Nowadays, as Islam is growing fast, more inquiries are being made about it. The Quran, which is Islam’s holy book, is no exception. For a variety of reasons, it appears that both Muslims and Non-Muslims are becoming more interested in this holy book. Naturally, reading the Quran is necessary for the understanding of its teachings. Nevertheless, learning its historical, social and linguistic aspects is also required for a better in depth comprehension.
What is the Quran?
In a series of divine revelations from God, the Quran is the final testament. It is the Muslims’ holy book or bible. Muslims usually spell it Qur’an or Quran yet Koran is also common.
The Quran is a collection of the verbal teachings that were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) through the Angel Gibrael (angel Jibril -allayhi al-salam) throughout a 23-year period. This way, it provides for Muslims a thorough religious doctrine and establishes out the rules and regulations as well as guidelines for their social and moral conduct.
Who Wrote the Quran?
Although it’s natural to think that Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) wrote it, Muslims believe that after being revealed by Allah, the Quran was written by the scribes of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
Quran is the speech of Allah according to Islam. Indeed, it was recited and preached by the prophet. However, it was written and compiled by the scribes of Prophet Muhammed for he was illiterate. This is actually his miracle.
What is the message of the Quran?
The book itself is the essence of Islam. Remarkably, it takes a unique approach in delivering its message. It combines spirituality with pragmatism. Amazingly, it offers guidance for the soul as well as instructions regarding each aspect of daily life like marriage, parenting, economics and others.
Race, color, ethnicity, gender, and status do not matter since the message of the Quran is timeless and universal. It promotes the welfare of society, the environment, and all people. Allah (SWT) says:
“And thus We have revealed to you an inspiration of Our command. You did not know what is the Book or [what is] faith, but We have made it a light by which We guide whom We will of Our servants. And indeed, [O Muhammad], you guide to a straight path ” 42:52.
What are the themes of the Quran?
The basic theme of the Quran is Monotheism. All Muslims Must believe in only one deity. Allah (SWT) says:
“Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great” 2:255.
The other themes mainly revolve around the origin of humanity and sin, stories of prophets like ibrahim and how they connect, and codes for morality and social behaviors.
What is the language of Qoran?
Islam’s holy book is written in Classical Arabic. It is an eloquent, complex and poetic form of the Arabic language.
When was It revealed?
The Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) in the 7th century. It began in 610 and ended with Muhammad’s death in 632 ce.
Where was the Quran first revealed to the prophet?
Angel Gabriel ascended upon Prophet Muhammed in a cave on Mount Hira, near Mecca. This marked the start of the Quran revelation.
How many versions of Quran are there?
Quran is the only unaltered divine message. Hence, Quran has one and only version. Allah (SWT) says: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an and indeed, We will be its guardian” 15:9.
Bear in mind however that there are different qira’at (ways of reading/recitation) which vary in ways that do not compromise meanings nor allow what is not permissible.
What does juz’ and hizb mean? How many are there in it?
Juz’ is a portion of the Quran. There are 30 ajza’a (plural of juz’) in the Quran.
Hizb is half a juz’ therefore there are 60 ahzab (plural of hizb) in the Quran; each hizb is divided into 4 quarters called rubu’ .
What does Surah mean in Quran? How many Surah are in the Quran?
The Quran contains 114 Surah or chapter in English. The first Surah is Fatiha (The Opening) and the last is Nas (Mankind).
How many Madani and Makki Surah are there?
Any Ayah/ Surah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad prior to the Hijrah (migration to Madina) is regarded as a Makki Ayah/Surah, whereas any Ayah/ Surah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad following the Hijrah (migration) is regarded as a Madani.
From the 114 Surah in the Qur’an, 28 are Madani Surah and 86 are Makki Surah.
How many verses, Ayat are in the Holy book?
A verse in the Quran is known as an Ayah (plural Ayat). The Quran has 6348 verses (including Bismillah at the beginning of each Surah).
How long is the Quran?
The Quran is 604 pages long and has 77,430 words.
Are Non-Muslims allowed to read the Quran?
Everyone can read the Quran since it is at the disposal of any one who seeks guidance and wisdom. Yet, The Mushaf (the physical written form of the Quran) should not be touched by anyone except those who are purified. Allah (SWT) says:
“Verily, the Mushrikoon (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah, and in the Message of Muhammad) are Najasun (impure)” 9:28.
Even Muslims have to perform Wudu’(ablution) before touching the Mushaf. Therefore, Non-Muslims are only allowed to read the translations, interpretations or listen to the holy book.
Do you have to cover your head while reading Quran?
The short answer is: No. There is no dress code for reading the Quran. Since there is no proof that a woman must wear a hijab in order to read the Qur’an, it is not required that she does so.
From where can I get Quran?
You can visit an Islamic center and ask for one for free as you can order it on the Internet.
It is evident that the primary source of all Muslim belief and practice is the Quran. It is every Muslim’s responsibility to read it and dig deep into its profound principles. Anyone who seeks knowledge should learn about it for it offers an eternal all-encompassing message.
Note that in islamwp network we have a section where everyone is welcome to read the Quran, we also offer a user friendly platform please visit: https://islamwp.com/quran/
