Quran
Table of Content:
The Quran (also spelled Qur'an) is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is written in Arabic and is composed of 114 chapters called surahs, which vary in length and cover a wide range of topics, including theology, morality, law, and guidance for personal conduct.
Key Features of the Quran:
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Divine Revelation: Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years, beginning in 610 CE and ending in 632 CE, the year of Muhammad's death.
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Language and Structure: The Quran is written in classical Arabic and is considered the finest piece of literature in the Arabic language. It is divided into chapters (surahs) and verses (ayahs).
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Core Beliefs and Teachings:
- Monotheism: The Quran emphasizes the belief in one God (Allah).
- Prophethood: It acknowledges Muhammad as the last prophet in a long line of prophets, including figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
- Afterlife: It discusses the concepts of heaven (paradise) and hell, the Day of Judgment, and the afterlife.
- Ethical Guidance: The Quran provides guidelines for moral and ethical conduct, social justice, and personal behavior.
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Recitation and Memorization: The Quran is often recited aloud, and many Muslims strive to memorize it in its entirety, a practice known as "Hifz."
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Significance in Daily Life: The Quran plays a central role in the daily lives of Muslims, influencing their prayers, rituals, and legal decisions. It is recited in the five daily prayers and during special occasions like Ramadan.
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Interpretation and Commentary: While the text of the Quran is considered immutable, there is a rich tradition of interpretation (tafsir) to explain and contextualize its meanings. Scholars provide commentaries to help understand the text in light of historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts.
The Quran's profound influence extends beyond religious practices, impacting various aspects of Muslim culture, art, law, and society. It remains a source of inspiration, guidance, and spiritual solace for Muslims around the world.