I'm making pretty good time reading the Quran. Really, I've enjoyed it more than I expected! (So thanks to you know who for encouraging me to read it!) I know I have a bit more critical eye than a Muslim would, however, I hope that's not an awful thing. I would be understanding if a Muslim read the Bible with a skeptical eye as well. In fact I'd expect it. The two books do differ enough that a Muslim reading the Bible and a Christian reading the Quran should have a bit of...something (scrutiny? discernment?) when reading the other text. I hope this makes sense. It does to me. :)
So this morning I read Sura 11 -- Hud who was a prophet not mentioned in the Bible. He was sent to the people in 'Ad. In my last post I mentioned not knowing of any non-Jewish prophets outside of the Bible, however, I read this sura and was introduced to at least three. Besides Hud, there was Saleh send to Thamud and Shu'aib sent to the Midianites. All three are extrabiblical. I did recognize Lot, Moses and Noah though! I enjoyed reading more of their stories as recorded in the Quran.
As an aside let me make it clear that I don't mind evangelizing others. As a follower of Jesus I believe part of his message was to share the Good News (gospel) with others so I try to do this in obedience to him. I don't force conversions (are they even real if they are forced?). I don't even try to talk people into it with my oh-so-charming ways. No bribes, no promises for money or a new life in America. :) I just present the gospel, try to answer questions and such and leave the converting to God. It's His business anyway. I'm only supposed to share the message. That said, I don't mind Muslims, Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, the local Baptist church down the road evangelizing either. One of the dearest things to me ever was when my Muslim friend shared his faith because he was concerned about my soul. I saw that as true love not as something offensive. I know I am peculiar compared to a lot of folks who hate "proselytizing" but I just wanted to make my position clear and why I have it. If you felt God wanted you to do something -- even commanded you to do it, wouldn't you desire to obey in order to please Him? When I tell others about Jesus, it's not because I find them lacking or I want to increase the Christian population in the world as if we are in some numbers race. It's because I love them, their souls and I love Jesus and the hope and peace he can give them. If you choose to stay as you are, no problem. I'll love you anyway and not drop you as a friend because you refused what I had to say. Now that that's cleared up . . we can return to this sura which includes a lot of evangelizing. Thus the tangent. :)
Verse 3 of this sura is curious to me as it contains the phrase "worthy of grace." I am mulling over this as I've always heard grace explained as unmerited favor. As in getting something wonderful when we did nothing to deserve or earn it. Therefore, can we be "worthy" of it? I think I'm getting entirely too nitpicky about some phrases, don't you? :-P
6. There is not a creature that moves on the earth whose nourishment is not provided by God, whose place of sojourning and depositing is not known to Him. All things conform to a manifest law.
I thought this was a nice verse reminding us of God's provision for us - the air we breathe, the water we drink, the sun that causes our food to grow, the bees and bats that pollinate food. God really took care of the details! This is likely those things mentioned that "conform to a manifest law."
I see in verse 13 another challenge concerning the Quran's beautiful suras. Let me say that I do believe they sound lovely recited in Arabic. They make no sense to me since I don't know Arabic, however, they are hauntingly beautiful and often make me cry because they bring to mind Syria and how much I loved the wonderful people there.
15. To those who desire the life of this world and its many allures, We shall pay them in full for their acts herein and will not withold any thing. 16. Yet these are the people for whom there is nothing but Fire in the world to come. Fruitless will be what they have fashioned, and whatever they have done will perish.
I thought these verses warned us about getting overly-attached to stuff here. A good reminder in this age of rampant materialism and desire for temporal things including power, fame and perhaps even land. How much better to seek first God's kingdom and then let all these other things be added to us (Matthew 6:33). In other words, prioritize! God's kingdom is much better -- and it's eternal!
I was glad to read a few more details about the Quranic view of Noah. Much of it was familiar, however, this
38. So he built the ark; and when groups of his people passed by him, they scoffed at him. He said to them: "Though you laugh at us (now), we shall laugh at you, as you are laughing at us.
didn't sit quite right. I never thought of Noah laughing at the destruction of the wicked. Can you imagine seeing everyone in your community and your extended family perishing and then laughing about it? I know it often saddens me when someone I know dies without having a relationship with God. I even felt sad for Saddam Hussein for going out into eternity without Christ on his side (according to my view, obviously.) So I thought Noah's reply in verse 38 was rather childish and not indicative of a man found righteous in God's eyes. The Bible declares that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 18:32) so somehow I think Noah was the same. I think he wept for those lost in their sins.
The Biblical and Quranic accounts differ somewhat in that only Noah, his wife, three sons and their wives were saved in the ark in the Biblical account. I think a few others were saved in the Quran's account. Surprisingly, however, one of Noah's sons -- in the Quran -- didn't board the ark and was drowned while trying to escape the rising waters! This is in contrast to Shem, Ham and Japheth being saved in the Bible's version. I was also surprised when I read this verse that I assumed was concerning Noah's son who drowned.
46. "O Noah", He answered, "truly he is not of your family. He is surely the outcome of an unrighteous act. So ask Me not of what you do not know. I warn you not to be one of the ignorant."
Drowned Son wasn't Noah's true son? Noah was mistaken? Drowned Son was the "outcome of an unrighteous act." Does this mean Noah's wife had been fooling around and gotten pregnant by another man, therefore, this Drowned Son wasn't truly Noah's child at all? What is the thought on this?
Concerning Lot's story ...
81. (The angels) said: "O Lot, we have verily been sent by your Lord. They will never be able to harm you. So, leave late at night with your family, and none of you should turn back to look; but your wife will suffer (the fate) they are going to suffer. Their hour of doom is in the morning: Is not the morning nigh?"
In the Bible's account Lot's family is told to leave and not look back, however, the fate of Lot's wife is not predicted. Instead she just turned back towards Sodom and was turned into a pillar of salt.
From the prophet Shu'aib
88. He said: "O my people, think. I have a clear sign from my Lord, who has also given me a goodly provision, and I do not wish for myself what I forbid you: I only wish to reform you as best I can. My success is from God alone. In Him I have placed my trust, and to Him I turn.
I liked the last part of this speech very much!
114. Stand up for the service of prayer at the two ends of day and the first watch of night. Remember that good deeds nullify the bad. This is a reminder for those who are observant.
I knew a bit of the importance of good deeds in Islam, however, I never knew good deeds could invalidate bad deeds. I know this can only be on a spiritual level since one's good deeds of giving to the poor, honoring parents, providing for family and so forth can never take away one's bad deed of raping a child. It's not like our scores of good actions can take away the fact that we hurt someone in a terrible way. Am I understanding this correctly?
116. If only there had been men endued with virtue in the ages before you, who could preserve men from doing evil in the world, other than the few We saved from among them. Those who were wicked followed that which made them dissolute, and became sinners.
117. Your Lord would not surely destroy unjustly human habitations so long as the people are righteous.
118. But if your Lord had pleased He could have made all human beings into one community of belief. But they would still have differed from one another, 119. Except those on whom your Lord had mercy for which He has created them. But fulfilled shall be the word of your Lord. "I will fill up Hell with jinns and men."
This passage is full of a number of interesting thoughts. On one hand you think men are responsible for preserving other men from doing evil (vs. 116) whereas in verse 118 I understand that God makes men differ in belief. And it's our difference of belief that causes some to be saved and others to be part of the ones filling Hell.
123. To God belong the secrets of the heavens and the earth, and all things will go back to Him. So worship Him and put your trust in Him; your Lord is not heedless of what you do.
And finally, another great verse to end the sura!
Your thoughts?
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Notes on Quran - Sura 10
So I read Sura 10 -- Yunus or Jonah yesterday, and, shoot, call me crazy, but I expected this sura to discuss the story of Jonah similar to what is talked about in the Bible! Ha, ha! But I read and read and read and read and thought, "OK, where is the story of God giving Jonah orders to preach in Nineveh? Where's Jonah's blatant disobedience in not only refusing to go, but boarding a ship sailing the opposite way? Where's the storm which causes the seasoned sailors to fear for their lives, the casting of lots to determine who was at fault and Jonah's admission that he was the guilty one and should be cast overboard? No big fish story, no reluctant obedience to God, no preaching repentance to the extremely wicked Ninevites." OK, maybe some of that was in the sura, but you can tell it wasn't enough to stick out in my mind this morning! So I came away realizing why God instructed Muhammad to consult and get the story from the People of the Book (vs. 94). Muslims don't have the full stories of many things discussed in the Bible. So, for those who are interested in the biblical account, here is Jonah. It's only three chapters and quite an interesting little book of how a prophet didn't want to preach repentance to a wicked nation because he knew God was so merciful that if the people repented, they would not be punished! Yet Jonah wanted them punished, NOT given mercy! Imagine protesting the wonderful mercy of God! So give it a quick read. Back to the Quran, perhaps there are more Jonah details in another sura, but forgive me if I expected most of them to be in a sura by Jonah's name. :-)
Now some other thoughts.
I assume the "man who is one of them" that people thought was a sorcerer (vs. 2) was Muhammad. I enjoyed some of the thoughts about God in verses 3 through 10, concluding with this one.
10. Their invocation will be: "All glory to you, O God," and "Peace" will be their salutation, and the end of their prayer (will be): "All praise be to God, the Lord of all the worlds."
This verse
12. When man is afflicted with adversity he calls to Us, whether lying on his side, or sitting or standing. But when We take away his troubles, he moves away, as though he had never called to Us in affliction. In the same way, attractive have been made their deeds to the prodigals.
reminded me of some posts my blogger friend, Sarah, has written in recent weeks on suffering and its purpose. Perhaps one purpose is so we will call upon God. I do find it often true that we are more likely to seek divine help when we are suffering than when everything in life is going well.
17. Who is more unjust than he who imputes lies to God or denies His revelations? The sinners will surely not be reprieved.
I know this verse is not likely in the context of what I am referring, however, attributing lies to God reminds me of a post Amber wrote earlier this week which mentions how the supposed crucifixion switch perpetuated the notion that God was a liar. While some people may believe that God deceives when it suits Him, this is quite a different view from the Bible which states God does not - even cannot - lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18, Numbers 23:19, I Samuel 15:29). So this verse shows me God didn't much like lies attributed to Him. Notice also these verses:
59. Say: "Have you thought of what God has sent you for food, of which you have labelled some as lawful and some forbidden?" And ask: "Has God commanded this, or you are imputing lies to God?" 60. What do those who invent lies of God think about the Day of Reckoning? (Will they escape the judgement?) In fact God is gracious to men; but most of them are not grateful.
69. Say: "Those who fabricate lies about God will never succeed."
Maybe it's not the same thing as one person will see the "crucifixion switch" as truth thus not a "fabricated lie about God." On the flip side there are many of us who can view the same story and not see God pulling off one of the biggest - if not the biggest - deceptions of all time.
I can relate to the frustration of people calling out to God only when they are in trouble such as is mentioned in verses 22 and 23. I know some who make promises while going through a hard time and they later keep them, while many others conveniently forget they ever "made a deal" with God.
35. Ask: "Is there one among those you associate with God who can show the way to the truth?" Say: "It is God who shows the way to truth." Then who is more worthy of being followed -- He who guides to the truth, or he who cannot find the path until shown the way? What has happened to you that you judge in such a wise?
Welllllllllllllllll, since you asked -- ("Is there one among those you associate with God who can show the way to the truth?") actually yes. 6Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." So, yes, Jesus is the way to the truth...and, I agree that it is God who shows the way to truth as Q 10:35 says.
As for "who is more worthy of being followed"..."He who guides to the truth (JESUS) or he who cannot find the path until shown the way" (Muhammad)....remember Muhammad didn't even know he was receiving "divine revelations" until others talked him into it. On the other hand, Jesus spoke with authority, never going around with "let me see if God will reveal another sura ...if so, I'll get back to ya on that." So that's an excellent question from the Quran!
37. This Qur'an is not such (a writ) as could be composed by anyone but God. It confirms what has been revealed before, and is an exposition of (Heaven's) law. Without any doubt it's from the Lord of all the worlds. 38. Do they say (of the Prophet) that: "He has composed it?" Say to them: "Bring a Surah like this, and call anyone apart from God you can (to help you), if what you say is true."
Actually I don't necessarily find the Qur'an as a confirmation of what has been revealed before, however, I've only read ten chapters thus far. As for producing an equal or better sura, I suppose this could get quite subjective as not everyone enjoys the same things. I'm sure if one believes something is from God automatically it seems better somehow so this isn't really a logical proof of the Quran's credibility, in my opinion.
41. If they (still) call you a liar, tell them: "For me my actions, for you yours. You are not answerable for my deeds, nor I for what you do."
I'm assuming Muhammad was having trouble with certain groups not accepting his message so this was an assurance to him.
47. For every people there is an apostle; and when their apostle is come the matter is decided between them equitably, and no one is wronged.
I'm only familiar with the Jewish prophets (which are different than apostles, but I think the two words are used interchangeably here) mentioned in the Bible. However many believe Muhammad was the apostle to the Arabs. So now I'm wondering who was (or is) the apostle to the Chinese, Indians, Russians, British, French and so forth. Please don't tell me we in the States have to accept Joseph Smith who also claimed to be a prophet with a revelation from God. Genuinely curious since this verse claims an apostle for every people. (Edited later to add that I finally saw some other prophets in sura 11's reading today, however, not to the people I mentioned above including Americans.)
61. There is no state you are in, whether reading from the Qur'an, or doing something else, but We are watching you as you are engaged in it. There is not the weight of an atom on the earth and in the heavens that is hidden from your Lord, nor is there anything smaller or greater than this but is recorded in the perspicuous Book.
There are similar verses in the Bible about God seeing all that we do and nothing being hidden from Him. Should make us all rethink doing nasty things to others or doing things we know are against godly principles, huh? Sadly it seems we often fear our people and communities and their thoughts of us more than we fear God.
64. For them is good news in the life of the world and in the life to come. There is no changing the words of God. That will be the great triumph.
I still think this proves that God kept His Word safe and the Bible wasn't corrupted or changed. But then I would, wouldn't I? ;-)
90. And We brought the people of Israel across the sea, but the Pharaoh and his army pursued them wickedly and maliciously till he was on the point of drowning, and he said: "I believe that there is no god but He in whom the people of Israel believe, and I submit to Him."
Interesting to read about Pharoah's "death-bed" confession which is not recorded in the biblical account in Exodus 14. I was a bit confused on the details, but according to the Quran, did God accept Pharoah's plea as he was drowning?
94. If you are in doubt of what We have sent down to you, then ask those who have been reading the Book (for a long time) before you. The truth has indeed come to you from your Lord, so do not be one of those who doubt.
I was assuming in the first paragraph that this reference to "the Book" meant the Torah and Injil. It cannot be the Quran since it wasn't written down at this point, right?
Nice to finally see Jonah mentioned in verse 98. :-)
99. If your Lord had willed, all the people on the earth would have come to believe, one and all.
This and a few of the following verses seemed to have that predestination flavor again. I know Christians who strongly believe in predestination so it's fine. God guides those whom He wishes to save. It's a well-known thought among many I know personally.
107. Should God bring you harm there is none but He who could deliver you from it, and if He wish you good there is none who could take away His blessings: He showers them on those of His creatures as He please, and He is forgiving and kind."
This reminds me that GOD is in control of what happens to us. We may think having bodyguards, security systems, a mighty military, nuclear weapons -- whatever, will save us from those who would harm us, however no one or no thing can hurt us without His permission. Nice reminder!
Thanks to all who have been leaving comments on my posts. I've greatly enjoyed learning from you and hope you will continue to freely share!
Now some other thoughts.
I assume the "man who is one of them" that people thought was a sorcerer (vs. 2) was Muhammad. I enjoyed some of the thoughts about God in verses 3 through 10, concluding with this one.
10. Their invocation will be: "All glory to you, O God," and "Peace" will be their salutation, and the end of their prayer (will be): "All praise be to God, the Lord of all the worlds."
This verse
12. When man is afflicted with adversity he calls to Us, whether lying on his side, or sitting or standing. But when We take away his troubles, he moves away, as though he had never called to Us in affliction. In the same way, attractive have been made their deeds to the prodigals.
reminded me of some posts my blogger friend, Sarah, has written in recent weeks on suffering and its purpose. Perhaps one purpose is so we will call upon God. I do find it often true that we are more likely to seek divine help when we are suffering than when everything in life is going well.
17. Who is more unjust than he who imputes lies to God or denies His revelations? The sinners will surely not be reprieved.
I know this verse is not likely in the context of what I am referring, however, attributing lies to God reminds me of a post Amber wrote earlier this week which mentions how the supposed crucifixion switch perpetuated the notion that God was a liar. While some people may believe that God deceives when it suits Him, this is quite a different view from the Bible which states God does not - even cannot - lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18, Numbers 23:19, I Samuel 15:29). So this verse shows me God didn't much like lies attributed to Him. Notice also these verses:
59. Say: "Have you thought of what God has sent you for food, of which you have labelled some as lawful and some forbidden?" And ask: "Has God commanded this, or you are imputing lies to God?" 60. What do those who invent lies of God think about the Day of Reckoning? (Will they escape the judgement?) In fact God is gracious to men; but most of them are not grateful.
69. Say: "Those who fabricate lies about God will never succeed."
Maybe it's not the same thing as one person will see the "crucifixion switch" as truth thus not a "fabricated lie about God." On the flip side there are many of us who can view the same story and not see God pulling off one of the biggest - if not the biggest - deceptions of all time.
I can relate to the frustration of people calling out to God only when they are in trouble such as is mentioned in verses 22 and 23. I know some who make promises while going through a hard time and they later keep them, while many others conveniently forget they ever "made a deal" with God.
35. Ask: "Is there one among those you associate with God who can show the way to the truth?" Say: "It is God who shows the way to truth." Then who is more worthy of being followed -- He who guides to the truth, or he who cannot find the path until shown the way? What has happened to you that you judge in such a wise?
Welllllllllllllllll, since you asked -- ("Is there one among those you associate with God who can show the way to the truth?") actually yes. 6Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." So, yes, Jesus is the way to the truth...and, I agree that it is God who shows the way to truth as Q 10:35 says.
As for "who is more worthy of being followed"..."He who guides to the truth (JESUS) or he who cannot find the path until shown the way" (Muhammad)....remember Muhammad didn't even know he was receiving "divine revelations" until others talked him into it. On the other hand, Jesus spoke with authority, never going around with "let me see if God will reveal another sura ...if so, I'll get back to ya on that." So that's an excellent question from the Quran!
37. This Qur'an is not such (a writ) as could be composed by anyone but God. It confirms what has been revealed before, and is an exposition of (Heaven's) law. Without any doubt it's from the Lord of all the worlds. 38. Do they say (of the Prophet) that: "He has composed it?" Say to them: "Bring a Surah like this, and call anyone apart from God you can (to help you), if what you say is true."
Actually I don't necessarily find the Qur'an as a confirmation of what has been revealed before, however, I've only read ten chapters thus far. As for producing an equal or better sura, I suppose this could get quite subjective as not everyone enjoys the same things. I'm sure if one believes something is from God automatically it seems better somehow so this isn't really a logical proof of the Quran's credibility, in my opinion.
41. If they (still) call you a liar, tell them: "For me my actions, for you yours. You are not answerable for my deeds, nor I for what you do."
I'm assuming Muhammad was having trouble with certain groups not accepting his message so this was an assurance to him.
47. For every people there is an apostle; and when their apostle is come the matter is decided between them equitably, and no one is wronged.
I'm only familiar with the Jewish prophets (which are different than apostles, but I think the two words are used interchangeably here) mentioned in the Bible. However many believe Muhammad was the apostle to the Arabs. So now I'm wondering who was (or is) the apostle to the Chinese, Indians, Russians, British, French and so forth. Please don't tell me we in the States have to accept Joseph Smith who also claimed to be a prophet with a revelation from God. Genuinely curious since this verse claims an apostle for every people. (Edited later to add that I finally saw some other prophets in sura 11's reading today, however, not to the people I mentioned above including Americans.)
61. There is no state you are in, whether reading from the Qur'an, or doing something else, but We are watching you as you are engaged in it. There is not the weight of an atom on the earth and in the heavens that is hidden from your Lord, nor is there anything smaller or greater than this but is recorded in the perspicuous Book.
There are similar verses in the Bible about God seeing all that we do and nothing being hidden from Him. Should make us all rethink doing nasty things to others or doing things we know are against godly principles, huh? Sadly it seems we often fear our people and communities and their thoughts of us more than we fear God.
64. For them is good news in the life of the world and in the life to come. There is no changing the words of God. That will be the great triumph.
I still think this proves that God kept His Word safe and the Bible wasn't corrupted or changed. But then I would, wouldn't I? ;-)
90. And We brought the people of Israel across the sea, but the Pharaoh and his army pursued them wickedly and maliciously till he was on the point of drowning, and he said: "I believe that there is no god but He in whom the people of Israel believe, and I submit to Him."
Interesting to read about Pharoah's "death-bed" confession which is not recorded in the biblical account in Exodus 14. I was a bit confused on the details, but according to the Quran, did God accept Pharoah's plea as he was drowning?
94. If you are in doubt of what We have sent down to you, then ask those who have been reading the Book (for a long time) before you. The truth has indeed come to you from your Lord, so do not be one of those who doubt.
I was assuming in the first paragraph that this reference to "the Book" meant the Torah and Injil. It cannot be the Quran since it wasn't written down at this point, right?
Nice to finally see Jonah mentioned in verse 98. :-)
99. If your Lord had willed, all the people on the earth would have come to believe, one and all.
This and a few of the following verses seemed to have that predestination flavor again. I know Christians who strongly believe in predestination so it's fine. God guides those whom He wishes to save. It's a well-known thought among many I know personally.
107. Should God bring you harm there is none but He who could deliver you from it, and if He wish you good there is none who could take away His blessings: He showers them on those of His creatures as He please, and He is forgiving and kind."
This reminds me that GOD is in control of what happens to us. We may think having bodyguards, security systems, a mighty military, nuclear weapons -- whatever, will save us from those who would harm us, however no one or no thing can hurt us without His permission. Nice reminder!
Thanks to all who have been leaving comments on my posts. I've greatly enjoyed learning from you and hope you will continue to freely share!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Notes on Quran - Sura 9
Sura 9 -- Al-Tawbah
This sura is called "Repentance" in English, however, I was overwhelmed more with its call for fighting and striving. Not just with idolaters (vs. 5), unbelievers, and hypocrites (v. 73), but also People of the Book (vs. 29). I found myself seeking out talk of repentance so as to not be struck down! Right off the bat are calls for killing idolaters who refused to "repent and fulfill their devotional obligations and pay the zakat" (vs. 5). Y'all know I am used to Jesus and his radical teachings which include loving our enemies! So, this call for killing those in disagreement, honestly, didn't sit well with me. I am not for converting by the sword no matter if it has been wrongly practiced in Christendom in the past. It's wrong. I don't see it modeled by Jesus nor his followers in the Bible. I truly believe we share the Good News and live out our "Jesus values" and if people want to join us, terrific. However, if they want to follow their own paths, so be it. I'm not going to hunt you down and kill you for making this decision. God is the Judge, not me.
17. The idolaters have no right to visit the mosques of God while bearing testimony to their disbelief. Meaningless will be their acts, and in Hell they will bide for ever,
I'm not sure of the story behind the mosques here, however, just reading it at face value, I thought of how we welcome unbelievers in my church and every church I've ever been associated with. Hopefully there is a good reason for forbidding idolaters from not visiting mosques. Really, if you want people to see the goodness of your spirituality/religion/
24. You tell them: "If your fathers and sons, your brothers and wives and families and wealth, or the business you fear may fail, and the mansions that you love, are dearer to you than God, His Apostle, and struggling in His cause, then wait until God's command arrives, for God does not show transgressors the way."
This reminds me of the teaching of Jesus that I discussed a few days ago.
38. What has happened to you, O believers, that when you are asked to set out in the cause of God your feet begin to drag? Do you find the life of the world so pleasing that you forget the life to come? Yet the profit of the life of this world is but meager as compared to the life to come.
Great reminder that the things of this world are temporary compared to eternal life.
39. Unless you go out (to strive), God will inflict grievous punishment on you, and bring other people in your place, and you will not be able to harm Him in the least, for God has the power over all things.
Not trying to be contentious, but are verses such as this one the reason why extreme groups/people believe fighting for God is necessary? It seems fighting is required to avoid a "grievous punishment" when taken out of context (or not?).
51. Tell them: "Nothing can befall us except what God decrees. Our protector is He, and in God should the faithful place their trust."
Wonderful verse!
I noticed many times in this sura how God and Muhammad are a couple. It became a theme I looked for there for a bit. Here is one instance where the coupling was pronounced.
61. There are some among them who talk ill of the Prophet by saying: "He listens to everyone." Tell them: "He listens for your good, and trusts in God and trusts the faithful, and he is a blessing for those who believe. For those who offend the Apostle of God there is painful punishment."
62. They swear by God to please you; but if they are believers it would have been worthier to have pleased God and His Apostle.
63. Have they not realised that anyone who opposes God and His Prophet, will abide in Hell for ever? And that is the worst disgrace.
And also this
71. Those who believe, men and women, befriend one another, and enjoin what is right and prohibit what is wrong. They observe their devotional obligations, pay the zakat, and obey God and His Apostle. God will be merciful to them, for God is all-mighty and all-wise.
90. Some Arabs of the desert came with ready excuses, asking for leave to stay behind. But those who had lied to God and His Prophet stayed at home doing nothing. So the punishment for those who disbelieve among them will be painful.
From reading these suras I better understand why Muhammad is so important to Muslims. You can't separate him from God in Islam according to the Quran's own words!
Except maybe in this point where it appears repentance is not accepted by God.
95. They will beg you in the name of God, on your return, to forgive them; but you keep away from them: They are scum; their abode is Hell: Requital for what they had done.
Does this mean if Muhammad will accept these people's repentance, yet still God will not? Is Muhammad more merciful that God? What are your thoughts on this passage?
Thankfully I did notice some verses on repentance (such as 74, 102, 104, 112).
111. God has verily bought the souls and possessions of the faithful in exchange for a promise of Paradise. They fight in the cause of God, and kill and are killed. This is a promise incumbent on Him, as in the Torah, so the Gospel and the Qur'an. And who is more true to his promise than God? So rejoice at the bargain you have made with Him; for this will be triumph supreme.
This part about God buying souls and possessions in exchange for heaven reminds me of the Bible where Paul reminds us that we are bought with a price - the precious blood of Jesus.
113. It is not worthy of the Prophet and those who believe to seek forgiveness for those who are idolaters, even though they may be their relatives, after they have come to know that they are destined for Hell.
This verse was kind of sad for me. It also reminded me of something I've heard asked before. I'll tweak it a bit for this post. Think of someone you are talking with concerning matters of faith. It could be a dear family member, a beloved friend or an acquaintance who is quickly on the way to becoming a dear friend or maybe just some gal off the street. Got someone in mind? Even if you knew the person you are talking about in matters of faith would never convert to your side -- never become Muslim, never become a Christian, Hindu, Universalist, whatever -- would you still be her friend? Or are you only being friendly because you have these "ulterior motives"? I guess the point of the matter is, do we believe people matter ONLY if there is hope that they will convert to your thinking? Or do people matter, period? I guess this is why this verse 113 made me a bit sad. It seems to give up on people when you are assured (not sure how) that they will never come to your (religious) side. I just think people are worth more than our agendas. (And forgive me for those of you who have never considered converting people or having agendas concerning them, but I know some in the world who seem to have this outlook in life and come across as if people are projects.)
116. Verily God's is the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He alone is the giver of life and death; and none do you have besides God as friend and helper.
Another wonderful verse!
123. O believers, fight the unbelievers around you, and let them realise that you are firm: Remember, God is with those who are pious and obedient to Him.
I prefer Jesus' teachings to love our neighbors - which in his story of the Good Samaritan made it clear that even our enemies are considered neighbors.
129. So, if they turn away, say to them: "God is sufficient for me. There is no God but He; I depend on Him alone, the Lord of the glorious Throne."
Loved this beautiful ending to a somewhat difficult chapter.
This sura is called "Repentance" in English, however, I was overwhelmed more with its call for fighting and striving. Not just with idolaters (vs. 5), unbelievers, and hypocrites (v. 73), but also People of the Book (vs. 29). I found myself seeking out talk of repentance so as to not be struck down! Right off the bat are calls for killing idolaters who refused to "repent and fulfill their devotional obligations and pay the zakat" (vs. 5). Y'all know I am used to Jesus and his radical teachings which include loving our enemies! So, this call for killing those in disagreement, honestly, didn't sit well with me. I am not for converting by the sword no matter if it has been wrongly practiced in Christendom in the past. It's wrong. I don't see it modeled by Jesus nor his followers in the Bible. I truly believe we share the Good News and live out our "Jesus values" and if people want to join us, terrific. However, if they want to follow their own paths, so be it. I'm not going to hunt you down and kill you for making this decision. God is the Judge, not me.
17. The idolaters have no right to visit the mosques of God while bearing testimony to their disbelief. Meaningless will be their acts, and in Hell they will bide for ever,
18. Only those who believe in God and the Last Day, who fulfil their devotional obligations, pay the zakat, and fear no one but God, can visit the mosques of God. They may hope to be among the guided.
I'm not sure of the story behind the mosques here, however, just reading it at face value, I thought of how we welcome unbelievers in my church and every church I've ever been associated with. Hopefully there is a good reason for forbidding idolaters from not visiting mosques. Really, if you want people to see the goodness of your spirituality/religion/
24. You tell them: "If your fathers and sons, your brothers and wives and families and wealth, or the business you fear may fail, and the mansions that you love, are dearer to you than God, His Apostle, and struggling in His cause, then wait until God's command arrives, for God does not show transgressors the way."
This reminds me of the teaching of Jesus that I discussed a few days ago.
38. What has happened to you, O believers, that when you are asked to set out in the cause of God your feet begin to drag? Do you find the life of the world so pleasing that you forget the life to come? Yet the profit of the life of this world is but meager as compared to the life to come.
Great reminder that the things of this world are temporary compared to eternal life.
39. Unless you go out (to strive), God will inflict grievous punishment on you, and bring other people in your place, and you will not be able to harm Him in the least, for God has the power over all things.
Not trying to be contentious, but are verses such as this one the reason why extreme groups/people believe fighting for God is necessary? It seems fighting is required to avoid a "grievous punishment" when taken out of context (or not?).
51. Tell them: "Nothing can befall us except what God decrees. Our protector is He, and in God should the faithful place their trust."
Wonderful verse!
I noticed many times in this sura how God and Muhammad are a couple. It became a theme I looked for there for a bit. Here is one instance where the coupling was pronounced.
61. There are some among them who talk ill of the Prophet by saying: "He listens to everyone." Tell them: "He listens for your good, and trusts in God and trusts the faithful, and he is a blessing for those who believe. For those who offend the Apostle of God there is painful punishment."
62. They swear by God to please you; but if they are believers it would have been worthier to have pleased God and His Apostle.
63. Have they not realised that anyone who opposes God and His Prophet, will abide in Hell for ever? And that is the worst disgrace.
And also this
71. Those who believe, men and women, befriend one another, and enjoin what is right and prohibit what is wrong. They observe their devotional obligations, pay the zakat, and obey God and His Apostle. God will be merciful to them, for God is all-mighty and all-wise.
90. Some Arabs of the desert came with ready excuses, asking for leave to stay behind. But those who had lied to God and His Prophet stayed at home doing nothing. So the punishment for those who disbelieve among them will be painful.
From reading these suras I better understand why Muhammad is so important to Muslims. You can't separate him from God in Islam according to the Quran's own words!
Except maybe in this point where it appears repentance is not accepted by God.
95. They will beg you in the name of God, on your return, to forgive them; but you keep away from them: They are scum; their abode is Hell: Requital for what they had done.
96. They will plead on oath that you accept them. Even if you accept them, remember God does not accept people who are disobedient.
Does this mean if Muhammad will accept these people's repentance, yet still God will not? Is Muhammad more merciful that God? What are your thoughts on this passage?
Thankfully I did notice some verses on repentance (such as 74, 102, 104, 112).
111. God has verily bought the souls and possessions of the faithful in exchange for a promise of Paradise. They fight in the cause of God, and kill and are killed. This is a promise incumbent on Him, as in the Torah, so the Gospel and the Qur'an. And who is more true to his promise than God? So rejoice at the bargain you have made with Him; for this will be triumph supreme.
This part about God buying souls and possessions in exchange for heaven reminds me of the Bible where Paul reminds us that we are bought with a price - the precious blood of Jesus.
113. It is not worthy of the Prophet and those who believe to seek forgiveness for those who are idolaters, even though they may be their relatives, after they have come to know that they are destined for Hell.
This verse was kind of sad for me. It also reminded me of something I've heard asked before. I'll tweak it a bit for this post. Think of someone you are talking with concerning matters of faith. It could be a dear family member, a beloved friend or an acquaintance who is quickly on the way to becoming a dear friend or maybe just some gal off the street. Got someone in mind? Even if you knew the person you are talking about in matters of faith would never convert to your side -- never become Muslim, never become a Christian, Hindu, Universalist, whatever -- would you still be her friend? Or are you only being friendly because you have these "ulterior motives"? I guess the point of the matter is, do we believe people matter ONLY if there is hope that they will convert to your thinking? Or do people matter, period? I guess this is why this verse 113 made me a bit sad. It seems to give up on people when you are assured (not sure how) that they will never come to your (religious) side. I just think people are worth more than our agendas. (And forgive me for those of you who have never considered converting people or having agendas concerning them, but I know some in the world who seem to have this outlook in life and come across as if people are projects.)
116. Verily God's is the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He alone is the giver of life and death; and none do you have besides God as friend and helper.
Another wonderful verse!
123. O believers, fight the unbelievers around you, and let them realise that you are firm: Remember, God is with those who are pious and obedient to Him.
I prefer Jesus' teachings to love our neighbors - which in his story of the Good Samaritan made it clear that even our enemies are considered neighbors.
129. So, if they turn away, say to them: "God is sufficient for me. There is no God but He; I depend on Him alone, the Lord of the glorious Throne."
Loved this beautiful ending to a somewhat difficult chapter.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Notes on Quran - Sura 8
As I mentioned in my last post I am now reading a more contemporary English version of the Quran that I borrowed from my local public library. Here is a link to what I read for those interested.
Sura 8 -- Al-Anfal
Now for a few notes on this chapter.
2. Only they are true believers whose hearts fill up with awe when the name of God is mentioned; and their faith is further strengthened when His messages are read out to them; and those who place their trust in their Lord.
I just liked this verse especially as I imagined hearts swelling with "awe" at the mention of God's name! It reminded me of a stanza from "Revelation Song" and I can say I've experienced this heart-filling awesomeness of God. I can also relate to my heart being strengthened when God's message is proclaimed. I experience this often from reading the Bible and hearing sermons and reading publications reminding me of God's great message to mankind.
5. As your Lord sent you from your home (to fight) for the true cause, a section of the faithful were averse,
6. Who argued with you about the matter even after it had become quite clear, as if they were being pushed into (the arms of) death as they waited.
7. Though God promised that one of two columns (would fall to you), you desired the one that was not armed. But God wished to confirm the truth by His words, and wipe the unbelievers out to the last,
7. Though God promised that one of two columns (would fall to you), you desired the one that was not armed. But God wished to confirm the truth by His words, and wipe the unbelievers out to the last,
8. So that Truth may be affirmed and falsehood negated, even though the sinners be averse.
9. Remember when you prayed to your Lord for help, He heard you and said: "I shall send a thousand angels following behind you for your aid."
9. Remember when you prayed to your Lord for help, He heard you and said: "I shall send a thousand angels following behind you for your aid."
10. He gave you the good news only to reassure your hearts, for victory comes from God alone, and certainly God is all-mighty and all-wise.
22. The worst of creatures in the eyes of God are those who are deaf and dumb and devoid of sense.
23. If God had seen any good in them He would surely have made them hear. Now even if He makes them hear they will turn away (in obduracy).
24. O believers, respond to the call of God and His Prophet when he calls you to what will give you life (and preservation). Remember that God intervenes between man and his heart, and that you will be gathered before Him.
24. O believers, respond to the call of God and His Prophet when he calls you to what will give you life (and preservation). Remember that God intervenes between man and his heart, and that you will be gathered before Him.
Without reading this in context, one would think verse 22 was a slam against disabled people, however, I think this has to do with people who are spiritually deaf, dumb and without sense. Like those who choose to harden their hearts to any moral influence and talk of God. Verse 24 gives Islam a more free will flavor. This in contrast to the other day when one sura made me see "predestination" all over it. Then again verse 23 seems to indicate God will only allow people to spiritually hear if they first have any good in them. I wonder how much good is necessary. How much is "any" good? Are some people just rotten to the core? From verse 24, I wonder what God intervening between a man and his heart means in this sense? He gives understanding? He opens eyes and hearts to His truth? But only if there is first some good in people (vs. 23)?
Interesting things to ponder anyway.
28. Know that your worldly possessions and your children are just a temptation, and that God has greater rewards with Him.
29. O believers, if you follow the path shown by God, He will give you a standard (of right and wrong), and overlook your sins, and forgive you. God is abounding in benevolence.
Something about verse 28 reminded me of the passage from Matthew 10 that I discussed here the other day. The one about putting Jesus ahead of spouses, mothers, fathers and children. Seeing children as a temptation was a bit boggling until I remembered Jesus' words.
I am just reflecting some on verse 29.
63. Whose hearts He cemented with love. You could never have united their hearts even if you had spent whatever (wealth) is in the earth; but God united them with love, for He is all-mighty and all-wise.
64. God is sufficient for you, O Prophet, and the faithful who follow you.
Jesus spoke a lot about love. How people would know we were his disciples if we had love for one another. He even went so far as to tell us to love our enemies! He expounded upon the "love your neighbor" command by making a despised (by the Jews of that time) Samaritan included as a neighbor! Egads! So. I really like verse 63 and how love unites hearts. It's not money, material stuff, whatever, but love. And the Bible states that God is love. So God unites hearts. Great verse.
I love the reminder in verse 64 that God is sufficient. Amen!
Now one last thing. In my post about Muhammad and Jesus and the Word of God comparison, someone left an interesting comment. I'd just read this sura so when she wrote it, I could actually relate to the Companion who "blundered" in this hadith. Let me explain.
Commenter wrote:
In fact, the Prophet himself used to emphasize that he was just a man. It is reported that once a Bedouin met him; when the Bedioun saw him, he was so awed by his presence, he trembled in fear. Seeing this Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Calm down. I am only the son of a woman who used to eat dry meat in Makkah (meaning a poor woman).'
Also, it is said that once one of the Companions said he was going to do something, “If God willed and if His apostle did, too”. Prophet Mohammed grew so angry and asked him why he was associating a partner with God! He explained that this was blasphemous.
And while my thoughts are likely flawed and the verses out of context, let me show why I can understand the Companion who was rebuked after having just finished reading these verses from sura 8.
13. For they had opposed God and His Apostle; but whosoever opposes God and his Apostle (should know) that God is severe in retribution.
20. O believers, obey God and His Messenger, and do not turn away from him when you hear (him speak);
24. O believers, respond to the call of God and His Prophet when he calls you to what will give you life (and preservation). Remember that God intervenes between man and his heart, and that you will be gathered before Him.
46. Obey God and His Apostle, and do not disagree among yourselves or you will be unmanned and lose courage. Persevere, for God is with those who endure.
Notice how often God is coupled with Muhammad. Wouldn't "obey God" have sufficed? Then again maybe this was God's way of giving credence to whatever Muhammad was ordering the people to do. What do you think?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Notes on Quran - Sura 7
As promised here are more thoughts on the Quran. I finished the 7th sura a few days ago. I really enjoyed many of the verses.
Sura 7 - Al A'raf
3. Follow (O men!) the revelation given unto you from your Lord, and follow not, as friends or protectors, other than Him. Little it is ye remember of admonition.
Not sure if I am thinking of this correctly, but it reminds me that God is our perfect example, truly the only trustworthy one. Too often we are disappointed when a family member, friend or person of influence fails us because of something they did. It's like something I was taught when I was young that people will disappoint us, hurt us, fail us, that's why we trust in God over any mere human. As one Christian hymn goes, "The arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own." Because, in reality, I am often that person who disappoints, hurts or fails others. I thought this verse was a good reminder of this fact.
10. It is We Who have placed you with authority on earth, and provided you therein with means for the fulfilment of your life: small are the thanks that ye give!
This is a great reminder that all we have is from God, yet, sadly, we often forget to thank Him for His blessings. I like how it states God has provided the means for the fulfillment of life. As if He has given us the raw materials, but it's up to us to find the fulfillment therein. Using my analogy, I wonder what would the "raw materials" be and what would give you fulfillment in life?
First of all "meanest of creatures" is quite the good description of Satan! And it makes me smile for some reason as well. :)
I am always puzzled when I read about God commanding angels to bow down to man. I know at times people bow to royalty and leaders due to their powerful positions and as a show of respect and submission maybe. Perhaps this is the way I should think of this bow-to-Adam story, however, more ingrained in me - especially related to God! - is that we should not bow down before anyone but Him! Therefore, to read this about angels bowing to Adam makes me wonder if this is part of the problem we have now -- man as his own god such as much of humanistic thinking portrays. (Where God is not needed, in fact He is made up. Man has reasoned himself [or maybe evolved is a better word] into a good state, a better state than even God could have come up with.)
I am still mulling over this quite a lot. I do recall in the Bible that Joseph had a dream where his parents and brothers bowed to him, however, I also recall in the New Testament where the apostles of Jesus were bowed down to and in response protested for the people to get up as they were mere men and not God! Also the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego..how these Israelite men were thrown into a fiery furnace because they refused to bow down to a false god. So something about this bowing to Adam just doesn't sit right with me. But I suppose if God tells you to bow, you bow. My problem is more in the thought that God would command such a thing. Guess this is why I'm not a Muslim if I am questioning God on such things! :-) And, in reality, I guess bowing isn't necessarily the same as worshiping so that's the key difference. Perhaps this was to show God had made man higher than the angels? To elevate man somehow. Do you agree that this is the case (men higher than angels)?
This shows me that we cannot blame those who went before us for our going down the wrong path. In fact if we want God to curse the first people for this by giving them harsher judgment, He, in fact, created harsher punishment for all. Thus we are not able to use the excuse of others. We are accountable for ourselves.
I found myself trying to visualize this sequence of events in order to keep the story straight. I'm assuming these are neutral observers on the heights who are seeing those in heaven (Companions of the Garden) and those in hell (Companions of the Fire). I think I followed their dialogue well enough until verse 47. Who are the certain men whom they know from their marks? Are these people who have not yet entered into eternity (heaven or hell)? And what are "their marks"? Does this go back to that mistranslation of baptism from sura 2? I think I remember someone saying it was in reality a mark. I didn't really follow 48 and 49 and who was being addressed as arrogant and hoarding and then welcomed into the Garden.
This verse is pretty nice although I could argue that "those who do good" don't really need mercy. I think it's the ones who do bad who can appreciate the mercy of God more. :-) But I like the principle of this verse: calling upon God and His mercy being near.
There are things I want to say about verses 157 and 158, but maybe that will be for another post. This one is long enough and it's just one sura!
I think this was talking about the Jews. First the reference to turning them into apes was peculiar. But the part in verse 168 I can see since the Jews were scattered throughout the world for hundreds of years. Yet they always kept their longing for their homeland and seemed to have passed this yearning from generation to generation much as the Palestinians of today do with their own children.
Today I borrowed an English translation of the Quran from the public library. It's a more contemporary version by Ahmed Ali. I plan to read sura 8 from it next.
Sura 7 - Al A'raf
3. Follow (O men!) the revelation given unto you from your Lord, and follow not, as friends or protectors, other than Him. Little it is ye remember of admonition.
Not sure if I am thinking of this correctly, but it reminds me that God is our perfect example, truly the only trustworthy one. Too often we are disappointed when a family member, friend or person of influence fails us because of something they did. It's like something I was taught when I was young that people will disappoint us, hurt us, fail us, that's why we trust in God over any mere human. As one Christian hymn goes, "The arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own." Because, in reality, I am often that person who disappoints, hurts or fails others. I thought this verse was a good reminder of this fact.
10. It is We Who have placed you with authority on earth, and provided you therein with means for the fulfilment of your life: small are the thanks that ye give!
This is a great reminder that all we have is from God, yet, sadly, we often forget to thank Him for His blessings. I like how it states God has provided the means for the fulfillment of life. As if He has given us the raw materials, but it's up to us to find the fulfillment therein. Using my analogy, I wonder what would the "raw materials" be and what would give you fulfillment in life?
11. It is We Who created you and gave you shape; then We bade the angels bow down to Adam, and they bowed down; not so Iblis; He refused to be of those who bow down.
12. ((Allah)) said: "What prevented thee from bowing down when I commanded thee?" He said: "I am better than he: Thou didst create me from fire, and him from clay."
13. ((Allah)) said: "Get thee down from this: it is not for thee to be arrogant here: get out, for thou art of the meanest (of creatures)."First of all "meanest of creatures" is quite the good description of Satan! And it makes me smile for some reason as well. :)
I am always puzzled when I read about God commanding angels to bow down to man. I know at times people bow to royalty and leaders due to their powerful positions and as a show of respect and submission maybe. Perhaps this is the way I should think of this bow-to-Adam story, however, more ingrained in me - especially related to God! - is that we should not bow down before anyone but Him! Therefore, to read this about angels bowing to Adam makes me wonder if this is part of the problem we have now -- man as his own god such as much of humanistic thinking portrays. (Where God is not needed, in fact He is made up. Man has reasoned himself [or maybe evolved is a better word] into a good state, a better state than even God could have come up with.)
I am still mulling over this quite a lot. I do recall in the Bible that Joseph had a dream where his parents and brothers bowed to him, however, I also recall in the New Testament where the apostles of Jesus were bowed down to and in response protested for the people to get up as they were mere men and not God! Also the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego..how these Israelite men were thrown into a fiery furnace because they refused to bow down to a false god. So something about this bowing to Adam just doesn't sit right with me. But I suppose if God tells you to bow, you bow. My problem is more in the thought that God would command such a thing. Guess this is why I'm not a Muslim if I am questioning God on such things! :-) And, in reality, I guess bowing isn't necessarily the same as worshiping so that's the key difference. Perhaps this was to show God had made man higher than the angels? To elevate man somehow. Do you agree that this is the case (men higher than angels)?
38. He will say: "Enter ye in the company of the peoples who passed away before you - men and jinns, - into the Fire." Every time a new people enters, it curses its sister-people (that went before), until they follow each other, all into the Fire. Saith the last about the first: "Our Lord! it is these that misled us: so give them a double penalty in the Fire." He will say: "Doubled for all" : but this ye do not understand.
39. Then the first will say to the last: "See then! No advantage have ye over us; so taste ye of the penalty for all that ye did !"This shows me that we cannot blame those who went before us for our going down the wrong path. In fact if we want God to curse the first people for this by giving them harsher judgment, He, in fact, created harsher punishment for all. Thus we are not able to use the excuse of others. We are accountable for ourselves.
44. The Companions of the Garden will call out to the Companions of the Fire: "We have indeed found the promises of our Lord to us true: Have you also found Your Lord's promises true?" They shall say, "Yes"; but a crier shall proclaim between them: "The curse of Allah is on the wrong-doers;-
45. "Those who would hinder (men) from the path of Allah and would seek in it something crooked: they were those who denied the Hereafter."
46. Between them shall be a veil, and on the heights will be men who would know every one by his marks: they will call out to the Companions of the Garden, "peace on you": they will not have entered, but they will have an assurance (thereof).
47. When their eyes shall be turned towards the Companions of the Fire, they will say: "Our Lord! send us not to the company of the wrong-doers."
48. The men on the heights will call to certain men whom they will know from their marks, saying: "Of what profit to you were your hoards and your arrogant ways?
49. "Behold! are these not the men whom you swore that Allah with His Mercy would never bless? Enter ye the Garden: no fear shall be on you, nor shall ye grieve."I found myself trying to visualize this sequence of events in order to keep the story straight. I'm assuming these are neutral observers on the heights who are seeing those in heaven (Companions of the Garden) and those in hell (Companions of the Fire). I think I followed their dialogue well enough until verse 47. Who are the certain men whom they know from their marks? Are these people who have not yet entered into eternity (heaven or hell)? And what are "their marks"? Does this go back to that mistranslation of baptism from sura 2? I think I remember someone saying it was in reality a mark. I didn't really follow 48 and 49 and who was being addressed as arrogant and hoarding and then welcomed into the Garden.
This verse is pretty nice although I could argue that "those who do good" don't really need mercy. I think it's the ones who do bad who can appreciate the mercy of God more. :-) But I like the principle of this verse: calling upon God and His mercy being near.
There are things I want to say about verses 157 and 158, but maybe that will be for another post. This one is long enough and it's just one sura!
166. When in their insolence they transgressed (all) prohibitions, We said to them: "Be ye apes, despised and rejected."
168. We broke them up into sections on this earth. There are among them some that are the righteous, and some that are the opposite. We have tried them with both prosperity and adversity: In order that they might turn (to us).
I think this was talking about the Jews. First the reference to turning them into apes was peculiar. But the part in verse 168 I can see since the Jews were scattered throughout the world for hundreds of years. Yet they always kept their longing for their homeland and seemed to have passed this yearning from generation to generation much as the Palestinians of today do with their own children.
204. When the Qur'an is read, listen to it with attention, and hold your peace: that ye may receive Mercy.
205. And do thou (O reader!) Bring thy Lord to remembrance in thy (very) soul, with humility and in reverence, without loudness in words, in the mornings and evenings; and be not thou of those who are unheedful.
206. Those who are near to thy Lord, disdain not to do Him worship: They celebrate His praises, and bow down before Him.
These are quite lovely verses especially bringing the Lord into remembrance and celebrating His praises. And see bowing down before God as noted here causes me no problems. This is what I expect...not the bowing down to man (Adam) as mentioned above.
"Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!" - Psalm 95:6
Today I borrowed an English translation of the Quran from the public library. It's a more contemporary version by Ahmed Ali. I plan to read sura 8 from it next.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Muhammad & Jesus -- On Being the "Word of God"
My first post about the Quran has generated lots of interesting discussion (over sixty comments presently!), and I greatly appreciate all who have taken time to comment. I've learned some interesting points of view indeed! A few days ago one lady really caught my attention by writing,
"As we Muslims all know Prophet Mohammed was described as the walking Qur’an."
She was discussing how Muhammad exemplified the message of the Quran so well that they could essentially follow his example and "keep" the Quran so to speak. Fair enough. But the terminology just stuck with me and later I replied to her in the comments section about it. Tonight while I was walking around the neighborhood I decided that I wouldn't be able to finish my thoughts on Quran 7 and really wanted to reflect more on this topic first anyway. This is what I wrote in the comments of my post in reply to S's words about Muhammad.
The words of someone expresses that person. Our thoughts, ideas and comments are really not worth much if we cannot express them so that others can hear or read or experience them. Therefore I see how important the Word of God is and even how "it" is part of Him. How "it" can be Him. Maybe this is why Jesus said if you've seen me, you've seen the Father. He was an expression of God, the Word of the Almighty. You read the Gospels and see how entwined God's message and Jesus are. Jesus, the expression (Word) of God? Perhaps.
The only thing I want to add is that also I believe many Muslims believe the Quran is uncreated and eternal which is also how we see Jesus. (Of course if we truly believe him to be God!)
Jesus himself shocked the Jews of his day when he said that Abraham who'd lived hundreds of years prior to Jesus' birth and life on earth had rejoiced to see his day. Here's the passage from John 8.
48The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?"
Soon I will post by thoughts on Quran 7, Lord willing.
"As we Muslims all know Prophet Mohammed was described as the walking Qur’an."
She was discussing how Muhammad exemplified the message of the Quran so well that they could essentially follow his example and "keep" the Quran so to speak. Fair enough. But the terminology just stuck with me and later I replied to her in the comments section about it. Tonight while I was walking around the neighborhood I decided that I wouldn't be able to finish my thoughts on Quran 7 and really wanted to reflect more on this topic first anyway. This is what I wrote in the comments of my post in reply to S's words about Muhammad.
I mused over this a bit and got to thinking how this was so similar to how we think of Jesus. Get this....
You believe Muhammad was "walking Quran" and the Quran to you is the Word of God, right? So in a sense Muhammad is the Word of God in the flesh.
Christians often say Jesus is the Word of God...the Word of God made flesh. See this from John 1:
1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
It's quite amazing how similarly we think of our respective "prophets of most distinction," isn't it? This came to me more after I'd already replied to you and I thought later maybe it was worth sharing. I do realize Christians think of Jesus as God, and Muslims don't think of Muhammad that way so there is that HUGE difference, however, this "Word of God made flesh" similarity between the two was quite interesting. :)
The words of someone expresses that person. Our thoughts, ideas and comments are really not worth much if we cannot express them so that others can hear or read or experience them. Therefore I see how important the Word of God is and even how "it" is part of Him. How "it" can be Him. Maybe this is why Jesus said if you've seen me, you've seen the Father. He was an expression of God, the Word of the Almighty. You read the Gospels and see how entwined God's message and Jesus are. Jesus, the expression (Word) of God? Perhaps.
The only thing I want to add is that also I believe many Muslims believe the Quran is uncreated and eternal which is also how we see Jesus. (Of course if we truly believe him to be God!)
Jesus himself shocked the Jews of his day when he said that Abraham who'd lived hundreds of years prior to Jesus' birth and life on earth had rejoiced to see his day. Here's the passage from John 8.
48The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?"
49"I am not possessed by a demon," said Jesus, "but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. 50I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. 51I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death."
52At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. 53Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?"
54Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. 55Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. 56Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad."
57"You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!"
58"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!"Soon I will post by thoughts on Quran 7, Lord willing.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Matthew 10:32-42 -- Jesus' Divisive Sword
Boy, I've dragged out Matthew 10, but there was quite a lot in here and, really, I'm not in any huge rush to get through the book. After this I hope to post my notes on Quran 7 which I read a few days ago.
Today I shall finish this chapter! Here goes. Remember this is Jesus giving instruction to his disciples. (See this post for the beginning of this chapter's discussion.)
Today I shall finish this chapter! Here goes. Remember this is Jesus giving instruction to his disciples. (See this post for the beginning of this chapter's discussion.)
32"Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. 33But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven."
It seems Jesus took this whole relationship thing pretty seriously, huh? None of this knowing Jesus and identifying with his message only when it was convenient. Jesus values loyalty to him and what he stands for!
Want more proof? Check out these next verses.
34"Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to turn
" 'a man against his father,
a daughter against her mother,
a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law -
36a man's enemies will be the members of his own household.'
37"Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
40"He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. 41Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. 42And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward."
Shocking, isn't it? This so-called "Prince of Peace" is talking tough about even dividing families and bringing a sword! He says straight up he didn't come to bring peace! And I've seen many nonChristians on blogs use this to show that Jesus was not the peaceful, enemy-loving person we often like to portray.
So what's the deal?
My Quest Study Bible has this to say ... first about the sword issue:
The peace that Jesus brings is the result of people being "made right" with God. It is a peace that resolves all barriers between one's soul and one's Creator. However, not all people experience this peace from Christ, and those who do not will experience his judgment.
And why would Jesus want to break up families?
These verses illustrate one of the harsher truths of God's kingdom: Not everyone will respond to the gospel. Hearts full of prejudice, hate and pride will resist Christ's offer of peace. Because many will reject it, the message will divide people, families and nations.
My observations:
1. It seems Jesus believes only those willing to put him first are worthy of him. And what's up with this "taking up your cross and following him" thing? Is Jesus wrongly trying to put himself as top priority in life? Or does his message represent God's message, therefore, it would be idolatry to put anything else including mothers, fathers and children ahead of him?
2. What does taking up your cross and following Jesus involve? What does it mean?
3. And what about this, uh, riddle? "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." Does this mean if we go after things in this life, we will lose out on eternal life? Kind of goes along with that verse: what does a man profit it he gains the whole world yet loses his soul? All this stuff we accumulate in life won't matter much when we face God. I'm thinking God won't care so much about the nice cars in the driveways or the big ol' houses we own. What do you think this means? Does this also show the importance of relationship with Jesus--losing life (here) for his sake equals finding it (eternal life)?
4. This above-mentioned verse also brings to mind Matthew 6:33 -- 33"But seek first his [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
5. "He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me." -- Does this mean by your accepting Jesus and his message, you are accepting the one who sent him, meaning God?
It seems Jesus put great importance upon his message and if we are one of his followers, so should we.
So now you see why one chapter has taken up 4 posts? There is quite a bit of "stuff" to consider. Important "stuff." And I'm just going to let the last verses speak for themselves because I don't really know what is meant by a prophet's reward and such. Maybe if someone else knows, they can leave a comment to inform me.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this post and the verses mentioned.
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