WHAT IS QURAN?

WHAT IS QURAN?

The Quran (also spelled Qur’an or Koran) is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years. It is considered the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims in matters of faith, worship, ethics, and law.

Key Aspects of the Quran:

  1. Revelation: Muslims believe the Quran was revealed to Muhammad in Arabic, starting in 610 CE in the cave of Hira near Mecca and concluding in 632 CE, the year of his death.
  2. Structure: The Quran is divided into 114 chapters called Surahs, which vary in length. Each Surah is further divided into verses called Ayahs. The Surahs are not arranged chronologically but roughly in order of length, with the longer ones at the beginning and the shorter ones at the end.
  3. Language: The Quran is written in classical Arabic, and its language is considered by Muslims to be a miracle in itself due to its eloquence, depth, and literary beauty.
  4. Themes: The Quran covers a wide range of topics, including:
    • Monotheism (belief in one God)
    • Stories of earlier prophets (e.g., Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus)
    • Moral and ethical guidance
    • Laws and principles for personal and societal conduct
    • Descriptions of the afterlife, heaven, and hell
    • Worship practices, such as prayer, fasting, and charity
  5. Preservation: Muslims believe the Quran has been perfectly preserved since its revelation, both in written form and through memorization. It is recited and memorized by millions of Muslims worldwide.
  6. Role in Islam: The Quran is the primary source of Islamic teachings and is complemented by the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) and Sunnah (his way of life). Together, these form the foundation of Islamic law (Sharia) and practice.
  7. Recitation: The Quran is often recited in a melodic and rhythmic manner, especially during prayers and religious ceremonies. Those who memorize the entire Quran are called Hafiz (or Hafiza for females).

The Quran holds a central place in the lives of Muslims, serving as a spiritual, moral, and legal guide. It is revered as the final and complete revelation from God, following earlier scriptures like the Torah and the Bible, which Muslims believe were also divinely inspired but have been altered over time.