By Zaiti Athirah
Edited by Hannaan Fuad
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong).” – M. Pickthall, Al-Baqarah 2:185
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I believe that it is fitting that today, out of all days, we ponder over the title phrase – a sentiment I will be delving into in this article. The above verse, beforehand, holds relevance to this article as it prompts us to recall the fundamental purpose behind the Revelation being sent down for humanity. We must first remember that the Qur’an is the divine guidance for mankind and that it is prescribed for us to hold on to it in every facet of life.
“Allah has sent down the best statement: a consistent Book wherein there is reiteration. The skins shiver therefrom of those who fear their Lord; then their skins and their hearts relax at the remembrance of Allah. That is the guidance of Allah by which He guides whom He wills. And one whom Allah leaves astray - for him there is no guide.” – Saheeh International, Az-Zumar 39:23
In the face of modernity, we are so disposed to turn away from this fact; rather we subject ourselves to vanity, rendering us astray from the guidance specially ordained for us. Verily, the detachment from the Qur’an will render us heedless like a lost wanderer in the wilderness, deprived of the guiding light that leads to clarity and purpose. It’s as if we have forgotten that the Book itself is a direct message from Allah that leads us out of the darkness of this transient world.
Believe it or not, some Believers who have shuddered from being astray and then returned to the light of the Qur’an, have found solace through the words of the Book – as if the Qur’an read through them.
Depth of Meaning
The verses of the Qur’an are rich in meaning, wisdom, and guidance for every aspect of life. When a person reads the Qur’an with an open heart and mind, they often find the messages resonate deeply with their own tests and trials, especially as they directly address one’s concerns and offer solutions. This perspective makes one experience the Qur’an reading through their hearts and worries.
Tadabbur
The Quran repeatedly calls upon believers to reflect deeply upon its verses and to ponder over its meanings. For example, in Surah Sad (38:29), it states: "This is a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded." Similarly, in Surah Muhammad (47:24), it says: "Then do they not reflect upon the Qur'an, or are there locks upon [their] hearts?"
As one deeply contemplates the Quran, one often finds oneself introspecting and examining their beliefs, actions, and attitudes, leading to spiritual enlightenment and a better understanding of Islam.
Connection with the Divine
Reciting the Quran is not only reading and comprehending its content; it is also a spiritual journey. Many Muslims claim that reciting and meditating on its verses could bring them closer to Allah s.w.t. When one reads the verses and devotes enough time to understand them, they may experience a sense of closeness to the Divine and a deepening of their faith.
Truly, this only goes to show that the words of Allah s.w.t. have immense effects on the souls of the Believers. Thus, we must remain steadfast to the Book of Guidance by regularly reciting its verses and earnestly implementing its profound messages into our daily lives.
Wallahu’aalaam, and Salaam Nuzul Qur’an.
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