When we read the Qur'an we begin with S. Baqara, and its importance cannot be overstated. It is said that its best that it is read once daily in every household.
A couple of years ago I took my boys to a course in Ramadhan called "Journey through the Qur'an", but what I learned there was actually how little even that so called Sheikh understood about its relevance.
Many years ago know I began my journey through the Qur'an with a seeker of knowledge who used the Socratic method in approaching the Qur'an, in a very similar vein to the Qur'an itself. He it was that impressed me with the fact that the Qur'an needs at some points to be approached from a sociological perspective.
That it begins with Baqara that almost immediately talks about the Munafiq (hypocrites) because the chapter is concerned more particularly with the everyday life of the Muslim polity or state. It represents the blueprint of how Muslims are to live.
When it is read in that vein, then it's message rings true.
And it is within Baqara that we find the verse of Power, that contains within it both the most sublime name of Allah - the everliving- and also a statement of His absolute sovereignty over not just the Heavens, but also the Earth.
And then His ownership of all knowledge.
After that statement, what comes next is the most enlightening,
FOR God declares:
"There is no compulsion in your choice of your way of life.
Truth stands out clear from error."
This statement by itself is clear.
But framed first by Baqara, and following directly on from the verse of Power- this statement is overwhelming.
That no one has the right to impose a particular way of life on anyone else, so long as it does not negatively influence society.
And this in a Muslim State, or Polity, and Society.
So whilst those that seek to impose their view on us all often say that the last of Kafiroon is abrogated, ask them and then what do you say of the verse following on from Ayah tul Kursi?
They do not understand and are not given too. And that is our problem.
That our Scholars like to frame themselves as such, and not as seekers of knowledge all on a path.
That our people want scholars, and not teachers, as the people that they look up to. A teacher encourages a person to grapple with the Qur'an, as the Qur'an itself declares in regards to the first Jihaad.
That is even whilst they recognise that one of the Messengers name was Mu'allim - Teacher - and the greatest of Teachers.
END
This began as an overlong Facebook post. So I apologise for that it is not if the blog quality that I like to post.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Location:Yathrib
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