprising that what they have wrought sounds dull and flat indeed in comparison with the splendidly decorated original."
7. Maurice Bucaille, The Qur'an and Modern Science, 19812, p. 18: "A totally objective examination of it [the Qur'an] in the light of modern knowledge, leads us to recognize the agreement between the two, as has been already noted on repeated occasions. It makes us deem it quite unthinkable for a man of Mohammed’s time to have been the author of such statements on account of the state of knowledge in his day. Such considerations are part of what gives the Qur'anic Revelation its unique place, and forces the impartial scientist to admit his inability to provide an explanation which call solely upon materialistic reasoning."
Qur'an on Qur'an
1. Hence, indeed, We made this Qur'an easy to bear in mind: who, then, is willing to take it to heart. (Chapter 54:Verses 17, 22, 32, 40 [self repeating])
2. Will they not meditate on the Qur'an, or are there locks on the hearts? (Chapter 47:Verse 24)
3. Surely this Qur'an guides to that which is most upright and gives good news to the believers who do good works that they shall have a great reward. (17:9)
4. Surely We have revealed the Reminder (Qur'an) and We will most certainly guard it (from corruption). (15:9)
5. Praise be to Allah Who has revealed the Book (Qur'an) to His slave (Muhammad) and has not placed therein any crookedness. (18:1)
6. And certainly We have explained in this Qur'an every kind of example; and man is most of all given to contention. And nothing prevents men from believing when the guidance comes to him, and asking forgiveness of their Lord, except that what happened to the ancients should overtake them, or that the chastisement should come face to face with them. (18:54-55)
7. And We reveal (stage by stage) of the Qur'an that which is a healing and a mercy for believers and to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss. (17:82)
8. And if you are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad) then produce a Surah (chapter) of the like thereof, and call your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful. (2:23)
9. And this Qur'an is not such as could be forged by those besides Allah, but it is a verification (of revelations) that went before it and a fuller explanation of the Book – there is no doubt – from the Lord of the Worlds. (10:37)
10. So when you recite the Qur'an, seek refuge in Allah from Satan the Outcast. (16:98)
The Origin of the Quran (Why Islam? brochure)
The Quran is the holy book which Muslims recite and turn to for guidance in all aspects of their life.
It is the last testament in a series of divine revelations from God. It comprises the unaltered and direct words of God, revealed through the Angel Gibrael, to the final Prophet, Muhammad (pbuh)1 some 1400 years ago. Islam is a continuation of the teachings of previous Prophets, such as Noah, Abraham, David, Moses and Jesus (peace be upon them all), some of whom were also given divine books. Muslims believe that the key message brought by all Prophets was the same; to believe in One God and not to associate partners with Him, to stay away from sins and to lead a life devoted to earning Gods pleasure. All Prophets taught about life after death and gave glad tidings of paradise for those who obey God, but warned of punishment in hell for those who choose to disobey Him.
The Quran is unique because it is the only revealed book that exists today in the precise form and content in which it was originally revealed. Furthermore, it was actively recorded during the time the religion was being established. The distinctive approach of the Quran is that its spiritual message includes practical injunctions aimed at the general welfare of human beings, society and the environment in which we live. The Quran's message is eternal and universal, transcending our differences in race, color, ethnicity and nationality. It provides guidance on every aspect of human life, from economics and the ethics of trade to marriage, divorce, gender issues, inheritance and parenting. It neither condemns nor tortures the flesh nor does it neglect the soul. It does not humanize God, nor does it deify man. The Quran describes signs of Gods existence in the universe and how everything is carefully placed in the total scheme of creation.
"Everything made so much sense. This is the beauty of the Quran; it asks you to reflect and reason....When I read the Quran further, it talked about prayer, kindness and charity. I was not a Muslim yet, but I felt the only answer for me was the Qur'an and God had sent it to me." Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam), former British pop star.
This brochure examines two common questions asked by those seeking to understand the origin and authorship of the Quran. 1) What evidence supports the Quran's claim of authenticity, i.e. that it has not been interfered with? 2) Even if the Quran has been preserved, what evidence supports that it is the Word of God and not simply Muhammad's (pbuh) own writings?
Preservation of the Quran
The Quran has been preserved for over 1400 years through parallel memorization and writings.
"We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We will assuredly Guard it (from corruption)." [Quran 15:9]
The Quran is the only book that has been memorized in its entirety by millions. The process of memorization began during the Prophet's (pbuh) life and continues to be emphasized by Muslims, even to this day. The use of memorization in oral transmission through the generations had mitigated somewhat from the beginning the worst perils of relying solely on written records, related John Burton. [John Burton, An Introduction to the Hadith, Edinburgh University Press; 1994, p27].
Muhammad (pbuh) was very vigilant in preserving the entire Quran in written form as well. The Prophet (pbuh) could not read or write, so as soon as a portion of the Quran was revealed, he called upon his scribes to record the revealed text. The Prophet (pbuh) specified the part of the Quran the revelation belonged to and had the companions read back what was written to ensure that it corresponded exactly with what was revealed. Thus, the complete Quran was not only memorized by the Prophet (pbuh) and many of his companions, but also existed in written form during his lifetime. Within a year after the Prophet's (pbuh) death, a manuscript of the entire Quran was assembled by a committee led by the chief scribe of the Prophet (pbuh), who followed stringent criteria to safeguard against any errors. The manuscript was unanimously approved by the companions of the Prophet (pbuh), including the hundreds that had memorized the entire Quran. Several replicates of the manuscript were prepared under the leadership of the third caliph and were distributed to the main Muslim centers. One such copy is currently at the museum in Tashkent in erstwhile (Soviet Union) and a facsimile of it, produced in 1905, is available in the Columbia University Library (USA).
Who Wrote the Quran?
Muslims believe that the Quran is the Speech of God and not a book written by Muhammad (pbuh) himself. The information below provides evidence for the preservation of the Qur'an, but what suggests that it was actually the word of God?
1) Historical accounts document, and the Quran openly declares, that Muhammad (pbuh) was unlettered.
You (O Muhammad) were not a reader of any Scripture before it, nor did you write (such a Scripture) with your right hand, for then those who follow falsehood might (have a right) to doubt it. [Quran, 29.48]
2) The Quran was revealed at a time when the Arabs excelled in oral poetry. Poetry competitions like today's rap competitions, were held in the marketplace. Muhammad's (pbuh) recitation stunned its listeners for its beauty in Arabic. Many converted simply by listening to the deep acoustic rhythms, literary merit and wisdom of the Quranic verses. In contrast, the Arabic of 1400 years ago was restricted to words and expressions relevant to the simple life of desert men and it was impossible to express metaphysical ideas or scientific, religious and philosophical concepts. In fact the science of Arabic grammar was developed after the revelation of the Quran, using the Quran as a basis for devising its rules. It is difficult to find an explanation (other than revelation) that explains how a book existed that superseded, and also differed so greatly from any other Arabic literature. The challenge of the Quran to produce a chapter like its own has not been met to this day.
And if you are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad) then produce a Surah (chapter) of the like thereof, and call your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful. [Quran, 2:23]
3) The Quran is a highly comprehensive book containing Divine truths, metaphysics, religious beliefs and worship, prayer, law and morality. It is a book fully describing the other life, a book of psychology, sociology, epistemology, and history, and a book containing scientific facts and the principles of a utopian life. A testament to the Divine authenticity of the Quran is that such a comprehensive book, one that was revealed over a period of 23 years, does not have any contradictory points.
Will they not then ponder on the Quran? If it had been from other than God they would have found therein much contradiction and incongruity. [Quran, 4.82]
4) Could Muhammad (pbuh) have been a liar or had motives for inventing the Quran? The early years of Muhammad's (pbuh) mission were punctuated by persecutions and sorrow. His followers were brutally tortured, killed and forced to migrate. His clan was boycotted and he was stoned. His enemies even offered him wealth and kingship if he abandoned his call to the belief in One God. Instead, the Prophet (pbuh) lived a very austere life and never pursued any worldly gains like fame, power or wealth. Furthermore, the life of Muhammad (pbuh) was a practical embodiment of the Divine message and a study of his life (through the Hadith) 2 provides an appreciation of this fact. Even before he received the Prophethood, he was known in his society as Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy) and As-Sadiq (the Truthful). Both Muslim and non-Muslim scholars attest to his honesty and integrity 3.
5) The Quran mentions things that were not known at the time. How can the existence of these verses be explained? The Quran has scientific descriptions only recently discovered by modern science and that could not have been known 1400 years ago.
Man We did create from a quintessence (of clay); then we placed him (as a drop of) sperm in a place of rest, firmly fixed; then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (fetus) lump; then We made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones with flesh; then We developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the Best to Create [Quran, 23:12-14].
Professor Keith Moore, a prominent scientist of anatomy and embryology (University of Toronto, Canada) commented: It has been a great pleasure for me to help clarify statements in the Quran about human development. It is clear to me that these statements must have come to Muhammad (pbuh) from God, or 'Allah', because almost all of this knowledge was not discovered until many centuries later. This proves to me that Muhammad (pbuh) must have been a Messenger of Allah.
The Quran describes the expansion of the universe: And it is we who have built the universe with (Our creative) power; and verily, it is We who are steadily expanding it. [Quran, 51:47].
It was not until 1925, when Edwin Hubble provided evidence of receding galaxies, that the expanding universe came to be accepted as a scientific fact.
Professor Alfred Kroner, a world-famous geologist, explained: Thinking about many of these questions and thinking where Muhammad (pbuh) came from, he was after all a Bedouin. I think it is almost impossible that he could have known about things like the common origin of the universe, because scientists have only found out within the last few years with very complicated and advanced technological methods that this is the case.
The Quran describes geographical concepts that were proven after its revelation. For example, it was the common dogma 1400 years ago that the earth was flat, but the Quran described it as a sphere, compressed at each end (like an ostrich egg): And the earth moreover, He has made egg shaped 4 [Quran 79:30].
In 1597, when Sir Francis Drake sailed around the world, the earth became known to be a sphere.
What can explain the origin of the Quran?
The life and character of the Prophet (pbuh), the depth of the Quranic message, its appeal and relevance to both the spiritual and the mundane, all testify to the Divine origin of the Quran. These points compel us to admit our inability to provide an explanation that relies solely upon material causes. In a world starved of love and compassion, the Quran's universal message is the perfect antidote to the collective despair of the human condition.
1. pbuh stands for peace be upon him an invocation of respect
2. Hadith, the collection of recorded saying and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
3. see 877-Why Islam brochure titled What they say about Muhammad (pbuh)
4. the Arabic word for egg here is dahaahaa, meaning ostrich egg
It is the last testament in a series of divine revelations from God. It comprises the unaltered and direct words of God, revealed through the Angel Gibrael, to the final Prophet, Muhammad (pbuh)1 some 1400 years ago. Islam is a continuation of the teachings of previous Prophets, such as Noah, Abraham, David, Moses and Jesus (peace be upon them all), some of whom were also given divine books. Muslims believe that the key message brought by all Prophets was the same; to believe in One God and not to associate partners with Him, to stay away from sins and to lead a life devoted to earning Gods pleasure. All Prophets taught about life after death and gave glad tidings of paradise for those who obey God, but warned of punishment in hell for those who choose to disobey Him.
The Quran is unique because it is the only revealed book that exists today in the precise form and content in which it was originally revealed. Furthermore, it was actively recorded during the time the religion was being established. The distinctive approach of the Quran is that its spiritual message includes practical injunctions aimed at the general welfare of human beings, society and the environment in which we live. The Quran's message is eternal and universal, transcending our differences in race, color, ethnicity and nationality. It provides guidance on every aspect of human life, from economics and the ethics of trade to marriage, divorce, gender issues, inheritance and parenting. It neither condemns nor tortures the flesh nor does it neglect the soul. It does not humanize God, nor does it deify man. The Quran describes signs of Gods existence in the universe and how everything is carefully placed in the total scheme of creation.
"Everything made so much sense. This is the beauty of the Quran; it asks you to reflect and reason....When I read the Quran further, it talked about prayer, kindness and charity. I was not a Muslim yet, but I felt the only answer for me was the Qur'an and God had sent it to me." Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam), former British pop star.
This brochure examines two common questions asked by those seeking to understand the origin and authorship of the Quran. 1) What evidence supports the Quran's claim of authenticity, i.e. that it has not been interfered with? 2) Even if the Quran has been preserved, what evidence supports that it is the Word of God and not simply Muhammad's (pbuh) own writings?
Preservation of the Quran
The Quran has been preserved for over 1400 years through parallel memorization and writings.
"We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We will assuredly Guard it (from corruption)." [Quran 15:9]
The Quran is the only book that has been memorized in its entirety by millions. The process of memorization began during the Prophet's (pbuh) life and continues to be emphasized by Muslims, even to this day. The use of memorization in oral transmission through the generations had mitigated somewhat from the beginning the worst perils of relying solely on written records, related John Burton. [John Burton, An Introduction to the Hadith, Edinburgh University Press; 1994, p27].
Muhammad (pbuh) was very vigilant in preserving the entire Quran in written form as well. The Prophet (pbuh) could not read or write, so as soon as a portion of the Quran was revealed, he called upon his scribes to record the revealed text. The Prophet (pbuh) specified the part of the Quran the revelation belonged to and had the companions read back what was written to ensure that it corresponded exactly with what was revealed. Thus, the complete Quran was not only memorized by the Prophet (pbuh) and many of his companions, but also existed in written form during his lifetime. Within a year after the Prophet's (pbuh) death, a manuscript of the entire Quran was assembled by a committee led by the chief scribe of the Prophet (pbuh), who followed stringent criteria to safeguard against any errors. The manuscript was unanimously approved by the companions of the Prophet (pbuh), including the hundreds that had memorized the entire Quran. Several replicates of the manuscript were prepared under the leadership of the third caliph and were distributed to the main Muslim centers. One such copy is currently at the museum in Tashkent in erstwhile (Soviet Union) and a facsimile of it, produced in 1905, is available in the Columbia University Library (USA).
Who Wrote the Quran?
Muslims believe that the Quran is the Speech of God and not a book written by Muhammad (pbuh) himself. The information below provides evidence for the preservation of the Qur'an, but what suggests that it was actually the word of God?
1) Historical accounts document, and the Quran openly declares, that Muhammad (pbuh) was unlettered.
You (O Muhammad) were not a reader of any Scripture before it, nor did you write (such a Scripture) with your right hand, for then those who follow falsehood might (have a right) to doubt it. [Quran, 29.48]
2) The Quran was revealed at a time when the Arabs excelled in oral poetry. Poetry competitions like today's rap competitions, were held in the marketplace. Muhammad's (pbuh) recitation stunned its listeners for its beauty in Arabic. Many converted simply by listening to the deep acoustic rhythms, literary merit and wisdom of the Quranic verses. In contrast, the Arabic of 1400 years ago was restricted to words and expressions relevant to the simple life of desert men and it was impossible to express metaphysical ideas or scientific, religious and philosophical concepts. In fact the science of Arabic grammar was developed after the revelation of the Quran, using the Quran as a basis for devising its rules. It is difficult to find an explanation (other than revelation) that explains how a book existed that superseded, and also differed so greatly from any other Arabic literature. The challenge of the Quran to produce a chapter like its own has not been met to this day.
And if you are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad) then produce a Surah (chapter) of the like thereof, and call your witnesses besides Allah if you are truthful. [Quran, 2:23]
3) The Quran is a highly comprehensive book containing Divine truths, metaphysics, religious beliefs and worship, prayer, law and morality. It is a book fully describing the other life, a book of psychology, sociology, epistemology, and history, and a book containing scientific facts and the principles of a utopian life. A testament to the Divine authenticity of the Quran is that such a comprehensive book, one that was revealed over a period of 23 years, does not have any contradictory points.
Will they not then ponder on the Quran? If it had been from other than God they would have found therein much contradiction and incongruity. [Quran, 4.82]
4) Could Muhammad (pbuh) have been a liar or had motives for inventing the Quran? The early years of Muhammad's (pbuh) mission were punctuated by persecutions and sorrow. His followers were brutally tortured, killed and forced to migrate. His clan was boycotted and he was stoned. His enemies even offered him wealth and kingship if he abandoned his call to the belief in One God. Instead, the Prophet (pbuh) lived a very austere life and never pursued any worldly gains like fame, power or wealth. Furthermore, the life of Muhammad (pbuh) was a practical embodiment of the Divine message and a study of his life (through the Hadith) 2 provides an appreciation of this fact. Even before he received the Prophethood, he was known in his society as Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy) and As-Sadiq (the Truthful). Both Muslim and non-Muslim scholars attest to his honesty and integrity 3.
5) The Quran mentions things that were not known at the time. How can the existence of these verses be explained? The Quran has scientific descriptions only recently discovered by modern science and that could not have been known 1400 years ago.
Man We did create from a quintessence (of clay); then we placed him (as a drop of) sperm in a place of rest, firmly fixed; then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (fetus) lump; then We made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones with flesh; then We developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the Best to Create [Quran, 23:12-14].
Professor Keith Moore, a prominent scientist of anatomy and embryology (University of Toronto, Canada) commented: It has been a great pleasure for me to help clarify statements in the Quran about human development. It is clear to me that these statements must have come to Muhammad (pbuh) from God, or 'Allah', because almost all of this knowledge was not discovered until many centuries later. This proves to me that Muhammad (pbuh) must have been a Messenger of Allah.
The Quran describes the expansion of the universe: And it is we who have built the universe with (Our creative) power; and verily, it is We who are steadily expanding it. [Quran, 51:47].
It was not until 1925, when Edwin Hubble provided evidence of receding galaxies, that the expanding universe came to be accepted as a scientific fact.
Professor Alfred Kroner, a world-famous geologist, explained: Thinking about many of these questions and thinking where Muhammad (pbuh) came from, he was after all a Bedouin. I think it is almost impossible that he could have known about things like the common origin of the universe, because scientists have only found out within the last few years with very complicated and advanced technological methods that this is the case.
The Quran describes geographical concepts that were proven after its revelation. For example, it was the common dogma 1400 years ago that the earth was flat, but the Quran described it as a sphere, compressed at each end (like an ostrich egg): And the earth moreover, He has made egg shaped 4 [Quran 79:30].
In 1597, when Sir Francis Drake sailed around the world, the earth became known to be a sphere.
What can explain the origin of the Quran?
The life and character of the Prophet (pbuh), the depth of the Quranic message, its appeal and relevance to both the spiritual and the mundane, all testify to the Divine origin of the Quran. These points compel us to admit our inability to provide an explanation that relies solely upon material causes. In a world starved of love and compassion, the Quran's universal message is the perfect antidote to the collective despair of the human condition.
1. pbuh stands for peace be upon him an invocation of respect
2. Hadith, the collection of recorded saying and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
3. see 877-Why Islam brochure titled What they say about Muhammad (pbuh)
4. the Arabic word for egg here is dahaahaa, meaning ostrich egg
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Belief in the Angels
http://islambase.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=70&Itemid=185
He (the inquirer) said: Inform me about Iman (faith). He (the Prophet) replied: That you affirm your faith in Allah, in His angels, in His Books, in His Prophets, in the Day of Judgment, and you affirm your faith in the Divine Decree about good and evil. [Muslim]
Belief in the angels is the second pillar of iman. To understand this topic correctly the following must be known.
The Attributes of Angels
Angels are the creation of Allah (swt) and are themselves not divine in anyway; rather they are the obedient servants of Allah (swt). They were created before man and are made from light (nur). One of their main attribute is that they have wings as Allah (swt) says, All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the originator of the heavens and the earth, Who made the angels messengers with wings, two or three or four. [Qur’an 35:1]
Angels normally reside in heaven and only come down to earth to serve the many functions Allah (swt) has assigned for them. Angels are genderless and do not do many of the functions normally associated with man such as eating, drinking, sleeping or cohabiting. In Islam they are often referred to Male as a figure of speech, and Allah says it is a sign of the disbeliever that they call the angels female.
Verily, those who believe not in the Hereafter, name the angels with female names. [Qur’an 53:27]
Angels are normally invisible to man, and only appear to the prophets or whom Allah wishes, such as Maryam mother of Isa (as) (Jesus). They are shy by nature so will leave the presence of humans if they see nakedness.
The Functions of Angels
Angels are the Messengers of Allah. They bring the revelation to the prophets, who then convey it to the people.
He (Allah) sends down the angels with inspiration of His Command to whom of His slaves He pleases [Qur’an 16:2]
They bear witness to what occurs on the earth. Every human has two angels assigned to them called the Noble Scribe (Kiraman Katibin) who write down every action committed by that person, whether in by the heart, tongue or limbs. Allah (swt) then shows us mankind their deeds when they are raised again on the Day of Judgment.
Angels are also assigned to put the soul or life into every fetus, as well as to be present at the time of death to remove the soul and return it to Allah (swt).
Everyone is going to taste death… and to Us you will be returned. [Qur’an 21:35]
Angels also ask Allah (swt) to forgive the believers of their sins and for His mercy to descend upon them. They send blessings upon the Messenger Muhammad (saw).
Allah sends His blessings on the Prophet and also His angels too. O you who believe! Send your blessing on to him and salam [Qur’an 33:56]
The Names of Angels
Some of the main angels have named in the Qur’an and Sunnah.
"Whoever is an enemy to Allah, His Angels, His Messengers, Jibril and Mikail then verily, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers." [Qur’an2:98]
Jibril (Gabriel) is the known as the Arch Angel or Chief of Angels. His main role is to bring the revelation and teach it to all the prophets. He is also the one who brings the punishment to people when Allah decrees.
Mikail (Michael) is the angel which distributes the provision of Allah, such as the rain and the wind. Israfil is the angel which will blow the trumpet at the final hour. Malikul Mawt is the angel of death assigned to take the soul of every living being.
Other famous angels are Munkar and Nakir which will question every person in the grave. The Jundallah are angels which are the soldiers of Allah, whom he sends down to strengthen the Army of the believers.
When you said to the believers "Is it not enough for you that your Lord should help you with three thousand angel sent down?" [Qur’an 3:124]
Remember there can be no faith for the one who rejects belief in the angels, as Allah says, Whoever disbelieves in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Last Day, then indeed he has strayed far away. [Qur'an 4:136]
He (the inquirer) said: Inform me about Iman (faith). He (the Prophet) replied: That you affirm your faith in Allah, in His angels, in His Books, in His Prophets, in the Day of Judgment, and you affirm your faith in the Divine Decree about good and evil. [Muslim]
Belief in the angels is the second pillar of iman. To understand this topic correctly the following must be known.
The Attributes of Angels
Angels are the creation of Allah (swt) and are themselves not divine in anyway; rather they are the obedient servants of Allah (swt). They were created before man and are made from light (nur). One of their main attribute is that they have wings as Allah (swt) says, All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the originator of the heavens and the earth, Who made the angels messengers with wings, two or three or four. [Qur’an 35:1]
Angels normally reside in heaven and only come down to earth to serve the many functions Allah (swt) has assigned for them. Angels are genderless and do not do many of the functions normally associated with man such as eating, drinking, sleeping or cohabiting. In Islam they are often referred to Male as a figure of speech, and Allah says it is a sign of the disbeliever that they call the angels female.
Verily, those who believe not in the Hereafter, name the angels with female names. [Qur’an 53:27]
Angels are normally invisible to man, and only appear to the prophets or whom Allah wishes, such as Maryam mother of Isa (as) (Jesus). They are shy by nature so will leave the presence of humans if they see nakedness.
The Functions of Angels
Angels are the Messengers of Allah. They bring the revelation to the prophets, who then convey it to the people.
He (Allah) sends down the angels with inspiration of His Command to whom of His slaves He pleases [Qur’an 16:2]
They bear witness to what occurs on the earth. Every human has two angels assigned to them called the Noble Scribe (Kiraman Katibin) who write down every action committed by that person, whether in by the heart, tongue or limbs. Allah (swt) then shows us mankind their deeds when they are raised again on the Day of Judgment.
Angels are also assigned to put the soul or life into every fetus, as well as to be present at the time of death to remove the soul and return it to Allah (swt).
Everyone is going to taste death… and to Us you will be returned. [Qur’an 21:35]
Angels also ask Allah (swt) to forgive the believers of their sins and for His mercy to descend upon them. They send blessings upon the Messenger Muhammad (saw).
Allah sends His blessings on the Prophet and also His angels too. O you who believe! Send your blessing on to him and salam [Qur’an 33:56]
The Names of Angels
Some of the main angels have named in the Qur’an and Sunnah.
"Whoever is an enemy to Allah, His Angels, His Messengers, Jibril and Mikail then verily, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers." [Qur’an2:98]
Jibril (Gabriel) is the known as the Arch Angel or Chief of Angels. His main role is to bring the revelation and teach it to all the prophets. He is also the one who brings the punishment to people when Allah decrees.
Mikail (Michael) is the angel which distributes the provision of Allah, such as the rain and the wind. Israfil is the angel which will blow the trumpet at the final hour. Malikul Mawt is the angel of death assigned to take the soul of every living being.
Other famous angels are Munkar and Nakir which will question every person in the grave. The Jundallah are angels which are the soldiers of Allah, whom he sends down to strengthen the Army of the believers.
When you said to the believers "Is it not enough for you that your Lord should help you with three thousand angel sent down?" [Qur’an 3:124]
Remember there can be no faith for the one who rejects belief in the angels, as Allah says, Whoever disbelieves in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Last Day, then indeed he has strayed far away. [Qur'an 4:136]
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