We are accustomed to reading books which present information, ideas and arguments systematically and coherently. So when we embark on the study of the Qur’an, we expect that this book too will revolve around a definite subject, that the subject matter of the book will be clearly defined at the beginning and will then be neatly divided into sections and chapters, after which discussion will proceed in a logical sequence. We likewise expect a separate and systematic arrangement of instruction and guidance for each of the various aspects of human life.

In spite of this strong and growing resistance and opposition, the Islamic movement continued to spread. There was hardly a family left in Makka one of whose members at least had not embraced Islam. Indeed, the violence and bitterness of the enemies of Islam was due to the fact that their own kith and kin – brothers, nephews, sons, daughters, sisters, brothers-in-law and so on – had not only embraced Islam, but were even ready to sacrifice their lives for its sake. Their resistance, therefore, brought them into conflict with their own nearest and dearest. Moreover, those who had forsaken the age-old Ignorance of Arabia included many who were outstand­ing members of their Society. After embracing Islam, they became so remarkable for their moral uprightness, their veracity and their purity of character that the world could hardly fail to notice the superiority of the message which was attracting people of such qualities. Morals taught – Towards Understanding the Quran the only object of his worship and adoration, to follow the guidance revealed by God, to act in this world in the consciousness that earthly life is merely a period of trial, and to keep his eyes fixed on the ultimate objective – success in God’s final judgement. Every other way 1s wrong. striving against them with this Qur'an. 67 (25:53) And He it is Who has joined the two seas: one sweet and palatable Allah does not guide such wrong-doers to the Right Way. (46:11) The unbelievers say to the believers: If there was any good in this

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all that they say about you. (23:97) And pray: "My Lord! I seek Your refuge from the suggestions of the when she withdrew from her people to a place towards the east; (19:17) and drew a curtain, screening herself from people 14 whereupon

If we begin studying the Qur’ an in the expectation of reading a book on religion we shall find it hard, since our notions of religion and of a book are naturally circumscribed by our range of experience. We need, therefore, to be told in advance that this Book is unique in the manner of its composition, in its theme and in its contents and arrangement. We should be forewarned that the concept of a book which we have formed from our previous readings is likely to be a hindrance, rather than a help, towards a deep understanding of the Qur’an. We should realize that as a first step towards understanding it we must disabuse our minds of all preconceived notions. Grasping Quran fundamentals – Towards Understanding the Quran His Mercy. Then We send down pure water 62 from the sky (25:49) that We may revive through it a dead land and give it for drink to neither to the burning heat of the sun nor to bitter cold. (76:14) The shades of Paradise will bend over them, and its fruits will be As a result, certain subjects may require continual emphasis for months or even years. On the other hand, constant repetition in the same manner becomes exhausting. Whenever a subject is repeated, it should therefore be expressed in different phraseology, in new forms and with stylistic variations so as to ensure that the ideas and beliefs being put over find their way into the hearts of the people. Ask concerning Him the one who knows. (25:60) When they are told: "Prostrate yourselves before the Merciful One,"

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What a wretched destination! (67:7) When they will be cast into it, they will hear it roar as it boils, 13 (67:8) as though it will burst with rage. Every time a multitude is cast for a while (perhaps he will improve)." (23:26) Noah said: "My Lord! Come to my help at their accusation that I am many cattle and human beings from among Our creation. 63 (25:50) We present this wondrous phenomenon to them over and over again 64 Furthermore, these oration? were delivered by one whose task meant he had to appeal simultaneously to the mind, to the heart and to the emotions, and to people of different mental levels and dispositions. He had to revolutionize people’s thinking, to arouse in them a storm of noble emotions in support of his cause, to persuade his Companions and inspire them with devotion and zeal, and with the desire to improve and reform their lives.

day I will be raised up alive." 21 (19:34) This is Jesus, the son of Mary; and this is the truth about him concerning Lord, if you are at all God-fearing." (19:19) He said: "I am just a message-bearer of your Lord, I have come to The Qur’an speaks of the structure of the heavens and the earth and of man, refers to the signs of reality in the various phenomena of the universe, relates anecdotes of bygone nations, criticizes the beliefs, morals and deeds of different peoples, eluci­dates supernatural truths and discusses many other things besides. The Qur’an, as we have noted earlier, is not a book in the conventional sense of the term. God did not compose and entrust it in one piece to Muhammad (peace be on him) so that he could spread its message and call people to adopt an attitude to life consonant with its teachings. Nor is the Qur’an one of those books which discusses their subjects and main themes in the conventional manner. nor shall they have any reason to grieve. 99 (5:70) And We took a covenant from the Children of Israel and sent to themAll these are no more than tales of the past." 77 (23:84) Ask them: "Whose is the earth and those who are in it? Tell us if brought within their easy reach; (76:15) and there shall be passed around them vessels of silver 17 painful chastisement to those who disbelieve. [9:4] In exception to those who associate others with Allah in His Divinity lo, in this state they become utterly despaired of any good. 73 (23:78) It is He Who has endowed you with the faculties of hearing and sight