of Nokounam, (Session 881)
The honoured Srah al-Kahf, like a brilliant gem amidst the verses of the Noble Quran, opens a window towards Divine knowledge. This Srah, through narrating profound and meaningful storiesfrom the People of the Cave to Khidr and Moses, peace be upon them bothinvites humanity to contemplate the mysteries of existence and Divine wisdom. This treatise, with a deep examination of the verses of this Srah and an analysis of their meanings, endeavours to present the exalted Quranic concepts in a clear and coherent manner. In this course, employing the refined Persian language and a scientific structure, it strives to convey the latent meanings and subtle points in the verses in a lucid and delightful manner to the reader.
The honoured Srah al-Kahf commences with the praise of the Lord, a praise rooted in the reality of Tawd. The Noble Quran, in this Srah, eloquently elaborates on the position of Tawd within the cosmic order and invites mankind towards the recognition of Truth. This commencement serves as a key that unlocks the treasury of Divine knowledge and facilitates the comprehension of subsequent verses.
Praise be to Allah, Who has sent down upon His Servant the Book and has not made therein any deviance.
This verse, emphasising the revelation of the Noble Quran to the Messenger, peace be upon him, explicitly speaks of the grandeur of this Heavenly Book. The phrase no deviance in the Quran points to its perfection and comprehensiveness, free from any deficiency or distortion. This attribute introduces the Quran as a complete mirror of Divine Truth, encompassing everything necessary for humanitys guidance.
Tawd, indirectly referenced in this verse, constitutes the foundation of all Quranic knowledge. Religious scholars stress that Tawd must manifest not only in belief in the oneness of God but also in actions and behaviour. This knowledge, like a pure stream, quenches the believers heart and soul and guides them towards righteous deeds.
In this context, religious sciences serve as an unparalleled foundation for deeper comprehension of Tawd. Deficiencies in the understanding of these sciences may lead to misconceptions; however, such shortcomings must not undermine the fundamental truth of Divine Oneness. Religious knowledge is like a tree rooted in Revelation, with its branches expanding in human cognition.
The story of the People of the Cave is among the most prominent narratives in the honoured Srah al-Kahf, beautifully portraying the faith, steadfastness, and reliance of youths who stood firm against the polytheism and disbelief of their time. This story, like a blazing torch, illuminates the path for believers in the pursuit of truth.
Or did you think that the People of the Cave and the Inscription were among Our wondrous signs?
This verse, by posing a thought-provoking question, invites the reader to reflect upon the magnitude of Divine signs. The People of the Cave are introduced not only due to the miraculous nature of their prolonged sleep but also because of their unwavering faith and endurance against hardships, as a symbol of Divine power and wisdom.
The story of the People of the Cave offers profound lessons on reliance, faith, and resistance against societal pressures. These youths, like stars in the dark sky of disbelief, by choosing the path of truth, became eternal exemplars for generations. Religious scholars have regarded this narrative as a symbol of the triumph of faith over disbelief and steadfastness over weakness.
The story of Khidr and Moses, peace be upon them, is another remarkable narrative in the honoured Srah al-Kahf, which elucidates the station of wisdom and knowledge. This story, like a profound ocean, encompasses multiple layers of meanings.
So they found one of Our servants unto whom We had given mercy from Us and had taught him knowledge from Our presence.
This verse introduces Khidr, peace be upon him, as a servant endowed with Divine mercy and knowledge. The knowledge from the Presence (Ilm Ladunni) mentioned here is a wisdom originating from the source of Revelation and Divine inspiration, surpassing outward sciences.
The story of Khidr and Moses, peace be upon them, provides profound lessons on patience, wisdom, and the limitations of human knowledge. Moses, peace be upon him, despite his prophetic rank, is amazed by Khidrs Ilm Ladunni, demonstrating the depth and breadth of Divine knowledge. This story acts as a mirror reflecting the limitations of human learning in the face of boundless Divine wisdom.
The honoured Srah al-Kahf, through meaningful narratives and illuminating verses, guides humanity towards a deeper understanding of truth and Divine wisdom. This Srah offers endless lessons for the faithful life, from Tawd and faith to wisdom and patience. Contemplation upon these verses is like a journey into the depths of knowledge that calls every reader to itself.
Under the supervision of Sadegh Khademi
