Dr. Norlain Dindang Mababaya
The Qur’ân should be read and studied for guidance. If you are among those who have not yet read it, then do so. Compare it to any book that claims to be “the Word of God.” If you seek nothing but the truth, if you seek solely for divine guidance then, you will find that the Qur’ân is the ultimate answer. You must follow it to be truly righteous and receive Allah’s mercy. Indeed, those who follow it receive divine guidance. Allah the Almighty tells us:
“And this is a Book which We have revealed as a blessing: so follow it and be righteous, that you may receive mercy.” (6:155)
“Those who listen to the Word, and follow the best of it. Those are the ones who Allah has guided, and those are the ones endued with understanding.” (39:18)
We have been reading so many books in our lives; but have we ever set some time reading the Divine Book? Have we fully understood its Message to us? Have we studied it deeply? Have we tried our best learning how to read in Arabic and recite Allah’s Book in its original Arabic text? Have we been listening to it with attention? Do we care to remember it for the pleasure of Allah I? How many of us have been following its teachings for divine guidance? All of us should positively and actively respond to these challenges. We have to remember that of all books, the Qur’ân alone repeatedly claims in many of its ayât (verses) that it comes from Allah. It rationally tells us the belief in the absolute oneness of God, Allah (47:19), Who is our Only Creator (2:29, 117; 6:73), Who Alone deserves all Praise, the Only Rabb (Only God, Cherisher and Sustainer) of the Worlds and Whose Aid and Guidance we seek (1:1-7). Therefore, we should worship Him as our Rabb and not to associate partners with Him. Allah I says:
“O mankind! Worship your Guardian Rabb (Allah), Who created you and those who came before you that you may become righteous. (He) Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when you know (the truth).” (2:21-22)
For those who are very fortunate among us to have responded to Allah’s commandments to read, study and follow the Qur’ân, how many have been sharing the divine knowledge, truth, and guidance to others? In other words, how many of us are actively doing Da’wah (invitation to Islam) to the unfortunate non-Muslims?
If you are among those who still find difficulty and doubts in the Qur’ân, I invite you to read it, as it is the Truth and Divine Revelation from Allah the Almighty. Also read all books and other reading materials written all about the Book of Allah I. Do not judge Islam by the behavior of some Muslims who do not actually implement Islam. Before, during and after your readings, pray (at least supplicate) to our Only True God and Creator to open your mind and heart and be rational. Be sincere in your prayers. If you are objective in your readings, Insha Allah (God Willing), you will find the Truth. The Truth is that the Qur’ân is the Book of Allah, the One and Only True God and Creator of all mankind.
Try to be rational in your readings and accept the Truth. Contemplate and ponder upon the incomparable excellence, beauty, wisdom, truth and veracity of the Qur’ân so that you will see the Light. You will find that indeed, the Qur’ân is the Divine Message for all mankind.
