It is essential to remind ourselves of the blessings Allah bestows upon us. Instead of focusing on what others have and what is lacking, reflect on Allah’s words in the Quran:
وَإِذْ تَأَذَّنَ رَبُّكُمْ لَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ ۖ وَلَئِن كَفَرْتُمْ إِنَّ عَذَابِي لَشَدِيد
And when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.’
[Quran 14:7]
One cannot fathom the severity of Allah’s punishment, but a notable consequence is the failure to recognize the value of what is given—the ni’ma of Islam, the blessings of being a Muslim, the blessings of being a Muslim woman, and the blessings of being a practicing Muslim who seeks closeness to Allah and His words.
Counting blessings is an Islamic principle often emphasized publicly. Allah states in Surah an-Nahl:
وَإِن تَعُدُّواْ نِعۡمَةَ ٱللَّهِ لَا تُحۡصُوهَآۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَغَفُورٞ رَّحِيمٞ
If you try to count Allah’s favors, you will not be able to enumerate them.
[Quran 16:18]
Thus, it is crucial to be thankful for all the blessings Allah has granted. Remember that not appreciating these blessings is a form of punishment. Do not be deceived by the illusory and transient allure of the world.
Embark on the transformative journey of drawing nearer to Allah through His divine words in the Quran.
Virtues of the Quran
The initial step involves reshaping our perception of the Quran and comprehending its profound purpose. Understand that the Quran is Kalamullah, the direct speech of Allah, surpassing all literary works as the masterpiece authored by Allah Himself, the ultimate Creator.
In Arabic, both kalam (كلام) and qul (قل) refer to words or sayings. Kalam generally means “speech,” “words,” or “discourse,” referring to any form of expression through spoken or written language. Qul, on the other hand, means “say” or “declare.”
In the Quranic context, kalam refers to Allah’s words or speech, including the Quran, while qul is an instruction to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to convey specific messages from Allah to the people.
Quran has remained unchanged since its revelation over 1400 years ago, preserving its original text and message through the centuries. This unaltered state is considered a miracle and a testament to its divine origin. Reading Quran is not just a scholarly pursuit but also an act of worship, deeply integrated into the daily lives of Muslims. The importance of this act is highlighted in numerous Hadiths, including one narrated by Abdullah bin Mas’ud.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasizes the immense spiritual reward of reciting Quran, stating:
“[Whoever recites a letter] from Allah’s Book, then he receives the reward from it, and the reward of ten times the like of it. I do not say that Alif Lam Mim is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Mim is a letter.”
[Sunan al-Tirmizi 2910]
The profound significance placed on even the smallest components of the Quran. Each letter holds weight and merit, reflecting the depth of engagement and the spiritual benefits derived from recitation. The act of reading Quran, therefore, is not only about understanding its teachings but also about connecting with the divine on a fundamental level, earning continuous rewards for the believer.
In Surah Yunus, Allah describes Quran as an admonition, a healer, and a guidance:
يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ قَدْ جَاءَتْكُم مَّوْعِظَةٌ مِّنْ رَّبِّكُمْ وَشِفَاءٌ لِّمَا فِي الصُّدُورِ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ (57) قُلْ بِفَضْلِ اللَّهِ وَبِرَحْمَتِهِ فَبِذَٰلِكَ فَلْيَفْرَحُوا هُوَ خَيْرٌ مِّمَّا يَجْمَعُونَ (58)
O mankind, there has come to you instruction from your Lord and healing for what is in the breasts and guidance and mercy for the believers. Say, ‘In the bounty of Allah and in His mercy - in that let them rejoice; it is better than what they accumulate.’
[Quran 10:57-58]
These verses encapsulate the multifaceted role of Quran in the life of a believer. It serves as an admonition, providing moral and ethical guidance that helps individuals discern right from wrong. As a healer, Quran offers solace and comfort, addressing the spiritual and emotional afflictions that reside in the hearts of people. It guides believers through life's complexities, offering a clear path illuminated by divine wisdom. Quran's mercy is an overarching theme, reflecting Allah's compassion and care for His creation, urging them to rejoice in His bounty and mercy, which surpass any worldly gains.
Furthermore, Quran is described as a soul (رُوحًا) and a light (نُورًا) for humankind, symbolizing its profound spiritual significance and illuminating guidance. This is highlighted in another verse:
وَكَذَٰلِكَ أَوْحَيْنَا إِلَيْكَ رُوحًا مِّنْ أَمْرِنَا ۚ مَا كُنتَ تَدْرِي مَا الْكِتَابُ وَلَا الْإِيمَانُ وَلَٰكِن جَعَلْنَاهُ نُورًا نَّهْدِي بِهِ مَن نَّشَاءُ مِنْ عِبَادِنَا ۚ وَإِنَّكَ لَتَهْدِي إِلَىٰ صِرَاطٍ مُّسْتَقِيمٍ
And thus We have revealed to you an inspiration of Our command. You did not know what the Book or faith was, but We have made it a light by which We guide whom We will of Our servants. And indeed, [O Muhammad], you guide a straight path.
[Quran 42:52]
Quran is described as a divine inspiration, a vital force infused by Allah’s command, which breathes life into the hearts and minds of believers. It is depicted as a light that dispels darkness, guiding those who seek truth and righteousness to a straight path. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as the conduit of this guidance, leading believers towards a life of faith and virtue. This portrays Quran's role as an essential, divine source of wisdom, clarity, and direction for all who embrace its teachings.
There is no doubt that Quran is a guide and manual for those who want to be muttaqin (مُتَّقِينَ). Allah says:
ذَٰلِكَ الْكِتَابُ لَا رَيْبَ ۛ فِيهِ ۛ هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ
This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.
[Quran 2:2]
The nature of the Quran of having zero error and its role as an essential source of guidance for those who are mindful of Allah, aspiring to lead a life in accordance with His will. For those on this spiritual journey, the Quran offers a wealth of wisdom and direction, encouraging believers to seek Allah's wisdom at every step.
The Quran is described as the wise (الْحَكِيمِ) Book, reflecting its profound depth and the timeless nature of its teachings:
الر ۚ تِلْكَ آيَاتُ الْكِتَابِ الْحَكِيمِ
Alif, Lam, Ra. These are the verses of the wise Book. [Quran 10:1]
As a source of divine wisdom, offering insights and guidance that transcend time and context, applicable to all facets of life, recognizing Quran as a blessing is crucial. It is a divine gift that should never be taken for granted, meant to be utilized for personal betterment and spiritual growth.
By fully submitting to Allah and applying Quran's teachings with ihsaan (excellence), believers can achieve true success and fulfillment. The ideal of combination of sincere devotion to Allah with the practice of ihsaan, should be every Muslim goal.
Quran draws on the example of Prophet Abraham, known for his unwavering faith and righteousness. By following this model, believers are reminded of the profound relationship between faith, good deeds, and divine guidance as encapsulated in the Quran. Through this holistic approach, Quran becomes not just a text to be read, but a living guide that shapes the very essence of a believer's life, leading them toward a path of spiritual excellence and closeness to Allah. This is stated in Surah an-Nisa:
وَمَنْ أَحْسَنُ دِينًا مِّمَّنْ أَسْلَمَ وَجْهَهُ لِلَّهِ وَهُوَ مُحْسِنٌ وَاتَّبَعَ مِلَّةَ إِبْرَاهِيمَ حَنِيفًا ۗ وَاتَّخَذَ اللَّهُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ خَلِيلً
And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? And Allah took Abraham as an intimate friend.
[Quran 4:125]
Belief in Allah’s creation necessitates reliance on Him alone, guiding us to make daily choices based on His guidance rather than worldly motivations. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the verse:
الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي خَلَقَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ وَجَعَلَ الظُّلُمَاتِ وَالنُّورَ ۖ ثُمَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا بِرَبِّهِمْ يَعْدِلُونَ
[All] praise is [due] to Allah, who created the heavens and the earth and made the darkness and the light. Then those who disbelieve equate [others] with their Lord.
[Quran 6:1]
The majesty and sovereignty of Allah as the Creator of the universe, encompassing both the physical realms of light and darkness. It highlights the folly of equating others with Allah, reminding believers to maintain their trust and reliance solely on Him.
Furthermore, it is essential to remember that this worldly life is transient and a fleeting enjoyment. Allah says:
اعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا لَعِبٌ وَلَهْوٌ وَزِينَةٌ وَتَفَاخُرٌ بَيْنَكُمْ وَتَكَاثُرٌ فِي الْأَمْوَالِ وَالْأَوْلَادِ ۖ كَمَثَلِ غَيْثٍ أَعْجَبَ الْكُفَّارَ نَبَاتُهُ ثُمَّ يَهِيجُ فَتَرَاهُ مُصْفَرًّا ثُمَّ يَكُونُ حُطَامًا ۖ وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ عَذَابٌ شَدِيدٌ وَمَغْفِرَةٌ مِّنَ اللَّهِ وَرِضْوَانٌ ۚ وَمَا الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا إِلَّا مَتَاعُ الْغُرُورِ
Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children—like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.
[Quran 57:20]
This passage portrays the ephemeral nature of worldly life, comparing it to the fleeting beauty of a rain-nourished plant that eventually withers away. It serves as a powerful reminder that the pleasures and pursuits of this life are ultimately deceptive and short-lived. In contrast, the Hereafter offers enduring realities: either severe punishment or Allah’s forgiveness and pleasure. Believers are therefore encouraged to prioritize their spiritual well-being and align their actions with divine guidance, seeking the eternal benefits of the Hereafter over the temporary attractions of this world.
Understand the transient nature of this world, no one should view it. merely through physical eyes, but with deeper introspection into our hearts. The permanent life lies in the hereafter, where each of us is destined.
وَمَا هَٰذِهِ الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا إِلَّا لَهْوٌ وَلَعِبٌ ۚ وَإِنَّ الدَّارَ الْآخِرَةَ لَهِيَ الْحَيَوَانُ ۚ لَوْ كَانُوا يَعْلَمُونَ
And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.
[Quran 29:64]
Towards the Divine Journey
Embarking on a spiritual journey with the Quran is a profound and transformative experience that offers believers a path to divine closeness and inner peace.
The Quran, regarded as the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance in Islam, provides a roadmap for spiritual growth and fulfillment. The journey not only enhances our spiritual well-being but also leads us towards righteousness and eternal felicity.
To fully embrace this journey, it is essential to adopt certain practices that facilitate a deeper connection with the Quran. There are several initial steps one can take that are rooted in Islamic teachings and principles.
Firstly, making abundant du'a (supplication) is essential. Seeking guidance and relying solely on Allah (SWT) is the foundation of any spiritual endeavor. As the Quran states,
وَقَالَ رَبُّكُمُ ٱدۡعُونِيٓ أَسۡتَجِبۡ لَكُمۡۚ إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يَسۡتَكۡبِرُونَ عَنۡ عِبَادَتِي سَيَدۡخُلُونَ جَهَنَّمَ دَاخِرِينَ
Your Lord says, “Call upon Me; I will respond to you. Those who are too proud to worship Me will enter Hell, utterly debased.”
[Quran 40:60]
This verse underscores the importance of turning to Allah in supplication, trusting in His infinite wisdom and mercy.
Secondly, it is crucial to cultivate a love for the Quran. Even if this starts as a conscious effort, sincere intention will eventually lead to genuine affection. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
"The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it"
[Sahih Bukhari]
This hadith highlights the virtues of engaging with the Quran, suggesting that developing a love for it is both a noble pursuit and a source of great reward.
Allocating time for the Quran is another vital step. Whether it is five minutes or five hours daily, prioritizing learning and reflection is key. Consistency is crucial, as every moment spent with the Quran is an act of worship. The Quran encourages believers to make the Quran a part of their daily routine, regardless of the amount of time they can commit:
فَٱقۡرَءُواْ مَا تَيَسَّرَ مِنَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانِۚ
So recite what is easy [for you] of the Quran
[Quran 73:20]
Patience is also essential on this spiritual journey. Spiritual growth takes time, and while immediate transformation is possible by Allah's grace, remaining steadfast is important. The Quran advises,
يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ ٱسۡتَعِينُواْ بِٱلصَّبۡرِ وَٱلصَّلَوٰةِۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ مَعَ ٱلصَّٰبِرِينَ
O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient [Quran 2:153]
This verse reminds believers that patience is a virtue that brings them closer to Allah and supports their spiritual progress.
Persisting with determination is another key aspect. Tests and distractions are inevitable, but maintaining steadfastness in faith and practice is crucial. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught,
"The most beloved deeds to Allah are those done consistently, even if they are small"
[Sahih Bukhari]
This hadith encourages believers to remain committed to their spiritual practices, no matter the challenges they face.
By aligning our lives with the Quran's teachings and seeking Allah's guidance, we can attain inner peace and closeness to the Divine. Embracing the Quran as a source of wisdom and illumination allows its words to guide us towards righteousness and eternal felicity.
إِنَّ هَٰذَا ٱلْقُرْءَانَ يَهْدِى لِلَّتِى هِىَ أَقْوَمُ وَيُبَشِّرُ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَعْمَلُونَ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ أَنَّ لَهُمْ أَجْرًا كَبِيرًا
Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward
[Quran 17:9]
This transformative power of the Quran, guiding believers towards a life of virtue and spiritual fulfillment.
In conclusion, embracing the Quran as a spiritual guide offers believers profound guidance and enlightenment. Through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings, the Quran nurtures a deep connection with Allah, fostering inner peace and guiding towards righteous actions. It emphasizes gratitude for Allah’s blessings, warns against the fleeting allure of worldly pleasures, and encourages steadfastness in faith and practice. By making the Quran a central part of life, believers embark on a transformative journey towards spiritual excellence and eternal reward, fulfilling their purpose as those who seek closeness to Allah and His divine guidance.
Disclaimer: Alhamdulillah, had the opportunity to be the host for BLC during the first MCO (due to Covid-19) on 29th Sept 2021. It was a live session with honorable Sheikha Dr Haifaa Younis and I was so blessed to be connected with it ~ despite her not knowing who I was and am. Here's the clip:https://youtu.be/5DQQKRq5pQQ and am sharing my takeaway notes from the session.
