Assalamu'alaikum wr.wb.,
I recently met a new Muslim who asked me to prove the Truth of Islam using verses from the Holy Qur’an (Koran). This is the result.
The Holy Qur'an
This is my favourite translation and from an official and reliable source: the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an. There are a lot of graphics on the page and so it takes several seconds to load. Each chapter is in small sections so you have to be patient. However, the level of language and explanation in footnotes is worth the wait if you really want to understand. This is the website that I always use when quoting the Qur'an in English or Indonesian. The translation here is more complex than the one given below, meaning it expands ideas rather than simplifying them.
The Holy Qur'an
The Meanings Of The Holy Qur'an by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
http://www.wam.umd.edu/~stwright/rel/islam/Quran.html
This website opens the whole chapter in one page so there is no waiting time to read a chapter in parts. Some of the English is a little archaic (like the Bible/Shakespeare- “wherefore goest thou”) so its not my favourite style of English translation. But it’s fast. The translation here is a little more simplistic, meaning it simplifies ideas rather than expanding them.
I have collected a number of verses, and will try to put them into the context by adding a few notes if it seems necessary. But most of the verses are already clear by themselves.
NOTE: a chapter in the Qur’an (Koran) is called a Surah/Surat.
QS = Qur’an Surah (or Qur’an Chapter).
QS: 7.1 = Qur’an Chapter 7, Verse 1.
All of the following verses are copied from the first website given above.
You will note that there are many words in brackets in the verses. These are added words from the translators to make the meaning clear. (The added words are not in the original Arabic). There is little dispute about these meanings. In case there are differing opinions, there are footnotes added with other interpretations.
Example: The word “kitab” in Arabic is usually translated as “Book”. This word is used for the Qur’an, the Bible and also the Torah. So, in each case, the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) explained to his companions which of these “books” was being referred to. Sometimes it’s only one of them, sometimes it’s all three.
Wassalamu'alaikum wr.wb.,
Gene Netto
FIRST OF ALL, HERE IS PROOF THAT ALLAH (GOD) CHOOSES ISLAM AS THE RELIGION FOR ALL MANKIND.
QS: 5.3
3. Forbidden to you (for food) are: Al-Maitah (the dead animals - cattle - beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which Allâh’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering, (that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allâh, or has been slaughtered for idols) and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns - and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal - unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death) - and that which is sacrificed (slaughtered) on An-Nusub [1] (stone-altars). (Forbidden) also is to use arrows seeking luck or decision; (all) that is Fisqun (disobedience of Allâh and sin). This day, those who disbelieved have given up all hope of your religion; so fear them not, but fear Me. This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion. But as for him who is forced by severe hunger, with no inclination to sin (such can eat these above mentioned meats), then surely, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
This was the last verse (revelation) given to the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) in his last sermon before his death. After this verse was revealed there were no others. And all of the revealed verses that had been memorized by the Prophet and his companions were then rearranged and placed in the order we find today making the Holy Qur’an.
QS: 3.84-85
84. Say (O Muhammad): "We believe in Allâh and in what has been sent down to us, and what was sent down to Ibrâhîm (Abraham), Ismâ‘îl (Ishmael), Ishâq (Isaac), Ya‘qûb (Jacob) and Al-Asbât [the offspring of the twelve sons of Ya‘qûb (Jacob)] and what was given to Mûsâ (Moses), ‘Îsâ (Jesus) and the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one another among them and to Him (Allâh) we have submitted (in Islâm)."
85. And whoever seeks a religion other than Islâm, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers[1].
No explanation should be needed. These verses are already clear. God has spoken. It’s up to you to believe or not.
ANYONE WHO ENTERS ISLAM AND THEN LEAVES AGAIN IS CURSED
QS: 3.86-91
86. How shall Allâh guide a people who disbelieved after their belief and after they bore witness that the Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) is true and after clear proofs had come unto them? And Allâh guides not the people who are Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers).
87. They are those whose recompense is that on them (rests) the Curse of Allâh, of the angels, and of all mankind.
88. They will abide therein (Hell). Neither will their torment be lightened, nor will it be delayed or postponed (for a while).
89. Except for those who repent after that and do righteous deeds. Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
90. Verily, those who disbelieved after their Belief and then went on increasing in their disbelief (i.e. disbelief in the Qur’ân and in Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) - never will their repentance be accepted [because they repent only by their tongues and not from their hearts]. And they are those who are astray.
91. Verily, those who disbelieved, and died while they were disbelievers, the (whole) earth full of gold will not be accepted from anyone of them even if they offered it as a ransom[2]. For them is a painful torment and they will have no helpers.
PROOF OF MUHAMMAD AS THE MESSENGER
QS: 7.158
158. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allâh - to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). It is He Who gives life and causes death. So believe in Allâh and His Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), the Prophet who can neither read nor write (i.e. Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), who believes in Allâh and His Words [(this Qur’ân), the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) and also Allâh’s Word: "Be!" - and he was, i.e. ‘Îsâ (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary), عليهما السلام], and follow him so that you may be guided.[3]"
If you choose not to accept Muhammad as the Messenger of Allah, then explain why. Allah’s verses are very clear. If you want Allah to guide you so that you can earn the right to go to heaven then you must FOLLOW the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) because he is Allah’s final Messenger, who replaces the teachings of all previous Prophets. Anything else is automatically incorrect, such as following Jesus or Moses and so on.
In the same way, a company following outdated tax laws from 1930 and not the updated tax laws from this year cannot be considered correct.
It’s just that simple. God is not that complex or mysterious when it comes to His dealings with us. He is able to explain Himself in a clear, simple, and logical fashion so that we will find it easy to believe.
PROOF THAT MUHAMMMAD DIDN’T CREATE THE QUR’AN
QS: 53.2-4
2. Your companion (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) has neither gone astray nor has erred.
3. Nor does he speak of (his own) desire.
4. It is only a Revelation revealed.
THOSE WHO LOVE ALLAH (GOD) FOLLOW & OBEY THE PROPHET
QS: 3:31-32
31. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم to mankind): "If you (really) love Allâh then follow me (i.e. accept Islâmic Monotheism, follow the Qur’ân and the Sunnah), Allâh will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."
32. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "Obey Allâh and the Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم)." But if they turn away, then Allâh does not like the disbelievers[1].
Any person who is not following the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) by, for example, IGNORING the 5 daily prayers, not fasting, not paying taxes (zakat) and so on, then that person is proving that they do not love Allah. They may say with their mouth that they have faith and are a Muslim, but with their actions they disprove what they say.
NO CHANGE ALLOWED IN THE RELIGION THAT GOD HAS DETERMINED
QS: 30.29-32
29. Nay, but those who do wrong follow their own lusts without knowledge. Then who will guide him whom Allâh has sent astray? And for such there will be no helpers.
30. So set you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) your face towards the religion (of pure Islâmic Monotheism) Hanîf (worship none but Allâh Alone). Allâh’s Fitrah (i.e. Allâh’s Islâmic Monotheism) with which He has created mankind. No change let there be in Khalq-illâh (i.e. the religion of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism): that is the straight religion, but most of men know not.[2] [Tafsir At-Tabarî]
31. (And remain always) turning in repentance to Him (only), and be afraid and dutiful to Him; and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât) and be not of Al-Mushrikûn (the polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah).
32. Of those who split up their religion (i.e. who left the true Islâmic Monotheism), and became sects, [i.e. they invented new things in the religion (Bid‘ah), and followed their vain desires], each sect rejoicing in that which is with it.[3]
THINKING, RATHER THAN FEELING, IS IMPORTANT
QS: 7.175
175. And recite (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) to them the story of him to whom We gave Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), but he threw them away; so Shaitân (Satan) followed him up, and he became of those who went astray.
176. And had We willed, We would surely have elevated him therewith but he clung to the earth and followed his own vain desire. So his parable is the parable of a dog: if you drive him away, he lolls his tongue out, or if you leave him alone, he (still) lolls his tongue out. Such is the parable of the people who reject Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.). So relate the stories, perhaps they may reflect.
To reflect on something means to think about it. Use your brain. Think. Discuss with a teacher. Think. Consider what is right and wrong. Think. Find logic and Truth in the verses/proof that Allah has sent to us. Think. Study. Think.
Many people who call themselves “spiritual” reject thinking in favour of feeling. Allah (Almighty God) does not command people to feel something spiritual in their heart before they can commit to worshiping Him and following His chosen religion.
He commands us to REFLECT/think.
God’s desire is to influence us to THINK and seek the truth. He wants us to use our brains and detect false prophets and ideas. He wants us to know and understand Him, not just have blind faith based on feelings. We must know or have knowledge of Allah and Islam if we want to teach others about Him.
If we just follow our feelings then we get the situation that I found in Christianity: when I questioned my grandmother or priest about things in Christianity that didn’t make sense to me (like the Trinity), I was ordered to just believe and follow the priest and the Church.
I was told that thinking and asking questions would lead me astray!
You have read the verses from God above. Which situation makes more sense as coming from God:
1. use your brain, think and ask, or
2. just turn your brain off, believe the priests and follow blindly?
Think about it!
THE QUR'AN, MUHAMMAD, ADAM AND EVE, THE DEVIL (SATAN)
QS: 7 Sûrat Al-A‘râf [The Heights]
In the Name of Allâh,the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
1. Alif-Lâm-Mîm-Sâd. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’ân and none but Allâh (Alone) knows their meanings.]
2. (This is the) Book (the Qur’ân) sent down unto you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), so let not your breast be narrow therefrom, that you warn thereby; and a reminder unto the believers.
3. [Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) to these idolaters (pagan Arabs) of your folk:] Follow what has been sent down unto you from your Lord (the Qur’ân and Prophet Muhammad’s Sunnah), and follow not any Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers who order you to associate partners in worship with Allâh), besides Him (Allâh). Little do you remember!
4. And a great number of towns (their population) We destroyed (for their crimes). Our torment came upon them (suddenly) by night or while they were taking their midday nap.
5. No cry did they utter when Our Torment came upon them but this: "Verily, we were Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)".
6. Then surely, We shall question those (people) to whom it (the Book) was sent and verily, We shall question the Messengers.
7. Then surely, We shall narrate unto them (their whole story) with knowledge, and indeed We have not been absent.
8. And the weighing on that day (Day of Resurrection) will be the true (weighing)[1]. So as for those whose scale (of good deeds) will be heavy, they will be the successful (by entering Paradise).
9. And as for those whose scale will be light, they are those who will lose their ownselves (by entering Hell) because they denied and rejected Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.).
10. And surely, We gave you authority on the earth and appointed for you therein provisions (for your life). Little thanks do you give.
11. And surely, We created you (your father Adam) and then gave you shape (the noble shape of a human being); then We told the angels, "Prostrate yourselves to Adam", and they prostrated themselves, except Iblîs (Satan), he refused to be of those who prostrated themselves.
12. (Allâh) said: "What prevented you (O Iblîs) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" Iblîs said: "I am better than him (Adam), You created me from fire, and him You created from clay."
13. (Allâh) said: "(O Iblîs) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced."
14. (Iblîs) said: "Allow me respite till the Day they are raised up (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)."
15. (Allâh) said: "You are of those respited."
16. (Iblîs) said: "Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path.
17. "Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones (i.e. they will not be dutiful to You)."
18. (Allâh) said (to Iblîs): "Get out from this (Paradise), disgraced and expelled. Whoever of them (mankind) will follow you, then surely I will fill Hell with you all."
19. "And O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in Paradise, and eat thereof as you both wish, but approach not this tree otherwise you both will be of the Zâlimûn (unjust and wrong-doers)."
20. Then Shaitân (Satan) whispered suggestions to them both in order to uncover that which was hidden from them of their private parts (before); he said: "Your Lord did not forbid you this tree save that you should become angels or become of the immortals."
21. And he [Shaitân (Satan)] swore by Allâh to them both (saying): "Verily, I am one of the sincere well-wishers for you both."
22. So he misled them with deception. Then when they tasted of the tree, that which was hidden from them of their shame (private parts) became manifest to them and they began to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise (in order to cover their shame). And their Lord called out to them (saying): "Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily, Shaitân (Satan) is an open enemy unto you?"
These verses above should make it clear that the Qur’an was sent to the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) as a warning and as a reminder for those who believe. Obviously we cannot be warned or reminded unless we actually READ the Qur’an. The Devil also states that he will come to us and try to lead us astray. If we do not follow the Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) then we are leaving ourselves open to influence from the Devil.
QS: 7.23-30
23. They said: "Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves. If You forgive us not, and bestow not upon us Your Mercy, we shall certainly be of the losers."
24. (Allâh) said: "Get down, one of you is an enemy to the other [i.e. Adam, Hawwâ’ (Eve), and Shaitân (Satan)]. On earth will be a dwelling-place for you and an enjoyment for a time."
25. He said: "Therein you shall live, and therein you shall die, and from it you shall be brought out (i.e. resurrected)."
26. O Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover yourselves (screen your private parts) and as an adornment; and the raiment of righteousness, that is better. Such are among the Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh, that they may remember (i.e. leave falsehood and follow truth[1]).
27. O Children of Adam! Let not Shaitân (Satan) deceive you, as he got your parents [Adam and Hawwâ’ (Eve)] out of Paradise, stripping them of their raiments, to show them their private parts. Verily, he and Qabîluhu (his soldiers from the jinn or his tribe) see you from where you cannot see them. Verily, We made the Shayâtin (devils) Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) for those who believe not.
28. And when they commit a Fâhishah (evil deed, going round the Ka‘bah in naked state, and every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse), they say: "We found our fathers doing it, and Allâh has commanded it on us." Say: "Nay, Allâh never commands Fâhishah. Do you say of Allâh what you know not?"
29. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): My Lord has commanded justice and (said) that you should face Him only (i.e. worship none but Allâh and face the Qiblah, i.e. the Ka‘bah at Makkah during prayers) in every place of worship, in prayers (and not to face other false deities and idols), and invoke Him only making your religion sincere to Him (by not joining in worship any partner with Him and with the intention that you are doing your deeds for Allâh’s sake only). As He brought you (into being) in the beginning, so shall you be brought into being [on the Day of Resurrection in two groups, one as a blessed one (believers), and the other as a wretched one (disbelievers)].
30. A group He has guided, and a group deserved to be in error; (because) surely they took the Shayâtîn (devils) as Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) instead of Allâh, and think that they are guided.
These verses make it very clear that the Devil can influence people and make them do things which the people will say God ordered them to do or approves of. If something truly comes from God then you would find something similar in the Qur’an or in the actions of the Prophet Muhammad (saw.). Anything “spiritual” that does not follow the Qur’an or the actions of the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) is automatically questionable.
QS: 7.35-41
35. O Children of Adam! If there come to you Messengers from amongst you, reciting to you My Verses, then whosoever becomes pious and righteous, on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve.
36. But those who reject Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations) and treat them with arrogance, they are the dwellers of the (Hell) Fire, they will abide therein forever.
***
38. (Allâh) will say: "Enter you in the company of nations who passed away before you, of men and jinn, into the Fire." Every time a new nation enters, it curses its sister nation (that went before) until they will be gathered all together in the Fire. The last of them will say to the first of them: "Our Lord! These misled us, so give them a double torment of the Fire." He will say: "For each one there is double (torment), but you know not."
39. The first of them will say to the last of them: "You were not better than us, so taste the torment for what you used to earn."
40. Verily, those who belie Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations) and treat them with arrogance, for them the gates of heaven will not be opened, and they will not enter Paradise until the camel goes through the eye of the needle (which is impossible). Thus do We recompense the Mujrimûn (criminals, polytheists and sinners).
41. Theirs will be a bed of Hell (Fire), and over them coverings (of Hell-fire). Thus do We recompense the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers).
If Allah sends a Messenger (meaning all of the Prophets) then our job is to listen to the Truth and use the brain that Allah gave us to think and understand. After Allah has sent to us as proof of his existence and proof of how he wants us to behave (especially concerning HOW to worship Allah in the way that HE approves of) then we have two choices: accept or reject. Those who accept and follow will be rewarded with heaven. The others will be punished in Hell.
QS: 7.44-45, 50-51, 179-186
44. And the dwellers of Paradise will call out to the dwellers of the Fire (saying): "We have indeed found true what our Lord had promised us; have you also found true, what your Lord promised (warnings)?" They shall say: "Yes." Then a crier will proclaim between them: "The Curse of Allâh is on the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)."
45. Those who hindered (men) from the Path of Allâh, and would seek to make it crooked, and they were disbelievers in the Hereafter.
***
50. And the dwellers of the Fire will call to the dwellers of Paradise: "Pour on us some water or anything that Allâh has provided you with." They will say: "Both (water and provision) Allâh has forbidden to the disbelievers."
51. "Who took their religion as an amusement and play, and the life of the world deceived them." So this Day We shall forget them as they forgot their meeting of this Day, and as they used to reject Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations).
***
179. And surely, We have created many of the jinn and mankind for Hell. They have hearts wherewith they understand not, and they have eyes wherewith they see not, and they have ears wherewith they hear not (the truth). They are like cattle, nay even more astray; those! They are the heedless ones.
180. And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allâh[1], so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who belie or deny (or utter impious speech against) His Names. They will be requited for what they used to do.
181. And of those whom We have created, there is a community who guides (others) with the truth, and establishes justice therewith.
182. Those who reject Our Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), We shall gradually seize them with punishment in ways they perceive not.
183. And I respite them; certainly My Plan is strong.
184. Do they not reflect? There is no madness in their companion (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم). He is but a plain warner.
185. Do they not look in the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all things that Allâh has created; and that it may be that the end of their lives is near. In what message after this will they then believe?
186. Whomsoever Allâh sends astray, none can guide him; and He lets them wander blindly in their transgressions.
THOSE WHO DO NOT PERFORM SHOLAT
QS: 74.40-43
40. In Gardens (Paradise) they will ask one another,
41. About Al-Mujrimûn (polytheists, criminals, disbelievers), (And they will say to them):
42. "What has caused you to enter Hell?"
43. They will say: "We were not of those who used to offer the Salât (prayers),[2]
IMPORTANCE OF SHOLAT
QS: 4.103
103. When you have finished As-Salât (the congregational prayer), remember Allâh standing, sitting down, and (lying down) on your sides, but when you are free from danger, perform As-Salât (Iqamat-as-Salât). Verily, As-Salât (the prayer) is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours.
Here is the meaning of enjoin from the dictionary. It’s a transitive verb. It means you direct or impose something on someone and you do it from a position of authority over them.
en·join
tr.v. en·joined, en·join·ing, en·joins
1. To direct or impose with authority and emphasis.
This should make it clear. God commands us to do sholat at fixed times.
QS: 2.1-5
1. Alif-Lâm-Mîm. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’ân and none but Allâh (Alone) knows their meanings.]
2. This is the Book (the Qur’ân), whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqûn [the pious believers of Islamic Monotheism who fear Allâh much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden) and love Allâh much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)].
3. Who believe in the Ghaib [1] and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât),[2] and spend out of what We have provided for them [i.e. give Zakât [3], spend on themselves, their parents, their children, their wives, etc., and also give charity to the poor and also in Allâh’s Cause - Jihâd].
4. And who believe in (the Qur’ân and the Sunnah )[4] which has been sent down (revealed) to you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) and in that which was sent down before you [the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel), etc.] and they believe with certainty in the Hereafter. (Resurrection, recompense of their good and bad deeds, Paradise and Hell).
5. They are on (true) guidance from their Lord, and they are the successful.
[1] (V.2:3): Al-Ghaib: literally means a thing not seen. But this word includes vast meanings: Belief in Allâh, Angels, Holy Books, Allâh’s Messengers, Day of Resurrection and Al-Qadar (Divine Pre-ordainments). It also includes what Allâh and His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم informed about the knowledge of the matters of past, present, and future e.g., news about the creation of the heavens and earth, botanical and zoological life, the news about the nations of the past, and about Paradise and Hell.
[2] (V.2:3): Iqâmat-as-Salât إقامة الصلاة: The performance of Salât (prayers). It means that:
a) Each and every Muslim, male or female, is obliged to offer his Salât (prayers) regularly five times a day at the specified times; the male in a mosque in congregation and the female at home. As the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم has said: "Order your children for Salât (prayers) at the age of seven and beat them (about it) at the age of ten." The chief (of a family, town, tribe, etc.) and the Muslim rulers of a country are held responsible before Allâh in case of non-fulfilment of this obligation by the Muslims under their authority.
b) One must offer the Salât (prayers) as the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم used to offer them with all their rules and regulations, i.e., standing, bowing, prostrating, sitting, as he صلى الله عليه وسلم has said: "Offer your Salât (prayers) the way you see me offering them (see Sahih Al-Bukhâri, Vol.1, H. No. 604 and Vol.9, H. No. 352)."
[For the characteristics of the Salât (prayer) of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم see Sahih Al-Bukhâri, Vol.1, H. No. 702, 703, 704, 723, 786, 787].
Sholat is so important that is mentioned repeatedly in the Holy Qur’an. The method of how to do it is not given in detail, nor are the exact times. Those were described in detail by the Prophet Muhammad (saw.) and recorded in his Hadith (Sayings) which we must also accept as being guided by Allah.
| List of verses in the Qur’an that refer to Sholat (Salat) | ||||
| 2.3 | 2.43 | 2.45 | 2.83 | 2.110 |
| 2.125 | 2.153 | 2.177 | 2.238 | 2.239 |
| 2.277 | 3.39 | 3.43 | 3.77 | 4.101 |
| 4.102 | 4.103 | 4.142 | 4.162 | 5.6 |
| 5.12 | 5.55 | 5.58 | 5.91 | 5.106 |
| 6.72 | 6.92 | 6.162 | 7.29 | 7.170 |
| 8.3 | 8.35 | 9.5 | 9.11 | 9.18 |
| 9.54 | 9.71 | 9.84 | 9.108 | 10.87 |
| 11.87 | 11.114 | 13.22 | 14.31 | 14.37 |
| 14.40 | 17.78 | 17.110 | 19.31 | 19.55 |
| 19.59 | 20.14 | 20.132 | 21.73 | 22.35 |
| 22.41 | 22.78 | 23.2 | 23.9 | 24.41 |
| 24.56 | 24.58 | 27.3 | 29.45 | 30.31 |
| 31.4 | 31.17 | 33.33 | 35.18 | 35.29 |
| 42.38 | 58.13 | 62.9 | 62.10 | 70.22 |
| 70.23 | 70.34 | 73.20 | 74.43 | 75.31 |
| 87.15 | 96.10 | 98.5 | 107.4 | 107.5 |
HADITHS (SAYING) OF MUHAMMAD ASCENDING TO HEAVEN AND BEING COMMANDED TO DO SHOLAT 5 TIMES PER DAY.
Narrated Mâlik bin Sa‘sa‘ah رضي الله عنه: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, "While I was at the house in a state midway between sleep and wakefulness, (an angel recognized me) as the man lying between two men. A golden tray full of wisdom and belief was brought to me and my body was cut open from the throat to the lower part of the abdomen and then my abdomen was washed with Zamzam water and (my heart was) filled with wisdom and belief. Al-Burâq, a white animal smaller than a mule and bigger than a donkey was brought to me and I set out with Jibrîl (Gabriel). When I reached the nearest heaven, Jibrîl said to the gate-keeper of the heaven, ‘Open the gate.’ The gate-keeper asked, ‘Who is it?’ He said, ‘Jibrîl.’ The gate-keeper, said ‘Who is accompanying you?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم’. The gate-keeper said, ‘Has he been called?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Yes’. Then it was said, ‘He is welcome. What a wonderful visit his is!’ Then I met Adam and greeted him and he said, ‘You are welcome O son and a Prophet.’ Then we ascended to the second heaven. It was asked, ‘Who is it?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Jibrîl.’ It was said, ‘Who is with you?’ He said, ‘Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم’. It was asked, ‘Has he been sent for?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ It was said, ‘He is welcome. What a wonderful visit his is.’ Then I met ‘Îsâ (Jesus) and Yahyâ (John) who said, ‘You are welcome, O brother and a Prophet.’ Then we ascended to the third heaven. It was asked, ‘Who is it?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Jibrîl.’ It was asked, ‘Who is with you?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم’. It was asked, ‘Has he been sent for?’ Jibrîl said, ‘Yes.’ It was said ‘He is welcome. What a wonderful visit his is!’ (The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم added:). There I met Yûsuf (Joseph) and greeted him, and he replied, ‘You are welcome, O brother and a Prophet!’ Then we ascended to the fourth heaven and again the same questions and answers were exchanged as in the previous heavens. There I met Idrîs (Enoch) and greeted him. He said, ‘You are welcome O brother and Prophet.’ Then we ascended to the fifth heaven and again the same questions and answers were exchanged as in the previous heavens. There I met and greeted Hârûn (Aaron) who said, ‘You are welcome, O brother and a Prophet.’ Then we ascended to the sixth heaven and again the same questions and answers were exchanged as in the previous heavens. There I met and greeted Mûsâ (Moses) who said, ‘You are welcome, O brother and a Prophet.’ When I proceeded on, he started weeping and on being asked why he was weeping, he said, ‘O Lord! Followers of this youth who was sent after me will enter Paradise in greater number than my followers.’ Then we ascended to the seventh heaven and again the same questions and answers were exchanged as in the previous heavens. There I met and greeted Abraham who said, ‘You are welcome, O son and a Prophet.’ Then I was shown Al-Bait Al-Ma‘mûr (i.e. Allah’s House). I asked Jibrîl about it and he said, ‘This is Al-Bait Al-Ma‘mûr where 70,000 angels perform prayers daily; and when they leave they never return to it (but always a fresh batch comes into it daily).’ Then I was shown Sidrat-ul Muntaha (i.e. the lote-tree of the utmost boundary over the seventh heaven) and I saw its Nabiq fruits which resembled the clay jugs of Hajar (a town in Arabia), and its leaves were like the ears of elephants, and four rivers originated at its root: two of them were apparent and two were hidden. I asked Jibrîl about those rivers and he said, ‘The two hidden rivers are in Paradise and the apparent ones are the Nile and the Euphrates.’ Then fifty prayers were enjoined on me. I descended till I met Mûsâ who asked me, ‘What have you done?’ I said, ‘Fifty prayers have been enjoined on me.’ He said, ‘I know the people better than you, because I had the hardest experience to bring Banî Israel to obedience. Your followers cannot put up with such obligation. So, return to your Lord and request Him (to reduce the number of prayers).’ I returned and requested Allah (for reduction) and He made it forty. I returned and [met Mûsâ] and had a similar discussion, and then returned again to Allah for reduction and He made it thirty, then twenty, then ten; and then I came to Mûsâ! who repeated the same advice. Ultimately Allah reduced it to five. When I came to Mûsâ again, he said, ‘What have you done?’ I said, ‘Allah has made it five only.’ He repeated the same advice but I said that I surrendered (to Allah’s Final Order)" Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم was addressed by Allah, "I have decreed My Obligation and have reduced the burden on My slaves, and I shall reward a single good deed as if it were ten good deeds." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Vol. 4, Hadîth No.429).
The meaning behind this hadith is accepted and not disputed by anyone. Two things are important here:
1. Muslims are obligated to pray 5 times per day as a direct commandment from Allah.
2. Each prayer is rewarded 10 times over. So 5 prayers is counted as 50 prayers, as a mercy and a blessing from God.
Also note that the Prophet having the special place closest to God in the seventh heaven was in fact Ibrahim (Abraham), not Jesus or Moses.
JESUS, JEWS & CHRISTIANS IN THE QUR'AN
QS: 2.111
111. And they say, "None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian." These are their own desires. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), "Produce your proof if you are truthful."
QS: 4.155-159
155. Because of their breaking the covenant, and of their rejecting the Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh, and of their killing the Prophets unjustly, and of their saying: "Our hearts are wrapped (with coverings, i.e. we do not understand what the Messengers say)" - nay, Allâh has set a seal upon their hearts because of their disbelief, so they believe not but a little.
156. And because of their (Jews) disbelief and uttering against Maryam (Mary السلام عليهما) a grave false charge (that she has committed illegal sexual intercourse);
157. And because of their saying (in boast), "We killed Messiah ‘Îsâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allâh," - but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it appeared so to them [the resemblance of ‘Îsâ (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man)], and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. ‘Îsâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary) عليهما السلام]:
158. But Allâh raised him [‘Îsâ (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he عليه السلام is in the heavens). And Allâh is Ever All-Powerful, All-Wise.
159. And there is none of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) but must believe in him [‘Îsâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), as only a Messenger of Allâh and a human being][1] before his [‘Îsâ (Jesus) عليه السلام) or a Jew’s or a Christian’s] death[2] (at the time of the appearance of the angel of death). And on the Day of Resurrection, he [‘Îsâ (Jesus)] will be a witness against them.
QS: 4.171
171. O people of the Scripture (Christians)! Do not exceed the limits in your religion, nor say of Allâh aught but the truth. The Messiah ‘Îsâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), was (no more than) a Messenger of Allâh and His Word, ("Be!" - and he was) which He bestowed on Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (Rûh )[1] created by Him; so believe in Allâh and His Messengers. Say not: "Three (trinity)!" Cease! (it is) better for you. For Allâh is (the only) One Ilâh (God), glory be to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allâh is All-Sufficient as a Disposer of affairs.[2]
[1] (V.4:171) Rûh-ullâh: According to the early religious scholars from among the Companions of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم and their students and the Mujtahidûn , there is a rule to distinguish between the two nouns in the genitive construction:
a) When one of the two nouns is Allâh, and the other is a person or a thing, e.g. Allâh’s House (Bait-ullâh); Allâh’s Messenger (Rasul-ullâh): Allâh’s slave (‘Abdullâh): Allâh’s spirit (Rûh-ullâh), the rule for the above words is that the second noun, e.g., house, messenger, slave, spirit is created by Allâh and is honourable in His Sight, and similarly, Allâh’s spirit may be understood as the spirit of Allâh, in fact it is a soul created by Allâh, i.e. ‘Îsâ (Jesus). And it was His Word: "Be!" -and he was.[i.e. ‘Îsâ (Jesus) was created like Adam].
b) But when one of the two is Allâh and the second is neither a person nor a thing, then it is not a created thing but is a quality of Allâh e.g. Allâh’s Knowledge (‘Ilm-ullâh); Allâh’s Life (Hayât-ullâh); Allâh’s Statement (Kalâm-ullâh); Allâh’s Self (Dhat-ullâh).
[2] (V.4:171) Narrated ‘Ubadah رضي الله عنه : The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, "If anyone testifies that lâ ilâha illallâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh Alone) Who has no partners, and that Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم is His slave and His Messenger, and that Jesus عليه السلام is Allâh’s slave and His Messenger and His Word ("Be!" - and he was) which He bestowed on Mary and a spirit (Rûh) created by Him, and that Paradise is the truth, and Hell is the truth - Allâh will admit him into Paradise with the deeds which he had done even if those deeds were few." (Junadah, the subnarrator said; "Ubâdah added: ‘Such a person can enter Paradise through any of its eight gates he likes.’ ") (Sahih Al Bukhârî, Vol. 4, Hadîth No. 644).
QS: 5.14- 17
14. And from those who call themselves Christians, We took their covenant, but they have abandoned a good part of the Message that was sent to them.[1] So We planted amongst them enmity and hatred till the Day of Resurrection (when they discarded Allâh’s Book, disobeyed Allâh’s Messengers and His Orders and transgressed beyond bounds in Allâh’s disobedience); and Allâh will inform them of what they used to do.
15. O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) explaining to you much of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and pass over (i.e. leaving out without explaining) much. Indeed, there has come to you from Allâh a light (Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) and a plain Book (this Qur’ân).
16. Wherewith Allâh guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to the Straight Way (Islâmic Monotheism).
17. Surely, in disbelief are they who say that Allâh is the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary)[2]. Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "Who then has the least power against Allâh, if He were to destroy the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), his mother, and all those who are on the earth together?" And to Allâh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them. He creates what He wills. And Allâh is Able to do all things.
QS: 5.116-118
116. And (remember) when Allâh will say (on the Day of Resurrection): "O ‘Îsâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: ‘Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allâh?’ " He will say: "Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner-self though I do not know what is in Yours; truly, You, only You, are the All-Knower of all that is hidden (and unseen).
117. "Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allâh) did command me to say: ‘Worship Allâh, my Lord and your Lord.’ And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them; and You are a Witness to all things. (This is a great admonition and warning to the Christians of the whole world).
118. "If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily You, only You, are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise[1]."
QS: 9.32-35
32. They (the disbelievers, the Jews and the Christians) want to extinguish Allâh’s Light (with which Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم has been sent - Islâmic Monotheism) with their mouths, but Allâh will not allow except that His Light should be perfected even though the Kâfirûn (disbelievers) hate (it).
33. It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islâm), to make it superior over all religions even though the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh) hate (it).
34. O you who believe! Verily, there are many of the (Jewish) rabbis and the (Christian) monks who devour the wealth of mankind in falsehood, and hinder (them) from the Way of Allâh (i.e. Allâh’s religion of Islâmic Monotheism). And those who hoard up gold and silver [Al-Kanz: the money, the Zakât of which has not been paid] and spend them not in the Way of Allâh, announce unto them a painful torment.
35. On the Day when that (Al-Kanz: money, gold and silver the Zakât of which has not been paid) will be heated in the Fire of Hell and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks, and their backs, (and it will be said unto them): "This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves. Now taste of what you used to hoard."[1]
QS: 10.65-70
65. And let not their speech grieve you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), for all power and honour belong to Allâh. He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.
66. No doubt! Verily, to Allâh belongs whosoever is in the heavens and whosoever is in the earth. And those who worship and invoke others besides Allâh, in fact they follow not (Allâh’s so-called) partners, they follow only a conjecture and they only invent lies.
67. He it is Who has appointed for you the night that you may rest therein, and the day to make things visible (to you). Verily, in this are Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) for a people who listen (i.e. those who think deeply).
68. They (Jews, Christians and pagans) say: "Allâh has begotten a son (children)." Glory is to Him! He is Rich (Free of all needs). His is all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. No warrant you have for this. Do you say against Allâh what you know not?[3]
69. Say: "Verily, those who invent a lie against Allâh will never be successful" -
70. (A brief) enjoyment in this world! - and then unto Us will be their return, then We shall make them taste the severest torment because they used to disbelieve [in Allâh, belie His Messengers, deny and challenge His Ayât (proofs, signs, verses, etc.)].
There are many more verses about Jesus, Christians and Jews in the Qur'an. I think that this is enough for the moment.
Regards,
No comments:
Post a Comment