Reflection
The sacred texts speak of the Qur'an as the literal word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of twenty-three years. It is understood not as something written by Muhammad, but as a divine message he faithfully conveyed. His role was that of a messenger, an instrument through whom Allah's final revelation was made known to humanity. The words themselves are believed to be preserved in their original Arabic, a testament to their divine origin and purity.
The emphasis is on the reception and transmission of this divine word. Muhammad, as the chosen prophet, received these verses through the Angel Gabriel. His community then preserved and passed down these revelations, ensuring their continuity. The Qur'an, therefore, is seen as a direct communication from the Creator, a guidance and mercy for all people, with Muhammad serving as the conduit for its earthly appearance.
Passages
"And this Qur'an, it is not of the falsehoods concocted, but a confirmation of that which preceded it and a detailed explanation of the Book, wherein there is no doubt from the Lord of the worlds." — Quran 10:37 · Qur'an
"Say, 'I am only a man like you, to whom it has been revealed that your god is one God. So whoever would hope for the meeting with his Lord – let him do righteous work and not associate in the worship of his Lord anyone.'" — Quran 18:110 · Qur'an
A Question for You
How might the understanding of revelation as a divine message, rather than human authorship, shape one's relationship with these sacred words?