The Qur’an: A divine revelation

The Qur’an, the sacred text of Islam, is believed to be the Word of Allah SWT, as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad SAWS. Here, we delve into the historical context of its revelation and its transmission.
The revelation
The Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad SAWS in 7th-century C.E. Arabian Peninsula. Born in the oasis city of Mecca, Prophet Muhammad SAWS received the very first verses while secluded in a cave on the outskirts of the city. The Archangel Gabriel conveyed these divine messages, marking the beginning of Muhammad’s prophethood.
Literary Excellence
Preserved in the Arabic language, the Qur’an is Islam’s sacred text. It enshrines the literal word of God and emphasizes the theme of continuation rather than presenting a new religion. Instead, it revifies an ancient monotheistic tradition shared with Judaism and Christianity.
The Qur’an’ s unique composition and style make it a pre-eminent literary masterpiece in Arabic. Its contents, centered around God’s unity of being and transcendence , form the doctrinal foundation of Islam.
Written transmission
When the Prophet passed away in 632, the Qur’an did not formally exist as a fixed text. Instead, it was written down on palm-leaf stalks, scattered parchments, shoulder blades, limestone, and memorized in the hearts of men.
Calligraphy, an artistic expression
Islamic calligraphy beautifully captures the essence of Qur’an. Artists exploit the inherent possibilities of Arabic script to create writing as ornament. The correct style of Qur’anic writing is meticulously guided, emphasizing elegance and precision.
Conclusion
The Qur’an remains a timeless testament to faith, knowledge, and literary excellence, a divine revelation that continues to inspire hearts and minds across the world.