[Slideshare] fardh'ain-(batch#17-intake-january-2017)-lesson #3a-risaalah-(basic-message-prophethood)-27-january-2017

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““A BEGINNERS’ COURSEA BEGINNERS’ COURSE
ON ISLAM”ON ISLAM”
Lessons on Fardhu ‘Ain in English for AdultsLessons on Fardhu ‘Ain in English for Adults
conducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj IsmailTAUTAUHHEED -
EED -
RISAALAH
RISAALAH
LESSON # 3 a
LESSON # 3 a
““CRITERIA”CRITERIA”
Al-Qur’an: Proof ofAl-Qur’an: Proof of
Muhammad’s ProphethoodMuhammad’s Prophethood..
For further information and registrationFor further information and registration
contact Econtact E-mail :-mail :
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or +65 81234669 / +65 96838279or +65 81234669 / +65 96838279

Lesson #3Lesson #3
FARDHU’AINFARDHU’AIN: CONDUCTED BY: CONDUCTED BY
USTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAILUSTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAIL
LESSONS FROM TEXTBOOKLESSONS FROM TEXTBOOK
““Beginners’ Manual on IslamBeginners’ Manual on Islam””
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOSTMOST
COMPASSIONATE,COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL

““Allah”Allah” :: Arabic proper noun; name for God, it refersArabic proper noun; name for God, it refers
to the One and Only, the Unique Creator, Lordto the One and Only, the Unique Creator, Lord
Sustainer of the Universe, Who Alone is God – thereSustainer of the Universe, Who Alone is God – there
is none besides Allah.is none besides Allah.
No equivalent translation in non-Semitic language.No equivalent translation in non-Semitic language.

““MuhammadMuhammad ”” :: Arabic name meaning “Arabic name meaning “thethe
Praised OnePraised One”; he is the Chosen, Unlettered Prophet,”; he is the Chosen, Unlettered Prophet,
the servant and Messenger of Allah, the Awaitedthe servant and Messenger of Allah, the Awaited
Seal of Prophethood after whom there will be noSeal of Prophethood after whom there will be no
more prophet sent.more prophet sent.

““There are many miracles of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to beThere are many miracles of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to be
offered as the evidence, and the greatest and most outstanding ofoffered as the evidence, and the greatest and most outstanding of
them is still available to be considered by anyone (even today, untilthem is still available to be considered by anyone (even today, until
the Day of Judgement ) is without doubt, the Qur’an .... ”the Day of Judgement ) is without doubt, the Qur’an .... ”

““The CriteriaThe Criteria
for a Holyfor a Holy
Book”Book”
by :by :
Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj IsmailUstaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
Singapore.Singapore.
- a case for the Qur’an
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/TO VIEW ON BLOGTO VIEW ON BLOG
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOSTMOST
COMPASSIONATE,COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL

INTRODUCTION ANDINTRODUCTION AND
A BRIEF BACKGROUNDA BRIEF BACKGROUND

Avoiding the Fallacy termed as “circular reasoning”:
Q: How do you know that your doctrine is true?
A: Because it is written in this Book!
Q: What makes you believe that that Book is truly from God?
A: Because I have faith in it!
Q: How do you get that faith?
A: Because I read that (same) Book!
Q: But how do you know that that Book is truly from God!?
A: Because I have faith!
Q: But how do you get that faith?
A: I read the Book!!……?

Any inter-faith discussion has to firstly contend with the issue of
proving, with evidence and reasoning, the basis for acceptance of a
“Book said to be from God”, before assigning it as the authority for
reference regarding doctrines.
To regard that a “Book is from God” requires that we firstly have to
provide certain reasoning or rationale (criteria) as proof for
accepting such a conclusion.
The objective question to consider firstly is, “How can we agree
that a particular book can be relied upon as authoritative?”
“What would you insist that such a Book must have, to convince
you that it is indeed of Divine authorship?”

CLAIM ITSELF TOCLAIM ITSELF TO
BE FROM GODBE FROM GOD
The Book itself must make the claim,
and not what people attribute to it
based on whatever reasons.
THE CRITERIA
# 1# 1

““And this, too, is a divine writ which We (God)) have bestowedAnd this, too, is a divine writ which We (God)) have bestowed
from on high – blessed, confirming the truth of whatever therefrom on high – blessed, confirming the truth of whatever there
still remains [of earlier revelations] – and [this] in order that thoustill remains [of earlier revelations] – and [this] in order that thou
(O Muhammad) mayest warn the foremost of all cities and all(O Muhammad) mayest warn the foremost of all cities and all
who dwell around it.”who dwell around it.”
((Qur’an: Al-An’am: 6: 92Qur’an: Al-An’am: 6: 92))

““We (Allah) sent down the Qur’an in Truth, and inWe (Allah) sent down the Qur’an in Truth, and in
Truth has it descended : and We sent you but to giveTruth has it descended : and We sent you but to give
glad tidings and to warn (sinners). It is a Qur’an whichglad tidings and to warn (sinners). It is a Qur’an which
We have divided (into parts from time to time) inWe have divided (into parts from time to time) in
order that you (O Muhammad) might recite it to menorder that you (O Muhammad) might recite it to men
at intervals : We have revealed it by stages”at intervals : We have revealed it by stages”
((Qur’an : Bani Isra’il : 105Qur’an : Bani Isra’il : 105))

UNIQUE ANDUNIQUE AND
INIMITABLEINIMITABLE
A Book from God must be unique so that it is
distinct from other books. Thus, inimitability
(not possible for any to produce another like
it) is an important quality.
THE CRITERIA
# 2# 2

““And if you are in doubt as to what We have revealed fromAnd if you are in doubt as to what We have revealed from
time to time to our servant,time to time to our servant, then produce a Surah likethen produce a Surah like
thereuntothereunto ; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any); and call your witness or helpers (if there are any)
besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true”besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true”
((Surah al-Baqarah : 2: 23Surah al-Baqarah : 2: 23))

““Now this Qur’an could not possibly have beenNow this Qur’an could not possibly have been
devised by anyone save Allah (God)devised by anyone save Allah (God): nay indeed, it: nay indeed, it
confirms the truth of whatever there still remainsconfirms the truth of whatever there still remains
[of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the[of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the
revelation [which comes] –revelation [which comes] – let there be no doubtlet there be no doubt
about it – from the Sustainer of all the worldsabout it – from the Sustainer of all the worlds.”.”
((Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37))

 To the Arabs at the time of Muhammad s.a.w. then, itTo the Arabs at the time of Muhammad s.a.w. then, it
was their language (Arabic), linguistic and literary skillswas their language (Arabic), linguistic and literary skills
in composing odes and poetry which were held inin composing odes and poetry which were held in
highest regard.highest regard.
 This was their greatest accomplishment, which theyThis was their greatest accomplishment, which they
have honed and it marked them out as Arabs.have honed and it marked them out as Arabs.
 And it is to this that the ‘And it is to this that the ‘miraclemiracle’ nature of the Qur’an’ nature of the Qur’an
was highlighted to them to be especially tested.was highlighted to them to be especially tested.

 Many of these celebrated poets of the Quraysh, like:Many of these celebrated poets of the Quraysh, like:
 Musaylama al-Kadz-dzabMusaylama al-Kadz-dzab;;
 Thulaihah ibn Khuwailid al-As’adyThulaihah ibn Khuwailid al-As’ady;;
 An-Nadhor ibn HarithAn-Nadhor ibn Harith;;
 MutanabbyMutanabby;; Ibn al-MuqoffaIbn al-Muqoffa ;; etc.,etc.,
attempted but could not succeed but their attempts wereattempted but could not succeed but their attempts were
even denounced by their own peers, when compared toeven denounced by their own peers, when compared to
the style, eloquence, exquisite beauty and profoundnessthe style, eloquence, exquisite beauty and profoundness
of the Qur’an.of the Qur’an.

““The Striking Calamity - What is the Striking Calamity? And whatThe Striking Calamity - What is the Striking Calamity? And what
can make you know what is the Striking Calamity? It is the Daycan make you know what is the Striking Calamity? It is the Day
when people will be like moths, dispersed. And the mountains willwhen people will be like moths, dispersed. And the mountains will
be like wool, fluffed up.”be like wool, fluffed up.”
((Qur’an: al-Qari-’ah: 101: 1-5Qur’an: al-Qari-’ah: 101: 1-5))
FIRST CONSIDER

FIRST CONSIDER

““The Inevitable Reality - What is the InevitableThe Inevitable Reality - What is the Inevitable
Reality?Reality?
And what can make you know what is the InevitableAnd what can make you know what is the Inevitable
Reality?Reality?
Thamud and 'Aad denied the Striking Calamity.Thamud and 'Aad denied the Striking Calamity.
So as for Thamud, they were destroyed by theSo as for Thamud, they were destroyed by the
overpowering [blast]. And as for 'Aad, they wereoverpowering [blast]. And as for 'Aad, they were
destroyed by a screaming, violent wind .”destroyed by a screaming, violent wind .”
((Qur’an: al-Haqqa: 69: 1-4Qur’an: al-Haqqa: 69: 1-4))
FIRST CONSIDER

"The elephant. What is the elephant?"The elephant. What is the elephant?
And what can make you know whatAnd what can make you know what
is the elephant? He has a ropy tail and a long trunk."is the elephant? He has a ropy tail and a long trunk."
THEN, COMPARE
THEM
WITH THIS

 And standard of Arabic language used by people hadAnd standard of Arabic language used by people had
declined since that golden era. Thus it would become neardeclined since that golden era. Thus it would become near
impossible for any to respond to this challenge ever again.impossible for any to respond to this challenge ever again.
 One well known poet at the time,One well known poet at the time, Walid ibn MughirahWalid ibn Mughirah
(himself a respected leader of the Quraysh), even admitted(himself a respected leader of the Quraysh), even admitted
to his peers, after hearing Muhammad’s recitation of ato his peers, after hearing Muhammad’s recitation of a
portion of the Qur’an saying, that these could not be theportion of the Qur’an saying, that these could not be the
work of mortals - whether it be of man or spirits – echoingwork of mortals - whether it be of man or spirits – echoing
precisely a verse in the Qur’an:.precisely a verse in the Qur’an:.

Say: "If all mankind and all invisible beings would comeSay: "If all mankind and all invisible beings would come
together with a view to producing the like of this Qur'an,together with a view to producing the like of this Qur'an,
they could not produce its likethey could not produce its like even though they were toeven though they were to
exert all their strength in aiding one another!”exert all their strength in aiding one another!”
((Qur’an: al-Isra’: 17: 88Qur’an: al-Isra’: 17: 88))

THE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIYTHE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIY
And in only one verse … !

“Allah, there is none worthy of worship except He, the Ever-Living,
the Ever-Subsisting (Eternally watchful);
Neither drowsiness nor sleep overtakes Him;
To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth;
Who is there that can intercede with Him except by His permission;
He knows what is before them and what will be after them;
And they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except as He wills;
His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth;
And their preservation tires Him not;
And He, is the Most High (Exalted), the Most Supreme.”
(Qur’an: Baqarah: 2 : 255)

Allah, there is none worthy of worship exceptAllah, there is none worthy of worship except
HE, theHE, the EVER-LIVINGEVER-LIVING, the, the EVER-WATCHFULEVER-WATCHFUL;;
Neither drowsiness nor sleep OVERTAKES HIM
To Him belongs whatever is in the HEAVENS and
the EARTH
His Throne extends over the HEAVENS and the
EARTH
And their preservation TIRES HIM NOT
And HE, is the MOST HIGH, the MOST SUPREME
Who is there that can intercede with HimWho is there that can intercede with Him
EXCEPTEXCEPT byby HIS PERMISSIONHIS PERMISSION
And they encompass not a thing of HisAnd they encompass not a thing of His
knowledgeknowledge EXCEPTEXCEPT for whatfor what HE WILLSHE WILLS
He knows what isHe knows what is BEFOREBEFORE them and what willthem and what will
bebe AFTERAFTER themthem
Symmetry as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali KhanSymmetry as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali Khan

“ And Declare the Greatness only of your Lord ”
Palindrome as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali KhanPalindrome as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali Khan
Try to translate this declaration of God’s Greatness
In other languages with similar linguistic brilliance … !
( Surah Muddathir:74: 3 )
LINGUISTIC MIRACLE
ONLY BEST APPRECIATED
IN THE ARABIC

“And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle
way, so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the truth
before all mankind, and that the Messenger might bear witness to
it before you.”
(Qur’an: Surah al-Baqarah: 2: 143)
NOTE : word literally mean “middle or center”. Now that the
Qur’an has been written and numbering of verses assigned, it is
discovered that this verse 143 too, is actually placed right in the center
of Surah al-Baqarah which comprise of 286 verses.
LINGUISTIC MIRACLE
ONLY BEST APPRECIATED
IN THE ARABIC

Title Divine Speech: Exploring Quran As
Literature
Authors Nouman Ali Khan, Sharif Randhawa
Publisher Bayyinah, 2016
ISBN ISBN 0986275050, 9780986275050

MANY CAN ONLY OFFER
SUGGESTIONS AS
“RED-HERRINGS”
STILL … THE QUR’AN PROVIDE REFUTATIONS

“And no question do they bring to thee but We reveal to
thee the Truth and the explanation thereof”
(Qur’an: al-Furqan : 33)

If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”

If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”
[O Muhammad] thou hast never been able to recite any divine[O Muhammad] thou hast never been able to recite any divine
writ ere this one [was revealed], nor didst thou ever transcribewrit ere this one [was revealed], nor didst thou ever transcribe
one with thine own hand – or else, they who try to disprove theone with thine own hand – or else, they who try to disprove the
truth [of thy revelation] might indeed have had cause to doubt [it].truth [of thy revelation] might indeed have had cause to doubt [it].
Nay, but this [divine writ] consists of messages clear to theNay, but this [divine writ] consists of messages clear to the
hearts of all who are gifted with [innate] knowledge – and nonehearts of all who are gifted with [innate] knowledge – and none
could knowingly reject Our messages unless it be such ascould knowingly reject Our messages unless it be such as
would do wrong [to themselves].”would do wrong [to themselves].”
((Qur’an: al-Ankabut: 29: 47-49Qur’an: al-Ankabut: 29: 47-49))

If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”

““Those who reject Faith say: ‘Why is not the Qur’anThose who reject Faith say: ‘Why is not the Qur’an
revealed to him all at once?’ Thus is it revealed that Werevealed to him all at once?’ Thus is it revealed that We
may strengthen thy heart thereby, and We rehearsed it tomay strengthen thy heart thereby, and We rehearsed it to
thee in slow well-arranged stages, gradually”thee in slow well-arranged stages, gradually”
((Qur’an: al-Furqan: 32Qur’an: al-Furqan: 32))
If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”

If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?

“Now had We willed this [divine writ] to be a discourse in a
non-Arabic tongue, they would surely have said, ‘Why are not
its verses explained in detail? What! (a book) not in Arabic
and (a messenger) an Arab?’ Say: ‘It is a Guide and a Healing
to those who believe”
(Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 44)
If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?

““No evil ones have brought down this (revelation). It wouldNo evil ones have brought down this (revelation). It would
neither suit them nor would they be able to produce it!”neither suit them nor would they be able to produce it!”
((Qur’an: ash-Shuara: 210-211Qur’an: ash-Shuara: 210-211))
If they say: “Muhammad may have received it from the Devil !”

““We know indeed that they say ‘It is a man that teaches him’We know indeed that they say ‘It is a man that teaches him’
(but) the tongue of him they wickedly pointed to is notably(but) the tongue of him they wickedly pointed to is notably
foreign, while it (Al-Qur’an) is Arabic, pure and clear”foreign, while it (Al-Qur’an) is Arabic, pure and clear”
((Qur’an: an-Nahl: 103Qur’an: an-Nahl: 103))
If they say:” He was taught by a Jew or a Christian!”If they say:” He was taught by a Jew or a Christian!”

““Say: ‘Truth has arrived, and falsehood neither createsSay: ‘Truth has arrived, and falsehood neither creates
anything new, nor restores anything”anything new, nor restores anything”
((Qur’an: Saba’: 34: 49Qur’an: Saba’: 34: 49))
If they say: “It is a fraud!”If they say: “It is a fraud!”

CONTAINSCONTAINS
ABSOLUTEABSOLUTE
PRINCIPLESPRINCIPLES
All principles which the book contains must
be absolute (not affected by time) and
remain as true today as they will remain
true in the future and as they had proven
true in the past.
THE CRITERIA
# 3# 3

 If one is truly objective (in the sense of seeking justice) and isIf one is truly objective (in the sense of seeking justice) and is
sincere in analysing the history of the Arabs and in comparingsincere in analysing the history of the Arabs and in comparing
their condition before with that after the revelation of thetheir condition before with that after the revelation of the
Qur’an, it would become obvious that their society underwentQur’an, it would become obvious that their society underwent
a drastic change – one that was quite revolutionary.a drastic change – one that was quite revolutionary.
 Their customs, trends, worldview and accepted norms were inTheir customs, trends, worldview and accepted norms were in
fact overturned and replaced with fundamental principlesfact overturned and replaced with fundamental principles
quite unknown to them before this, and since then it hasquite unknown to them before this, and since then it has
continued to be adhered to even till today.continued to be adhered to even till today.

 Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be tooMoreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too
advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explainedadvanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained
away as having their origin in human and societal influencesaway as having their origin in human and societal influences
current at that time.current at that time.
 ONE OF THE EXAMPLES – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :ONE OF THE EXAMPLES – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :

 Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be tooMoreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too
advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explainedadvanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained
away as having their origin in human and societal influencesaway as having their origin in human and societal influences
current at that time.current at that time.
 ONE OF THE EXAMPLES – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :ONE OF THE EXAMPLES – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :
““O You who have attained to faith!O You who have attained to faith! IntoxicantIntoxicants, and games of chance,s, and games of chance,
idolatrous practices, and the divining of the future are but a loathsomeidolatrous practices, and the divining of the future are but a loathsome
evil of Satan’s doing:evil of Satan’s doing: Shun themShun them so that you may be successful “so that you may be successful “
((Qur’an: Ma’idah: 5: 90Qur’an: Ma’idah: 5: 90))

“THEY WILL ASK thee about intoxicants and games of
chance. Say: "In both there is great evil as well as some
benefit for man; but the evil which they cause is greater
than the benefit which they bring." And they will ask
thee as to what they should spend [in Allah's cause]. Say:
"Whatever you can spare." In this way Allah makes clear
unto you His messages, so that you might reflect.”
(Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 219)

 And today, the dangers of alcoholism, substance abuse andAnd today, the dangers of alcoholism, substance abuse and
drug addiction are well acknowledged scourge, whereas thedrug addiction are well acknowledged scourge, whereas the
Qur’an has, not only explicitly warns mankind against itQur’an has, not only explicitly warns mankind against it
since 1400 years ago, it has since then started a movementsince 1400 years ago, it has since then started a movement
towards eradicating this menace and has been successful intowards eradicating this menace and has been successful in
producing theproducing the biggest society of teetotallersbiggest society of teetotallers with anwith an
uncompromising stance towards it –uncompromising stance towards it – ““shun themshun them” totally,” totally,
not even imbibing of even a drop of it.not even imbibing of even a drop of it.

 Today, over 1.5 billion Muslims as the rule, abstain fromToday, over 1.5 billion Muslims as the rule, abstain from
every alcoholic drink and intoxicant on religious grounds,every alcoholic drink and intoxicant on religious grounds,
because it has been forbidden by God (asbecause it has been forbidden by God (as HaramHaram), explicitly), explicitly
recorded and preserved in the original religious text orrecorded and preserved in the original religious text or
scripture.scripture.
 Although there may be few exceptions of disobedientAlthough there may be few exceptions of disobedient
Muslims, yetMuslims, yet no other religion has been as successful asno other religion has been as successful as
Islam in advocating sobriety as a religious obligationIslam in advocating sobriety as a religious obligation..

CONTAINS NEITHERCONTAINS NEITHER
DISCREPANCY NORDISCREPANCY NOR
INACCURACYINACCURACY
God is perfect in His Wisdom and
cannot be the author of discrepancies
and/or inaccuracies.
THE CRITERIA
# 4# 4

“Do they not consider the Qur’an with care ? Had it been
from other than Allah, they would surely have found
therein much discrepancy”
(Surah An- Nisa’ : 4: 82)

CONTRIBUTES TO THECONTRIBUTES TO THE
WELL-BEING OF PEOPLEWELL-BEING OF PEOPLE
OF ALL LEVELOF ALL LEVEL
Unlike other books which appeal to or
benefit only certain classes of people
according to their intellectual levels, the
Book of God is meant for all classes of
people. Only God’s Wisdom is capable of
producing such a Book.
THE CRITERIA
# 5# 5

““All praise is due to Allah, who has bestowed this divineAll praise is due to Allah, who has bestowed this divine
writ from on high upon His Servant (Muhammad), and haswrit from on high upon His Servant (Muhammad), and has
not allowed any deviousness to obscure its meanings:not allowed any deviousness to obscure its meanings:
[a divine writ] unerringly straight, meant to warn[a divine writ] unerringly straight, meant to warn
[the godless] of a severe punishment from Him, and to[the godless] of a severe punishment from Him, and to
give unto the believers who do good works the glad tidinggive unto the believers who do good works the glad tiding
that theirs shall be a goodly reward – [a state of bliss] inthat theirs shall be a goodly reward – [a state of bliss] in
which they shall dwell beyond the count of time.”which they shall dwell beyond the count of time.”
((Qur’an: al-Kahf: 18: 1-3Qur’an: al-Kahf: 18: 1-3))

Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for BooksApplying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because:would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because:
 Simple devotees refer to it, yet it is not merely a book onSimple devotees refer to it, yet it is not merely a book on
devotions;devotions;
 legists (jurist) formulate legal rulings from it, and yet it is notlegists (jurist) formulate legal rulings from it, and yet it is not
merely a book of laws;merely a book of laws;
 educationist derived wisdom from it and yet it does not onlyeducationist derived wisdom from it and yet it does not only
speak about education;speak about education;

would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :
 theologians are guided by its principles, and yet it is nottheologians are guided by its principles, and yet it is not
merely a book on theology;merely a book on theology;
 it mentions past history and indicate to contemporary men theit mentions past history and indicate to contemporary men the
remnants of past civilization to be discovered, visited andremnants of past civilization to be discovered, visited and
studied, yet it is not a book on history or archaeology;studied, yet it is not a book on history or archaeology;

 it points to the signs in the universe and provide principles forit points to the signs in the universe and provide principles for
contemplation and reflection for thinkers and philosophers,contemplation and reflection for thinkers and philosophers,
yet it is not a book on philosophy;yet it is not a book on philosophy;
 it highlights laws of natural phenomenon long before manit highlights laws of natural phenomenon long before man
develops serious study of natural sciences, from which it onlydevelops serious study of natural sciences, from which it only
confirms observations made by the book, yet it is not a bookconfirms observations made by the book, yet it is not a book
on science;on science;

 those who have the aesthetic appreciation for beauty inthose who have the aesthetic appreciation for beauty in
language and expression are enthralled by its recitation, yet itlanguage and expression are enthralled by its recitation, yet it
is not a book on poetry;is not a book on poetry;
 Arabic linguists and grammarians use its standard forArabic linguists and grammarians use its standard for
correctness and eloquence, yet it is not a book on grammar;correctness and eloquence, yet it is not a book on grammar;

 those seeking solace and spirituality finds in it companionshipthose seeking solace and spirituality finds in it companionship
and guidance towards their spiritual upliftment, yet it is notand guidance towards their spiritual upliftment, yet it is not
merely a book on spirituality;merely a book on spirituality;
 it has inspired and transformed a whole civilization through allit has inspired and transformed a whole civilization through all
classes of people who then manifested the effect it has onclasses of people who then manifested the effect it has on
them in almost every field of human endeavour.them in almost every field of human endeavour.

Perhaps the closest categorization would be ‘anPerhaps the closest categorization would be ‘an
encyclopaedia’, yet it even transcend this when weencyclopaedia’, yet it even transcend this when we
realise that this book contains only just over 6,000realise that this book contains only just over 6,000
verses – and has never needed any re-edition.verses – and has never needed any re-edition.
Only one category is possible, and that is, it is aOnly one category is possible, and that is, it is a
book of God for the guidance of mankind.book of God for the guidance of mankind.
Only God’s Wisdom is capable for its authorship.Only God’s Wisdom is capable for its authorship.

SOME PROPHECIESSOME PROPHECIES
PROVEN TO BE TRUEPROVEN TO BE TRUE
Proof of God’s knowledge is in the truth of
His prophecies. Although there are many
which have not yet come to pass, still there
must be some prophecies which can validate
this unique attribute of God in the Book.
THE CRITERIA
# 6# 6

““Truly did Allah fulfil the vision for His Messenger: Ye shallTruly did Allah fulfil the vision for His Messenger: Ye shall
enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds secure,enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds secure,
heads, shaved, hair cut short, and without fear. For He knewheads, shaved, hair cut short, and without fear. For He knew
what ye knew not and He granted besides this a speedywhat ye knew not and He granted besides this a speedy
victory. It is He who has sent His Messenger with Guidancevictory. It is He who has sent His Messenger with Guidance
and the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion: andand the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion: and
enough is Allah for a Witness.”enough is Allah for a Witness.”
((Qur’an: Surah Fath: 48: 27-28Qur’an: Surah Fath: 48: 27-28))

 These verses were revealed when Muslims were aThese verses were revealed when Muslims were a
disregarded group, oppressed and weak, living indisregarded group, oppressed and weak, living in
Madinah after being forced to migrate there, andMadinah after being forced to migrate there, and
then had to face several invasions by the Quraish.then had to face several invasions by the Quraish.
Yet the prophecy came of the Prophet’s imminentYet the prophecy came of the Prophet’s imminent
entrance into Makkah, as well as the conquest andentrance into Makkah, as well as the conquest and
triumph of Islam over the Makkans.triumph of Islam over the Makkans.
NOTENOTE:

““Alif Lam Mim. The Roman Empire has been defeated―Alif Lam Mim. The Roman Empire has been defeated―
In a land close by; but they, (even) after (this) defeat ofIn a land close by; but they, (even) after (this) defeat of
theirs, will soon be victorious. Within a few years. Withtheirs, will soon be victorious. Within a few years. With
Allah is the Decision, in the Past and in the Future: onAllah is the Decision, in the Past and in the Future: on
that Day shall the Believers rejoice―”that Day shall the Believers rejoice―”
((Qur’an: Rum: 30: 1-4Qur’an: Rum: 30: 1-4))

““Perish the hands of Abu Lahab (the Father of Flame)!Perish the hands of Abu Lahab (the Father of Flame)!
Perish he! No profit to him from all his wealth, and all hisPerish he! No profit to him from all his wealth, and all his
gains! Burnt soon will he be in a Fire of blazing Flame! Hisgains! Burnt soon will he be in a Fire of blazing Flame! His
wife shall carry the (crackling) wood ―as fuel!― A twistedwife shall carry the (crackling) wood ―as fuel!― A twisted
rope of palm-leaf fibre round her (own) neck!”rope of palm-leaf fibre round her (own) neck!”
((Qur’an: al-Masad: 111: 1-5Qur’an: al-Masad: 111: 1-5))

 Even after this verse, Abu Lahab continued to liveEven after this verse, Abu Lahab continued to live
for another 10 years but finally died as anfor another 10 years but finally died as an
unbeliever, true to the prophecy.unbeliever, true to the prophecy.
 The opportunity for him to contradict this prophecyThe opportunity for him to contradict this prophecy
was available during these years – even by himwas available during these years – even by him
pretending to accept Islam – yet the enemies ofpretending to accept Islam – yet the enemies of
Islam in Makkah had never realised this.Islam in Makkah had never realised this.
NOTENOTE:

““Did We not expand for you, [O Muhammad], yourDid We not expand for you, [O Muhammad], your
breast? And We removed from you yourbreast? And We removed from you your
burden. Which had weighed upon your back.burden. Which had weighed upon your back. AndAnd
raised high for you your repute.raised high for you your repute. For indeed, withFor indeed, with
hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be]hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be]
ease. So when you have finished [your duties], thenease. So when you have finished [your duties], then
stand up [for worship]. And to your Lord direct [your]stand up [for worship]. And to your Lord direct [your]
longing.”longing.”
((Qur’an: Ash-Sharh: 94: 1-8Qur’an: Ash-Sharh: 94: 1-8))

SCIENTIFICSCIENTIFIC
RESEARCH VALIDATESRESEARCH VALIDATES
DATA IN THE BOOKDATA IN THE BOOK
Any scientific fact mentioned in the Book
should be able to stand the test of time
and scientific research.
THE CRITERIA
# 7# 7

 Our understanding of empirical science andOur understanding of empirical science and
human discovery in nature is that of the inevitablehuman discovery in nature is that of the inevitable
outcome of man’s reflection of God’s signs (aayat)outcome of man’s reflection of God’s signs (aayat)
in the universe, and would not lead to anyin the universe, and would not lead to any
definitive contradiction in terms of scientific facts.definitive contradiction in terms of scientific facts.

 Yet, science being relative and therefore cannotYet, science being relative and therefore cannot
claim to have absolute certainty, is thereforeclaim to have absolute certainty, is therefore
inadequate to be used as definitive criteria.inadequate to be used as definitive criteria.

 But, in the case of the Qur’an, what we canBut, in the case of the Qur’an, what we can
show is that, as man discover new things inshow is that, as man discover new things in
nature, it would not make the statements in thenature, it would not make the statements in the
Qur’an redundant, but rather only enhancesQur’an redundant, but rather only enhances
mankind’s understanding of them.mankind’s understanding of them.

““In time We shall make them fully understand OurIn time We shall make them fully understand Our
messages [through what they perceive] in themessages [through what they perceive] in the
utmost horizons [of the universe] and withinutmost horizons [of the universe] and within
themselvesthemselves, so that it will become clear unto them, so that it will become clear unto them
that this [revelation] is indeed the truth. [Still] is itthat this [revelation] is indeed the truth. [Still] is it
not enough [for them to know] that thy Sustainer isnot enough [for them to know] that thy Sustainer is
witness unto everything?”witness unto everything?”
((Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 53)Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 53)

 “The Bible, the Qur’an and Modern Science” by
Dr. Maurice Bucaille
 “The Developing Human” by Dr. Keith L Moore
(with Islamic additions)
 “The Basis for a Muslim Belief” by Gary Miller

notice the preformed
shape of a foetus
Seventeenth century drawing by HartsoekerSeventeenth century drawing by Hartsoeker
of a spermof a sperm (circa 1600)(circa 1600)

““We (Allah) created man from a quintessence (gentleWe (Allah) created man from a quintessence (gentle
extraction) of clay; We then placed him as a drop (extraction) of clay; We then placed him as a drop (nutfahnutfah))
in a place of rest firmly fixed; then We made the drop intoin a place of rest firmly fixed; then We made the drop into
an “an “alaqahalaqah” (leech-like); and then We change the “” (leech-like); and then We change the “alaqahalaqah””
into “into “mudghahmudghah” (chewed-like substance); then We made” (chewed-like substance); then We made
out of that “out of that “mudghahmudghah” bones (” bones (‘izam‘izam); then We clothed the); then We clothed the
bones with flesh (bones with flesh (‘lahm‘lahm); then We developed out of it); then We developed out of it
another creation. So blessed be Allah, the best to create.”another creation. So blessed be Allah, the best to create.”
((Qur’an : al- Mu’minun : 23:12-15Qur’an : al- Mu’minun : 23:12-15))

““When forty-two nights have passed over theWhen forty-two nights have passed over the NutfahNutfah
(i.e. the zygote) Allah sends an angel to it, who shapes(i.e. the zygote) Allah sends an angel to it, who shapes
it and make its ears, skin, flesh and bones.it and make its ears, skin, flesh and bones.
Then the angel says ‘O Lord ! Is it male or female ?’ AndThen the angel says ‘O Lord ! Is it male or female ?’ And
your Lord decide what He wishes and then the angelyour Lord decide what He wishes and then the angel
records it.”records it.”
((Hadith reported by Muslim in Kitab al-QadrHadith reported by Muslim in Kitab al-Qadr))

““It appears that Human knowledge had, at oneIt appears that Human knowledge had, at one
time contradicted some of the facts brought bytime contradicted some of the facts brought by
Islam on some aspects of reproduction. It is alsoIslam on some aspects of reproduction. It is also
realised that as man discovers new facts, he findsrealised that as man discovers new facts, he finds
himself repeating what had already been stated byhimself repeating what had already been stated by
the Qur’an and the Hadith.”the Qur’an and the Hadith.”

MUST REMAINMUST REMAIN
PRESERVED AND NOTPRESERVED AND NOT
BEEN TAMPERED WITHBEEN TAMPERED WITH
A claim of a Book from God must be on
the basis of its original writing. Not
something which has been doctored with
or edited, with the intention of giving it
credibility, based on newly discovered
knowledge.
THE CRITERIA
# 8# 8

““We (Allah) have, without doubt, send down theWe (Allah) have, without doubt, send down the
Message (Al-Qur’an) And We will assuredly guard itMessage (Al-Qur’an) And We will assuredly guard it
(from corruption)”(from corruption)”
((Qur’an: Surah al- Hijr: 15: 9Qur’an: Surah al- Hijr: 15: 9))

Prophetic
Era
13 BH – 10 AH
Revelation to
Prophet
Muhammad
* memorised
* Dictated
* Recorded
* Collated
* Counter-
checked

1st Mushaf
12 AH
Battle of Yamamah
* original materials
which have been
recorded by the
Prophet’s scribe
were sorted out,
checked and bound
into a single Book.

Mushaf
Uthmani
30 AH
Expansion of Islam
• Uthman’s recension -
7 official copies made
from the 1st Mushaf –
these sent to all
Islamic centres
accompanied by a
Reciter (muqri’)
• (extant copies of
these are available
even to this day)

IN MASJID IMAM HUSSAYN – CAIRO, EGYPT

TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN.

PRESERVED MUSHAF OF KHALIFA ‘UTHMAN IBN ‘AFFAN
TOPKAPI MUSEUM
ISTANBUL, TURKEY

TOPKAPI MUSEUM, ISTANBUL, TURKEY.

Diacritical
marking
65 AH
(Science)(Science) Ilmu-Ilmu-
Qira’atil Qur’anQira’atil Qur’an
** inclusion of
markings to the
script conforming
with Prophet’s
recitation, and to
facilitate non-Arab
learning recitation
* By Abul Aswad Ad-Du’aliBy Abul Aswad Ad-Du’ali

Compare with verses in
the present Mushaf Text

MUSHAF
FUAD
1342 AH
From Mushaf
Uthmani, text
compiled at AL-
AZHAR with one
of the original
manner of
Recitation
which has been
preserved - from
HAFASH.HAFASH.

HafashHafash
‘‘Asim ibn Abin NujudAsim ibn Abin Nujud
Abi Abdur Rahman Abd ibn Habib as-SulaimiAbi Abdur Rahman Abd ibn Habib as-Sulaimi
Holy Prophet MuhammadHoly Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w.s.a.a.w.
‘Ali Abi Talib Uthman ‘Affan Zaid Tsabit Ubay Ka’abAli Abi Talib Uthman ‘Affan Zaid Tsabit Ubay Ka’ab

MUSHAF
MADINAH
1403 AH
(1980)
Commissioned by
Saudi King, text
using the Rasm’
Uthmani -
following strictly
the spelling,
letter for letter,
identical to
Mushaf Uthmani.

https://www.kalamullah.com/Books/
history_of_quranic_text.pdf
Download – e-book:
The History of the Qur'anic Text
from Revelation to Compilation :
A Comparative Study with the Old
and New Testaments
by Dr. Muhammad Mustafa al-Azami (Author)

If God sends a Book to us, it must be to
inform us about Himself and His Divine
Plan.
THE CRITERIA
# 9# 9

 If you ask any person, on their own, to list down possible If you ask any person, on their own, to list down possible
names and adjectives to describe God in His sublime and names and adjectives to describe God in His sublime and
transcendent glory, few can make a list up to twenty or transcendent glory, few can make a list up to twenty or
there about; even rarely to reach fifty. Even with scholastic there about; even rarely to reach fifty. Even with scholastic
learning in religion (other than Islam), this feat would be learning in religion (other than Islam), this feat would be
stupendous.stupendous.

 Yet, in the Qur’an, the names of God are so numerously Yet, in the Qur’an, the names of God are so numerously
referred to, and Islamic scholars have counted them to referred to, and Islamic scholars have counted them to
number over a hundred and having such profound number over a hundred and having such profound
meanings befitting God’s majesty and glory; maintaining meanings befitting God’s majesty and glory; maintaining
consistency without any possibility of confusion of His consistency without any possibility of confusion of His
transcendence, that it cannot be the work of any mortal, transcendence, that it cannot be the work of any mortal,
but of God Himself. For instance in just three verses we but of God Himself. For instance in just three verses we
can sample a number of these:can sample a number of these:

“(Allah) God is He save whom there is no deity: the One who
knows all (‘Aalim) that is beyond the reach of a created
being’s perception, as well as all that can be witnessed by a
creature’s senses and mind: He, the Most Gracious (Al-
Rahmaan), the Dispenser of Grace (Al-Rahiim).
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 22)

“(Allah) God is He save whom there is no deity: the
Sovereign Supreme (al-Malik), the Holy (al-Quddus), the One
with whom all salvation rests (al-Salaam), the Giver of Faith
(al-Mu’-minu), the One who determines what is true and false
(al-Muhaymin), the Almighty (al-‘Aziz), the One who subdues
wrong and restores right (al-Jab-bar), the One whom all
greatness belongs (al-Mutakabbir)!
Utterly remote is God (Allah), in His limitless glory, from
anything to which men may ascribe a share in His divinity.”
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 22-24)

“He is God, the Creator (al-Khaliq), the Maker who shapes
all forms and appearance (al-Baa-ri-u, al-Musow-wir)! His
[alone] are the attributes of perfection (asma-al-Husna). All
that is in the heavens and on earth extols His limitless glory:
for He alone is Almighty (al-Aziz), truly wise (al-Hakim)!
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 23-24)

“Hallowed be He (God) in whose hand all dominion rests,
since He has power to will anything: He who has created
death as well as life, so that He might put you to a test
[and thus show] which of you is best in conduct, and
[make you realize that] He alone is almighty, forgiving.”
(Qur’an: al-Mulk: 77: 1-2)

UNIVERSAL APPEAL
AND APPLICATION …
Whatever the message of the Book, it
must remain relevant throughout the ages
from the time of its revelation.
THE CRITERIA
# 10# 10

 If God intends a Book to be for guidance of all mankind, If God intends a Book to be for guidance of all mankind,
then its relevance must continue to exist since the time of then its relevance must continue to exist since the time of
its revelation, without any period in history where it its revelation, without any period in history where it
became hidden or completely lost its usefulness. It must became hidden or completely lost its usefulness. It must
always be openly known. always be openly known.
 This criterion therefore would eliminate inclusion of such This criterion therefore would eliminate inclusion of such
discoveries of later manuscripts which were lost but now discoveries of later manuscripts which were lost but now
found, or ancient book of wisdom discovered anew and found, or ancient book of wisdom discovered anew and
popularized today. popularized today.

 To be sure, by this, we do not therefore deny previous To be sure, by this, we do not therefore deny previous
revelations to Prophets of the past e.g. Abraham, Moses, revelations to Prophets of the past e.g. Abraham, Moses,
David, Jesus (peace be upon all of them) etc. (which the David, Jesus (peace be upon all of them) etc. (which the
Qur’an confirmed), - only that we regard the preservation Qur’an confirmed), - only that we regard the preservation
of these revelations, if any, to be partial, and are known to of these revelations, if any, to be partial, and are known to
have been tampered with or mixed with other writing, and have been tampered with or mixed with other writing, and
much have already been lost. much have already been lost.
 Thus, we hold that these previous books have now been Thus, we hold that these previous books have now been
superseded by the Qur’an. superseded by the Qur’an.

 Any attempt to re-discover and re-compile these earlier Any attempt to re-discover and re-compile these earlier
revelations in any endeavour to restore it to their originals revelations in any endeavour to restore it to their originals
as a book, would be futile, since much of it were meant to as a book, would be futile, since much of it were meant to
be only for its time, sent for a particular people, and be only for its time, sent for a particular people, and
admittedly many have been irretrievably lost. admittedly many have been irretrievably lost.
 TThe Qur’an attributeshe Qur’an attributes much of the much of the error in their error in their
preservation of scriptures to subsequent people who preservation of scriptures to subsequent people who
tampered (by addition, alteration or omission) to their tampered (by addition, alteration or omission) to their
collection of writings and then claiming it to be from God: collection of writings and then claiming it to be from God:

““Do they not know, then, thatDo they not know, then, that Allah is aware of all that theyAllah is aware of all that they
would conceal as well as all that they bring into the openwould conceal as well as all that they bring into the open??
And there are among them unlettered people who have noAnd there are among them unlettered people who have no
real knowledge of the divine writ, [following] onlyreal knowledge of the divine writ, [following] only wishfulwishful
beliefs and depending on nothing but conjecturebeliefs and depending on nothing but conjecture.”.”
((Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 77Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 77).).

““Woe unto thoseWoe unto those who write down, with their ownwho write down, with their own
hands, [something which they claim to be] divinehands, [something which they claim to be] divine
writwrit.. And then say, ‘This is from God’,And then say, ‘This is from God’, in order toin order to
acquire a trifling gain thereby; woe, then, untoacquire a trifling gain thereby; woe, then, unto
them for what their hands have written, and woethem for what their hands have written, and woe
unto them for all that they may have gained!”unto them for all that they may have gained!”
((Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 78-79Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 78-79).).

 Thus, many so called extant copies of ancient religious Thus, many so called extant copies of ancient religious
scriptures are in the language other than the original, or scriptures are in the language other than the original, or
the usage of its language is considered to be no longer the usage of its language is considered to be no longer
existing (on account of it being a dead language), with the existing (on account of it being a dead language), with the
only exception being the Qur’an. only exception being the Qur’an.
 With reference to many Biblical texts (Judeo-Christian), With reference to many Biblical texts (Judeo-Christian),
even this has been admitted by their respective scholars.even this has been admitted by their respective scholars.

“Yet the King James version has serious
defects. ….. And discovery of many biblical
manuscripts more ancient than those on which
the King James version was based made it
apparent that these defects were so many as to
call for a revision.”
(Forward in the New Revised Standard version of the Bible)
What the Qur’an asserted 1400 year ago,What the Qur’an asserted 1400 year ago,
now confirmed by their own Biblical scholarsnow confirmed by their own Biblical scholars
““Reason for the Revision”Reason for the Revision”

THE
CONCLUSION
THE CRITERIA

 claims to be from God;
 And which could not be produced by any
who tries;
 And contains absolute principles;
 And does not contain discrepancies;

 And has contributed to the well-being of And has contributed to the well-being of
mankind at all levels;mankind at all levels;
 And can be shown that some of its And can be shown that some of its
prophecies were proven true;prophecies were proven true;
 And some of its data compatible with And some of its data compatible with
scientific research;scientific research;

 And the whole book still remains in its And the whole book still remains in its
original text (language);original text (language);
 And speaks of God and His plan;And speaks of God and His plan;
 And has universal appeal and application.And has universal appeal and application.

WHAT MUST BE
YOUR VERDICT OR
CONCLUSION?

MOST CERTAINLY, IT
MUST BE FROM GOD.
BECAUSE,BECAUSE,
NO OTHER CONCLUSIONNO OTHER CONCLUSION
IS PLAUSIBLE...!IS PLAUSIBLE...!

TO BE CONTINUEDTO BE CONTINUED

All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:
http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/
http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/
http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/
http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/

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