Few Gems from Quran
The Qur’an, regarded as the holy book of Islam, is considered the final and most complete revelation from God, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over a period of 23 years. It addresses both the spiritual and practical aspects of life, offering guidance for personal growth, societal harmony, justice, morality, and faith. The Qur’an is replete with profound wisdom and timeless truths. Below, I will highlight a few gems—verses (ayahs) from the Qur’an—that offer deep insights on various themes such as faith, patience, gratitude, justice, and the nature of human beings.
1. The Oneness of God (Tawhid)
The Qur’an emphasizes the absolute oneness of God (Allah), and this is the central concept in Islam. The entire faith system revolves around the belief in the singularity and uniqueness of God.
Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4)
“Say, ‘He is Allah, [Who is] One,
Allah, the Eternal Refuge.
He neither begets nor is born,
Nor is there to Him any equivalent.’”
This short chapter is a concise yet powerful declaration of the oneness of God. It rejects any notion of God having partners or being part of creation. This concept of Tawhid is foundational to Islam, where the relationship between the Creator and His creation is one of complete submission and devotion.
2. The Mercy of God
The Qur’an repeatedly reminds its readers of the boundless mercy and compassion of Allah. God’s mercy extends over all things, and He is always ready to forgive those who turn to Him in repentance.
Surah Az-Zumar (39:53)
“Say, ‘O My servants who have harmed yourselves by your own hands, do not despair of Allah’s mercy. Allah forgives all sins. He is truly the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.’”
This verse speaks to the boundless mercy of Allah and provides hope for anyone who feels trapped by their mistakes. No matter how grave one’s sins are, God’s mercy is greater, and He invites people to repent and return to Him.
3. The Importance of Patience (Sabr)
Patience is a key virtue in Islam, and the Qur’an encourages believers to practice patience in all aspects of life, especially in times of hardship and adversity.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153)
“O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.”
This verse highlights that patience, coupled with prayer, is the key to overcoming life’s challenges. It reassures the believer that Allah is always with those who are patient and steadfast in their faith, offering them support and strength in their trials.
Surah Ash-Sharh (94:5-6)
“For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.
Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.”
This repeated reassurance from Allah emphasizes that no difficulty is ever insurmountable. Every difficulty is followed by ease, and this promise serves as a source of hope and resilience for the believer.
4. Gratitude to Allah (Shukr)
Gratitude is another important virtue in Islam. The Qur’an frequently encourages believers to acknowledge the blessings of Allah and to be thankful for what they have, as this is a means of drawing closer to God.
Surah Ibrahim (14:7)
“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed: ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favor upon you; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.’”
This verse underscores the importance of gratitude and its reward. Being thankful to Allah is not only a moral obligation but also brings about an increase in divine blessings. Gratitude is the key to spiritual growth and attracting more of God’s mercy and goodness.
5. The Nature of Humanity
The Qur’an provides profound insights into the nature of human beings—our strengths, weaknesses, and our ultimate purpose. Human beings are created with both a potential for great good and a tendency toward error.
Surah Al-Alaq (96:1-5)
“Read in the name of your Lord who created,
Created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood).
Read, and your Lord is the most Generous—
Who taught by the pen—
Taught man that which he knew not.”
This passage marks the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and emphasizes the importance of knowledge and learning. It underscores the divine source of knowledge and human capability and reminds us of the humble beginnings of humanity, created from a small drop of fluid, yet endowed with the potential to learn and grow.
Surah At-Tin (95:4-6)
“We have certainly created man in the best of stature.
Then We return him to the lowest of the low,
Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds,
For they will have a reward uninterrupted.”
This verse reflects on the nature of human beings. While humans are created in the best of forms, they can fall to the lowest point due to their actions. However, those who believe and do good deeds are rewarded with eternal success. This verse encourages believers to recognize their potential and to strive toward goodness.
6. Justice and Fairness
Justice is one of the most emphasized themes in the Qur’an. Allah commands fairness in all matters, and Muslims are urged to uphold justice, even when it is difficult or when it concerns those with whom they have personal relations.
Surah An-Nisa (4:135)
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both.”
This verse highlights the importance of standing for justice, even when it goes against personal interests or familial ties. It emphasizes that justice is not only a societal virtue but also a personal responsibility, rooted in the fear and respect for Allah.
Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:8)
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.”
This verse encourages believers to act justly even when there is animosity or conflict. It emphasizes that true righteousness is found in justice, regardless of personal feelings, and that one should not let emotions cloud their commitment to fairness.
7. The Qur’an as Guidance
The Qur’an is described as a guidance for humanity, providing clear directions on how to live a life that pleases Allah and ensures success in this world and the hereafter.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”
This verse establishes the Qur’an as the ultimate source of guidance, free from any uncertainty. It assures the believers that the guidance it provides is complete and infallible, leading to a life of righteousness and success.
8. The Concept of Accountability
The Qur’an repeatedly reminds its followers that each individual is responsible for their actions and will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment. Every action, whether small or large, will be judged.
Surah Al-Zalzalah (99:7-8)
“So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it,
And whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.”
This verse illustrates the absolute nature of divine justice. Every action, no matter how minor it seems, will be recorded and judged. It serves as a reminder to live with mindfulness, integrity, and accountability.
9. The Creation and Purpose of Life
The Qur’an frequently asks humanity to reflect on the wonders of creation, and through contemplation, to recognize the signs of God’s existence and greatness.
Surah Ar-Rum (30:20-21)
“And of His signs is that He created you from dust; then, behold, you are human beings scattered [far and wide].
And of His signs is that He created for you from the hills, houses, and made for you from the hides of animals tents which you find light during travel and heat.”
These verses invite the reader to contemplate the miraculous creation of life and the natural world. From the creation of human beings to the design of our homes and tools, all of these are signs of the Creator’s infinite wisdom and power.
10. The Role of Knowledge and Learning
The Qur’an places great emphasis on seeking knowledge and understanding. It encourages believers to reflect on the world around them, to learn, and to grow in wisdom.
Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11)
“Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.”
This verse demonstrates the elevated status of those who seek knowledge. Knowledge is seen as a path to spiritual elevation, and believers are encouraged to value learning and intellectual pursuit.
Conclusion
The Qur’an is a book of wisdom, guidance, and reflection. Its teachings cover every aspect of human existence, offering practical advice for personal conduct, spiritual growth, and social justice. The gems highlighted above are just a small sample of the timeless messages contained in the Qur’an. The themes of mercy, patience, gratitude, justice, and the importance of knowledge are ever-relevant, and they resonate with people of all backgrounds and faiths. For Muslims, the Qur’an is not just a book to be read, but a guide to be lived by, illuminating the path toward spiritual fulfillment and eternal success in the hereafter.
