The four revealed books in Islam hold great significance in the Islamic faith as they are considered the divine guidance bestowed upon humanity by Allah. We are going to describe the Tawrat (Torah), the Zabur (Psalms), the Injil (Gospel), and the Quran. Muslims believe these books were revealed to different prophets throughout history.
These divine revelations are important in shaping the Islamic tradition and understanding of the world. Together, the four books show how the universe came to be, how people were made, and what life is all about.
The Quran – The Final and Complete Revelation
The Quran is the most important religious book in Islam, and Muslims believe it is the last and most complete message from God to people. It is regarded as the literal word of God and the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims in all aspects of their lives. The Quran has 114 chapters, or surahs, with many topics, such as theology, morality, law, and advice on living.
Historical Background and Context
The Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad for approximately 23 years, from 610 CE until he died in 632 CE. The angel Jibril (Gabriel) told the Prophet about the revelations, which his followers first learned by heart and recited. Later, the third caliph, Uthman ibn Affan, put the Quran into a single book to protect its authenticity and keep it from being changed.
The Quranic Structure
The Quran is organized into 114 surahs, which vary in length and complexity. The chapters are not arranged chronologically but according to length, with the longest surahs at the beginning and the shortest at the end. Each surah is divided into verses, or ayat, which number over 6,000 in total. The Quran is written in a style that is both unique and poetic. It is known for its beautiful language, rhythmic patterns, and use of different literary devices.
The Teachings of the Quran
The Quran encompasses various topics, providing comprehensive guidance for Muslims. Among its key teachings is the belief in the oneness of God, the importance of prayer and fasting, the promotion of social justice and equality, and the requirement to give to charity. The Quran also stresses the importance of family and community life, holding up the values of kindness, patience, and forgiveness.
Importance of the Quran in Islam
The Quran is the primary source of Islamic teachings and plays a central role in the lives of Muslims. It is the most important book for Christians because it explains their beliefs and gives them rules for how to act and interact with others. The Quran is also viewed as a source of spiritual nourishment, and its recitation is considered an act of worship.
The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Origin of Islam
Key Verses and Themes
The Quran talks about many things, like how God is one (tawhid), how prophets are chosen (nubuwwah), what happens after death (akhirah), and what is right and wrong. Some key verses and themes include:
Surah Al-Ikhlas (112): Emphasizing the oneness and uniqueness of Allah.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255): Describing the attributes of Allah, also known as Ayat al-Kursi (The Throne Verse). During their five daily prayers, Surah Al-Fatiha (1) is a basic prayer that Muslims say to ask Allah for help.
Surah Al-Asr (103) highlights the importance of faith, good deeds, and patience.
As the last and most complete revelation, the Quran is important in Islam and helps Muslims throughout their lives. Its teachings inspire and guide believers, shaping their understanding of the world and their relationship with Allah.
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The Tawrat – The Book of Moses
The Tawrat, also known as the Torah, is one of the four revealed books in Islam and is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Musa (Moses). It is the foundational text of Judaism and comprises the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Pentateuch. These books include Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
Historical Background and Context
The Tawrat was revealed to the Prophet Musa during his mission to guide the Children of Israel out of slavery in Egypt and towards the Promised Land. The revelation occurred for 40 years, primarily during the Israelites’ journey through the Sinai Desert. Later, the Tawrat was written down. It became the basis of the Hebrew Bible and told the Israelites how to act in religious, social, and moral ways.
The Teachings of the Tawrat
The Tawrat has a lot of different things to teach, from the story of how the world was made and the history of the Israelites to divine laws and moral rules. It emphasizes the oneness of God and His covenant with the Children of Israel, establishing a set of laws and commandments to be followed. These laws cover various topics, including religious observances, social justice, and personal conduct.
The Zabur – The Book of David
The Zabur, also known as the Psalms, is another revealed book in Islam and is believed to have been bestowed upon the Prophet Dawud (David). It is a collection of hymns, prayers, and poems comprising 150 individual psalms in the Hebrew Bible. The Zabur is considered a sacred text in Judaism and Christianity and its significance within Islam.
Historical Background and Context
The Zabur was revealed to the Prophet Dawud during his reign as king of Israel. Dawud is regarded as a skilled musician and poet, and the Psalms are believed to have been written or compiled by him under divine inspiration. The Zabur is a source of spiritual guidance and thought. It shows how God and people relate to each other and has praise, thanksgiving, and supplication prayers.
The Teachings of the Zabur
The teachings and themes in the Zabur are varied; each psalm talks about a different part of religious and spiritual life. Some key themes include glorifying God, giving thanks and praising Him, praying for guidance and protection, and reflecting on God’s mercy and justice. The Zabur also emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in God and trusting His wisdom and guidance.
Key Verses and Themes
Some key verses and themes in the Zabur include:
Psalm 23: A well-known psalm expressing trust in God’s guidance, protection, and provision.
Psalm 51: A heartfelt plea for forgiveness and purification, highlighting God’s mercy and compassion.
Psalm 103: A hymn of praise and thanksgiving, acknowledging God’s benevolence and graciousness.
Section 4: The Injil – The Gospel of Jesus
Overview of the Injil
The Injil, also known as the Gospel, is another revealed book in Islam believed to have been given to the Prophet Isa (Jesus). The Injil is considered the primary text of Christianity and comprises four canonical gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John – that narrate the life, teachings, and miracles of Jesus Christ.
Historical Background and Context
The Injil was revealed to the Prophet Isa during his mission to guide the Children of Israel toward righteousness. Even though the Quran says that the Injil is a divine revelation, Muslims believe the original message has changed or been distorted. This is why Muslims and Christians have different ideas about Jesus and what he taught.
The four canonical gospels were written decades after Jesus died, and the Christian New Testament is thought to have been put together over the first few hundred years CE.
The Teachings of the Injil
The Injil contains various teachings that focus on spiritual and moral principles. Its key themes are the importance of love, compassion, forgiveness, and the establishment of the Kingdom of God. The Injil also narrates the miracles performed by Jesus, his crucifixion, and resurrection – events that hold significant importance within the Christian faith.
Dua e Hajat, The Power of Supplication in Islam
Conclusion
Recap of the Importance of the Four Revealed Books in Islam. The four revealed books in Islam – the Quran, the Tawrat, the Zabur, and the Injil – hold significant importance as divine revelations given to various prophets throughout history. Each of these texts provides unique insights into the development of monotheistic faith and the continuity of divine guidance for different communities and eras. As the final and complete revelation, the Quran serves as the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, building upon the earlier revelations and providing a comprehensive framework for faith and practice.