The Quran: Our Ultimate Source of Guidance
The Timeless Quran
The Quran is a timeless source of inspiration. It contains sacred verses revealed to Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. through the angel Jibril a.s. Serving as a primary guide for Muslims, the Quran is in fact one of the greatest miracles of this religion.
When the verses of the Quran are read and pondered upon, readers can truly experience its beauty. Its divine artistry continuously touches the heart while the weaved words hold countless profound meanings. Undoubtedly, the uniqueness of the Quran goes far beyond its verses and stories, for it also withholds great work of literary value and profound structure.
Read: How to Learn to Read Quran
The Beautiful Language of the Quran
إِنَّآ أَنزَلْنَـٰهُ قُرْءَٰنًا عَرَبِيًّا لَّعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ
“Indeed, We have sent the Quran down in Arabic (language) that you might understand.”
(Surah Yusuf, 12:2)
According to the Arabic language, the term Al-Quran means ‘something that is widely read’. This definition is evident from the countless number of people throughout the world who read the Quran and memorise from it. Although the Quran was revealed in Arabic, the language that Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. spoke, the verses didn't come from the Prophet himself.
This is indicated in the verse above when Allah s.w.t. mentions that the revelation of the Quran comes in the Arabic language. It tells us that the Quran are the words of Allah s.w.t. and not that of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. It is fitting that the language of the Quran is unmatched, for it has been created by Allah s.w.t, The Greatest and The Most Wise.
Read: The History of The Quran: Nuzul Quran
When the Quran was revealed during the time of the Prophet s.a.w., many intellectuals, linguists, and poets attempted to produce works that could rival it. Unfortunately, all their efforts were in vain. The sweetness and beauty of the language of the Quran can never be compared. The language is clear, luminous, and expansive, with many words for expressing diverse meanings.
Even after verses of the Quran are translated, the beauty of its language and structure can still be felt. It is inevitable that anyone who reads the Quran and seeks this profound knowledge will be compelled to gain a deeper understanding of its meanings. Moreover, it can enhance the development of the human mind and unlock many areas of insight and reflection.
Scientific Wonders in The Quran
Aside from its beautiful language and profound use of words, the Quran also contains miraculous scientific wonders. Numerous verses in the Quran reflect scientific discoveries and natural phenomena that have been proven in recent years. This shows how the Quran is a divine book revealed by Allah s.w.t. which contains knowledge that transcends time.
Nevertheless, the Quran is not a book of science but a book of guidance. Hence it should not be referred to for scientific theories. Rather, the Quran unravels the testimony of its miraculous truth when scientific discoveries reflected the verses mentioning the wonders of creations.
As an example, the Quran mentions the two types of seas that despite their flow and collision, they do not mix due to a layer between them.
وَهُوَ ٱلَّذِى مَرَجَ ٱلْبَحْرَيْنِ هَـٰذَا عَذْبٌ فُرَاتٌ وَهَـٰذَا مِلْحٌ أُجَاجٌ وَجَعَلَ بَيْنَهُمَا بَرْزَخًا وَحِجْرًا مَّحْجُورًا
“And it is He who has released (simultaneously) the two seas (i.e., bodies of water), one fresh and sweet and one salty and bitter, and He placed between them a barrier and prohibiting partition.”
(Surah al-Furqan: Verse 53)
The Quran also highlights verses describing the intricate details of embryonic development, which have been confirmed by researchers and scientists alike. In addition, the Quran describes the movements of the planets and stars, cloud formation and rainfall, as well as many other natural phenomena that we observe in the world today.
Such proven scientific wonders that are found in the Quran are a testament and clear evidence that the words of Allah s.w.t are not limited. It does not conform to time but rather reflects the eternal attributes of the Creator. As long as humankind continues to appreciate its beauty and marvel at its wonders, the Quran will serve as a powerful source of inspiration.
Comprehensive Teachings of the Quran
هُوَ ٱلَّذِى يُنَزِّلُ عَلَىٰ عَبْدِهِۦٓ ءَايَـٰتٍ بَيِّنَـٰتٍ لِّيُخْرِجَكُم مِّنَ ٱلظُّلُمَـٰتِ إِلَى ٱلنُّورِ ۚ وَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ بِكُمْ لَرَءُوفٌ رَّحِيم
“It is He who sends down upon His Servant verses of clear evidence that He may bring you out from darknesses into the light. And indeed, Allāh is to you Kind and Merciful.”
(Surah al-Hadid,57:9)
A Quran is more than just a collection of beautiful words. It offers guidance and advice to live the best life possible. In each of its verses, we are guided and inspired to live a life filled with goodness and in line with the truth. In addition, the Quran emphasises how Allah s.w.t. bestows goodness upon His servants in accordance with Islamic principles. As Allah s.w.t. only want what is best for His creations, the teachings of such goodness are undoubtedly conveyed through the verses of the Quran.
The Quran encompasses numerous positive moral values for its readers and learners to adopt and emulate in their daily lives. Some of these qualities include patience, honesty, generosity, loyalty, trust, courage, kindness, among others. These are all set on an individual level as well as to do with social engagement.
We also learn about love, peace, and life in this world and the Hereafter in the Quran. Like a beacon of light in the darkness, the Quran provides guidance for all that is virtuous. Evidently, this divine book also outlines the best ways to cultivate these noble values. Remember, Allah s.w.t. will not burden us in any way. Rather, He wishes to bestow goodness upon us through the Quran.
Read: Beautiful Quranic Verses On Love
Conclusion
As a source of inspiration for those facing challenges and obstacles in life, the Quran serves as the ultimate guide. Its linguistic beauty, scientific wonders, and guidance to goodness continue to inspire and empower us.
As we embark through the waves and tides of life, the beauty of the Quran can inspire us to persevere in the face of hardships and to trust in the plans of Allah s.w.t. Let's mindfully reflect on the beauty of the Quran, and let it inspire us to keep going.
