In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

By Dr. Norlain Dindang Mababaya

I. The Qur’ân: The Universal and  Unique Divine Message

Do you know that of the countless books in existence, Allâh[1], the Creator (Qur'an 6:73, 102and 42:11) and the God in heaven and the God on earth (43:84), specifies the Qur’ân as His Book (42:17 and 46:2)? Qur’ân is an Arabic term that means “The Reading” or “The Recitation”. The Qur’ân, is the most beautiful Message in the form of a Book that Allâh has revealed (39:23).  It is no less than a Message for all creatures (12:104) ¾  a Message to (all) the Worlds  (81:27).  It is the Message supreme (above all) (68: 67) because it is the Divine Revelation, a Message from the Rabb[2] (Cherisher and Sustainer) of the Worlds (56:80 and 69:43) that speaks for itself.  It is the only book available to all mankind that is pure. Allâh Himself stresses that the Qur’ân is exalted (in dignity) kept pure and holy (80:14). He describes it as the most honorable Book, which none shall touch but those who are clean (56:77-79). He declares it to be a Book of exalted power (41:41), the Wise (31:2), Glorious (85:21), and Perspicuous Book sent down in Arabic for mankind to learn wisdom (12:1-2). It is the Book Full of Wisdom (36:2) because, it is the Truth from our Creator (22:54) ¾  the One full of knowledge and wisdom (22:52). It is the Book of guidance sure, without doubt to those who fear Allâh (2:2). It is the Book that makes things clear, a Guide and Glad Tidings for the Believers (27:1-2).

When you read the Qur’ân, you realize that Allâh, our Creator (2:29, 117 and 6:73) speaks to all mankind. He tells us that He sent down the Qur’ân for our guidance. The following verses illustrate how Allâh makes it clear to us that the Qur’ân is His Book:

 “Allâh! There is no god but He ¾  the Living, the Self-Subsisting, the Supporter of all. It is He Who sent down to you (step by step), in Truth, the Book, confirming what went before it.  And He sent down the Torah and the Gospel before this as a guide to mankind.  And He sent down the Criterion (of Judgment between right and wrong).” (3:2-4)

 “…For Allâh has sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) and Wisdom and taught you what you knew not (before): and great is the Grace of Allâh unto you.” (4:113)

“That which We have revealed to you of the Book is the Truth ¾  confirming what was (revealed) before it, for Allâh is assuredly (with respect to His servants) Well acquainted and Fully Observant.” (35:31)

The above Ayât (verses) confirm that the Qur’ân, indeed, is the Divine Message from the Creator of the Worlds (10:37). It is the most honorable Book that speaks for itself. If you are in doubt, compare them with verses from any book that claims to be divinely inspired. You will find that the Qur’ân is unique in many ways.

First, the Qur’ân, especially in its Arabic text, shows a distinct form of extreme beauty with its rhythmic verses that strike the mind and heart of every sensible reader. Every Surah (chapter) and Ayâh (verse) of the Qur’ân expresses eloquence and magnificence. The One Who sent it is Allâh the Almighty. He speaks in the most polished and forceful style of speech. His word never appears weak even where it expresses a sense of mercy. The reason is plain and simple: the Qur’ân reflects the supreme divine nature of Allâh. He is Most High (4:34), Exalted in Power, Full of Wisdom (48:7) and Free of all wants, Worthy of all praise (4:131). Allâh’s word is unique, as it is “exalted to the heights.”  Our Creator tells us:

“…But the word of Allâh is exalted to the heights, for Allâh is Exalted in might, Wise.” (9:40)

Second, the Qur’ân is the only book that requires its reader to be clean (56:77-79). You have to perform Wudu (ablution) or Ghusl (full bath) if you are in a state of Junub (impurity) before touching it. If you want to grasp its full meaning and benefit out of it, you have to be clean not only physically but also mentally, heartily and spiritually. Before reading it, you have to set in your mind, heart and soul that your intention is really to search for the Truth. You should intend to please the One and Only True God to seek His guidance. In other words, you have to be objective and open-minded so that you will receive admonition. Allâh says:

“(Here is a) Book which We have sent down unto you, full of blessings that they may meditate on its Signs, and that men of understanding may receive admonition.” (38:29)

Third, the Qur’ân is the only book in which Allâh enjoins us to seek His refuge from the influence of Satan before reading it (16:98-100). It reminds us that Satan is dreadful (4:38). He is our enemy, an enemy avowed (57:60) who deceives (8:48) and suggests vanity (22:52-53). He descends on every lying, wicked person (26:221-222). Satan commands us what are evil and shameful (2:168-169). He only invites his adherents, that they may become companions of the Blazing Fire. Therefore, we have to treat him as our enemy (35: 6). Allâh stresses that the Qur’ân was not brought down nor inspired by Satan (26:210-211). No one could produce like it, nor falsehood can approach it (41:42). It is not the word of an evil spirit accursed (81:25).

Fourth, the Qur’ân is filled with praises to Allâh ¾  the Only One worthy of all praise (31:26). The most beautiful names belong to Him (7:180). All the 114 chapters of the Qur’ân except Surah At-Tawbah (Repentance) or Bara‘ah (Immunity), the 9th chapter start with the words: “In the name of Allâh, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.” This praise to Allâh occurs twice in Chapter 27, Surah An-Naml (Ants): one in the beginning and the other is within its text (i.e., 27:30), making a total of 114 occurrences. Even the chapter 9, which does not carry the usual opening praise, contains glorification to Allâh in many places (e.g., 9:16, 27, 28, 31, 39, 40, 60, 71, 91). It even ends with the following glorious praises to Him:

“…Say: ‘Allâh suffices me: There is no god but He, on Him is my trust. He is the Rabb of Throne (of Glory) Supreme!’” (9:129)

The Qur’ân, as the final divine revelation, enlightens you of the divine attributes of Allâh. Our Creator is Supreme, Almighty. No one is like Him. There are many Ayât (verses) that glorify Allâh. Examples:

Allâh! There is no god but He, the Living, the Self-subsisting, Supporter of all. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is he that can intercede in His presence except as He permits? He knows what (appears to His creatures as) before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass ought of His knowledge except as He wills. His Throne does extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. For He is the Most High, the Supreme (in glory).” (2:255)

 “To Allâh belong all things in heaven and earth: verily Allâh is He (Who is) free of all wants worthy of all praise.”   (31:26)

“Say: ‘He is Allâh, the One; Allâh, the Eternal, Absolute begets He not, nor is He begotten; and there is none like unto Him.’” (112:1-4)

Fifth, the Qur’ân is the only most comprehensive book available to mankind for guidance. It guides us to believe and obey Muhammad (r Sallallaahu ‘Alayhi wa Salam, meaning: May the peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him) (3:31-32; 4:170; 47:33). For our complete guidance, it is a must for us to follow Muhammad’s Sunnah (Traditions). Muhammad r is Allâh’s universal Messenger to all mankind (34:28) and the Seal of the Prophets (33:40). Our Creator sent him with Guidance and the Religion of Truth to make it prevail over all religions (61:9).

You will be overwhelmed to read that Allâh’s Book covers all subjects affecting mankind be it physical, material or economic, socio-cultural, political, legal, religious and spiritual, and the like. It talks not only about us and our environment; but also the events and circumstances affecting us. Allâh says that nothing has been omitted from it (6:38). It is further explained in detail (11:1 and 6:114). Any rational individual or scientist who became atheist because of the misconception that, “the Word of God disagrees with science” will discover the Truth. He will be enlightened to know that Allâh’s Book contains information about the scientific facts of life because it is the Truth of assured certainty (69:51). [3]

In addition, the Qur’ân refrains us to avoid evil deeds that lead us to the Hell-fire. It teaches us righteousness to guide us to the Straight Path. It describes the everlasting life in the hereafter (i.e., the peace and tranquility in Paradise for the righteous; and the terrible punishments in the Hell-fire due to the unbelievers).[4]

Furthermore, the Qur’ân contains varied subjects as shown in the titles of its 114 chapters. The different subjects of the Qur’ân not only reflect the very nature of Allâh as the Creator of all (2:29, 117; 6:73) that exist in the heavens and the earth (3:180; 15:23; 31:10) and the Master of the Day of Judgment (1:4). It also proves the Book to be very comprehensive. The most varied and complete subjects of the Qur’ân, beyond man’s ability to produce, makes it miraculously unique and inimitable. There is no other and no better guidance than Allâh’s Book. The incomparable comprehensive teachings of the Qur’ân guide mankind at all ages. They are simple, you very practical offering the best solutions to our perplexing problems. The Qur’ân serves as Allâh’s guide and mercy to us. Allâh the Almighty tells us:

 “These are Verses of the Wise Book, a Guide and a Mercy to the Doers of Good,¾ those who establish regular Prayer, and give Zakât and have sure faith in the Hereafter. These are on (true) guidance from their Creator; and these are the ones who will prosper.” (31:3-5)

Sixth, the Qur’ân is the only book that contains verses (i.e., 22:18; 19:58; 17:109; 16:49-50; 13:15; 7:206; 41:38; 38:24-25; 32:15; 27:25-26; 25:60; 22:77; 96:19; 84:20-21and 53:62) that command us to prostrate and glorify Allâh. All these fall under Sajda at-Tilawah (prostration for recitation). When we are reading the Qur’ân we have to prostrate to Allâh and glorify Him every time we come across any of the specified Ayât. Sajda at-Tilawah signifies that Allâh, the Most High (4:34:87:1), the Creator of the Throne Glory Supreme (9:129; 23:86; 40:15) and the God in heaven and God on earth (43:84) is the Only One worthy of our worship (13:14). The following are examples of the Ayât where we have to prostrate to our Creator in adoration to Him:

“O you who believe! Bow down, prostrate yourselves and adore your Rabb; and do good that you may prosper.” (22:77)

 “But fall down in prostration to Allâh and adore (Him)!” (53:62)

Seventh, the Qur’ân, unlike any other books that claim to be the Word of God, contains many verses that pertain to supplication.  (For examples see Ayât: 3:35; 3:38; 3:191-194; 4:75; 7:151; 7:155-156; 10:85-86; 11:47; 12:101; 14:35; 14:40-41; 17:80; 20:25-28; 21:89; 21:112; 23:83; 23:118; 23:106; 25:74; 26:83; 27:19; 28:16; 37:100; 38:35; 44:12; 60:4-5; 66:11: and 71:28). It even starts with praises and prayer to our Creator as shown in its opening chapter, Al Fatiha. Compare the verses of its first chapter to any verses of any book that claims to be the Word of God and see the great difference. At the very start of the Qur’ân, we gain knowledge of Allâh and His divine attributes and His relationship to us and to His other creations. We learn also the best and succinct prayer to Him ¾  to guide us to the right path and save us from those who go astray. The following verses of the Al-Fatiha should enlighten you of the unique qualities of Allâh’s Book:

 “In the Name of Allâh, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Praise be to Allâh the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds Most Gracious, Most Merciful; Master of the Day of Judgment. You (Alone) do we worship, and Your aid we seek. Show us the straight way, the way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, those whose (portions) are not wrath and who go not astray.” (1:1-7)

The various prayers in the Qur’ân guide us to pray to Allâh and ask for His forgiveness, help and guidance. The Qur’ân teaches us also the prayer for a well balanced way of life ¾  to be happy both in this world and in the Hereafter as shown in the following verse:

 “…Our Rabb! Give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter. And save us from the torment of the Fire!” (2:201)

Eight, the Qur’ân is the only book that enjoins us to read it in the name of our Creator and recite it properly. When we read Allâh’s Book in its original Arabic, we have to observe some rules of Tajwid. Tajwid is derived from the root Jawwada’ meaning, “to make well” or “improve”. This means, we have to read the Qur’ân with correct and good pronunciation in recitation and a proper mode of recitation of medium speed. In other words, we have to read the Qur’ân beautifully with a pleasant tone and style. This is in obedience to Allâh, for He commands us to:

“Read! In the name of your Rabb and Cherisher, Who created ¾  created man, out of a leech-like clot: Read! And your Rabb is Most Bountiful. He Who taught man that which he knew not.” (96:1-5)

“…Recite the Qur’ân in slow, measured rhythmic tones.” (73:4)

It is strikingly unique that when we read Allâh’s Book with the right Tajwid and melodious tone we (including other Believers who listen to us, especially those who understand it) can not help but have misty eyes or have tears overflowing in our eyes. The inimitable words and symphony of the Qur’ân in Arabic when read properly move us to tears and ecstasy. Allâh tells us:

“And when they listen to the Revelation received by the Messenger you will see their eyes overflowing with tears for they recognize the truth. They pray: ‘Our Rabb! We believe; write us down among the witnesses.’”  (5:83)

 “They fall down on their faces in tears and it increases their (earnest) humility.”   (17:109)

“…The skins of those who fear their Creator tremble thereat; then their skins and their hearts do soften to the remembrance of Allâh.” (39:23)

Ninth, the Qur’ân is the only book which Allâh undertook to guard against all sorts of change or perversion (15:9). It serves as the authentic proof of the divine mission of Prophet Muhammad r, the unlettered Prophet (7:158). Allâh tells us that He sent down the Qur’ân to His Servant, Prophet Muhammad r, (18:1) by inspiration (42:7) through the Holy Spirit (Angel Gabriel) (16:102). He revealed it in stages (17:106) and arranged it gradually to strengthen our hearts (25:32). He took charge for its collection and promulgation (75:16-17). He also inspired its scribes. No less than Allâh Himself who testifies that the scribes were men of honor, piety and justice (80:13-16).

Tenth, there are chapters (e.g., Chapters 2, 3, 7, 10-20, 26- 28, 30-32, 36, 38, 40-46, 68) in the Qur’ân that have certain initials prefixed to them. These are called Muqatta‘ât (“abbreviated letters”). No one, even the most intelligent scholars among the Arabs, knows the meanings of such letters. Only Allâh knows their hidden meanings. Allâh says:

 “He it is Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are verses basic or fundamental clear (in meaning).  They are the foundation of the Book.  Others are not entirely clear; but those in whose hearts is perversity follow the part thereof that is not entirely clear.  Seeking discord, and searching for its interpretation, but no one knows its true meanings except Allâh. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: ‘We believe in it, the whole of it is from our Rabb.’  And none will grasp the Message except men of understanding.” (3:7)

The Muqatta‘at or abbreviated letters (e.g., A.L.M., A.L.M.S., A.L.R., A.L.M.R., T.H.) which are beyond any man’s comprehension show that verily Allâh is the Only All-Knowing, All-Wise (4:26). They also serve as concrete proofs that indeed, Allâh has protected His Book from any sort of change. Otherwise, the most intelligent scholars among the Muslim Arabs would have deleted the abbreviated letters for the simple reason that no person can understand them. The Muqatta‘at are among the signs of Allâh that should enlighten the non-believers that the Qur’ân is really unique and a divine revelation from our One and Only God.

Eleventh, but not the least, when you read Allâh’s Book you will find it full of wisdom. It is the only Book wherein Allâh instructs mankind to read (73:20), understand (21:10; 47: 24; 54:17, 22, 32, 40), study (2:121), recite (29:45; 73:4), listen (7:204), remember (80:11-14) and follow it for guidance (6:155; 39:18). All these and many other verses in the Qur’ân prove that, Allâh’s Book is holy and unique. It is, indeed, the Divine Revelation that speaks for itself.