of Nekounam, (Session 1739)
The Holy Quran, like a pure and boundless spring, is the source of guidance and knowledge, within which lie the secrets of spiritual and scientific authority. This celestial book is not merely a message of humanitys maturity, but also an invitation towards reflection, awakening, and attainment of the highest human ranks. In this discourse, relying on the verses of Surahs Ibrahim, Al-Hijr, and An-Naml, we delve into the concept of spiritual authority attained through intimacy with the Holy Quran. This work, with a profound look at the role of religious knowledge in guiding society, emphasises the necessity of re-establishing its status in the contemporary world. The aim is to elucidate the pathways through which dynamic interaction with the Holy Quran directs man towards the pinnacles of knowledge and spiritual power.
Intimacy with the Holy Quran is akin to a journey that guides the soul towards the vast ocean of divine knowledge. This intimacy is not limited to the mere outward recitation of verses, but resides in deep contemplation of meanings and continual testing of them in life. A believer must constantly examine themselves before the divine verses, not by superficial memorisation but through profound understanding that reveals the meanings anew at every moment. This examination is like a pebble turning in the hand of the mystic, unveiling a fresh aspect of the truth each time.
One who attains the station of Ilm al-Kitb (Knowledge of the Book) not only comprehends the meanings of the verses but acquires a spiritual power through which they can exercise influence within the cosmic order. This power manifests not by external testimony but through tangible signs and clear miracles. As in the story of Solomon (peace be upon him), a man endowed with knowledge of the Book brought the throne of Bilqis in the blink of an eye; likewise, a believer, through continuous intimacy with the Holy Quran, can achieve such authority.
To attain spiritual authority, the believer must continuously test themselves with the verses of the Holy Quran. This test is not superficial memorisation but involves understanding and applying the meanings of the verses in daily life. One must examine themselves monthly or bi-monthly against the verses to ascertain whether the meanings appear transformed and renewed. This transformation is a sign of proximity to the station of Ilm al-Kitb, wherein the individual is endowed with spiritual power.
This power is like a key that unlocks the mysteries of the unseen world. A believer intimate with the Holy Quran does not merely speak but manifests signs of truth through actions. They resemble a pebble cast that creates new knowledge with each throw, and with each reflection, takes a step towards spiritual authority.
Have you not come to know the news of those before youthe people of Noah, d, Thamd, and those after them? None knows them except God. Their messengers came to them with clear proofs, but they put their hands over their mouths and said, "Indeed, we disbelieve in that with which you have been sent, and indeed, we are in disquieting doubt concerning that to which you invite us."
This verse is like a mirror reflecting the fate of previous nations. The peoples of Noah, d, Thamd, and others, despite receiving clear proofs (bayynt) from their prophets, sank into doubt and denial. This rejection was rooted in hardness of heart and prejudice that prevented them from accepting the truth. The verses serve as a warning to the contemporary human to learn from history and avoid repeating the errors of predecessors.
From a mystical perspective, this verse is an invitation to contemplate divine signs. Denial of clear proofs results from neglect of the innate monotheistic disposition which diverts man from the path of guidance. A true believer must step towards the truth with an open heart and sound intellect.
Their messengers said, "Is there doubt about God, Creator of the heavens and the earth? He invites you so that He may forgive you your sins and grant you respite until a specified term." They said, "You are but human beings like us; you wish to turn us away from what our forefathers used to worship. So bring us a clear authority."
The prophets respond to the peoples doubt by referencing the monotheistic nature and the creation of God. This argument acts like a torch dispelling the darkness of doubt. Yet the people, bound by prejudice towards ancestral traditions, demand a clear authority (Suln Mubn); a decisive proof that confirms their truthfulness. This request reflects mankinds need for tangible signs to accept the truth.
Mystically, the Suln Mubn symbolises spiritual authority achieved through intimacy with the Holy Quran and adherence to it. Religious knowledge must provide such proofs to possess the ability to guide society.
Verses 9 and 10 of Surah Ibrahim present invaluable lessons from the history of previous peoples and the challenges prophets faced amidst doubt and denial. These verses emphasise the necessity of presenting clear proofs and spiritual authority. Religious knowledge must, relying on this authority, be capable of addressing societal needs and guiding it.
