Questions & Answers about Quran
The Noble Qur’an, revealed by Allah to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is the ultimate guide for humanity and a masterpiece of classical Arabic literature. Preserved in its original form for over 1400 years, the Qur’an is divided into chapters (surahs) and verses (ayahs). The word "Qur’an" means "that which is read," and it continues to serve as a vital spiritual guide for Muslims and those exploring Islam. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Quran, along with their answers.
Q: What is the difference between the terms "Allah" and "Rabb" in the Quran?
Category: General Topics, Published on: 08/11/2024 22:51:00
A: In the Quran, the terms "Rabb" (Lord) and "Allah" are used to refer to the one and only God, but they carry slightly different connotations and uses: Allah: Meaning: "Allah" is the supreme name of God in Islam, signifying the one and only deity, the Creator, and the sole object of worship. Usage: This name is used to denote the divine essence in a general and comprehensive manner, encompassing all of God's attributes and beautiful names. For example, in the verse: "Say, He is Allah, [who is] One" (Surah Al-Ikhlas, verse 1). Rabb Meaning: "Rabb" signifies the lord, master, or sustainer. It implies the Creator, Sustainer, Provider, and Manager of all affairs. Usage: The word "Rabb" is used specifically to highlight the relationship between God and His creation, emphasizing God's care, sustenance, and governance of all beings. For example, in the verse: "Praise be to Allah, Lord of all the worlds" (Surah Al-Fatiha, verse 2), "Rabb" is used to denote God as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Additional Examples from the Quran: Allah: "Indeed, I am Allah. There is no deity except Me, so worship Me" (Surah Taha, verse 14). Rabb: "So exalted is Allah, the True King; there is no deity except Him, Lord of the Noble Throne" (Surah Al-Mu’minun, verse 116). In summary, "Allah" represents the divine essence with all His attributes and names, while "Rabb" emphasizes God’s role as the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider.
Q: What is the first pillar of Islam mentioned in the Qur’an?
Category: Doctrine and Worship, Published on: 08/11/2024 22:56:10
A: The first pillar of Islam mentioned in the Qur'an is the Shahada (Faith). It is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255): "Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it 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 for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great."
Q: What does the Qur'an say about consuming intoxicants or alcohol?
Category: Halal and Haram, Published on: 08/11/2024 23:01:20
A: Intoxicants, including alcohol, are forbidden in Islam. Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90) states: "O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful."
Q: How do the stories of the prophets in the Qur'an exemplify moral values?
Category: Prophets and stories, Published on: 08/11/2024 23:06:30
A: The stories of the prophets illustrate moral values such as perseverance, patience, honesty, compassion, and obedience to God's commands. For example, humility and Patience of the Prophet Job (Ayub): Surah Sad (38:41-44) states: "And remember Our servant Job when he called to his Lord, 'Indeed, Satan has touched me with hardship and torment.' [So he was told], 'Strike [the ground] with your foot; this is a [spring for] a cool bath and drink.' And We granted him his family and a like [number] with them as mercy from Us and a reminder for those of understanding. [We said], 'And take in your hand a bunch [of grass] and strike with it and do not break your oath.' Indeed, We found him patient, an excellent servant. Indeed, he was one repeatedly turning back [to Allah]." Another example of high morals is what God Almighty mentioned in the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him: Surah Al-Qalam (68:4) states: "And indeed, you (Muhammad) are of a great moral character."
Q: What is the term used in the Qur'an to describe inheritance?
Category: Inheritance, Published on: 08/11/2024 23:11:40
A: Inheritance is referred to as "Mīrāth" in the Qur'an. It is mentioned in various verses, including Surah Al-Baqarah (2:180, 2:240), Surah An-Nisa (4:7-8), and Surah An-Nisa (4:11-12).
Q: What does the Qur'an say about the creation of the universe or the creation of the heavens and the earth?
Category: Cosmos and Natural Phenomena, Published on: 08/11/2024 23:16:50
A: The Qur'an addresses the creation of the heavens and the earth in several passages, emphasizing the power and wisdom of Allah (God) as the Creator. Here are a few key verses: Surah Al-An'am (6:1): "All praise is due to Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth, and made the darkness and the light. Yet those who disbelieve set up equals to their Lord!" Surah Al-Baqarah (2:117): "The Originator of the heavens and the earth! When He decreeth a thing, He saith unto it only: Be! and it is." Surah Al-Anbiya (21:30): "Do not those who disbelieve see that the heavens and the earth were a closed-up mass, then We opened them out? And We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?" Surah Al-Furqan (25:59): "He who created the heavens and the earth and what is between them in six days and then established Himself above the Throne – the Most Merciful, so ask about Him one well informed."
Q: How many times is the phrase "Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim" mentioned in the Quran?
Category: Statistics, Published on: 08/11/2024 23:22:00
A: The phrase "Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim" ("In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful") is mentioned 114 times in the Qur'an. It appears at the beginning of each surah (chapter) except for Surah At-Tawbah (Chapter 9). However, it is mentioned twice in Surah An-Naml (Chapter 27): once at the beginning of the surah and again in verse (27:30) within the letter from Prophet Solomon to the Queen of Sheba.