Responding to Objections about Islam: Why Muslims starve themselves by during month of Ramadan?

There is general ignorance and resultant misconception about Islam, its basic pillars, form of worship, rituals and festivals among the non Muslims around the world. Thus most of the objections raised against Islam are generally because of ignorance and insuffient knowledge. We have been trying to address these objections, misinformation and disinformation, beside naked criticism about Islam in our series of posts, which have been combined in our reference page: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam.

Today we share an objection which basically stems from the ignorance of one's own faith for many even do not know what their faith directs and expects of them. And one of the objection is about fasting by Muslims in the month of Ramadan. In one of many posts on Ramadan, one non Muslim objected: Why Muslims starve themselves by during month of Ramadan?

We start answering this question from a verse from Qur'an in which its is said that fasting is made obligatory to all Muslims as was made for the previous people:

O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may develop God-consciousness. — Quran 2:183

The first thing that we make it clear that fasting is not exclusive to Muslims only. In fact fasting has been observed by the Jews and Christians as ordained by the Holy Scriptures they follow. It is another thing that by and by Jews and Christians (mostly) have distanced them from the teachings of their Holy Books and drifted away from the obligation made upon them of fasting. Muslims have firm faith that when they fast, they fast exclusively to please Allah, and in return Allah has promised special rewards for them for they have abstained all pleasures otherwise Halal for them for sake of Allah.

Let us see how fasting is observed by the Jews and Christians, traditionally and not practically as very few adhere to fasting being a Divine obligation:

Fasting in Judaism: There are six days in a year when observant Jews fast. Two “Major Fasts” call for a fast from sundown on the day before to sundown on the day itself, and four “Minor Fasts” call for a fast from sunrise to sundown. Jews have many fast days, most famously Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Unlike the days of Ramadan, that is a full-day fast, from sunset one evening before to nightfall the following evening. Fasting in Judaism requires a strong commitment. While some contemporary fasts may involve choosing specific items to abstain from, traditional Jewish fasting entails refraining from everything. It goes beyond abstaining from food and includes restrictions on water consumption, extending to activities like brushing teeth and bathing.

Fasting by Christians: Fasting is a practice in several Christian denominations and is done both collectively during certain seasons of the liturgical calendar, or individually as a believer feels led by the Holy Spirit. Many Christians also fast before receiving Holy Communion. This is known as the Eucharistic Fast. The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, written in the first century A.D., directed Christians to fast on both Wednesdays, in remembrance of the betrayal of Christ by Judas on Spy Wednesday, and Fridays, in mourning of the crucifixion of Jesus on Good Friday.[17] Historically, the Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican and Methodist denominations of Christianity have emphasized the importance of the Friday fast, which has traditionally involved fasting and abstinence from meat, lacticinia and alcohol. In Western Christianity, fasting is observed during the forty-day season of Lent by many communicants of the Catholic Church, Lutheran Churches, Anglican Communion, Moravian Church, Methodist Churches, Western Orthodox Churches, United Protestant Churches and certain Reformed Churches, to commemorate the fast observed by Christ during his temptation in the desert.

Therefore, it should not come as a surprise for people of other faiths why Muslims "starve" themselves during the month of Ramadan. In fact fasting has many health benefits, And for this very reason, the concept of intermittent fasting is getting popular around the world.  Besides it is regarded principally as a method of self purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.

• The first object of fasting in Islam is that it has been Divinely ordained for us to fast, for the sole pleasure of our Creator. We leave what is otherwise Halal for us during the period of fasting, that commences from pre-dawn to sunset. 
• Secondly, fasting is prescribed only for the able bodied, adult and healthy men and women. Even there are concessions given for the travelers to abstain from fasting and make up for the missed fasts during travel when back from journey.
• (Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will,- it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew. - Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow):184
• Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. - Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow):185
• In one of his Hadiths, Allah's Messenger Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is' The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting." - Sahi al-Bukhārī Hadith 1904
• The fasting also creates a feeling of affection and love for people who are less blessed, for both the rich and poor feel the same amount of thirst and hunger when they are fasting.
• Since Islamic calendar is based on lunar movement rather than sun, the month of Ramadan keeps advancing by ten days every year. This means one will be fasting in severe winters to severe summers and men fasting would know how the poor brave their fasts during the extreme weather, specially the summers.

No matter how one fasts, it has numerous health, spiritual and social benefits. 

Spiritually, it cleans one inner self and removes the bugs left behind evil and ill thoughts. The spiritual discipline that can help you draw closer to God, humble yourself before Him, resist temptation, seek His guidance, and show solidarity with others. By fasting and praying, you can grow in our relationship with God and become more obedient to His will.

Fasting has pleasant effects of one's health and body.  It can can slow down aging, prevent the development of diabetes, thyroid disorders, hypertension and heart disease and increase the chances of a long and healthy life. It also promotes weight loss. A healthy body weight automatically translates to healthier joints and a great body image. The concept of intermittent fasting which has lately become very popular and is widely adopted is based on the fasting which is applicable to people of the varying faiths.

Fasting also has its social dimension. Since the basic purpose of fasting is to discipline oneself, A fasting man is not allowed to use foul language and be harsh to others for it is against the spirit of fasting. It aids in preventing quarrels, backbiting and lies and fighting. This sudden change can have healthy effects on the society for everyone would be making an endeavour to be good to others to take full benefits of fasting as promised by Allah.

You may like to listen to eminent Muslim scholar of present times, Nouman Ali Khan, giving a short introductory talk on why should we fast:

Thus, Fasting is not merely starving oneself, but is primarily an exercise of devotion to willingly renounce oneself, for a definite period of time, from all bodily appetites in order to form spiritual discipline and self-control.  And Muslims with for this month of 30 days fasting to observe fasting to please Allah and be rewarded.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may read more posts on countering / responding to lies / misinformation and disinformation about Islam: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

You may also refer to our reference pages for knowing more about Ramadan and fasting:

• Ramadan - the month of fasting and blessings
• Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about fasting - Saum in Ramadan
• General Reference Pages

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

Photo | Resource References: | Wikipedia |

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Responding to Objections about Islam: Did Muhammad (ﷺ) write the Qur'an?

The non-Muslims around the world, averse to the religion of Islam, are never at ease to prove Islam and Qur'an wrong. Yet the reversion to Islam is far more than the objections being raised about Islam to play down the popularity Islam is gaining every passing day.

We have posted a number of posts to rebut the claims, lies, misconceptions and observations of Islam, but the observations and lies are never ending. We would continue to rebut such claims to silence the intended propaganda about down playing Islam. 

Today, we take on one of the 'major' observations about Islam: Did Muhammad (ﷺ) write the Qur'an? We have already written the fact sheet to respond to this question in one of our earlier posts: History of the compilation of the Qur'an. But let us take this issue from a different angle:

It is generally alleged that Islamic prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was a smart man and he would sit with people of other faiths, memorize some parts of Torah and Gospel and then included these in what is known as Qur'an today.  Although, it  is totally absurd to think that way as Muhammad (ﷺ) was totally illiterate and someone could not comprehend the intricacies of Divine Scriptures and reproduce the same to make Qur'an. But before we talk of something that is contained in Qur'an which was not known to the scholars of the time and discovered much later, let us answer some of the misconceptions and objections about writing of the Qur'an by Muhammad (ﷺ):

It is generally alleged that Muhammad (ﷺ) learnt the Qur'an from the Jews and Christians whom he met OUTSIDE ARABIA: But how could he do it as all historical records available show that Muhammad (ﷺ) had made only three trips outside Makkah before his Prophethood. (i) At the age of 6 he accompanied his mother to Madinah, (ii) Between the age of 9 & 12, he accompanied his uncle Abu-Talib on a business trip to Syria, and (iii) At the age of 25, he led Khadija's (RA) caravan to Syria. It is highly imaginary to assume that the Qur'an resulted from the occasional chats and meetings with the Christians or Jews from any of the above three trips.

The alleged 'learning' of Gospel by Muhammad (ﷺ) also makes a mention of a Christian noble man called Waraqa Ibn-Naufal who was blind and could not see. He was a relative of the Prophet's first wife Khadijah (RA.). He, although of Arab descent was a convert to Christianity and was very well versed with the New Testament. But the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) only met him twice in his lifetime. The first time was when the blind man was worshipping at Ka'abah and he kissed his forehead. The second was when wife of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) took him to the blind man after Muhammad (ﷺ) received the first revelation. And Waraqa told Khadija (RA) that whatever Muhammad (ﷺ) had told him sounds like a visitation by angel Gabriel who had been a messenger of Allah to all previous messengers. But Muhammad (ﷺ) died 3 years later while the revelation of Qur'an is spanned over a period of 23 years. If Muhammad (ﷺ) had learnt Qur'an from the blind man, why he would wait for next 23 years to make it public??

Some pagans even accused the Prophet (pbuh) of learning the Qur'an from a Roman Blacksmith, who was a Christian and lived in the outskirts of Mecca. The Prophet very often use to go and watch him do his work. A revelation of the Qur'an was sufficient to dismiss this change. The Qur'an says: "We know indeed that they say, "It is a man that teaches him." The tongue of him they wickedly point to is notably foreign, while this is Arabic, pure and clear." (Al Qur'an 16:103)

How could a person whose mother tongue was foreign and could hardly speak little but of poor broken Arabic be the source of the Qur'an which is pure, eloquent, fine Arabic? To believe that the blacksmith taught the Prophet (pbuh), the Qur'an, is somewhat similar to a Chinese immigrant to England, who did not know proper English, taught Shakespeare.

At the time of advent of Islam, the Arabic version of the Bible was not present. The earliest Arabic version of the old Testament is that of R. Saadias Gaon 900 C.E. - more than 250 years after the death of Muhammad (ﷺ). The oldest Arabic Version of the new testament was published by Erpenius in 1616 C.E. about a thousand years after the demise of our Prophet. So how could Muhammad (ﷺ) learn in detail the entire Bible from blacksmiths or interaction with traders in Syria and put across a well written document, known as Qur'an? 

The theory that Muhammad (ﷺ) authored the Qur'an or copied from other sources can be disproved by the single historical fact that he was illiterate. and this fact is testified none but Allah in the Qur'an: "And you were not (able) to recite a Book before this (Book came), nor were you (able) to transcribe it with your right hand: in that case, indeed, would the talkers of vanities have doubled." (Al Qur'an 29:48)

And the mention of coming of a prophet is made in Torah and Gospel. And Allah says: "Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures) in the Law and the Gospel" (Al Qur'an 7:157) 

If all above is taken to be correct, then how it would be justified that the mention of victory of the Roman Christians is made in the opening verses of Surah 30. Ar Rum in Verses 2-10: Romans (Christians / The Byzantines) defeat at the hands of Persian (Pagans) was taken as a sign of the Muslims defeat at the hands of Arab's unbelievers, so Allah gave good tidings for Roman's victory as well as Muslims victory in a few year

( Verse 2 )   The Byzantines have been defeated

( Verse 3 )   In the nearest land. But they, after their defeat, will overcome.

How could  Muhammad (ﷺ) predict that? Was he fortune teller or a man who could see in the future? Read The historical background of revelation of Surah Ar Rum - The Romans for details.

Let us accept for the sake of discussion that all above is true. But those who have read Qur'an, even non-Muslims, find information in Qur'an which was not known to the scholars of the time and in fact the mysteries hidden in Qur'an have only recently started to unfold due to scientific discoveries and expansion of knowledge about space and outer space. For example, how could Muhammad (ﷺ) know that the basis of life forms is water? A discovery that came much later than after the Qur'an. 

Many scientists believe that RNA, or something similar to RNA, was the first molecule on Earth to self-replicate and begin the process of evolution that led to more advanced forms of life, including human beings.

The Iron has been used since primitive or stone ages, but no one really know was Iron specific to earth, like we find mountains of stone, granite and other materials or has it come from the outer space.  Qur'an mentions that iron was sent from outer space so that man could use it. 

But look when it was found that iron is an alien materiel: The cache dates from about 3,300 bc, making the beads the oldest known iron artifacts from Egypt. A study in 1928 found that the iron in the beads had a high nickel content — a signature of iron meteorites — and led to the suggestion that it was of celestial origin.

And it was just about hundred years from now and some 1200 years ago that it was mentioned in Qur'an when no one else knew the origin of iron. How could Muhammad (ﷺ) know that?

Likewise there are many other facts that are contained in Qur'an like sky being the protective layer from harmful effects, mountains holding the earth from trembling and losing balance. And what about the stages of formation of embryo in the female body of all species, including humans, that Qur'an talks about and medical science came to know of out much too later?

We could go on to bring out facts mentioned in Qur'an which people of the time of advent of Islam and compilation of Qur'an were not even aware of. Let us watch a eye opening video in which nine scientific facts have been compiled from Qur'an that clearly show that Qur'an can never be a brain child of a human being, rather it is a Divine Scripture in which every single word comes from Allah, and no ordinary human being even if he may be a chosen messenger or prophet like Muhammad (ﷺ) 

With these nine facts mentioned in Qur'an which were not known to man in the 7th century, makes us to believe that it Divine knowledge and wisdom which man started to comprehend in a very later timeframe of history.  So let no one deceive about Islam by lies, misinformation and disinformation. Islam provides the easiest access to Allah without any intermediary to speak to Him, repent one's sins and seek forgiveness.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may read more posts on countering / responding to lies / misinformation and disinformation about Islam: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

The Rebuttal to 'Objection on Islam' that the God of Islam, Allah, is most definitely not the God of the Bible

There have ben many a objection by non-Muslims which are raised almost every now and then aginst Islam. While mostly these objections are based on incorrect information or lies against Islam, for which answers and response is given befittingly by Muslim scholars accordingly.

However, the objection that God of Islam, Allah, is most certainly no the God of Bible is one such objection to which I and almost all Muslims agree, and even Jews would subscribe to this objection. Yes certainly Allah is not 'that God' which Bible followers follow. 

But before we go in to  the rebuttal of the objection being raised, let us define who God really is:

In monotheistic belief systems, God is viewed as the supreme being, creator, and principal object of faith, as against the polytheistic belief systems, wherein a god is "a spirit or being believed to have created, or for controlling some part of the universe or life, for which such a deity is often worshipped".

In the afore mentioned definition, God is one entity and cannot have multiple assistances or helpers to rule over His creations. This God has been the God of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Job, Jonah and Moses. And this the same God, which is also God of Muslims. Since God in Arabic is translated as Allah, for the Qur'an too is in Arabic, Muslims call God of all previous prophets as well as God of last prophet Muhammad ﷺ as Allah. 

Interestingly, in the Arabic translation of all types of Bibles, God of Christians is translated as Allah. If Allah, as Christians believe, is a god of pagan Arabs, then how come they have conceded to this translation of God in Arabic as Allah?  

Herein under is the testimony of there being Only One Lord as has been referred to in Deuteronomy 5:1-9 New International Version (NIV), The Ten Commandments:

5   Moses  summoned  all Israel and said: "Hear, Israel, the decrees and laws:  I. declare in your hearing today. Learn them and be sure to follow them. 2 The Lord our God made a covenant with us at Horeb. 3 It was not with our ancestors[a] that the Lord made this covenant, but with us, with all of us who are alive here today. 4 The Lord spoke to you face to face out of the fire on the mountain. 5 (At that time I stood between the Lord and you to declare to you the word of the Lord, because you were afraid of the fire and did not go up the mountain.)"

And he said:

6 “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.7 “You shall have no other gods before[b] me. 8 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 9 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,

And in line with the same Divine commandment to Moses, Muslims also strongly believe that there is only One God, we call Allah in Arabic, and that He has no assistances and helpers to manage His entire universe. In the Holy Qur'an, Chapter 112 Surah Al Ikhlas, the same concept is repeated when Allah addresses His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and tells him to pronounce and tell others who Allah is: Say: “He is Allah, the One and Unique;

And this above referred surah is not the only one in which Allah strictly says of Himself being the Only One with no partners, associates or helpers, what to talk of a son, to run the affairs of the universe and heavens:

• Allah is only One Deity: He is far too exalted that He should have a son: whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth belongs to Him. (Surah An-Nisa, Ayat 171).
• Note it well: they, in fact, invent a falsehood when they say, Allah has children. They are utter liars. (Surah As-Saaffat, Ayats 151-152).
• They have invented a blood-relationship between Allah and the angels, whereas the angels know well that these people will be brought up (as culprits). (Surah As-Saaffat, Ayat 158).
• These people have made some of His servants to be part of Him. The fact is that man is manifestly ungrateful. (Surah Az-Zukhruf, Ayat l5).

Now coming over the the God of the Bible and the objection that the Allah is not the God of the Bible.  First of all it must be made very clear that we Muslims therefore firmly believe that Prophet Eesa (Jesus, may peace be upon him) was one of the true messengers of Allah who was endowed with the holy scripture of Injeel (The Bible).

When Christians say God of Bible, they in fact refer to the concept of Trinity which goes tangent to the definition of God of Jews and Muslims, for there can never be an assistance or anyone at par with One True God. This is very interesting, that in the same Bible, there are contradictions. On one hand, Prophet Eesa (Jesus) proclaims oneness of God and at the same time in other places Jesus is quoted to have said that he himself is God. Let us quote here few examples from Bible about the Oneness of God or otherwise: 

Do you remember what Jesus’ Father did one day when Jesus was with three of his followers?— Yes, God spoke all the way from heaven to tell them: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.”—Matthew 17:5.

Jesus was the only person to be born of a mortal mother, Mary, and an immortal father, God the Father. That is why Jesus is called the Only Begotten Son of God.[Reference]

(This is something that is refuted by Qur'an in the third verse of the Surah Al Ikhlas that He (Allah) neither begot any nor was He begotten, which clearly means that neither He (Allah) has an offspring nor is He the offspring of another. )

And yet it is said in Bible: 

"The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his SERVANT Jesus (Acts 3:13) - The Qur'an expresses the same sense in the similar words: " He who obeys the Apostle (Muhammad) obeys Allah." (Qur'an 4:80) 

22 “Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know— 23 this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death.  (Acts 2:22-23)

If despite this very clear verse from Bible, its followers still claim Jesus to be God (rather some believe him to be the only god), one cannot argue much for then there is no further imagination to make Jesus as God. Therefore Muslims do not subscribe to the concept of Trinity nor take Prophet Eesa as son of God, for Jesus is like all other messengers and prophets of Allah, though born in miraculous circumstances.

And let us quote what an ordinary Jesus followers believed (this part of the conversation I picked up from Facebook - but no names to observe privacy):

Jehova the Almighty God is the heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ is the same Jehova the Almighty God 

Are you saying Jesus is the same person as the Father?

Yes

You are confusing: When Jesus said" the Father is greater than I", "The Father is greater than all"

So when Jews killed Jesus according to Gospels, did they kill your God? But Bible says that God is immortal. Who is telling lies: you or your Bible?

I have quoted the examples so that even an ordinary believer could understand the concept. There can be numerous arguments which can be quoted from the Holy Quran, but to cut the discussion short, it should be noted that the Arabic word “Allah” contains a deep religious message due to its root meaning and origin.  This is because it stems from the Arabic verb ta’allaha (or alaha), which means “to be worshiped.”  Thus in Arabic, the word “Allah” means “The One who deserves all worship.”  This, in a nutshell, is the Pure Monotheistic message of Islam. And as per chapter 112 quoted above, The One True God or Allah is the One who has all these four unique attributes.

Note: Please our earlier post to substantiate our view point: Understanding Islam: Who is Allah? Is He the same God as that of Jews and Christians?

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may read more posts on countering / responding to lies / misinformation and disinformation about Islam: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In order to augment and add more explanation as already provided, additional input has been interjected from the following sources: 

• Tafsir Ibn Khatir
• Muhammad Asad Translation
• Yusuf Ali Translation
• Translation Javed Ahmad Ghamidi / Al Mawrid
• Qur'an Wiki
• Verse by Verse Qur'an Study Circle
• Towards Understanding the Quran

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Surah As Saffat - Those Who Set the Ranks: Exegesis of 37th chapter of the Holy Quran - Part III

Sūrah Aṣ-Ṣāffāt is the 37th chapter (sūrah) of the Qur'an with 182 verses (āyāt) and five rukhu, part of the 23rd Juz'.

In the Overview of the Sūrah, it was explained that the exegesis / tafseer of this Sūrah will be segmented owing to its length as under:

• Part - I: Rukhu 1-2 (verses 1-74)
• Part - II Rukhu 3-4 (Verses 75-138)
• Part - III Rukhu 5 (Verses 139-182)

With exegesis / tafseer of rukhus 1-4 already given in the Parts I and II, this post covers the last ruku covering verses 139-182. 

The last verses of the Surah were not only a warning for the disbelievers of Makkah, but also a good news for the believers who were passing through highly unfavorable and discouraging conditions on account of their supporting and following the Holy Prophet. In these verses they were given the good news that they should not be disheartened at the hardships and difficulties they had to encounter in the beginning, for in the end they alone would attain dominance, and the standard bearers of falsehood, who appeared to be dominant at the time would be overwhelmed and vanquished at their hands. A few years later the turn the events took, proved that it was not an empty consolation but an inevitable reality of which they had been foretold in order to strengthen their hearts.

Let us now read the translation and exegesis / tafseer in English of the Rukhu 5 (Verses 139-182) of the Surah. For Arabic Text, please refer to the references given at the end and may also listen to its recitation in Arabic with English subtitles:

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ 

"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"

Verses 149-166 mention allegations of the disbelievers of Makkah of Angels being daughters of Allah and Jinns having blood relations with Allah and a strong rebuttal by Allah for these claims being utterly false.

In fact, another theme starts from here. In the preceding theme that started from verse 11, the Quraish had been put this question: Ask them: what is more difficult: their own creation or of those things that We have created? Now, they are being asked this second question. The object of the first question was to warn the disbelievers of their deviation because of which they regarded life-after-death and the meting out of rewards and punishments as impossible, and therefore, mocked the Prophet (peace be upon him) for it. Now they are being asked this second question to warn them of their ignorance due to which they attributed children to Allah and would join anybody with Allah in any relationship they liked on mere conjecture.

149. Now ask them (O Muhammad ): "Are there (only) daughters for your Lord and sons for them?"

Traditions show that in Arabia the tribes of Quraish, Juhainah, Bani Salimah, Khuzaah, Bani Mulaih, etc. held the belief that the angels were Allah’s daughters. This belief of their ignorance has been referred to at several places in the Quran, e.g. in (Surah An-Nisa, Ayat 117); (Surah An- Nahl, Aytas 57-58); (Surah Bani-Israil, Ayat 40); (Surah Az- Zukhruf, Ayats 16, 19); (Surah An-Najm, Ayats 21-27).

150. Or did We create the angels females while they were witnesses? 151. Verily, it is of their falsehood that they (Quraish pagans) say: 152. "Allah has begotten offspring or children (i.e. angels are the daughters of Allah)?" And, verily, they are liars! 153. Has He (then) chosen daughters rather than sons? 154. What is the matter with you? How do you decide? 155. Will you not then remember? 156. Or is there for you a plain authority? 

157. Then bring your Book if you are truthful!

That is, there can be only two bases for regarding the angels as the daughters of Allah. Either such a thing could be said on the basis of observation, or the one who asserted it should possess a divine book in which Allah Himself might have stated that the angels were His daughters. Now, if those who held such belief could neither make a claim to have observed such a thing nor did they possess any divine book that might contain such a thing, there could be no greater stupidity than this that one should base his religious belief on mere conjecture, and attribute to Allah, Lord of the worlds, such things as were patently ridiculous

وَجَعَلُوۡا بَيۡنَهٗ وَبَيۡنَ الۡجِنَّةِ نَسَبًا ؕ​ وَلَقَدۡ عَلِمَتِ الۡجِنَّةُ اِنَّهُمۡ لَمُحۡضَرُوۡنَۙ‏ 

158. And they have invented a kinship between Him and the jinns, but the jinns know well that they have indeed to appear (before Him) (i.e. they will be brought for accounts).

Though the word used is al-jinnah instead of almalaikah, some major commentators have opined that here the word jinn has been used for malaikah in its literal sense (of hidden creation); malaikah (angels) also are, in reality, a hidden creation, and the following theme also demands that al jinnah here be taken in the sense of al-malaikah.

159. Glorified is Allah! (He is Free) from what they attribute unto Him! 160. Except the slaves of Allah, whom He chooses (for His Mercy i.e. true believers of Islamic Monotheism who do not attribute false things unto Allah). 161. So, verily you (pagans) and those whom you worship (idols). 162. Cannot lead astray [turn away from Him (Allah) anyone of the believers], 

163. Except those who are predestined to burn in Hell!

Another translation of this verse can be: Therefore, you and your worship: on this you cannot tempt into mischief anyone except him. According to this second translation, the meaning would be: O you who have gone astray, by this worship that you are performing before us, and regarding us as the children of Allah, Lord of the worlds, you cannot tempt us into mischief. By this you can only beguile a fool who might be working for his own doom. So, we refuse to fall into the trap that you have set for us.

164. There is not one of us (angels) but has his known place (or position);

That is, not to speak of being Allah’s children, we do not have the power to exceed in any way or degree the place and position and status appointed for each of us by Allah.

165. Verily, we (angels), we stand in rows for the prayers (as you Muslims stand in rows for your prayers); 166. Verily, we (angels), we are they who glorify (Allah's Praises i.e. perform prayers).

Verses 167-182 give glad tidings that Allah has promised to help His Rasools and His devotees:

167. And indeed they (Arab pagans) used to say; 168. "If we had a reminder as had the men of old (before the coming of Prophet Muhammad  as a Messenger of Allah).

169. "We would have indeed been the chosen slaves of Allah (true believers of Islamic Monotheism)!"

This same thing has already been mentioned in( Surah Fatir, Ayat 42). "Swearing by Allah their strongest oaths they claimed that if a warner came to them they would be better-guided than any other people. But when a warner did come to them, his coming only increased their aversion (to the Truth)."

170. But (now that the Qur'an has come) they disbelieve therein (i.e. in the Qur'an and in Prophet Muhammad  , and all that which he brought, the Divine Revelation), so they will come to know! 171. And, verily, Our Word has gone forth of old for Our slaves, the Messengers, 172. That they verily would be made triumphant.

173. And that Our hosts, they verily would be the victors.

Allah’s army: implies the believers who obey Allah’s Messenger and side with him. This also includes those unseen powers by which Allah helps the followers of the truth.
This help and domination does not necessarily mean that in every age every Prophet of Allah and his followers must attain political dominance, but this dominance has many forms, one of which is political rule as well. Wherever the Prophets of Allah did not attain any such dominance, they did establish their moral superiority even in those places. The nations which did not accept their message and adopted a way contrary to their teachings were ultimately doomed to destruction. Whatever philosophies of error and misguidance the people invented and whatever corrupt and evil practices of life they enforced died out ultimately after they had their sway for some time. But the truths preached by the Prophets of Allah for thousands of years have been unalterable before as they are unalterable today. No one has been able to disprove them in any way.

174. So turn away (O Muhammad ) from them for a while,

175. And watch them and they shall see (the punishment)!

That is, it will not take long when they will see their defeat and your victory with their own eyes. This proved to be true as it had been foretold. Hardly 14 to 15 years had passed after the revelation of these vases when the pagans of Makkah witnessed the Prophet (peace be upon him) enter their city as a conqueror, and then a few years later the same people saw that Islam had overwhelmed not only Arabia but the mighty empires of Rome and Iran as well.

176. Do they seek to hasten on Our Torment?
177. Then, when it descends into their courtyard (i.e. near to them), evil will be the morning for those who had been warned!
178.  So turn (O Muhammad ) away from them for a while,
179. And watch and they shall see (the torment)!
180. Glorified be your Lord, the Lord of Honour and Power! (He is free) from what they attribute unto Him!
181. And peace be on the Messengers!
182. And all the praise and thanks be to Allah, Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists).

Here we come to the end of the Part III of the exegesis / tafseer of rukus 5 (verses 149-182) of the surah and the end of Surah As Saffat as well.. In the Part III exegesis / tafsir of the fifth ruku (verses 149-182) will be presented. May Allah help us to understand the Holy Quran better than before. Aameen.

You may now like to listen to Arabic recitation of Sūrah Aṣ-Ṣāffāt  with English subtitles:

You may refer to our post "114 Chapters (Sūrahs) of the Holy Qur'an" for translation, meaning and summary / exegesis of other chapters (Though not complete but building up from 30th Juzʼ / Part backwards for chapters in 30th Juzʼ / Part are shorter and easier to understand). 

Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
Reading the Holy Quran should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully.

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs of the Holy Qur'an from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. However, the exegesis of the chapters of the Holy Quran are basically based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi. In addition the references of  other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook
Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More