Page by Page - Shaykh Ahsan Hanif

On page 25, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ enlightens us with profound signs in the creation of the heavens and the earth, the rhythmic cycle of night and day, the purposeful ships sailing the seas, life-restoring rain, the diverse creatures on earth, and the orchestrated dance of winds and clouds. These are clear proofs for those with understanding.Yet, among humanity, some set up rivals to Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ, loving them as they should love Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ. Those who believe, however, love Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ even more. A stark reality awaits the wrongdoers when they witness the true might of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ and His severe punishment.A striking scene unfolds when leaders disown their followers, witnessing the torment together. Mutual disavowal ensues, and regretful acknowledgments reveal the futility of seeking another chance. The consequences are irreversible, and escape from the Fire is impossible.A universal call resonates O mankind! Consume what is lawful and wholesome, avoiding the footsteps of Satan, your avowed enemy. Satan commands only evil and sin, enticing you to speak against Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ unknowingly.

On page 23, Allah reaffirms the truth of the Prophet Muhammad's qualities mentioned in the previous scriptures, urging believers not to doubt. The verses emphasise the importance of facing the direction of Al-Masjid-Al-Haram (at Makkah) in prayers, signifying unity and obedience. Believers are reminded to hasten towards goodness and maintain the right direction in their worship. The guidance emphasises the completion of blessings through adherence to Allah's commands. The appointment of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is highlighted as a means of purification, teaching, and bringing knowledge to the believers. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ encourages remembrance, gratitude, and seeking His help through patience and prayer. Believers are reminded that Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ is with the patient.

On page 21, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ emphasises rejecting the call to adopt Judaism or Christianity, asserting that the true path is the religion of Ibrahim, characterised by pure monotheism. Muslims believe in Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ, the scriptures revealed to various prophets, and make no distinctions among them. The call extends to others to believe in the same truth, but Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ suffices as the ultimate judge if they turn away. The religion of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ is the best, and the followers are sincere in their worship. Disputes about Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ are futile, as He is the Lord of all, and everyone will be rewarded according to their deeds. The question poses: Were Ibrahim, Isma'il, Ishaq, Yaqub, and their descendants Jews or Christians? The answer highlights that they were Muslims, submitting to the will of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ. Those who conceal this truth are considered unjust, and Allah is fully aware of their actions. This serves as a reminder of the fate of past nations and individual accountability for one's deeds.

On page 19 of the Qur’an, Allah tells Prophet Muhammad ﷺ that Jews and Christians won't be pleased until he follows their religion. It emphasises that Allah's guidance is the true one. Those who believe in the given book are true believers; those who don't are losers.Further, the children of Isra’il are reminded of Allah's favour, and a warning about Judgement Day is given. The page reflects on Prophet Ibrahim's trials and leadership role. The Kaaba's significance and Allah's command to purify it are highlighted.Ibrahim's prayer for Mecca’s security and provisions for believers is noted. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ warns disbelievers to be content for a while before facing the fire's torment. The page ends with a reminder of the consequences for those who reject the guidance of Allah.

On page 17 of the Qur'an, Allah reminds us that whenever a verse is abrogated or forgotten, He replaces it with a better or similar one. This emphasises Allah's limitless authority. The verses also assert that Allah alone holds dominion over the heavens and the earth, and there is no protector or helper besides Him.The verse challenges those who wish to question the Messenger, comparing it to the query posed to Musa. Changing faith for disbelief leads one astray. Some of the people of the Scripture may envy and attempt to turn believers away, but forgiveness is advised until Allah's command prevails.Further, performing prayers, giving Zakat, and sending forth good deeds are highlighted as actions rewarded by Allah. The notion that only Jews or Christians will enter Paradise is refuted; submission to Allah and virtuous conduct lead to reward without fear or grief.

On page 15 of the Qur'an, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ addresses the concept of longing for the Hereafter and the behavior of different groups. Some claim a special place in the Hereafter but do not truly desire it due to their past deeds. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ is aware of the wrongdoers.The passage also highlights the Jews' excessive desire for a long life, wishing for a thousand years, but it won't save them from the consequences of their actions.This page emphasizes the significance of accepting the guidance brought by the angel Jibrael, confirming previous scriptures and delivering glad tidings to believers.It further mentions that Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ has sent clear signs and verses, but many rebels continue to disbelieve and break their covenants. When a messenger from Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ, such as Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, came to them, a party among the people of the Scripture rejected the Book of Allah as if they were unaware of its significance.

On page 13 of the Qur'an, Allah provides important guidance. This page reminds us of a covenant where a community (Bani Isra’il) pledged not to shed the blood of their people or drive them from their homes. However, they violated this covenant by killing one another, assisting their enemies, and even ransoming captives they were not allowed to expel.Some of them believed in only a part of the Scripture and rejected the rest, resulting in disgrace in this world and severe punishment in the Hereafter. They traded the life of this world for the hereafter, and their torment will not be eased.The page also mentions how Allah gave books and messengers to guide people, including Musa and Isa. However, when messengers came with messages, the people did not desire them; some grew arrogant, disbelieved, and even killed them. As a result, their hearts became closed to Allah's word, and they believed very little.

On Page 11 of the Qur'an, Allah tells a story about a murder among the Children of Isra’il. They argued about it, but Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ revealed the truth in a miraculous way. He had them strike a dead man with a piece of cow, bringing him back to life to show his power. However, despite witnessing these miracles, some people's hearts remained hard as stones. This story teaches us about different reactions to Allah's signs and how some people change the words of the Torah knowingly. It emphasises the importance of true understanding and sincerity in our actions.