The Qu’ran
The Qu’ran or Koran is a collection of speeches made by Mohammad considered the Messenger of ALLAH. The holy book of the followers of Islam, the Qu’ran has strict instructions for its believers. It reveals the existence of the one God, ALLAH, the evil of sin, the dos and don’ts prescribed by HIM to be a true follower and the correct way to form a new Muslim community. Divided into chapters or Surahs, the following passage is a transcription of Surah 1 and 47.
Surah one begins with an invocation to the Gracious and Merciful ALLAH, praising HIM and asking HIM for guidance on the right path so that they can be blessed by HIM. “The path of those on whom THOU hast bestowed THY favours, those who have not incurred THY displeasure and those who have not gone astray”(Surah 1:7).
This passage gives an indication of the kind of society that ALLAH expects HIS followers to form. HE says that true believers should always be righteous and have complete faith in the words of the Qu’ran. HE asks them to wage war against the non believers and after defeating them, to either release them as a favor or by taking ransom. Those believers killed in this battle will be welcomed into Paradise by ALLAH and his efforts will not be in vain.
ALLAH is the Protector of the true believers and will improve their life condition. While their place in Paradise is certain, the non believers will have to ultimately face the wrath of Fire. Paradise is a beautiful Garden of Streams where in the streams flow milk and honey and even wine for those who drink; where you can find abundant fruits and above all the Lord’s forgiveness.
Those who doubt ALLAH’S teachings will be wiped out “the angels will cause them to die, smiting their faces and their backs.” (Surah 47:28) If they prevent the spread of ALLAH’S message or hinder the true believers in their work, ALLAH will surely punish them. So look not at the path of peace. Go ahead and use force to perpetuate the teachings of ALLAH and your road to Paradise is guaranteed.
“The life of this world is but a sport and a pastime, and if you believe and be righteous, HE will give you your rewards, and will not ask of you your wealth.” (Surah 47:37) If you have faith in the Message of ALLAH, work towards spreading the message and annihilate the non believers ALLAH will be happy and reward you for it. You must understand that you have to bow before ALLAH and ask for his help, for you are needy and HE is SELF SUFFICIENT.
This excerpt from the Qu’ran describes in graphic detail the relationship between ALLAH and his followers, what is expected of them and the pitfalls of being a non believer. Prophet Mohammad who is the vehicle of ALLAH’s words warns the Muslim to follow the dictates as quoted in the holy book or else they will have to suffer for their sins. He also urges them to raise a battle cry against non believers, not to be afraid for ALLAH will welcome them at the gates of Paradise, forgive them all their sins and then they can enjoy the pleasures of the Garden of Paradise. “And if you turn your backs, HE will bring in your place another people; then they will not be like you.”(Surah 47:39)
Works Cited
The Quran. Internet Medieval Source Book. Surah 1 and Surah 47
