مقدمة في القرآن الكريم

Introduction to the Quran

• The Quran is the revelation of Allah to Prophet Muhammad, the final of the heavenly books.
• Allah finalized his revelations to humanity through the Quran.
• The Quran is the foundation of Islamic teachings, and distinctive in its comprehensiveness compared to other earlier revelations.
• The Quran is the final and miraculous revelation.
• The Quran has other names like Al-Kitaab, Az-Zikri, and Al-Furqan.

Names of the Quran

• Quran (القرآن): Scholars have different opinions on the root of the word "Quran". Some believe it's derived from the verb "qara'a" (to read/recite), while others believe it's a name that denotes the revealed word. The Quran itself supports the "qara'a" meaning.
• Book (الكتاب): Derived from the verb "kataba" (to write/collect). The book is a collection of written words.
• The Reminder (الذكر): Derived from the verb "azkara" (to remember/remind). This emphasizes the Quran's role in reminding people of Allah's guidance. The Quran contains reminders, warnings, and teachings.
• The Criterion (الفرقان): Derived from the verb "farraq" (to distinguish/discriminate). This highlights the Quran's role in distinguishing between right and wrong, truth and falsehood.

Scholarly Views on the Origin of the Word "Quran"

• Different scholars have different interpretations on whether the word "Quran" is a derived word or a name. There's debate about its specific etymological origins (e.g., whether from "qara'a" meaning to read, or "qarana" meaning to connect/arrange).

Additional Notes

• The different names for the Quran highlight different aspects of its nature and function. The Quran is meant to be read, memorized, and pondered upon.
• The Quran’s verses/chapters are intertwined to form a cohesive whole.
• All verses within the Quran complement one another without conflict.
• The Quran contains the essence of earlier revelations.