Daily Qur’an Reflections: (14) Allah’s Promise of Preserving the Qur’an, and the Essence of Guidance
In this series, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani and Ustadh Tabraze Azam, SeekersHub Global Instructors, share a day by day overview of key themes of each section (juz’) of the Qur’an, over the month of Ramadan. This is covered nightly at IMO of Toronto, where SeekersHub Toronto (www.seekers.flywheelstaging.com) is conducting its Ramadan 2013 programming.
Day 14: Juz’ Fourteen: Surat al-Hijr [15.1-99] & Surat al-Nahl [16.1-128]
In tonight’s set of verses, look at four main themes: (1) Allah’s promise to preserve the Qur’an–both text and guidance; (2) never despairing of Allah’s Mercy; (3) recognizing that all blessings are from Allah; and (4) justice and excellence (`adl and ihsan) as the essential qualities of Divine Guidance.
[1] Allah’s Promise of Preserving the Qur’an
The Divine promise of the Qur’an’s protection is of the most tremendous of blessings that Allah gifted the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and his community:
“We have sent down the Remembrance Ourself, and We Ourself will guard.” [Qur’an, 15.9]
This promise encompasses the preservation of the text of the Qur’an and its guidance as well–as “the Remembrance” is that which one takes heed from.
The text of the Qur’an is preserved in the hearts of those who memorize and transmit it, as well as in writing. Every letter of the Qur’an is preserved today as it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace).
The guidance of the Qur’an was explained by the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), and is preserved by those whom the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) himself referred to as the “inheritors of the prophets,” namely the scholars of the the Prophetic way and mainstream.
Preserve the Qur’an in your own life through recitation, reflection, and being realized in its meanings and realities. The Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) said, “The people of the Qur’an are the people of Allah and His chosen ones.” Strive to be of the people of Allah.
[2] Believers never Despair in the Mercy of their Lord
Allah’s Mercy is without limits. Repent, and find this mercy:
“He said, ‘Who but the misguided despair of the mercy of their Lord?’” [Qur’an, 15.56]
Repentance is easy: leave the sin, with remorse, and resolve never to return to it. If you do so, Allah has promised to accept your repentance, by his Mercy.
[3] Blessings are from Allah
Every single blessing you enjoy is from Allah. Reflect over the blessings in your life:
“Whatever good things you possess come from God, and when hardship afflicts you, it is to Him alone you cry out for help” [Qur’an, 16.53]
[4] The Essential Qualities of Divine Guidance
Allah Most High summarizes the essential qualities of Divine Guidance:
“God commands justice and excellence, and generosity towards relatives and He forbids what is shameful, blameworthy, and oppressive. He teaches you, so that you may take heed.” [Qur’an, 16.90]
Justice (`aql) is the right balance of all rights and considerations in a manner that preserves the good of this life and the next.
Excellence (ihsan) is going beyond the good towards perfecting, virtue, and what is best in any circumstance. Excellence is the way of the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk). It is manifest in a giving, generous attitude.
And Allah alone gives success.
Faraz Rabbani and Tabraze Azam
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