Question:
What is the Qur'aan?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
The Qur'aan is the word of the Lord of the Worlds, which Allaah revealed to His Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), to bring mankind forth from darkness into light:
"It is He Who sends down manifest Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) to His slave (Muhammad) that He may bring you out from darkness into light
[al-Hadeed 57:9 _ interpretation of the meaning]
Allaah has told us in the Qur'aan the stories of the earlier and later generations and the creation of the heavens and the earth. He has explained in detail what is halaal and what is haraam, the basics of good manners and morals, the rulings of worship and dealings with others, the lives of the Prophets and the righteous, and the reward and punishment of the believers and disbelievers. He has described Paradise, the abode of the believers, and He has described Hell, the abode of the disbelievers. He has made it (the Qur'aan) an explanation of all things:
"And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur'aan) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allaah as Muslims)"
[al-Nahl 16:89 _ interpretation of the meaning]
The Qur'aan explains the names and attributes of Allaah and what He has created. It calls us to believe in Allaah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers and the Last Day:
"The Messenger (Muhammad) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. (They say,) `We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers' — and they say, `We hear, and we obey. (We seek) Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the return (of all)'"
[al-Baqarah 2:285 _ interpretation of the meaning]
The Qur'aan describes the Day of Judgement and what will happen after death _ the resurrection, the gathering, the judgement and being brought to account. It describes the Cistern, the Siraat (bridge over Hell), the Balance [in which deeds will be weighed], the blessings and torment, and the gathering of mankind on that great Day:
"Allaah! Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Surely, He will gather you together on the Day of Resurrection about which there is no doubt. And who is truer in statement than Allaah?
[al-Nisaa' 4:87 _ interpretation of the meaning]
The Qur'aan calls us to examine and ponder the signs of Allaah in the universe and the verses of the Qur'aan:
"Say: `Behold all that is in the heavens and the earth'"
[Yoonus 10:101 _ interpretation of the meaning]
"Do they not then think deeply in the Qur'aan, or are their hearts locked up (from understanding it)?"
[Muhammad 47:24 _ interpretation of the meaning]
The Qur'aan is the Book of Allaah for all of mankind:
"Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur'aan) for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his ownself; and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his (own) loss. And you (O Muhammad) are not a Wakeel (trustee or disposer of affairs, or guardian) over them"[al-Zumar 39:41 _ interpretation of the meaning]
The Qur'aan confirms the Books which came before it, the Tawraat (Torah) and Injeel (Gospel), and it is a witness over them, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur'aan) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Muhaymin (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures)"[al-Maa'idah 5:48]
After the Qur'aan was revealed, it became the Book for all of mankind until the Hour begins. Whoever does not believe in it is a kaafir who will be punished with torment on the Day of Resurrection, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"But those who reject Our Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), the torment will touch them for their disbelief (and for their belying the Message of Muhammad)"[al-An'aam 6:49]
Because of the greatness of the Qur'aan and the signs, miracles, parables and lessons contained therein, in addition to its eloquence and beautiful style, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"Had We sent down this Qur'aan on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rent asunder by the fear of Allaah. Such are the parables which We put forward to mankind that they may reflect"[al-Hashr 58:21]
Allaah has challenged mankind and the jinn to produce something like it, even one soorah or one aayah, but they could not do that and will never be able to do that, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"Say: `If the mankind and the jinn were together to produce the like of this Qur'aan, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they helped one another'"[al-Israa' 17:88]
Because the Qur'aan is the greatest of the heavenly Books, the most complete, the most perfect and the last of them, Allaah commanded His Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to convey it to all of mankind, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):
"O Messenger (Muhammad)! Proclaim (the Message) which has been sent down to you from your Lord. And if you do not, then you have not conveyed His Message. Allaah will protect you from mankind" [al-Maa'idah 5:67]
Because of the importance of this book and the ummah's need for it, Allaah has honoured us with it. He sent it down to us and has guaranteed to preserve it. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"Verily, We, it is We Who have sent down the Dhikr (i.e. the Qur'aan) and surely, We will guard it (from corruption)" [al-Hijr 15:9]
From Usool al-Deen al-Islami by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem al-Tuwayjri
Showing posts with label Qur'aan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Qur'aan. Show all posts
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Reward for reading the Qur'aan in translation
Question:
Asalamu-Alaikum,
This is in regards to Question 2237 `Reading Soorat Yaa-Seen in congregation on Friday nights'. Actually I am referring to the hadeeth you mentioned where The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever reads one letter of the Book of Allaah will have one hasanah (reward) for doing so, and every hasanah will be multiplied by 10. I do not say that `Alif, laam, meem' is one letter, but `Alif' is a letter, `laam' is a letter and `meem' is a letter.'"
I was wonderring if this hadith was also true if one is reading the Qur'an in a different language (i.e. English Translation) in order to actually understand what he is reading?
Thank You, Allahu-Akbar
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to reward you for your keenness. In response to your question, the reward mentioned in this hadeeth is only for the one who reads the Qur'aan as it is in Arabic, not for the one who reads the interpretation of the meanings in any other language. However, if a person reads a translation of the meanings in order to understand the meaning and benefit from what the aayaat are saying, then he will be rewarded for doing this, and his reward is with Allaah, because the Muslim will be rewarded for reading tafseer (explanation and commentary), and a translation is tafseer. But there is no indication that the person who reads a translation will earn the reward mentioned in the hadeeth. The bounty of Allaah is immense. And Allaah knows best.
Asalamu-Alaikum,
This is in regards to Question 2237 `Reading Soorat Yaa-Seen in congregation on Friday nights'. Actually I am referring to the hadeeth you mentioned where The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever reads one letter of the Book of Allaah will have one hasanah (reward) for doing so, and every hasanah will be multiplied by 10. I do not say that `Alif, laam, meem' is one letter, but `Alif' is a letter, `laam' is a letter and `meem' is a letter.'"
I was wonderring if this hadith was also true if one is reading the Qur'an in a different language (i.e. English Translation) in order to actually understand what he is reading?
Thank You, Allahu-Akbar
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to reward you for your keenness. In response to your question, the reward mentioned in this hadeeth is only for the one who reads the Qur'aan as it is in Arabic, not for the one who reads the interpretation of the meanings in any other language. However, if a person reads a translation of the meanings in order to understand the meaning and benefit from what the aayaat are saying, then he will be rewarded for doing this, and his reward is with Allaah, because the Muslim will be rewarded for reading tafseer (explanation and commentary), and a translation is tafseer. But there is no indication that the person who reads a translation will earn the reward mentioned in the hadeeth. The bounty of Allaah is immense. And Allaah knows best.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Qur'aan - the Self-sufficient Source for Islam
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful
I had earlier sent you an article on the subject matter, in which the question regarding the number of rakaat in a salaat was discussed. You may click here to access the article online.
Besides the number of rakaat, there are other issues raised which the Qur'aan seemingly doesn't touch upon. One of those issues is:
The Question About Sporting a Beard
The Qur'aan has indeed not said anything about it, except for referring to Prophet Haroon's beard by which his brother Prophet Moses had held him in anger [Verse 33.21]. The ahaadeeth do tell us that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did recommend that Muslims grow their beards and trim their moustaches.
And the Qur'aan tells us in Verse 33.21 that "in the Messenger of Allah, there certainly is for you a good example - for the one who yearns for Allah and the Hereafter, and remembers Allah much."
It is of utmost importance that we understand this Verse correctly. Otherwise, we are likely to go astray. As the Qur'aan says in Verse 2.26, Allah guides many by the examples He gives, and misleads many others, thereby, who swerve from Allah's commandments.
The Messenger was indeed a good example in that he himself implemented every Qur'aanic commandment. He was a walking Qur'aan, as one tradition informs us. It was in this sense that he was a good example. The 103rd Chapter of the Qur'aan tells us that for any human being to get salvation, he/she should believe, do good deeds, admonish with the Truth and admonish with patience.
Our beloved Prophet did all those 4 things required for salvation, in an exemplary manner. His Faith was unshakable, he had been doing good deeds even before he became a Prophet and continued doing good deeds till the last day of his life, he admonished the Truth of Islam despite opposition even from his near and dear ones, and he stuck to the Truth in patience for 13 long years of oppression from his own people. And that is the model of a man seeking salvation! We are asked by Allah Ta'ala to emulate that model!!
And what do we do? Our Faith is shaky. We are beset with doubts at the very first test Allah puts us to. Our deeds are focused on the self. We care a damn if we have to resort to falsehood, if that falsehood brings benefits to our own selves or to our near and dear ones. And we have little patience in times of adversity.
Instead of bringing attention to these vital aspects, some of our self-proclaimed leaders in matters of Religion, insist that to follow the above quoted Verse 33.21, the Muslims should do exactly as the Prophet did in every little detail of his personal life - how he ate using only 3 of his fingers, squatting on the floor etc. etc. And, among those innumerable minor details of the Prophet's personal life, is the detail about the beard.
If sporting a beard were an absolute necessity for being a Muslim, as some of the leaders proclaim, this requirement would surely have appeared in the Qur'aan. For, the divine Book has neglected nothing, and it contains details of everything. Those who insist that the beard is a must in Islam, betray their lack of belief in this Qur'aanic solemn declaration. In other words, they betray their lack of belief in the Qur'aan! This disbelief has led them astray as regards Verse 33.21. They fail to understand that the Prophet is a model for us in so far as his high moral character is concerned. They fail to understand that Allah Ta'ala has granted mankind sufficient freedom of action, provided they remain within the bounds described in the Qur'aan. They are not saddled with restrictions other than those mentioned in the Qur'aan.
I myself have a beard, and I trim my moustaches. But I cannot tell my brother Muslims that they ought to follow suit, since the All-knowing and Kind Lord has given everyone the freedom of choice, in this regard, and in many other things.
I had earlier sent you an article on the subject matter, in which the question regarding the number of rakaat in a salaat was discussed. You may click here to access the article online.
Besides the number of rakaat, there are other issues raised which the Qur'aan seemingly doesn't touch upon. One of those issues is:
The Question About Sporting a Beard
The Qur'aan has indeed not said anything about it, except for referring to Prophet Haroon's beard by which his brother Prophet Moses had held him in anger [Verse 33.21]. The ahaadeeth do tell us that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did recommend that Muslims grow their beards and trim their moustaches.
And the Qur'aan tells us in Verse 33.21 that "in the Messenger of Allah, there certainly is for you a good example - for the one who yearns for Allah and the Hereafter, and remembers Allah much."
It is of utmost importance that we understand this Verse correctly. Otherwise, we are likely to go astray. As the Qur'aan says in Verse 2.26, Allah guides many by the examples He gives, and misleads many others, thereby, who swerve from Allah's commandments.
The Messenger was indeed a good example in that he himself implemented every Qur'aanic commandment. He was a walking Qur'aan, as one tradition informs us. It was in this sense that he was a good example. The 103rd Chapter of the Qur'aan tells us that for any human being to get salvation, he/she should believe, do good deeds, admonish with the Truth and admonish with patience.
Our beloved Prophet did all those 4 things required for salvation, in an exemplary manner. His Faith was unshakable, he had been doing good deeds even before he became a Prophet and continued doing good deeds till the last day of his life, he admonished the Truth of Islam despite opposition even from his near and dear ones, and he stuck to the Truth in patience for 13 long years of oppression from his own people. And that is the model of a man seeking salvation! We are asked by Allah Ta'ala to emulate that model!!
And what do we do? Our Faith is shaky. We are beset with doubts at the very first test Allah puts us to. Our deeds are focused on the self. We care a damn if we have to resort to falsehood, if that falsehood brings benefits to our own selves or to our near and dear ones. And we have little patience in times of adversity.
Instead of bringing attention to these vital aspects, some of our self-proclaimed leaders in matters of Religion, insist that to follow the above quoted Verse 33.21, the Muslims should do exactly as the Prophet did in every little detail of his personal life - how he ate using only 3 of his fingers, squatting on the floor etc. etc. And, among those innumerable minor details of the Prophet's personal life, is the detail about the beard.
If sporting a beard were an absolute necessity for being a Muslim, as some of the leaders proclaim, this requirement would surely have appeared in the Qur'aan. For, the divine Book has neglected nothing, and it contains details of everything. Those who insist that the beard is a must in Islam, betray their lack of belief in this Qur'aanic solemn declaration. In other words, they betray their lack of belief in the Qur'aan! This disbelief has led them astray as regards Verse 33.21. They fail to understand that the Prophet is a model for us in so far as his high moral character is concerned. They fail to understand that Allah Ta'ala has granted mankind sufficient freedom of action, provided they remain within the bounds described in the Qur'aan. They are not saddled with restrictions other than those mentioned in the Qur'aan.
I myself have a beard, and I trim my moustaches. But I cannot tell my brother Muslims that they ought to follow suit, since the All-knowing and Kind Lord has given everyone the freedom of choice, in this regard, and in many other things.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
The meaning of al-huroof al-muqatta'ah in the Qur'aan
Question:
what is meant by the ayah Alim Lam Meem, and other similar ayahs in the quran? What have the scholars said regarding them?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
A group of scholars, such as the Rightly-Guided Khaleefahs (may Allaah be pleased with them), and others among the Sahaabah, Taabi'een and their followers, refrained from interpreting this aayah and others which contain al-huroof al-muqatta'ah [letters which appear at the beginning of some soorahs]. It was not narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) interpreted them, so it is preferable for us to say Allaah knows best what they mean. But it was narrated that some of the mufassireen among the Sahaabah, Taabi'een and their followers did interpret them, and they differed as to their interpretation.
Al-Saheeh al-Masboor min al-Tafseer bi'l-Ma'thoor by Dr Hikmat Basheer, vol 1, p. 94
Some of the scholars tried to discover the wisdom behind these letters and said: These letters are mentioned _ and Allaah knows best _ at the beginning of soorahs which point to the miraculous nature of the Qur'aan, which implies that all mankind is unable to match it, even though it is composed of the letters that they use in their daily speech. This was the view supported by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) and was approved of by Abu'l-Hajjaaj al-Mazzi (may Allaah have mercy on him). And Allaah is the Source of strength. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions, and grant them peace.
Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, vol. 4, p. 144.
what is meant by the ayah Alim Lam Meem, and other similar ayahs in the quran? What have the scholars said regarding them?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
A group of scholars, such as the Rightly-Guided Khaleefahs (may Allaah be pleased with them), and others among the Sahaabah, Taabi'een and their followers, refrained from interpreting this aayah and others which contain al-huroof al-muqatta'ah [letters which appear at the beginning of some soorahs]. It was not narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) interpreted them, so it is preferable for us to say Allaah knows best what they mean. But it was narrated that some of the mufassireen among the Sahaabah, Taabi'een and their followers did interpret them, and they differed as to their interpretation.
Al-Saheeh al-Masboor min al-Tafseer bi'l-Ma'thoor by Dr Hikmat Basheer, vol 1, p. 94
Some of the scholars tried to discover the wisdom behind these letters and said: These letters are mentioned _ and Allaah knows best _ at the beginning of soorahs which point to the miraculous nature of the Qur'aan, which implies that all mankind is unable to match it, even though it is composed of the letters that they use in their daily speech. This was the view supported by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) and was approved of by Abu'l-Hajjaaj al-Mazzi (may Allaah have mercy on him). And Allaah is the Source of strength. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions, and grant them peace.
Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, vol. 4, p. 144.
Meanings of the word ummah in the Qur'aan
Question:
Whilst reading the Qur'aan I have come across the word "ummah" several times and I have the feeling that it has numerous meanings, not just one meaning. Is this correct? How should we understand this word?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Ameen al-Shanqeeti (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
The word ummah is used in four senses in the Qur'aan:
1 _ The word ummah is used to mean a period of time, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"And if We delay the torment for them till a determined term [ila ummatin ma'doodah]"
[Hood 11:8]
"Then the man who was released (one of the two who were in prison), now at length [ba'da ummatin] remembered"[Yoosuf 12:45]
2 _ It is used to mean a group of people, which is the usual usage, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meaning):
"he found there a group of men [ummatan min al-naas] watering (their flocks)"[al-Qasas 28:23]
"And for every Ummah (community or nation) there is a Messenger"
[Yoonus 10:47]
"Mankind were one community [ummah]"[al-Baqarah 2:213]
and there are other similar aayahs.
3 _ The word ummah is used to refer to a man who is taken as a leader, as in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"Verily, Ibraaheem (Abraham) was an Ummah (a leader having all the good righteous qualities)"[al-Nahl 16:120]
4 _ The word ummah is used to mean a way or religion, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"They say: "We found our fathers following a certain way and religion [ummah]"[al-Zukhruf 43:23]
"Truly, this, your Ummah [Sharee`ah or religion (Islamic Monotheism)] is one religion"[al-Anbiyaa' 21:92]
and there are other similar aayahs.
Adwaa' al-Bayaan, 3/13.
Whilst reading the Qur'aan I have come across the word "ummah" several times and I have the feeling that it has numerous meanings, not just one meaning. Is this correct? How should we understand this word?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Ameen al-Shanqeeti (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
The word ummah is used in four senses in the Qur'aan:
1 _ The word ummah is used to mean a period of time, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"And if We delay the torment for them till a determined term [ila ummatin ma'doodah]"
[Hood 11:8]
"Then the man who was released (one of the two who were in prison), now at length [ba'da ummatin] remembered"[Yoosuf 12:45]
2 _ It is used to mean a group of people, which is the usual usage, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meaning):
"he found there a group of men [ummatan min al-naas] watering (their flocks)"[al-Qasas 28:23]
"And for every Ummah (community or nation) there is a Messenger"
[Yoonus 10:47]
"Mankind were one community [ummah]"[al-Baqarah 2:213]
and there are other similar aayahs.
3 _ The word ummah is used to refer to a man who is taken as a leader, as in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"Verily, Ibraaheem (Abraham) was an Ummah (a leader having all the good righteous qualities)"[al-Nahl 16:120]
4 _ The word ummah is used to mean a way or religion, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"They say: "We found our fathers following a certain way and religion [ummah]"[al-Zukhruf 43:23]
"Truly, this, your Ummah [Sharee`ah or religion (Islamic Monotheism)] is one religion"[al-Anbiyaa' 21:92]
and there are other similar aayahs.
Adwaa' al-Bayaan, 3/13.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Is the Qur'aan self-sufficient as the source for Islam?
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful
The Qur'aan says, "... We have neglected nothing in the Book ..." [Verse 6.38]
And yet, there are a number of things that are not mentioned in the Qur'aan, as, for example, the number of rakaat in the ritual Prayers (Salaat) offered at different times of the day .
Mohammad: Masha Allah what a wonderful post, thank you my brother so very much. Now please allow me to put some sharing in your worshderful post. If you did not read my post about are prayers mentioned in Qur'aan, I amswered a lot about this issue, so please read it, it is in the section of: what Is Islam? Now, as for your saying here: many things are missing from Qur'aan, while Allah says: we left out none, then how you make such a statement my beloved brother, anyway, I did not read all of this post, answering it as I go. Let me share one step at the time, as if each part is a message by itself.
Many Muslims, or let us say most of them say: HAdeeth came to complete Qur'aan, as if the perfect Allah my send an imperfect book, which is so sad on the part of those who say so. Let me say this out clearly and out loud: in regard to our relation with Allah, Allah left nothing out, and if by any chance Allah did, then this is not importatn, because if it is important then Allah would mention it in Qur'aan. How about the number of Rakaas, well, first let us ask: did Allah mention Rakaas in Qur'aan?
Yes, Allah metioned Ruku and Sujud in Qur'aan all over the book, and called prayrs by Salah. Let me first take your attention to an Ayah in Qur'aan this I will base my debate over at this time. Ayah 17:12, if you count the number of the words, Allah mentioned word number 19 the word: Math, when speaking about the day and the night, which relates to three planets, Earth, the Sun and the Moon. When Allah brought the word Math to be number 19 when counting from the first word in the Ayah, then recently we discovered how those three planets come on a straight line every 19 years, then Allah says after Math: and every thing we gave you in full extreme details. This is what Qur'aan looks like, not your average book.
Read gain what I just said, do you think it is easy for any average Muslim to understanf this much, no it is not? nother question: since most Muslims do not even understand anything in Qur'aan, do you think any of those are fit to judge if Rakaas are mentioned or not in Qur'aan, not they are the furthest from such? Therefore, before we say Allah did not mention or forgot, we need to count till one thousand and then think before we utter such words. Now as I am not a Genius about Qur'aan, do you know any one who is, Allh says about a man who worked with Solomon who can bring the Throne of Sheba before Solomon blinks with little knowledge from the book of Allah, do you know any one today with this kind of knowledge, then ask yourself, how much from this book we need to know, and how much we really know about such?
At this time I can share with you a little fact, Surh 17 is the Surah that speaks about the trip of our prophet SAW to the Throne of Allah, during which some stories say: Muhmmad received the number of the Rakaa, whether the stories you know are true or false, and this is as I said is Surah 17, what this number signifies at this point? Count the Obligtory Rakaas, 2 morning, 4 Noon, 4 Aser after noon, 3 Maghrib Evening time, and 4 Isha night time, 2+4+4+3+4=17. Is this a coincedance, Surah 17 about Israa and miraaj, when Muhammad SAW received the number of prayers, to match the number of the Rakaas in its number, think about that, it is clear how we have to think about where a word is mentioned, why a number is given?
You see how easy it is on missing the little thing, and how much study we need to do before we say anything about this miraculous book from Allah. Since Allah said: everything we gave you in extreme details, then it is obvious to have the Surah that speaks about the time when Muhammad received the number of Rakaas to be equal to the number of Rakaas, I hope you can clearly see what I am saying here, remember number 19 in the word Math, and the relation that took us 1400 years to discover and understand? Why 1400 yers, first to keep Qur'aan alive till the end of time, second because there is no rush about this issue, not like the number of Rakaas.
You also sid: In the circumstances, how does one interpret the Verse quoted above, and similar other Verses telling mankind that the divine Book contains explanations on everything? There are many Verses in the Qur'aan, like Verse 6.38, that are strongly indicative of the divine Book being self-sufficient on all matters concerning Islam, the Allah-approved and perfect Religion for the entire mankind. Some such Verses are as follows:
12.111 - ... It is not a concocted hadeeth, but a confirmation of what preceded it and details of every thing and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe.
17.89 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example ...
18.54 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for mankind ...
39.27 - And We have certainly given for mankind, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for them to remember.
When the Almighty Creator of everything, Himself categorically declares that He has explained everything in His Book, and neglected nothing, we cannot but accept the divine declaration. If we do not, we betray our lack of faith in the Qur'an being the divine Book. So, the believers have no option but to accept that the Qur'aan explains everything that needs to be explained to mankind for the right conduct of their lives on this planet. Here one thing needs to be clearly understood, and that is that, besides the Qur'aan, the All-knowing Allah has granted the boon of a high grade Intellect to mankind. And when the Qur'aan tells us that it has not neglected anything, it obviously means anything that is not grasped through the Intellect. To illustrate this point through a simple example, it would be ridiculous to ask, "If the Qur'aan has neglected nothing, where is the guidance therein for driving a car properly?" This question would be ridiculous because Allah has given us the Intellect to acquire the necessary knowledge and expertise to be able to drive a car. Allah guides us, through the Qur'aan, in matters that cannot be dealt with merely through the use of the Intellect. And it is in such matters that Allah's guidance, through the Qur'aan, is thorough and perfect. That is what the divine Verses, quoted above, tell us.
Mohammad: how wonderful this example is, and how wonderful is the way you gave an answer back, and please as usual allow me to share what I have, I sometimes am a pain in the neck, I know that. If we have the proper knowledge about Qur'aan, be not dismaid if you find Allah spoke about the car, but the Question is: since a car has nothing to do with worshiping Allah, then why any non Muslims ask us to show such from a book that is related to our entrnce to Paradise, and exodus from Hell? If any of you ever faced a silly person who ask about a silly issue saying: did not Allah claim to bring from every example, where is the walk of a Worm is explained, we say: how the worm walks does not matter to our escaping Hell, and seeking Paradise. Not knowing what saves us from Hell is more dangerous than not knowing how the Worms moves about the ground. And as you said Mohammad: we can discover this on our own, no need for Allah to trouble Garbiel to carry this all the way across the seven Skies to reach us with, but on the other hand, do not be surprised if you discover some time Allah mentioned even such.
You said next: Now let us consider the case, specified above, wherein the Qur'aan appears to have missed mentioning some important and necessary detail:
Number of Rakaat in Salaat
The number is of course not mentioned in the Qur'aan. Nor is it unanimously specified, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in the ahaadeeth. Authors of books of Salaat appear to have mentioned the number on the basis of the established practice prevalent at the time of writing those books. In any case, let us consider whether the number is absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala in whose worship the prayers are performed. Since He has not mentioned it in His Book, it goes without saying that it is not absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah. What is absolutely important is what is specifically mentioned in the Qur'aan. And what is mentioned in the Qur'aan is, inter alia, that the prayers be performed devotedly for Allah and for none else. Allah may not question us on the number of rakaat we performed, but He may question us regarding the wanderings of our minds during the performance of those rakaat.
But that apart, the Qur'aan does not prevent us from following the practice prevalent as regards the number of rakaat. Herein comes the role for our Allah-given boon of Intellect. Since Allah has directed us to perform our salaat in congregation preferably, we have to perform the same number of rakaat as the Imam does. And for the sake of uniformity, it would be preferable to follow the prevalent practice in this regard. But Allah has purposely not prescribed the number to enable His devotees to make adjustments suitable to any abnormal situation that may arise at the time of the prayer. Far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Him .
To conclude,
the number of rakaat is not an absolutely necessary and importanct aspect of a salaat,
the Qur'aan does not, nevertheless, prevent us from following the prevalent practice in this regard, for the sake of uniformity,
the Qur'aan has not prescribed any number for the rakaat, to enable an adjustment to suit any abnormal situation,
far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Allah, and,
the Qur'aan is the self-sufficient source for Islam.
Mohammad: wonderful ending you did here, thanks. Ok, now comes the trouble maker (me), you and all of others here mong the wonderful memebers do remember the Ayah, however let me bring it for a reminder to all of us. Ayah 16:44 sys:
??????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??? ????? ?????? ???????
Please notice the words I underlined, now here is the Interpretation of those Noble words: "and we gave you the Qur'aan, so that you will reveal and explain to the people what Allah gave them, and may they reflect about.
What we have here in this Ayah, and which is extremely important, please pay extreme attention to such? Allah is saying: He gave Muhammad the Qur'aan (Called it by Ziker), and said: so that Muhammad may explain what Allah gave us, and perhaps this will make us think about. As An Arab, I noticed something that no Translation, and no none Arab giving Interpreattion to the Qur'aan is capable of giving you such, so please listen up. Allah says: and we gave you the Qur'aan (Zikir), so that you will explain to the people what was brought for them, makes one like me wonder, does this means how Allah brought in Qur'aan things for others besides mankind?
Notice the words: to explain to people, what was given to them, then this Qur'aan has things not given to mankind, you will ask: who else is there, please listen to this: Do you remember the bird of Solomon, who came explaining to Solomon about the people of Sheba, listen to what this bird said: I found a woman (it knew Gender), ruling over them it knows what rule is all about. The bird spoke a lot, explaining in a manner the best of us fail to explain this situation at hand, knew Allah and worship, please go read Ayahs 27:22-29. Look at how this bird started speaking to the wisest among the wise, Solomon: I know what you do not know, this bird claimed knowledge even the wisest man didnt have . Read the speach of this bird to Solomon, then wonder, is in this Qur'aan something for birds, for the Fish, for the animals, before you answer, please read this Ayah 21:79: which speaks how the mountains and the birds praise Allah, this is why I ask: is there in Qur'aan something for people to be explained, and things only other creatures understand? How?
Look at the Jinn, Ayah 72:2 says: some Jinn listened to Qur'aan from Muhammad SAW and said: we heard marvelous Qur'aan. What Jinn understood, how did they reach this conclusion this fast, took Muhammad 12 yers at Mekka with people and only 40 men and one woman came to Allah, what Jinn saw from little time in the company of the Ayahs of Allah we people till now cannot speak like they spoke saying: Qur'aan Ajaba (which is above any normal, over all expectations), 1400 years and none of us Muslims see Qur'aan as such, we say it is, but can we prove that, yes I know some of us can, but remember those were ordinary Jinn, just happened to pass by according to the wish from Allah.
What I am trying to tell you about all of this, please do not forget, as I started drawing your attention: we know very little about Qur'aan, you know something, I wish, and I dream if Muslims start studying Qur'aan as hard as they criticize it, I wish they start studying Qur'aan as hard as they study silly books that are so much less, and do not compare to the words of Allah, you know why? If we do, I personally promise you: Allah will open from Qur'aan windows that make us see what takes us thousands of years of study, we can see in no time. I know this from personal experiance, I found things others did not, just because I gave Allah some of my time.
Again, what I am trying to say here, and I am sorry I made this post this long? Please do remember how we do not know Qur'aan this well to say: Rakaas are not mentioned, I gave you a hint, simple and easy to understand, but also remember and do not neglict Muhammad was given the knowledge to explain what we need to know, which makes some Hadeeth is true and Genuine, but how we can tell the true Hadeeth from thefalse ones? Those who depend on the books of Hadeeth are so sad, and so ignorant, we all need to make Qur'aan and Allah as our standard. Compare Hadeeth with Qur'aan, when Hadeeth explains Qur'aan, then this is a fulfillment to the order of Allah when He ordered Muhammad SAW to explain Qur'aan to us. This is how we know true Hadeeth from wrong ones, while even the books of Hadeeth can be played dangerous games with, and non Muslims can alter those books as they want, but no one can alter the Noble Qur'aan. This is why Qur'aan is the best refrence in our hands, according to which we can see true hadeeth from none true ones.
Now, and in conclusion I say: prayers were explained fully in Qur'aan, some are clear to all of us to understand, some are little difficult only some of us can, and some we took from our prophet and Imam SAW who was given knowledge from Allah also an order to explain Qur'aan to us, and what Hadeeth about Prayer is given, must be true, when prayer is explained this much, then Muhammad SAW make things clear, then we should accept that Muhammad is doing his Job given to him by an order to explain to us. Now all hadeeth are false if they do not match with Qur'aan, a lot are true and Genuine because they match, let Allah be the Judge through His words and the Noble Qur'aan.
Ayah 39:18 says: those who hear all speaches and follow the best, those who Allah gave guidnce to, and those who have good reflections from the hearts. My Allah makes us among those Insha Allah
The Qur'aan says, "... We have neglected nothing in the Book ..." [Verse 6.38]
And yet, there are a number of things that are not mentioned in the Qur'aan, as, for example, the number of rakaat in the ritual Prayers (Salaat) offered at different times of the day .
Mohammad: Masha Allah what a wonderful post, thank you my brother so very much. Now please allow me to put some sharing in your worshderful post. If you did not read my post about are prayers mentioned in Qur'aan, I amswered a lot about this issue, so please read it, it is in the section of: what Is Islam? Now, as for your saying here: many things are missing from Qur'aan, while Allah says: we left out none, then how you make such a statement my beloved brother, anyway, I did not read all of this post, answering it as I go. Let me share one step at the time, as if each part is a message by itself.
Many Muslims, or let us say most of them say: HAdeeth came to complete Qur'aan, as if the perfect Allah my send an imperfect book, which is so sad on the part of those who say so. Let me say this out clearly and out loud: in regard to our relation with Allah, Allah left nothing out, and if by any chance Allah did, then this is not importatn, because if it is important then Allah would mention it in Qur'aan. How about the number of Rakaas, well, first let us ask: did Allah mention Rakaas in Qur'aan?
Yes, Allah metioned Ruku and Sujud in Qur'aan all over the book, and called prayrs by Salah. Let me first take your attention to an Ayah in Qur'aan this I will base my debate over at this time. Ayah 17:12, if you count the number of the words, Allah mentioned word number 19 the word: Math, when speaking about the day and the night, which relates to three planets, Earth, the Sun and the Moon. When Allah brought the word Math to be number 19 when counting from the first word in the Ayah, then recently we discovered how those three planets come on a straight line every 19 years, then Allah says after Math: and every thing we gave you in full extreme details. This is what Qur'aan looks like, not your average book.
Read gain what I just said, do you think it is easy for any average Muslim to understanf this much, no it is not? nother question: since most Muslims do not even understand anything in Qur'aan, do you think any of those are fit to judge if Rakaas are mentioned or not in Qur'aan, not they are the furthest from such? Therefore, before we say Allah did not mention or forgot, we need to count till one thousand and then think before we utter such words. Now as I am not a Genius about Qur'aan, do you know any one who is, Allh says about a man who worked with Solomon who can bring the Throne of Sheba before Solomon blinks with little knowledge from the book of Allah, do you know any one today with this kind of knowledge, then ask yourself, how much from this book we need to know, and how much we really know about such?
At this time I can share with you a little fact, Surh 17 is the Surah that speaks about the trip of our prophet SAW to the Throne of Allah, during which some stories say: Muhmmad received the number of the Rakaa, whether the stories you know are true or false, and this is as I said is Surah 17, what this number signifies at this point? Count the Obligtory Rakaas, 2 morning, 4 Noon, 4 Aser after noon, 3 Maghrib Evening time, and 4 Isha night time, 2+4+4+3+4=17. Is this a coincedance, Surah 17 about Israa and miraaj, when Muhammad SAW received the number of prayers, to match the number of the Rakaas in its number, think about that, it is clear how we have to think about where a word is mentioned, why a number is given?
You see how easy it is on missing the little thing, and how much study we need to do before we say anything about this miraculous book from Allah. Since Allah said: everything we gave you in extreme details, then it is obvious to have the Surah that speaks about the time when Muhammad received the number of Rakaas to be equal to the number of Rakaas, I hope you can clearly see what I am saying here, remember number 19 in the word Math, and the relation that took us 1400 years to discover and understand? Why 1400 yers, first to keep Qur'aan alive till the end of time, second because there is no rush about this issue, not like the number of Rakaas.
You also sid: In the circumstances, how does one interpret the Verse quoted above, and similar other Verses telling mankind that the divine Book contains explanations on everything? There are many Verses in the Qur'aan, like Verse 6.38, that are strongly indicative of the divine Book being self-sufficient on all matters concerning Islam, the Allah-approved and perfect Religion for the entire mankind. Some such Verses are as follows:
12.111 - ... It is not a concocted hadeeth, but a confirmation of what preceded it and details of every thing and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe.
17.89 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example ...
18.54 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for mankind ...
39.27 - And We have certainly given for mankind, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for them to remember.
When the Almighty Creator of everything, Himself categorically declares that He has explained everything in His Book, and neglected nothing, we cannot but accept the divine declaration. If we do not, we betray our lack of faith in the Qur'an being the divine Book. So, the believers have no option but to accept that the Qur'aan explains everything that needs to be explained to mankind for the right conduct of their lives on this planet. Here one thing needs to be clearly understood, and that is that, besides the Qur'aan, the All-knowing Allah has granted the boon of a high grade Intellect to mankind. And when the Qur'aan tells us that it has not neglected anything, it obviously means anything that is not grasped through the Intellect. To illustrate this point through a simple example, it would be ridiculous to ask, "If the Qur'aan has neglected nothing, where is the guidance therein for driving a car properly?" This question would be ridiculous because Allah has given us the Intellect to acquire the necessary knowledge and expertise to be able to drive a car. Allah guides us, through the Qur'aan, in matters that cannot be dealt with merely through the use of the Intellect. And it is in such matters that Allah's guidance, through the Qur'aan, is thorough and perfect. That is what the divine Verses, quoted above, tell us.
Mohammad: how wonderful this example is, and how wonderful is the way you gave an answer back, and please as usual allow me to share what I have, I sometimes am a pain in the neck, I know that. If we have the proper knowledge about Qur'aan, be not dismaid if you find Allah spoke about the car, but the Question is: since a car has nothing to do with worshiping Allah, then why any non Muslims ask us to show such from a book that is related to our entrnce to Paradise, and exodus from Hell? If any of you ever faced a silly person who ask about a silly issue saying: did not Allah claim to bring from every example, where is the walk of a Worm is explained, we say: how the worm walks does not matter to our escaping Hell, and seeking Paradise. Not knowing what saves us from Hell is more dangerous than not knowing how the Worms moves about the ground. And as you said Mohammad: we can discover this on our own, no need for Allah to trouble Garbiel to carry this all the way across the seven Skies to reach us with, but on the other hand, do not be surprised if you discover some time Allah mentioned even such.
You said next: Now let us consider the case, specified above, wherein the Qur'aan appears to have missed mentioning some important and necessary detail:
Number of Rakaat in Salaat
The number is of course not mentioned in the Qur'aan. Nor is it unanimously specified, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in the ahaadeeth. Authors of books of Salaat appear to have mentioned the number on the basis of the established practice prevalent at the time of writing those books. In any case, let us consider whether the number is absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala in whose worship the prayers are performed. Since He has not mentioned it in His Book, it goes without saying that it is not absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah. What is absolutely important is what is specifically mentioned in the Qur'aan. And what is mentioned in the Qur'aan is, inter alia, that the prayers be performed devotedly for Allah and for none else. Allah may not question us on the number of rakaat we performed, but He may question us regarding the wanderings of our minds during the performance of those rakaat.
But that apart, the Qur'aan does not prevent us from following the practice prevalent as regards the number of rakaat. Herein comes the role for our Allah-given boon of Intellect. Since Allah has directed us to perform our salaat in congregation preferably, we have to perform the same number of rakaat as the Imam does. And for the sake of uniformity, it would be preferable to follow the prevalent practice in this regard. But Allah has purposely not prescribed the number to enable His devotees to make adjustments suitable to any abnormal situation that may arise at the time of the prayer. Far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Him .
To conclude,
the number of rakaat is not an absolutely necessary and importanct aspect of a salaat,
the Qur'aan does not, nevertheless, prevent us from following the prevalent practice in this regard, for the sake of uniformity,
the Qur'aan has not prescribed any number for the rakaat, to enable an adjustment to suit any abnormal situation,
far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Allah, and,
the Qur'aan is the self-sufficient source for Islam.
Mohammad: wonderful ending you did here, thanks. Ok, now comes the trouble maker (me), you and all of others here mong the wonderful memebers do remember the Ayah, however let me bring it for a reminder to all of us. Ayah 16:44 sys:
??????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??? ????? ?????? ???????
Please notice the words I underlined, now here is the Interpretation of those Noble words: "and we gave you the Qur'aan, so that you will reveal and explain to the people what Allah gave them, and may they reflect about.
What we have here in this Ayah, and which is extremely important, please pay extreme attention to such? Allah is saying: He gave Muhammad the Qur'aan (Called it by Ziker), and said: so that Muhammad may explain what Allah gave us, and perhaps this will make us think about. As An Arab, I noticed something that no Translation, and no none Arab giving Interpreattion to the Qur'aan is capable of giving you such, so please listen up. Allah says: and we gave you the Qur'aan (Zikir), so that you will explain to the people what was brought for them, makes one like me wonder, does this means how Allah brought in Qur'aan things for others besides mankind?
Notice the words: to explain to people, what was given to them, then this Qur'aan has things not given to mankind, you will ask: who else is there, please listen to this: Do you remember the bird of Solomon, who came explaining to Solomon about the people of Sheba, listen to what this bird said: I found a woman (it knew Gender), ruling over them it knows what rule is all about. The bird spoke a lot, explaining in a manner the best of us fail to explain this situation at hand, knew Allah and worship, please go read Ayahs 27:22-29. Look at how this bird started speaking to the wisest among the wise, Solomon: I know what you do not know, this bird claimed knowledge even the wisest man didnt have . Read the speach of this bird to Solomon, then wonder, is in this Qur'aan something for birds, for the Fish, for the animals, before you answer, please read this Ayah 21:79: which speaks how the mountains and the birds praise Allah, this is why I ask: is there in Qur'aan something for people to be explained, and things only other creatures understand? How?
Look at the Jinn, Ayah 72:2 says: some Jinn listened to Qur'aan from Muhammad SAW and said: we heard marvelous Qur'aan. What Jinn understood, how did they reach this conclusion this fast, took Muhammad 12 yers at Mekka with people and only 40 men and one woman came to Allah, what Jinn saw from little time in the company of the Ayahs of Allah we people till now cannot speak like they spoke saying: Qur'aan Ajaba (which is above any normal, over all expectations), 1400 years and none of us Muslims see Qur'aan as such, we say it is, but can we prove that, yes I know some of us can, but remember those were ordinary Jinn, just happened to pass by according to the wish from Allah.
What I am trying to tell you about all of this, please do not forget, as I started drawing your attention: we know very little about Qur'aan, you know something, I wish, and I dream if Muslims start studying Qur'aan as hard as they criticize it, I wish they start studying Qur'aan as hard as they study silly books that are so much less, and do not compare to the words of Allah, you know why? If we do, I personally promise you: Allah will open from Qur'aan windows that make us see what takes us thousands of years of study, we can see in no time. I know this from personal experiance, I found things others did not, just because I gave Allah some of my time.
Again, what I am trying to say here, and I am sorry I made this post this long? Please do remember how we do not know Qur'aan this well to say: Rakaas are not mentioned, I gave you a hint, simple and easy to understand, but also remember and do not neglict Muhammad was given the knowledge to explain what we need to know, which makes some Hadeeth is true and Genuine, but how we can tell the true Hadeeth from thefalse ones? Those who depend on the books of Hadeeth are so sad, and so ignorant, we all need to make Qur'aan and Allah as our standard. Compare Hadeeth with Qur'aan, when Hadeeth explains Qur'aan, then this is a fulfillment to the order of Allah when He ordered Muhammad SAW to explain Qur'aan to us. This is how we know true Hadeeth from wrong ones, while even the books of Hadeeth can be played dangerous games with, and non Muslims can alter those books as they want, but no one can alter the Noble Qur'aan. This is why Qur'aan is the best refrence in our hands, according to which we can see true hadeeth from none true ones.
Now, and in conclusion I say: prayers were explained fully in Qur'aan, some are clear to all of us to understand, some are little difficult only some of us can, and some we took from our prophet and Imam SAW who was given knowledge from Allah also an order to explain Qur'aan to us, and what Hadeeth about Prayer is given, must be true, when prayer is explained this much, then Muhammad SAW make things clear, then we should accept that Muhammad is doing his Job given to him by an order to explain to us. Now all hadeeth are false if they do not match with Qur'aan, a lot are true and Genuine because they match, let Allah be the Judge through His words and the Noble Qur'aan.
Ayah 39:18 says: those who hear all speaches and follow the best, those who Allah gave guidnce to, and those who have good reflections from the hearts. My Allah makes us among those Insha Allah
Friday, March 30, 2007
Meanings of the word ummah in the Qur'aan
Question:
Whilst reading the Qur'aan I have come across the word "ummah" several times and I have the feeling that it has numerous meanings, not just one meaning. Is this correct? How should we understand this word?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Ameen al-Shanqeeti (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
The word ummah is used in four senses in the Qur'aan:
1 _ The word ummah is used to mean a period of time, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"And if We delay the torment for them till a determined term [ila ummatin ma'doodah]"
[Hood 11:8]
"Then the man who was released (one of the two who were in prison), now at length [ba'da ummatin] remembered"[Yoosuf 12:45]
2 _ It is used to mean a group of people, which is the usual usage, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meaning):
"he found there a group of men [ummatan min al-naas] watering (their flocks)"[al-Qasas 28:23]
"And for every Ummah (community or nation) there is a Messenger"
[Yoonus 10:47]
"Mankind were one community [ummah]"[al-Baqarah 2:213]
and there are other similar aayahs.
3 _ The word ummah is used to refer to a man who is taken as a leader, as in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"Verily, Ibraaheem (Abraham) was an Ummah (a leader having all the good righteous qualities)"[al-Nahl 16:120]
4 _ The word ummah is used to mean a way or religion, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"They say: "We found our fathers following a certain way and religion [ummah]"[al-Zukhruf 43:23]
"Truly, this, your Ummah [Sharee`ah or religion (Islamic Monotheism)] is one religion"[al-Anbiyaa' 21:92]
and there are other similar aayahs.
Adwaa' al-Bayaan, 3/13.
Whilst reading the Qur'aan I have come across the word "ummah" several times and I have the feeling that it has numerous meanings, not just one meaning. Is this correct? How should we understand this word?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Shaykh Muhammad al-Ameen al-Shanqeeti (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
The word ummah is used in four senses in the Qur'aan:
1 _ The word ummah is used to mean a period of time, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"And if We delay the torment for them till a determined term [ila ummatin ma'doodah]"
[Hood 11:8]
"Then the man who was released (one of the two who were in prison), now at length [ba'da ummatin] remembered"[Yoosuf 12:45]
2 _ It is used to mean a group of people, which is the usual usage, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meaning):
"he found there a group of men [ummatan min al-naas] watering (their flocks)"[al-Qasas 28:23]
"And for every Ummah (community or nation) there is a Messenger"
[Yoonus 10:47]
"Mankind were one community [ummah]"[al-Baqarah 2:213]
and there are other similar aayahs.
3 _ The word ummah is used to refer to a man who is taken as a leader, as in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"Verily, Ibraaheem (Abraham) was an Ummah (a leader having all the good righteous qualities)"[al-Nahl 16:120]
4 _ The word ummah is used to mean a way or religion, as in the aayahs (interpretation of the meanings):
"They say: "We found our fathers following a certain way and religion [ummah]"[al-Zukhruf 43:23]
"Truly, this, your Ummah [Sharee`ah or religion (Islamic Monotheism)] is one religion"[al-Anbiyaa' 21:92]
and there are other similar aayahs.
Adwaa' al-Bayaan, 3/13.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Ruling on hanging verses of the Qur'aan on walls
Question:
When visiting muslims, I noticed that many of them put verses of the Qur'an on the walls or pictures with the names Allah and Mohammed. I know a lot of muslims think that it is good to do so because it will protect them and their house. Personally, I consider it a form of shirk or superstition. Is there any ruling on that subject?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Hanging plaques and cloths containing aayaat of the Qur'aan in homes, schools, social clubs and places of business, involves a number of reservations and prohibitions according to Islam, such as the following:
(1) In most cases, hanging such things on the wall is done for purposes of decoration and adornment, as the aayaat etc. are written in calligraphy and colourful brocade. This is an inappropriate use of the Qur'aan, as it was revealed to guide people and to be read regularly. The Qur'aan was not revealed to decorate walls, but to guide mankind.
(2) Some people hang up such things for "blessing" - which is a form of bid`ah. The blessing as described in Islam comes from reading or reciting the Qur'aan, not from hanging it up or placing it on shelves or turning it into artwork and three-dimensional images.
(3) This is contrary to the practice of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the Rightly-Guided Khaleefahs (al-Khulafaa' al-Raashidoon), may Allaah be pleased with them, who never did such a thing. The best way is to follow them, not to introduce bid`ah. History tells us that in places such as Andalusia, Turkey, etc., the adornment of houses and mosques with ornate carvings of aayaat only happened at times when the Muslims were weak and humiliated.
(4) Hanging up such pictures or plaques could lead to shirk, because some people think that these things are amulets that will protect the house and its people from evil and disease. This is shirk and is haraam, because the One Who really offers protection is Allaah, may He be glorified, and one of the means of gaining His protection is sincere recitation of the Qur'an and du`aa's taught in the Qur'aan and Sunnah.
(5) There is the risk that the Qur'aan may be used, in such cases, as a means of promoting one's business or increasing one's earnings. The Qur'aan should be protected from being used for such purposes. It is well-known that the production and sale of these pictures and plaques involves a great deal of extravagance and wasting money.
(6) Many of these plaques are painted with real gold, which makes using them and hanging them up even more haraam.
(7) Many of these plaques involve a kind of carelessness, because the letters are twisted into complex designs that are of no benefit to anyone because they are barely legible. Sometimes words are fashioned into the shape of a bird or a man prostrating, and similarly forbidden pictures of animate beings.
(8) Ayaat and soorahs of the Qur'aan are exposed to misuse and abuse by this practice. For example, when moving house, they are piled up with the rest of the furniture and belongings, and other objects may be placed on top of them. This also happens when they are taken down so that the wall may be painted or cleaned.
(9) Some Muslims whose observance of Islam is lacking put these plaques and pictures up so that they can feel that they are doing something religious, in order to reduce their feelings of guilt _ in spite of the fact that this practice does not help them in any way.
All in all, we must close the doors of evil and follow the leaders of guidance of the early centuries of Islam, whose people the Prophet (peace be upon him) testified were the best of the Muslims in faith and practice. If someone were to say, "We are not going to abuse it or make it a decoration or exaggerate about it, we only want to remind people (about their religion) in our gatherings", our response would be: if we look at real life, will we find that this is what actually happens? Do people really remember Allah? Do they even read these aayaat when they raise their heads?
What really happens is the opposite: people go against the words hanging over their heads, they still tell lies, engage in gossip, make fun of others and do and say evil things. Even if we assume that there are some who do benefit from these plaques etc., the fact is that they are very few, and this does not change the hukm (Islamic ruling) on the matter.
The Muslims must turn to the Book of Allaah, read it and recite it, and act in accordance with it. We ask Allaah to make the Qur'aan a light of guidance for us, and a means of removing our grief and anxiety. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
When visiting muslims, I noticed that many of them put verses of the Qur'an on the walls or pictures with the names Allah and Mohammed. I know a lot of muslims think that it is good to do so because it will protect them and their house. Personally, I consider it a form of shirk or superstition. Is there any ruling on that subject?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Hanging plaques and cloths containing aayaat of the Qur'aan in homes, schools, social clubs and places of business, involves a number of reservations and prohibitions according to Islam, such as the following:
(1) In most cases, hanging such things on the wall is done for purposes of decoration and adornment, as the aayaat etc. are written in calligraphy and colourful brocade. This is an inappropriate use of the Qur'aan, as it was revealed to guide people and to be read regularly. The Qur'aan was not revealed to decorate walls, but to guide mankind.
(2) Some people hang up such things for "blessing" - which is a form of bid`ah. The blessing as described in Islam comes from reading or reciting the Qur'aan, not from hanging it up or placing it on shelves or turning it into artwork and three-dimensional images.
(3) This is contrary to the practice of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the Rightly-Guided Khaleefahs (al-Khulafaa' al-Raashidoon), may Allaah be pleased with them, who never did such a thing. The best way is to follow them, not to introduce bid`ah. History tells us that in places such as Andalusia, Turkey, etc., the adornment of houses and mosques with ornate carvings of aayaat only happened at times when the Muslims were weak and humiliated.
(4) Hanging up such pictures or plaques could lead to shirk, because some people think that these things are amulets that will protect the house and its people from evil and disease. This is shirk and is haraam, because the One Who really offers protection is Allaah, may He be glorified, and one of the means of gaining His protection is sincere recitation of the Qur'an and du`aa's taught in the Qur'aan and Sunnah.
(5) There is the risk that the Qur'aan may be used, in such cases, as a means of promoting one's business or increasing one's earnings. The Qur'aan should be protected from being used for such purposes. It is well-known that the production and sale of these pictures and plaques involves a great deal of extravagance and wasting money.
(6) Many of these plaques are painted with real gold, which makes using them and hanging them up even more haraam.
(7) Many of these plaques involve a kind of carelessness, because the letters are twisted into complex designs that are of no benefit to anyone because they are barely legible. Sometimes words are fashioned into the shape of a bird or a man prostrating, and similarly forbidden pictures of animate beings.
(8) Ayaat and soorahs of the Qur'aan are exposed to misuse and abuse by this practice. For example, when moving house, they are piled up with the rest of the furniture and belongings, and other objects may be placed on top of them. This also happens when they are taken down so that the wall may be painted or cleaned.
(9) Some Muslims whose observance of Islam is lacking put these plaques and pictures up so that they can feel that they are doing something religious, in order to reduce their feelings of guilt _ in spite of the fact that this practice does not help them in any way.
All in all, we must close the doors of evil and follow the leaders of guidance of the early centuries of Islam, whose people the Prophet (peace be upon him) testified were the best of the Muslims in faith and practice. If someone were to say, "We are not going to abuse it or make it a decoration or exaggerate about it, we only want to remind people (about their religion) in our gatherings", our response would be: if we look at real life, will we find that this is what actually happens? Do people really remember Allah? Do they even read these aayaat when they raise their heads?
What really happens is the opposite: people go against the words hanging over their heads, they still tell lies, engage in gossip, make fun of others and do and say evil things. Even if we assume that there are some who do benefit from these plaques etc., the fact is that they are very few, and this does not change the hukm (Islamic ruling) on the matter.
The Muslims must turn to the Book of Allaah, read it and recite it, and act in accordance with it. We ask Allaah to make the Qur'aan a light of guidance for us, and a means of removing our grief and anxiety. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
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