““A BEGINNERS’ COURSE ON A BEGINNERS’ COURSE ON ISLAM”ISLAM”
Lessons on Fardhu ‘Ain in English for Lessons on Fardhu ‘Ain in English for AdultsAdults
conducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
IT CAN ALSO BE A REFRESHER
COURSE FOR MUSLIM PARENTS,
EDUCATORS, IN CONTEMPORARY
SINGAPORE. OPEN TO ALL
Using textbook & curriculum he has developed especially for Using textbook & curriculum he has developed especially for Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims. Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims.
““To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”
UPDATED 12 SEPTEMBER 2014UPDATED 12 SEPTEMBER 2014
20 weekly class started from: 15 AUGUST 2014 Every Friday night @ 8pm – 10pmWisma Indah, 450 Changi Road, #02-00 next to Masjid Kassim
BATCH # 12 - AUGUST 2014 INTAKEBATCH # 12 - AUGUST 2014 INTAKE
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
TAUTAUHHEED - RISAALAH
EED - RISAALAH
LESSON # 3 (a)
LESSON # 3 (a)
““CRITERIA”CRITERIA”Al-Qur’an: Proof of Al-Qur’an: Proof of
Muhammad’s ProphethoodMuhammad’s Prophethood..
Lesson #3Lesson #3
FARDHU’AINFARDHU’AIN: CONDUCTED BY: CONDUCTED BYUSTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAILUSTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAILLESSONS FROM TEXTBOOK LESSONS FROM TEXTBOOK ““Beginners’ Manual on IslamBeginners’ Manual on Islam””
2
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, MOST MOST COMPASSIONATE,COMPASSIONATE,MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Allah” Allah” : : Arabic proper noun; name for God, it refers Arabic proper noun; name for God, it refers
to the One and Only, the Unique Creator, Lord to the One and Only, the Unique Creator, Lord
Sustainer of the Universe, Who Alone is God – there Sustainer of the Universe, Who Alone is God – there
is none besides Allah.is none besides Allah.
No equivalent translation in non-Semitic language.No equivalent translation in non-Semitic language.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Muhammad s.a.a.w.” Muhammad s.a.a.w.” : : Arabic name meaning “Arabic name meaning “the the
Praised OnePraised One”; he is the Chosen, Unlettered Prophet, ”; he is the Chosen, Unlettered Prophet,
the servant and Messenger of Allah, the Awaited the servant and Messenger of Allah, the Awaited
Seal of Prophethood after whom there will be no Seal of Prophethood after whom there will be no
more prophet sent.more prophet sent.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““There are many miracles of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to be There are many miracles of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to be
offered as the evidence, and the greatest and most outstanding of offered as the evidence, and the greatest and most outstanding of
them is still available to be considered by anyone (even today, until them is still available to be considered by anyone (even today, until
the Day of Judgement ) is without doubt, the Qur’an .... ”the Day of Judgement ) is without doubt, the Qur’an .... ”
5All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
6
““The Criteria The Criteria for a Holy for a Holy
Book”Book”
by : by : Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj IsmailUstaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
Singapore.Singapore.
- a case for the Qur’an
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/TO VIEW ON BLOGTO VIEW ON BLOG
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, MOST MOST COMPASSIONATE,COMPASSIONATE,MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
INTRODUCTION AND INTRODUCTION AND A BRIEF BACKGROUNDA BRIEF BACKGROUND
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Avoiding the Fallacy termed as “circular reasoning”:
Q: How do you know that your doctrine is true?
A: Because it is written in this Book!
Q: What makes you believe that that Book is truly from God?
A: Because I have faith in it!
Q: How do you get that faith?
A: Because I read that (same) Book!
Q: But how do you know that that Book is truly from God!?
A: Because I have faith!
Q: But how do you get that faith?
A: I read the Book!!……?
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Any inter-faith discussion has to firstly contend with the issue of
proving, with evidence and reasoning, the basis for acceptance of a
“Book said to be from God”, before assigning it as the authority for
reference regarding doctrines.
To regard that a “Book is from God” requires that we firstly have to
provide certain reasoning or rationale (criteria) as proof for
accepting such a conclusion.
The objective question to consider firstly is, “How can we agree
that a particular book can be relied upon as authoritative?”
“What would you insist that such a Book must have, to convince
you that it is indeed of Divine authorship?”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
10
CLAIM ITSELF TO BE CLAIM ITSELF TO BE FROM GODFROM GOD
The Book itself must make the claim, The Book itself must make the claim, and not what people attribute to it and not what people attribute to it based on whatever reasons.based on whatever reasons.
THE CRITERIA # 1# 1
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““And this, too, is a divine writ which We (God)) have bestowed And this, too, is a divine writ which We (God)) have bestowed
from on high – blessed, confirming the truth of whatever there from on high – blessed, confirming the truth of whatever there
still remains [of earlier revelations] – and [this] in order that thou still remains [of earlier revelations] – and [this] in order that thou
(O Muhammad) mayest warn the foremost of all cities and all (O Muhammad) mayest warn the foremost of all cities and all
who dwell around it.”who dwell around it.”
((Qur’an: Al-An’am: 6: 92Qur’an: Al-An’am: 6: 92))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““We (Allah) sent down the Qur’an in Truth, and in We (Allah) sent down the Qur’an in Truth, and in
Truth has it descended : and We sent you but to give Truth has it descended : and We sent you but to give
glad tidings and to warn (sinners). It is a Qur’an which glad tidings and to warn (sinners). It is a Qur’an which
We have divided (into parts from time to time) in We have divided (into parts from time to time) in
order that you (O Muhammad) might recite it to men order that you (O Muhammad) might recite it to men
at intervals : We have revealed it by stages”at intervals : We have revealed it by stages”
((Qur’an : Bani Isra’il : 105Qur’an : Bani Isra’il : 105) )
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
14
UNIQUE AND UNIQUE AND INIMITABLEINIMITABLE
A Book from God must be unique so that it is A Book from God must be unique so that it is distinct from other books. Thus, inimitability distinct from other books. Thus, inimitability (not possible for any to produce another like (not possible for any to produce another like it) is an important quality.it) is an important quality.
THE CRITERIA # 2# 2
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“ “And if you are in doubt as to what We have revealed from And if you are in doubt as to what We have revealed from
time to time to our servant, time to time to our servant, then produce a Surah like then produce a Surah like
thereuntothereunto ; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any) ; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any)
besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true”besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true”
((Surah al-Baqarah : 2: 23Surah al-Baqarah : 2: 23))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Now this Qur’an could not possibly have been Now this Qur’an could not possibly have been
devised by anyone save Allah (God)devised by anyone save Allah (God): nay indeed, it : nay indeed, it
confirms the truth of whatever there still remains confirms the truth of whatever there still remains
[of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the [of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the
revelation [which comes] – revelation [which comes] – let there be no doubt let there be no doubt
about it – from the Sustainer of all the worldsabout it – from the Sustainer of all the worlds.”.”
((Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
To the Arabs at the time of Muhammad s.a.w. then, it To the Arabs at the time of Muhammad s.a.w. then, it
was their language (Arabic), linguistic and literary skills was their language (Arabic), linguistic and literary skills
in composing odes and poetry which were held in in composing odes and poetry which were held in
highest regard. highest regard.
This was their greatest accomplishment, which they This was their greatest accomplishment, which they
have honed and it marked them out as Arabs.have honed and it marked them out as Arabs.
And it is to this that the ‘And it is to this that the ‘miraclemiracle’ nature of the Qur’an ’ nature of the Qur’an
was highlighted to them to be especially tested.was highlighted to them to be especially tested.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Many of these celebrated poets of the Quraysh, like:Many of these celebrated poets of the Quraysh, like:
Musaylama al-Kadz-dzabMusaylama al-Kadz-dzab;;
Thulaihah ibn Khuwailid al-As’adyThulaihah ibn Khuwailid al-As’ady; ;
An-Nadhor ibn HarithAn-Nadhor ibn Harith;;
MutanabbyMutanabby; ; Ibn al-MuqoffaIbn al-Muqoffa ; ; etc., etc.,
attempted but could not succeed but their attempts were attempted but could not succeed but their attempts were
even denounced by their own peers, when compared to even denounced by their own peers, when compared to
the style, eloquence, exquisite beauty and profoundness the style, eloquence, exquisite beauty and profoundness
of the Qur’an. of the Qur’an. All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““The Striking Calamity - What is the Striking Calamity? And what The Striking Calamity - What is the Striking Calamity? And what
can make you know what is the Striking Calamity? It is the Day can make you know what is the Striking Calamity? It is the Day
when people will be like moths, dispersed. And the mountains will when people will be like moths, dispersed. And the mountains will
be like wool, fluffed up.”be like wool, fluffed up.”
((Qur’an: al-Qari-’ah: 101: 1-5Qur’an: al-Qari-’ah: 101: 1-5))
FIRST CONSIDER
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
FIRST CONSIDER
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““The Inevitable Reality - What is the Inevitable The Inevitable Reality - What is the Inevitable
Reality? Reality?
And what can make you know what is the Inevitable And what can make you know what is the Inevitable
Reality? Reality?
Thamud and 'Aad denied the Striking Calamity. Thamud and 'Aad denied the Striking Calamity.
So as for Thamud, they were destroyed by the So as for Thamud, they were destroyed by the
overpowering [blast]. And as for 'Aad, they were overpowering [blast]. And as for 'Aad, they were
destroyed by a screaming, violent wind .”destroyed by a screaming, violent wind .”
((Qur’an: al-Haqqa: 69: 1-4Qur’an: al-Haqqa: 69: 1-4))
FIRST CONSIDER
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
"The elephant. What is the elephant? "The elephant. What is the elephant?
And what can make you know what And what can make you know what
is the elephant? He has a ropy tail and a long trunk."is the elephant? He has a ropy tail and a long trunk."
THEN, COMPARE
THEM WITH THIS
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
And standard of Arabic language used by people had And standard of Arabic language used by people had
declined since that golden era. Thus it would become near declined since that golden era. Thus it would become near
impossible for any to respond to this challenge ever again.impossible for any to respond to this challenge ever again.
One well known poet at the time, One well known poet at the time, Walid ibn MughirahWalid ibn Mughirah
(himself a respected leader of the Quraysh), even admitted (himself a respected leader of the Quraysh), even admitted
to his peers, after hearing Muhammad’s recitation of a to his peers, after hearing Muhammad’s recitation of a
portion of the Qur’an saying, that these could not be the portion of the Qur’an saying, that these could not be the
work of mortals - whether it be of man or spirits – echoing work of mortals - whether it be of man or spirits – echoing
precisely a verse in the Qur’an:. precisely a verse in the Qur’an:.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Now this Qur’an could not possibly have been Now this Qur’an could not possibly have been
devised by anyone save Allah (God)devised by anyone save Allah (God): nay indeed, it : nay indeed, it
confirms the truth of whatever there still remains confirms the truth of whatever there still remains
[of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the [of earlier revelations] and clearly spells out the
revelation [which comes] – revelation [which comes] – let there be no doubt let there be no doubt
about it – from the Sustainer of all the worldsabout it – from the Sustainer of all the worlds.”.”
((Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 37))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Say: "If all mankind and all invisible beings would come Say: "If all mankind and all invisible beings would come
together with a view to producing the like of this Qur'an, together with a view to producing the like of this Qur'an,
they could not produce its like they could not produce its like even though they were to even though they were to
exert all their strength in aiding one another!”exert all their strength in aiding one another!”
((Qur’an: al-Isra’: 17: 88Qur’an: al-Isra’: 17: 88))
THE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIYTHE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIY
And in only one verse … !
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
THE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIYTHE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIY
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Allah, there is none worthy of worship except He, the Ever-Living,
the Ever-Subsisting (Eternally watchful);
Neither drowsiness nor sleep overtakes Him;
To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth;
Who is there that can intercede with Him except by His permission;
He knows what is before them and what will be after them;
And they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except as He wills;
His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth;
And their preservation tires Him not;
And He, is the Most High (Exalted), the Most Supreme.”(Qur’an: Baqarah: 2 : 255)
THE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIYTHE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIY
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Allah, there is none worthy of worship except Allah, there is none worthy of worship except HE, the HE, the EVER-LIVINGEVER-LIVING, the , the EVER-WATCHFULEVER-WATCHFUL;;
Neither drowsiness nor sleep OVERTAKES HIM
To Him belongs whatever is in the HEAVENS and the EARTH
His Throne extends over the HEAVENS and the EARTH
And their preservation TIRES HIM NOT
And HE, is the MOST HIGH, the MOST SUPREME
Who is there that can intercede with Him Who is there that can intercede with Him EXCEPTEXCEPT by by HIS PERMISSIONHIS PERMISSION
And they encompass not a thing of His And they encompass not a thing of His knowledge knowledge EXCEPTEXCEPT for what for what HE WILLSHE WILLS
He knows what is He knows what is BEFOREBEFORE them and what will them and what will be be AFTERAFTER them them
Symmetry as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali KhanSymmetry as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali Khan
THE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIYTHE AMAZING AYATUL-KURSIY
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“ And Declare the Greatness only of your Lord ”
Palindrome as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali KhanPalindrome as explained by Sheikh Nouman Ali Khan
Try to translate this declaration of God’s GreatnessIn other languages with similar linguistic brilliance
( Surah Muddathir:74: 3 )
LINGUISTIC MIRACLE
ONLY BEST APPRECIATED
IN THE ARABIC
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle
way, so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the truth
before all mankind, and that the Messenger might bear witness to
it before you.”
(Qur’an: Surah al-Baqarah: 2: 143)
NOTE: word literally mean “middle or center”. Now that the Qur’an has been written and numbering of verses assigned, it is discovered that this verse 143 too, is actually placed right in the center of Surah al-Baqarah which comprise of 286 verses.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
LINGUISTIC MIRACLE
ONLY BEST APPRECIATED
IN THE ARABIC
MANY CAN ONLY OFFER SUGGESTIONS AS “RED-HERRINGS”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
STILL … THE QUR’AN PROVIDE REFUTATIONS
“And no question do they bring to thee but We reveal to
thee the Truth and the explanation thereof”
(Qur’an: al-Furqan : 33)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”If they say: “Muhammad wrote it !”
[O Muhammad] thou hast never been able to recite any divine [O Muhammad] thou hast never been able to recite any divine
writ ere this one [was revealed], nor didst thou ever transcribe writ ere this one [was revealed], nor didst thou ever transcribe
one with thine own hand – or else, they who try to disprove the one with thine own hand – or else, they who try to disprove the
truth [of thy revelation] might indeed have had cause to doubt [it]. truth [of thy revelation] might indeed have had cause to doubt [it].
Nay, but this [divine writ] consists of messages clear to the Nay, but this [divine writ] consists of messages clear to the
hearts of all who are gifted with [innate] knowledge – and none hearts of all who are gifted with [innate] knowledge – and none
could knowingly reject Our messages unless it be such as could knowingly reject Our messages unless it be such as
would do wrong [to themselves].”would do wrong [to themselves].”
((Qur’an: al-Ankabut: 29: 47-49Qur’an: al-Ankabut: 29: 47-49))All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Those who reject Faith say: ‘Why is not the Qur’an Those who reject Faith say: ‘Why is not the Qur’an
revealed to him all at once?’ Thus is it revealed that We revealed to him all at once?’ Thus is it revealed that We
may strengthen thy heart thereby, and We rehearsed it to may strengthen thy heart thereby, and We rehearsed it to
thee in slow well-arranged stages, gradually”thee in slow well-arranged stages, gradually”
((Qur’an: al-Furqan: 32Qur’an: al-Furqan: 32))
If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”If they say: “Why has not the Qur’an been revealed to him all at once?”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Now had We willed this [divine writ] to be a discourse in a
non-Arabic tongue, they would surely have said, ‘Why are not
its verses explained in detail? What! (a book) not in Arabic
and (a messenger) an Arab?’ Say: ‘It is a Guide and a Healing
to those who believe”
(Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 44)
If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?If they say: “Why an Arabic Qur’an?
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““No evil ones have brought down this (revelation). It would No evil ones have brought down this (revelation). It would
neither suit them nor would they be able to produce it!”neither suit them nor would they be able to produce it!”
((Qur’an: ash-Shuara: 210-211Qur’an: ash-Shuara: 210-211))
If they say: “Muhammad may have received it from the Devil !”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““We know indeed that they say ‘It is a man that teaches him’ We know indeed that they say ‘It is a man that teaches him’
(but) the tongue of him they wickedly pointed to is notably (but) the tongue of him they wickedly pointed to is notably
foreign, while it (Al-Qur’an) is Arabic, pure and clear”foreign, while it (Al-Qur’an) is Arabic, pure and clear”
((Qur’an: an-Nahl: 103Qur’an: an-Nahl: 103))
If they say:” He was taught by a Jew or a Christian!”If they say:” He was taught by a Jew or a Christian!”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Say: ‘Truth has arrived, and falsehood neither creates Say: ‘Truth has arrived, and falsehood neither creates
anything new, nor restores anything”anything new, nor restores anything”
((Qur’an: Saba’: 34: 49Qur’an: Saba’: 34: 49))
If they say: “It is a fraud!”If they say: “It is a fraud!”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
47
CONTAINS CONTAINS ABSOLUTE ABSOLUTE PRINCIPLESPRINCIPLES
All principles which the book contains must All principles which the book contains must be absolute (not affected by time) and be absolute (not affected by time) and remain as true today as they will remain remain as true today as they will remain true in the future and as they had proven true in the future and as they had proven true in the past.true in the past.
THE CRITERIA # 3# 3
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If one is truly objective (in the sense of seeking justice) and is If one is truly objective (in the sense of seeking justice) and is
sincere in analysing the history of the Arabs and in comparing sincere in analysing the history of the Arabs and in comparing
their condition before with that after the revelation of the their condition before with that after the revelation of the
Qur’an, it would become obvious that their society underwent Qur’an, it would become obvious that their society underwent
a drastic change – one that was quite revolutionary. a drastic change – one that was quite revolutionary.
Their customs, trends, worldview and accepted norms were in Their customs, trends, worldview and accepted norms were in
fact overturned and replaced with fundamental principles fact overturned and replaced with fundamental principles
quite unknown to them before this, and since then it has quite unknown to them before this, and since then it has
continued to be adhered to even till today. continued to be adhered to even till today. All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too
advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained
away as having their origin in human and societal influences away as having their origin in human and societal influences
current at that time. current at that time. ONE OF THE EXAMPLE – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :ONE OF THE EXAMPLE – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too Moreover, these principles can justifiably be said to be too
advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained advanced for that time, so that they cannot be explained
away as having their origin in human and societal influences away as having their origin in human and societal influences
current at that time. current at that time. ONE OF THE EXAMPLE – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :ONE OF THE EXAMPLE – “BANNING INTOXICANTS” :
““O You who have attained to faith! O You who have attained to faith! IntoxicantIntoxicants, and games of chance, s, and games of chance,
idolatrous practices, and the divining of the future are but a loathsome idolatrous practices, and the divining of the future are but a loathsome
evil of Satan’s doing: evil of Satan’s doing: Shun them Shun them so that you may be successful “so that you may be successful “((Qur’an: Ma’idah: 5: 90Qur’an: Ma’idah: 5: 90))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
And today, the dangers of alcoholism, substance abuse and And today, the dangers of alcoholism, substance abuse and
drug addiction are well acknowledged scourge, whereas the drug addiction are well acknowledged scourge, whereas the
Qur’an has, not only explicitly warns mankind against it Qur’an has, not only explicitly warns mankind against it
since 1400 years ago, it has since then started a movement since 1400 years ago, it has since then started a movement
towards eradicating this menace and has been successful in towards eradicating this menace and has been successful in
producing the producing the biggest society of teetotallers biggest society of teetotallers with an with an
uncompromising stance towards it – uncompromising stance towards it – ““shun themshun them” totally, ” totally,
not even imbibing of even a drop of it.not even imbibing of even a drop of it.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Today, over 1.5 billion Muslims as the rule, abstain from Today, over 1.5 billion Muslims as the rule, abstain from
every alcoholic drink and intoxicant on religious grounds, every alcoholic drink and intoxicant on religious grounds,
because it has been forbidden by God (as because it has been forbidden by God (as HaramHaram), explicitly ), explicitly
recorded and preserved in the original religious text or recorded and preserved in the original religious text or
scripture.scripture.
Although there may be few exceptions of disobedient Although there may be few exceptions of disobedient
Muslims, yet Muslims, yet no other religion has been as successful as no other religion has been as successful as
Islam in advocating sobriety as a religious obligationIslam in advocating sobriety as a religious obligation..
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
53
CONTAINS NEITHER CONTAINS NEITHER DISCREPANCY NOR DISCREPANCY NOR INACCURACYINACCURACY
God is perfect in His Wisdom and God is perfect in His Wisdom and cannot be the author of discrepancies cannot be the author of discrepancies and/or inaccuracies.and/or inaccuracies.
THE CRITERIA # 4# 4
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Do they not consider the Qur’an with care ? Had it been
from other than Allah, they would surely have found
therein much discrepancy”
(Surah An- Nisa’ : 4: 82)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
56
CONTRIBUTES TO THE CONTRIBUTES TO THE WELL-BEING OF PEOPLE WELL-BEING OF PEOPLE OF ALL LEVEL OF ALL LEVEL
Unlike other books which appeal to or Unlike other books which appeal to or benefit only certain classes of people benefit only certain classes of people according to their intellectual levels, the according to their intellectual levels, the Book of God is meant for all classes of Book of God is meant for all classes of people. Only God’s Wisdom is capable of people. Only God’s Wisdom is capable of producing such a Book.producing such a Book.
THE CRITERIA # 5# 5
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““All praise is due to Allah, who has bestowed this divine All praise is due to Allah, who has bestowed this divine
writ from on high upon His Servant (Muhammad), and has writ from on high upon His Servant (Muhammad), and has
not allowed any deviousness to obscure its meanings: not allowed any deviousness to obscure its meanings:
[a divine writ] unerringly straight, meant to warn[a divine writ] unerringly straight, meant to warn
[the godless] of a severe punishment from Him, and to [the godless] of a severe punishment from Him, and to
give unto the believers who do good works the glad tiding give unto the believers who do good works the glad tiding
that theirs shall be a goodly reward – [a state of bliss] in that theirs shall be a goodly reward – [a state of bliss] in
which they shall dwell beyond the count of time.”which they shall dwell beyond the count of time.”
((Qur’an: al-Kahf: 18: 1-3Qur’an: al-Kahf: 18: 1-3))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because: would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because:
Simple devotees refer to it, yet it is not merely a book on Simple devotees refer to it, yet it is not merely a book on
devotions; devotions;
legists (jurist) formulate legal rulings from it, and yet it is not legists (jurist) formulate legal rulings from it, and yet it is not
merely a book of laws; merely a book of laws;
educationist derived wisdom from it and yet it does not only educationist derived wisdom from it and yet it does not only
speak about education; speak about education;
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because : would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :
theologians are guided by its principles, and yet it is not merely theologians are guided by its principles, and yet it is not merely
a book on theology; a book on theology;
it mentions past history and indicate to contemporary men the it mentions past history and indicate to contemporary men the
remnants of past civilization to be discovered, visited and remnants of past civilization to be discovered, visited and
studied, yet it is not a book on history or archaeology;studied, yet it is not a book on history or archaeology;
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because : would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :
it points to the signs in the universe and provide principles for it points to the signs in the universe and provide principles for
contemplation and reflection for thinkers and philosophers, contemplation and reflection for thinkers and philosophers,
yet it is not a book on philosophy; yet it is not a book on philosophy;
it highlights laws of natural phenomenon long before man it highlights laws of natural phenomenon long before man
develops serious study of natural sciences, from which it only develops serious study of natural sciences, from which it only
confirms observations made by the book, yet it is not a book confirms observations made by the book, yet it is not a book
on science; on science; All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because : would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :
those who have the aesthetic appreciation for beauty in those who have the aesthetic appreciation for beauty in
language and expression are enthralled by its recitation, yet it language and expression are enthralled by its recitation, yet it
is not a book on poetry; is not a book on poetry;
Arabic linguists and grammarians use its standard for Arabic linguists and grammarians use its standard for
correctness and eloquence, yet it is not a book on grammar; correctness and eloquence, yet it is not a book on grammar;
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books Applying to the Qur’an the usual categorizations for Books
would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because : would be impossible for this is no ordinary book, because :
those seeking solace and spirituality finds in it companionship those seeking solace and spirituality finds in it companionship
and guidance towards their spiritual upliftment, yet it is not and guidance towards their spiritual upliftment, yet it is not
merely a book on spirituality; merely a book on spirituality;
it has inspired and transformed a whole civilization through all it has inspired and transformed a whole civilization through all
classes of people who then manifested the effect it has on classes of people who then manifested the effect it has on
them in almost every field of human endeavour. them in almost every field of human endeavour.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Perhaps the closest categorization would be ‘an Perhaps the closest categorization would be ‘an
encyclopaedia’, yet it even transcend this when we encyclopaedia’, yet it even transcend this when we
realise that this book contains only just over 6,000 realise that this book contains only just over 6,000
verses – and has never needed any re-edition. verses – and has never needed any re-edition.
Only one category is possible, and that is, it is a Only one category is possible, and that is, it is a
book of God for the guidance of mankind. book of God for the guidance of mankind.
Only God’s Wisdom is capable for its authorship.Only God’s Wisdom is capable for its authorship.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
65
SOME PROPHECIES SOME PROPHECIES PROVEN TO BE TRUEPROVEN TO BE TRUE
Proof of God’s knowledge is in the truth of Proof of God’s knowledge is in the truth of His prophecies. Although there are many His prophecies. Although there are many which have not yet come to pass, still there which have not yet come to pass, still there must be some prophecies which can validate must be some prophecies which can validate this unique attribute of God in the Book.this unique attribute of God in the Book.
THE CRITERIA # 6# 6
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“ “Truly did Allah fulfil the vision for His Messenger: Ye shall Truly did Allah fulfil the vision for His Messenger: Ye shall
enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds secure, enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds secure,
heads, shaved, hair cut short, and without fear. For He knew heads, shaved, hair cut short, and without fear. For He knew
what ye knew not and He granted besides this a speedy what ye knew not and He granted besides this a speedy
victory. It is He who has sent His Messenger with Guidance victory. It is He who has sent His Messenger with Guidance
and the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion: and and the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion: and
enough is Allah for a Witness.” enough is Allah for a Witness.”
((Qur’an: Surah Fath: 48: 27-28Qur’an: Surah Fath: 48: 27-28))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
This verses were revealed when Muslims were a This verses were revealed when Muslims were a
disregarded group, oppressed and weak, living in disregarded group, oppressed and weak, living in
Madinah after being forced to migrate there, and Madinah after being forced to migrate there, and
then had to face several invasions by the Quraish. then had to face several invasions by the Quraish.
Yet the prophecy came of the Prophet’s imminent Yet the prophecy came of the Prophet’s imminent
entrance into Makkah, as well as the conquest and entrance into Makkah, as well as the conquest and
triumph of Islam over the Makkans.triumph of Islam over the Makkans.
NOTENOTE:
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“ “Alif Lam Mim. The Roman Empire has been defeated― Alif Lam Mim. The Roman Empire has been defeated―
In a land close by; but they, (even) after (this) defeat of In a land close by; but they, (even) after (this) defeat of
theirs, will soon be victorious. Within a few years. With theirs, will soon be victorious. Within a few years. With
Allah is the Decision, in the Past and in the Future: on Allah is the Decision, in the Past and in the Future: on
that Day shall the Believers rejoice―”that Day shall the Believers rejoice―”
((Qur’an: Rum: 30: 1-4Qur’an: Rum: 30: 1-4))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Perish the hands of Abu Lahab (the Father of Flame)! Perish the hands of Abu Lahab (the Father of Flame)!
Perish he! No profit to him from all his wealth, and all his Perish he! No profit to him from all his wealth, and all his
gains! Burnt soon will he be in a Fire of blazing Flame! His gains! Burnt soon will he be in a Fire of blazing Flame! His
wife shall carry the (crackling) wood ―as fuel!― A twisted wife shall carry the (crackling) wood ―as fuel!― A twisted
rope of palm-leaf fibre round her (own) neck!” rope of palm-leaf fibre round her (own) neck!”
((Qur’an: al-Masad: 111: 1-5Qur’an: al-Masad: 111: 1-5))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Even after this verse, Abu Lahab continued to live for Even after this verse, Abu Lahab continued to live for
another 10 years but finally died as an unbeliever, another 10 years but finally died as an unbeliever,
true to the prophecy.true to the prophecy.
The opportunity for him to contradict this prophecy The opportunity for him to contradict this prophecy
was available during these years – even by him was available during these years – even by him
pretending to accept Islam – yet the enemies of pretending to accept Islam – yet the enemies of
Islam in Makkah had never realised this.Islam in Makkah had never realised this.
NOTENOTE:
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
74
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH VALIDATES DATA IN VALIDATES DATA IN THE BOOKTHE BOOK
Any scientific fact mentioned in the Book Any scientific fact mentioned in the Book should be able to stand the test of time should be able to stand the test of time and scientific research.and scientific research.
THE CRITERIA # 7# 7
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Our understanding of empirical science and Our understanding of empirical science and
human discovery in nature is that of the inevitable human discovery in nature is that of the inevitable
outcome of man’s reflection of God’s signs (aayat) outcome of man’s reflection of God’s signs (aayat)
in the universe, and would not lead to any in the universe, and would not lead to any
definitive contradiction in terms of scientific facts.definitive contradiction in terms of scientific facts.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Yet, science being relative and therefore cannot Yet, science being relative and therefore cannot
claim to have absolute certainty, is therefore claim to have absolute certainty, is therefore
inadequate to be used as definitive criteria.inadequate to be used as definitive criteria.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
But, in the case of the Qur’an, what we can But, in the case of the Qur’an, what we can
show is that, as man discover new things in show is that, as man discover new things in
nature, it would not make the statements in the nature, it would not make the statements in the
Qur’an redundant, but rather only enhances Qur’an redundant, but rather only enhances
mankind’s understanding of them.mankind’s understanding of them.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“ “In time We shall make them fully understand Our In time We shall make them fully understand Our
messages [through what they perceive] in the messages [through what they perceive] in the
utmost horizons [of the universe] and within utmost horizons [of the universe] and within
themselvesthemselves, so that it will become clear unto them , so that it will become clear unto them
that this [revelation] is indeed the truth. [Still] is it that this [revelation] is indeed the truth. [Still] is it
not enough [for them to know] that thy Sustainer is not enough [for them to know] that thy Sustainer is
witness unto everything?”witness unto everything?”
((Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 53)Qur’an: Fussilat: 41: 53)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“The Bible, the Qur’an and Modern Science” by
Dr. Maurice Bucaille
“The Developing Human” by Dr. Keith L Moore
(with Islamic additions)
“The Basis for a Muslim Belief” by Gary Miller
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
82
notice the preformed
shape of a foetus
Seventeenth century drawing by Hartsoeker Seventeenth century drawing by Hartsoeker of a sperm of a sperm (circa 1600)(circa 1600)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““We (Allah) created man from a quintessence (gentle We (Allah) created man from a quintessence (gentle
extraction) of clay; We then placed him as a drop (extraction) of clay; We then placed him as a drop (nutfahnutfah) )
in a place of rest firmly fixed; then We made the drop into in a place of rest firmly fixed; then We made the drop into
an “an “alaqahalaqah” (leech-like); and then We change the “” (leech-like); and then We change the “alaqahalaqah” ”
into “into “mudghahmudghah” (chewed-like substance); then We made ” (chewed-like substance); then We made
out of that “out of that “mudghahmudghah” bones (” bones (‘izam‘izam); then We clothed the ); then We clothed the
bones with flesh (bones with flesh (‘lahm‘lahm); then We developed out of it ); then We developed out of it
another creation (another creation (khol-qan – aa-kharkhol-qan – aa-khar). So blessed be Allah, ). So blessed be Allah,
the best to create.” the best to create.”
((Qur’an : al- Mu’minun : 23:12-15Qur’an : al- Mu’minun : 23:12-15))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““When forty-two nights have passed over the When forty-two nights have passed over the NutfahNutfah
(i.e. the zygote) Allah sends an angel to it, who shapes (i.e. the zygote) Allah sends an angel to it, who shapes
it and make its ears, skin, flesh and bones. it and make its ears, skin, flesh and bones.
Then the angel says ‘O Lord ! Is it male or female ?’ And Then the angel says ‘O Lord ! Is it male or female ?’ And
your Lord decide what He wishes and then the angel your Lord decide what He wishes and then the angel
records it.”records it.”
((Hadith reported by Muslim in Kitab al-QadrHadith reported by Muslim in Kitab al-Qadr))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““It appears that Human knowledge had, at one It appears that Human knowledge had, at one
time contradicted some of the facts brought by time contradicted some of the facts brought by
Islam on some aspects of reproduction. It is also Islam on some aspects of reproduction. It is also
realised that as man discovers new facts, he realised that as man discovers new facts, he
finds himself repeating what had already been finds himself repeating what had already been
stated by the Qur’an and the Hadith.”stated by the Qur’an and the Hadith.”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
87
MUST REMAIN MUST REMAIN PRESERVED AND NOT PRESERVED AND NOT BEEN TAMPERED WITHBEEN TAMPERED WITH
A claim of a Book from God must be on A claim of a Book from God must be on the basis of its original writing. Not the basis of its original writing. Not something which has been doctored with something which has been doctored with or edited, with the intention of giving it or edited, with the intention of giving it credibility, based on newly discovered credibility, based on newly discovered knowledge.knowledge.
THE CRITERIA # 8# 8
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““We (Allah) have, without doubt, send down the We (Allah) have, without doubt, send down the
Message (Al-Qur’an) And We will assuredly guard it Message (Al-Qur’an) And We will assuredly guard it
(from corruption)”(from corruption)”
((Qur’an: Surah al- Hijr: 15: 9Qur’an: Surah al- Hijr: 15: 9))
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Prophetic Era
13 BH – 10 AH
Revelation to Prophet Muhammad
* memorised* Dictated* Recorded* Collated* Counter-
checked
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
1st Mushaf
12 AH
Battle of Yamamah
* original materials which have been recorded by the Prophet’s scribe were sorted out, checked and bound
into a single Book.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Mushaf Uthmani
30 AH
Expansion of Islam• Uthman’s recension - 7
official copies made from the 1st Mushaf – these sent to all Islamic centres accompanied by a Reciter (muqri’)
• (extant copies of these are available even to this day)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
IN MASJID IMAM HUSSAYN – CAIRO, EGYPT
TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
PRESERVED MUSHAF OF KHALIFA ‘UTHMAN IBN ‘AFFANTOPKAPI MUSEUM
ISTANBUL, TURKEY
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
TOPKAPI MUSEUM, ISTANBUL, TURKEY.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Diacritical marking
65 AH
(Science)(Science) Ilmu-Ilmu-Qira’atil Qur’an Qira’atil Qur’an
** inclusion of markings to the script conforming with Prophet’s recitation, and to facilitate non-Arab learning recitation
* By Abul Aswad Ad-Du’ali By Abul Aswad Ad-Du’ali
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Compare with verses in the present Mushaf Text
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Compare with verses in the present Mushaf Text
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
MUSHAF FUAD
1342 AH
From Mushaf Uthmani, text compiled at AL-AZHAR with one of the original manner of Recitation which has been preserved - from HAFASH.HAFASH.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
HafashHafash
‘‘Asim ibn Abin NujudAsim ibn Abin Nujud
Abi Abdur Rahman Abd ibn Habib as-SulaimiAbi Abdur Rahman Abd ibn Habib as-Sulaimi
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Holy Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w.Holy Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w.
‘Ali Abi Talib Uthman ‘Affan Zaid Tsabit Ubay Ka’abAli Abi Talib Uthman ‘Affan Zaid Tsabit Ubay Ka’ab
MUSHAF MADINAH
1403 AH (1980)
Commissioned by Saudi King, text using the Rasm’ Uthmani - following strictly the spelling, letter for letter, identical to Mushaf Uthmani.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
103
If God sends a Book to us, it must be to If God sends a Book to us, it must be to inform us about Himself and His Divine inform us about Himself and His Divine Plan.Plan.
THE CRITERIA # 9# 9
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If you ask any person, on their own, to list down possible If you ask any person, on their own, to list down possible
names and adjectives to describe God in His sublime and names and adjectives to describe God in His sublime and
transcendent glory, few can make a list up to twenty or transcendent glory, few can make a list up to twenty or
there about; even rarely to reach fifty. Even with scholastic there about; even rarely to reach fifty. Even with scholastic
learning in religion (other than Islam), this feat would be learning in religion (other than Islam), this feat would be
stupendous.stupendous.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Yet, in the Qur’an, the names of God are so numerously Yet, in the Qur’an, the names of God are so numerously
referred to, and Islamic scholars have counted them to referred to, and Islamic scholars have counted them to
number over a hundred and having such profound number over a hundred and having such profound
meanings befitting God’s majesty and glory; maintaining meanings befitting God’s majesty and glory; maintaining
consistency without any possibility of confusion of His consistency without any possibility of confusion of His
transcendence, that it cannot be the work of any mortal, transcendence, that it cannot be the work of any mortal,
but of God Himself. For instance in just three verses we but of God Himself. For instance in just three verses we
can sample a number of these:can sample a number of these:
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“(Allah) God is He save whom there is no deity: the One who
knows all (‘Aalim) that is beyond the reach of a created
being’s perception, as well as all that can be witnessed by a
creature’s senses and mind: He, the Most Gracious (Al-
Rahmaan), the Dispenser of Grace (Al-Rahiim).
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 22)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“(Allah) God is He save whom there is no deity: the
Sovereign Supreme (al-Malik), the Holy (al-Quddus), the One
with whom all salvation rests (al-Salaam), the Giver of Faith
(al-Mu’-minu), the One who determines what is true and false
(al-Muhaymin), the Almighty (al-‘Aziz), the One who subdues
wrong and restores right (al-Jab-bar), the One whom all
greatness belongs (al-Mutakabbir)!
Utterly remote is God (Allah), in His limitless glory, from
anything to which men may ascribe a share in His divinity.”
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 22-24)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Utterly remote is God, in His limitless glory, from anything
to which men may ascribe a share in His divinity. He is God,
the Creator (al-Khaliq), the Maker who shapes all forms and
appearance (al-Baa-ri-u, al-Musow-wir)! His [alone] are the
attributes of perfection (asma-al-Husna). All that is in the
heavens and on earth extols His limitless glory: for He alone
is Almighty (al-Aziz), truly wise (al-Hakim)!
(Qur’an: al-Hashr: 59: 23-24)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Hallowed be He (God) in whose hand all dominion rests,
since He has power to will anything: He who has created
death as well as life, so that He might put you to a test
[and thus show] which of you is best in conduct, and
[make you realize that] He alone is almighty, forgiving.”
(Qur’an: al-Mulk: 77: 1-2)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
113
UNIVERSAL APPEAL AND APPLICATION …
Whatever the message of the Book, it Whatever the message of the Book, it must remain relevant throughout the ages must remain relevant throughout the ages from the time of its revelation.from the time of its revelation.
THE CRITERIA # 10# 10
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
If God intends a Book to be for guidance of all mankind, If God intends a Book to be for guidance of all mankind,
then its relevance must continue to exist since the time of then its relevance must continue to exist since the time of
its revelation, without any period in history where it its revelation, without any period in history where it
became hidden or completely lost its usefulness. It must became hidden or completely lost its usefulness. It must
always be openly known. always be openly known.
This criterion therefore would eliminate inclusion of such This criterion therefore would eliminate inclusion of such
discoveries of later manuscripts which were lost but now discoveries of later manuscripts which were lost but now
found, or ancient book of wisdom discovered anew and found, or ancient book of wisdom discovered anew and
popularized today. popularized today.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
To be sure, by this, we do not therefore deny previous To be sure, by this, we do not therefore deny previous
revelations to Prophets of the past e.g. Abraham, Moses, revelations to Prophets of the past e.g. Abraham, Moses,
David, Jesus (peace be upon all of them) etc. (which the David, Jesus (peace be upon all of them) etc. (which the
Qur’an confirmed), - only that we regard the preservation Qur’an confirmed), - only that we regard the preservation
of these revelations, if any, to be partial, and are known to of these revelations, if any, to be partial, and are known to
have been tampered with or mixed with other writing, and have been tampered with or mixed with other writing, and
much have already been lost. much have already been lost.
Thus, we hold that these previous books have now been Thus, we hold that these previous books have now been
superseded by the Qur’an. superseded by the Qur’an.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Any attempt to re-discover and re-compile these earlier Any attempt to re-discover and re-compile these earlier
revelations in any endeavour to restore it to their originals revelations in any endeavour to restore it to their originals
as a book, would be futile, since much of it were meant to as a book, would be futile, since much of it were meant to
be only for its time, sent for a particular people, and be only for its time, sent for a particular people, and
admittedly many have been irretrievably lost. admittedly many have been irretrievably lost.
TThe Qur’an attributeshe Qur’an attributes much of the much of the error in their error in their
preservation of scriptures to subsequent people who preservation of scriptures to subsequent people who
tampered (by addition, alteration or omission) to their tampered (by addition, alteration or omission) to their
collection of writings and then claiming it to be from God: collection of writings and then claiming it to be from God:
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Do they not know, then, that Allah is aware of all that they Do they not know, then, that Allah is aware of all that they
would conceal as well as all that they bring into the open? would conceal as well as all that they bring into the open?
And there are among them unlettered people who have no And there are among them unlettered people who have no
real knowledge of the divine writ, [following] only wishful real knowledge of the divine writ, [following] only wishful
beliefs and depending on nothing but conjecture.”beliefs and depending on nothing but conjecture.”
((Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 77Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 77).).
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
““Woe unto those who write down, with their own Woe unto those who write down, with their own
hands, [something which they claim to be] divine hands, [something which they claim to be] divine
writ. And then say, ‘This is from God’, in order to writ. And then say, ‘This is from God’, in order to
acquire a trifling gain thereby; woe, then, unto acquire a trifling gain thereby; woe, then, unto
them for what their hands have written, and woe them for what their hands have written, and woe
unto them for all that they may have gained!”unto them for all that they may have gained!”
((Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 78-79Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 78-79).).
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
Thus, many so called extant copies of ancient religious Thus, many so called extant copies of ancient religious
scriptures are in the language other than the original, or scriptures are in the language other than the original, or
the usage of its language is considered to be no longer the usage of its language is considered to be no longer
existing (on account of it being a dead language), with the existing (on account of it being a dead language), with the
only exception being the Qur’an. only exception being the Qur’an.
With reference to many Biblical texts (Judeo-Christian), With reference to many Biblical texts (Judeo-Christian),
even this has been admitted by their respective scholars.even this has been admitted by their respective scholars.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
“Yet the King James version has serious defects. …..
And discovery of many biblical manuscripts more
ancient than those on which the King James version
was based made it apparent that these defects were
so many as to call for a revision.”
(Forward in the New Revised Standard version of the Bible)
What the Qur’an asserted 1400 year ago, What the Qur’an asserted 1400 year ago, now confirmed by their own Biblical scholarsnow confirmed by their own Biblical scholars
““Reason for the Revision”Reason for the Revision”
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
123
THE CONCLUSION
THE CRITERIA
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
claims to be from God;
And which could not be produced by any
who tries;
And contains absolute principles;
And does not contain discrepancies;
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
And has contributed to the well-being of And has contributed to the well-being of
mankind at all levels;mankind at all levels;
And can be shown that some of its And can be shown that some of its
prophecies were proven true;prophecies were proven true;
And some of its data compatible with And some of its data compatible with
scientific research;scientific research;All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
And the whole book still remains in its And the whole book still remains in its
original text (language);original text (language);
And speaks of God and His plan;And speaks of God and His plan;
And has universal appeal and application.And has universal appeal and application.
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
WHAT MUST BE
YOUR VERDICT OR
CONCLUSION?
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
MOST CERTAINLY, IT
MUST BE FROM GOD.
BECAUSE, BECAUSE,
NO OTHER CONCLUSION NO OTHER CONCLUSION
IS PLAUSIBLE...!IS PLAUSIBLE...!
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)
TO BE CONTINUED – TO BE CONTINUED – INSHA ALLAHINSHA ALLAH
All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:
http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/
http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/
http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/
http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/
All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)