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)
Sunday, October 11, 2009
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]
Monday, September 28, 2009
Belief in the Angels
http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/41/
Reality of Angels
In common folklore, angels are thought of as good forces of nature, hologram images, or illusions. Western iconography sometimes depicts angels as fat cherubic babies or handsome young men or women with a halo surrounding their head. In Islamic doctrine, they are real created beings who will eventually suffer death, but are generally hidden from our senses.
They are not divine or semi-divine, and they are not God’s associates running different districts of the universe. Also, they are not objects to be worshipped or prayed to, as they do not deliver our prayers to God. They all submit to God and carry out His commands.
In the Islamic worldview, there are no fallen angels: they are not divided into ‘good’ and ‘evil’ angels. Human beings do not become angels after death. Satan is not a fallen angel, but is one of the jinn, a creation of God parallel to human beings and angels.
Angels were created from light before human beings were created, and thus their graphic or symbolic representation in Islamic art is rare. Nevertheless, they are generally beautiful beings with wings as described in Muslim scripture.
Angels form different cosmic hierarchies and orders in the sense that they are of different size, status, and merit.
The greatest of them is Gabriel. The Prophet of Islam actually saw him in his original form. Also, the attendants of God’s Throne are among the greatest angels. They love the believers and beseech God to forgive them their sins. They carry the Throne of God, about whom the Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: “I have been given permission to speak about one of the angels of God who carry the Throne. The distance between his ear-lobes and his shoulders is equivalent to a seven-hundred-year journey.” (Abu Daud)
They do not eat or drink. The angels do not get bored or tired of worshipping God: “They celebrate His praises night and day, nor do they ever slacken.” (Quran 21:20)
The Number of Angels
How many angels there are? Only God knows. The Much-Frequented House is a sacred heavenly sanctuary above the Kaaba, the black cube in the city of Mecca. Every day seventy thousand angels visit it and leave, never returning to it again, followed by another group. [1]
The Names of Angels
Muslims believe in specific angels mentioned in the Islamic sources like Jibreel (Gabriel), Mika'eel (Michael), Israfeel, Malik - the guard over Hell, and others. Of these, only Gabriel and Michael are mentioned in the Bible.
Angelic Abilities
The angels possess great powers given to them by God. They can take on different forms. The Muslim scripture describes how at the moment of Jesus’ conception, God sent Gabriel to Mary in the form of a man: “…Then We sent to her Our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects.” (Quran 19:17)
Angels also visited Abraham in human form. Similarly, angels came to Lot to deliver him from danger in the form of handsome, young men. Gabriel used to visit Prophet Muhammad in different forms. Sometimes, he would appear in the form of one of his handsome disciples, and sometimes in the form of a desert Bedouin.
Angels have the ability to take human forms in some circumstances involving common people.
Gabriel is God’s heavenly messenger to mankind. He would convey the revelation from God to His human messengers. God says: “Say: whoever is an enemy to Gabriel - for he brings down the (revelation) to your heart by God’s will...” (Quran 2:97)
Tasks of the Angels
Some angels are put in charge of executing God’s law in the physical world. Michael is responsible for rain, directing it wherever God wishes. He has helpers who assist him by the command of his Lord; they direct the winds and clouds, as God wills. Another is responsible for blowing the Horn, which will be blown by Israafeel at the onset of the Day of Judgment. Others are responsible for taking souls out of the bodies at the time of death: the Angel of Death and his assistants. God says: “Say: the Angel of Death, put in charge of you, will (duly) take your souls, then shall you be brought back to your Lord.” (Quran 32:11)
Then there are guardian angels responsible for protecting the believer throughout his life, at home or traveling, asleep or awake.
Others are responsible for recording the deeds of man, good and bad. These are known as the “honorable scribes.”
Two angels, Munkar and Nakeer, are responsible for testing people in the grave.
Among them are keepers of Paradise and the nineteen ‘guards’ of Hell whose leader is named ‘Malik.’
There are also angels responsible for breathing the soul into the fetus and writing down its provisions, life-span, actions, and whether it will be wretched or happy.
Some angels are roamers, traveling around the world in search of gatherings where God is remembered. There are also angels constituting God’s heavenly army, standing in rows, they never get tired or sit down, and others who bow or prostrate, and never raise their heads, always worshipping God.
As we learn from above, the angels are a grandiose creation of God, varying in numbers, roles, and abilities. God is in no need of these creatures, but having knowledge and belief in them adds to the awe that one feels towards God, in that He is able to create as He wishes, for indeed the magnificence of His creation is a proof of the magnificence of the Creator.
Footnotes:
[1] Saheeh Al-Bukhari.
Reality of Angels
In common folklore, angels are thought of as good forces of nature, hologram images, or illusions. Western iconography sometimes depicts angels as fat cherubic babies or handsome young men or women with a halo surrounding their head. In Islamic doctrine, they are real created beings who will eventually suffer death, but are generally hidden from our senses.
They are not divine or semi-divine, and they are not God’s associates running different districts of the universe. Also, they are not objects to be worshipped or prayed to, as they do not deliver our prayers to God. They all submit to God and carry out His commands.
In the Islamic worldview, there are no fallen angels: they are not divided into ‘good’ and ‘evil’ angels. Human beings do not become angels after death. Satan is not a fallen angel, but is one of the jinn, a creation of God parallel to human beings and angels.
Angels were created from light before human beings were created, and thus their graphic or symbolic representation in Islamic art is rare. Nevertheless, they are generally beautiful beings with wings as described in Muslim scripture.
Angels form different cosmic hierarchies and orders in the sense that they are of different size, status, and merit.
The greatest of them is Gabriel. The Prophet of Islam actually saw him in his original form. Also, the attendants of God’s Throne are among the greatest angels. They love the believers and beseech God to forgive them their sins. They carry the Throne of God, about whom the Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: “I have been given permission to speak about one of the angels of God who carry the Throne. The distance between his ear-lobes and his shoulders is equivalent to a seven-hundred-year journey.” (Abu Daud)
They do not eat or drink. The angels do not get bored or tired of worshipping God: “They celebrate His praises night and day, nor do they ever slacken.” (Quran 21:20)
The Number of Angels
How many angels there are? Only God knows. The Much-Frequented House is a sacred heavenly sanctuary above the Kaaba, the black cube in the city of Mecca. Every day seventy thousand angels visit it and leave, never returning to it again, followed by another group. [1]
The Names of Angels
Muslims believe in specific angels mentioned in the Islamic sources like Jibreel (Gabriel), Mika'eel (Michael), Israfeel, Malik - the guard over Hell, and others. Of these, only Gabriel and Michael are mentioned in the Bible.
Angelic Abilities
The angels possess great powers given to them by God. They can take on different forms. The Muslim scripture describes how at the moment of Jesus’ conception, God sent Gabriel to Mary in the form of a man: “…Then We sent to her Our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects.” (Quran 19:17)
Angels also visited Abraham in human form. Similarly, angels came to Lot to deliver him from danger in the form of handsome, young men. Gabriel used to visit Prophet Muhammad in different forms. Sometimes, he would appear in the form of one of his handsome disciples, and sometimes in the form of a desert Bedouin.
Angels have the ability to take human forms in some circumstances involving common people.
Gabriel is God’s heavenly messenger to mankind. He would convey the revelation from God to His human messengers. God says: “Say: whoever is an enemy to Gabriel - for he brings down the (revelation) to your heart by God’s will...” (Quran 2:97)
Tasks of the Angels
Some angels are put in charge of executing God’s law in the physical world. Michael is responsible for rain, directing it wherever God wishes. He has helpers who assist him by the command of his Lord; they direct the winds and clouds, as God wills. Another is responsible for blowing the Horn, which will be blown by Israafeel at the onset of the Day of Judgment. Others are responsible for taking souls out of the bodies at the time of death: the Angel of Death and his assistants. God says: “Say: the Angel of Death, put in charge of you, will (duly) take your souls, then shall you be brought back to your Lord.” (Quran 32:11)
Then there are guardian angels responsible for protecting the believer throughout his life, at home or traveling, asleep or awake.
Others are responsible for recording the deeds of man, good and bad. These are known as the “honorable scribes.”
Two angels, Munkar and Nakeer, are responsible for testing people in the grave.
Among them are keepers of Paradise and the nineteen ‘guards’ of Hell whose leader is named ‘Malik.’
There are also angels responsible for breathing the soul into the fetus and writing down its provisions, life-span, actions, and whether it will be wretched or happy.
Some angels are roamers, traveling around the world in search of gatherings where God is remembered. There are also angels constituting God’s heavenly army, standing in rows, they never get tired or sit down, and others who bow or prostrate, and never raise their heads, always worshipping God.
As we learn from above, the angels are a grandiose creation of God, varying in numbers, roles, and abilities. God is in no need of these creatures, but having knowledge and belief in them adds to the awe that one feels towards God, in that He is able to create as He wishes, for indeed the magnificence of His creation is a proof of the magnificence of the Creator.
Footnotes:
[1] Saheeh Al-Bukhari.
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