Quran

Definition

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. It serves as the foundation of Islamic faith and practice, containing guidance on moral conduct, law, and spirituality that connects believers across the Islamic world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Quran is divided into 114 chapters, known as Suras, which vary in length and cover a range of topics including theology, morality, and law.
2. Muslims recite verses from the Quran during prayers (Salah), emphasizing its central role in daily worship and spiritual life.
3. The Quran was revealed over a period of approximately 23 years, starting in 610 CE when Muhammad received his first revelation until his death in 632 CE.
4. The text of the Quran is considered unaltered since its revelation, and it is written in Arabic, which is also seen as a sacred language in Islam.
5. Recitation of the Quran is an art form known as Tajweed, which involves rules of pronunciation and rhythm that enhance the beauty of its verses.

Review Questions

• How does the Quran influence the daily lives of Muslims across different cultures?
  • The Quran profoundly influences the daily lives of Muslims by providing guidance on moral conduct, personal behavior, and social responsibilities. Its teachings are integrated into daily prayers, rituals, and community interactions. Furthermore, different cultures interpret and apply Quranic principles in diverse ways, leading to a rich tapestry of Islamic practice that reflects local customs while remaining anchored in shared beliefs.
• In what ways do the Hadith complement the teachings found in the Quran?
  • The Hadith complement the teachings found in the Quran by providing additional context and examples of how Prophet Muhammad lived according to divine guidance. While the Quran outlines core beliefs and commandments, the Hadith elaborates on practical applications and interpretations of these teachings. This combination helps Muslims understand not just what to believe but also how to implement those beliefs in everyday life.
• Evaluate the significance of the Quran's preservation throughout history and its impact on Islamic civilization.
  • The preservation of the Quran throughout history is significant as it has maintained a consistent source of guidance for Muslims worldwide. Its unaltered text fosters unity among diverse Islamic communities and serves as a cornerstone for Islamic jurisprudence (Sharia). The Quran's impact on Islamic civilization is profound; it has influenced art, literature, education, and law across various cultures, shaping social norms and political structures while fostering a sense of shared identity among Muslims throughout history.

Related terms

Hadith: The Hadith are collections of sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad that complement the Quran and provide additional context for Islamic teachings.

Sharia:

Sharia is Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, governing various aspects of daily life, morality, and legal matters for Muslims.

Sura: A Sura is a chapter of the Quran; there are 114 Suras in total, each varying in length and addressing different themes and issues.