The Holy Qur'an, like a guiding lamp, illuminates the path of humanity towards truth and salvation. This divine book is not only the word of absolute truth and firmness but also, like a faithful guardian, confirms and preserves the previous heavenly scriptures. In this writing, by reflecting on verse 48 of Surah Al-Ma'idah, the exalted status of the Holy Qur'an among heavenly religions, its role in establishing justice and guidance, and a critique of social and religious deviations are examined. These reflections, relying on the lectures of a wise scholar, are presented in a clear and dignified language to guide seekers of truth.
وَأَنْزَلْنَا إِلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ بِالْحَقِّ
"And We have sent down to you the Book in truth."
The Holy Qur'an, like a clear mirror, manifests truth in all its words and meanings. The term truth in this verse signifies absolute sincerity and steadfastness, admitting no doubt or reservation. This divine book is not only the truthful word but also, like a firm pillar, bears the foundation of guidance.
مُصَدِّقًا لِمَا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ مِنَ الْكِتَابِ
"Confirming what was before it of the Scripture."
The Holy Qur'an, like a loyal guardian, affirms previous heavenly scriptures such as the Torah, Psalms, and the Gospel. This divine book was revealed not to dispute earlier religions but to confirm and complete them. Just as a gentle breeze causes the flowers of the garden to sway, the Qur'an, with its soft and guiding words, demonstrates the unity of heavenly religions.
وَمُهَيْمِنًا عَلَيْهِ
"And a guardian over it."
The Holy Qur'an, like a strong fortress, safeguards the previous heavenly scriptures. The term guardian signifies protector and overseer, and the Almighty God Himself undertakes the protection of the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and the Qur'an. This divine protection invalidates claims of distortion in the heavenly books unless substantiated by reliable scientific evidence.
فَاحْكُمْ بَيْنَهُمْ بِمَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ
"So judge between them by what Allah has revealed."
The Holy Qur'an calls the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to administer justice among Jews, Christians, and Muslims based on divine laws. This command, like a blazing torch, illuminates the path to justice among nations and negates any form of discrimination or bias.
وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَهُمْ عَمَّا جَاءَكَ مِنَ الْحَقِّ
"And do not follow their desires away from the truth that has come to you."
This verse, like a ringing warning bell, cautions the Prophet (PBUH) and the believers against following the carnal desires and whims of people. Divine truth, like a shining star, must be the guide, not fleeting and baseless inclinations.
لِكُلٍّ جَعَلْنَا مِنْكُمْ شِرْعَةً وَمِنْهَاجًا
"For each of you We have prescribed a law and a clear way."
The Almighty, like a wise gardener, has revealed a shariah suited to the capacities and circumstances of each nation. Shariah refers to the spiritual path, and minhj indicates a broader and deeper course. This diversity is akin to ladder steps guiding every nation towards perfection.
وَلَوْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ لَجَعَلَكُمْ أُمَّةً وَاحِدَةً وَلَٰكِنْ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ فِي مَا آتَاكُمْ
"And if Allah had willed, He could have made you one nation; but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you."
The diversity of shariahs is a divine test to cultivate diverse human potentials. Just as students at various academic levels study different books, God has revealed to each nation a shariah appropriate to their capacity and needs.
The Holy Qur'an rejects all forms of deviation from the truth of monotheism, such as belief in the Trinity or overemphasis on certain rituals. These deviations, like chaff on the clear path of truth, hinder the correct understanding of religion.
Using religion to intimidate and threaten resembles wielding a sharp sword that leads to oppression rather than defending the truth. Religion, like a refreshing breeze, is meant for guidance and love, not fear and violence.
Some individuals, through actions devoid of reason and choice, resemble animals that are bound solely to instinct. Such behaviours, like darkness opposing the light of reason, distance humanity from its noble status.
Applying hudd (divine limits) in conditions of poverty and destitution is like planting a sapling in dry, waterless soil, yielding only oppression and cruelty. Justice is realised only when poverty is eradicated and people do not resort to crime out of desperation.
Humans, due to possessing intellect and free will, are like birds whose wings carry them towards the sky of perfection. Unlike animals bound to instinctual consciousness, humans can pursue the path of truth through reason.
The Holy Qur'an, like a lofty summit among heavenly religions, has perfected the missions of previous prophets. The noble tradition I was sent to perfect good manners attests that the Qur'an is the ultimate guide for the enhancement of human ethics.
Neglecting the proper use of the Holy Qur'an is akin to ignoring a precious treasure that answers human needs until the end of time. This divine book, like a bubbling spring, continuously flows to guide humanity.
Women, like shining stars in the sky of struggle, have shaped social transformations with their courage and rationality. From street protests to hashtag campaigns in cyberspace, their role against oppression is commendable.
In contemporary history, women such as the sister of a religious scholar stood with bravery and firmness against oppression. These women, like lionesses, expelled fear from their hearts and paved the way for justice.
Violence against women, like a poisonous blade, wounds human dignity. Women's bravery in the face of such oppression testifies to their noble spirit, which resists pressure like a diamond.
A chaste life, earned through lawful and sufficient means, is like a clear stream guiding humans towards felicity. Contentment, like a precious jewel, liberates humans from greed and luxury.
Severe poverty, like profound darkness, drives humans toward undesirable behaviours. Conversely, boundless wealth accumulation is a sign of folly that distances one from truth.
Hypocrisy, like a deceptive mask, separates appearance from reality. Those who appear pious but inwardly indulge in abuse and oppression are distant from the truth of religion.
Practical mysticism, like an exercise to strengthen will and body, guides humans towards perfection. Practices such as enduring cold and heat or moderate fasting, if performed wisely,
