World Peace

THE MESSENGERS

How many messengers has God sent to the world?

GoogleAI Mode: “In Islamic theology, the exact number of messengers and prophets is not explicitly stated in the Quran, though various traditions provide specific figures: 

Total Prophets: Islamic tradition frequently cites a total of 124,000 prophets (Nabi) sent throughout history to every nation. Some traditions place this number as high as 224,000.

Messengers: Of those prophets, approximately 313 to 315 are considered messengers (Rasool).

Mentioned in the Quran: Only 25 prophets and messengers are mentioned by name in the Quran, including figures such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.

Key Distinctions:

Prophet (Nabi): A person chosen by God to receive divine guidance and preach it to their people.

Messenger (Rasool): A prophet who is also given a new divine law (Sharia) or a new holy book to deliver to a specific community.

Major Figures: There are five “Arch-Prophets” of strong will (Ulul ‘Azm): Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.

Other Traditions:

In Judaism, the Talmud recognizes 48 male prophets and seven female prophetesses who left permanent messages for humankind.

In the Ahmadiyya community, while Muhammad is the final law-bearing prophet, they believe in the continued appearance of non-law-bearing prophets, such as Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.”

What stories of these prophets are in the Quran?

GoogleAI Mode: “The Quran contains detailed narratives of several prophets, emphasizing themes of monotheism, patience, and divine mercy. While 25 prophets are mentioned by name, the following are some of the most prominent stories: 

Major Prophetic Narratives

Adam (as): The first human and prophet, created from clay. His story focuses on his creation, the refusal of Iblis (Satan) to bow to him, his residence in Paradise, and his subsequent repentance and forgiveness after eating the forbidden fruit.

Nuh (Noah) (as): Sent to a disbelieving nation, he preached for 950 years with little success. He built an Ark under divine instruction to save believers and animal pairs from a massive flood that destroyed the idolaters.

Ibrahim (Abraham) (as): Known as the “Friend of Allah,” he is central for his unwavering faith. Key events include his destruction of idols, being thrown into a fire that miraculously turned cool, the command to sacrifice his son (Ismail), and building the Kaaba in Mecca.

Musa (Moses) (as): The most frequently mentioned prophet in the Quran. His narrative covers his birth and rescue from the Nile, his confrontation with the tyrant Pharaoh, the parting of the Red Sea, and receiving the Torah (Tawraat) for the Children of Israel.

Yusuf (Joseph) (as): His story is told in a single continuous chapter (Surah Yusuf). It follows his betrayal by jealous brothers, his enslavement in Egypt, his wrongful imprisonment, his rise to power as a minister, and his eventual reunion and forgiveness of his family.

Isa (Jesus) (as): Regarded as a prophet born of the Virgin Maryam (Mary) without a father. He performed miracles such as speaking from the cradle, healing the blind, and raising the dead by God’s permission. The Quran states he was not crucified but raised to God.

Muhammad (saw): The final prophet whose life and revelations form the core of the Quranic message. Key events highlighted include his initial revelation from Angel Jibril, his call to monotheism in Mecca, and the migration (Hijra) to Medina. 

Other Notable Stories

Ayyub (Job) (as): A model of patience during extreme suffering, including the loss of health, wealth, and family, before being restored by God.

Yunus (Jonah) (as): Known for being swallowed by a giant fish after abandoning his mission; his story emphasizes the power of sincere repentance.

Sulaiman (Solomon) (as): A king-prophet who could communicate with animals (such as ants and birds) and command the Jinn.

Dawud (David) (as): Famous for slaying Goliath and receiving the Psalms (Zabur).”

THE MESSAGES

How many books or messages that formed into a Holy Book, has God sent?

GoogleAI Mode: “In Islamic theology, God is believed to have revealed numerous messages to humanity throughout history. While traditional narrations cite a total of 104 revealed books, the Quran explicitly mentions and identifies five specific scriptures that form the core of divine revelation. 

The Five Major Revealed Books 

The Scrolls of Abraham (Suhuf Ibrahim): One of the earliest bodies of scripture, given to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

The Torah (Tawrat): The divine law revealed to the Prophet Musa (Moses) for the Children of Israel.

The Psalms (Zabur): A collection of hymns and spiritual songs revealed to the Prophet Dawud (David).

The Gospel (Injil): The divine message revealed to the Prophet Isa (Jesus).

The Quran: The final and complete revelation, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. It is considered the “Seal of the Revelations” and the only one preserved in its original form. 

Key Beliefs Regarding These Books

Oneness of Source: Muslims believe all these books originally came from the same source (Allah) and carried the same fundamental message of monotheism.

Preservation and Change: While the Quran is believed to be perfectly preserved by God, Islamic teaching states that the original versions of the previous books were either lost or altered by their followers over time (tahrif).

Pillar of Faith: Belief in these revealed books is one of the Six Articles of Faith in Islam.

Abrogation: The Quran is seen as the “Criterion” (Al-Furqan), which confirms the truths of earlier scriptures while abrogating (replacing) their previous legal codes. 

In addition to these major books, the Quran also mentions the Scrolls of Moses (Suhuf Musa), though these are sometimes considered part of the Torah. Traditions from the Prophet Muhammad mention that 104 books were sent in total: 50 to Shith (Seth), 30 to Idris (Enoch), 10 to Ibrahim, and 10 to Musa before the Torah, followed by the four major books (Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and Quran).”

THE PRESERVATION & DISTORTION

What does the Qur’an provide about preservation of God’s message?

GoogleAI Mode: “The Quran asserts that God’s message is preserved through both a divine guarantee for the final revelation and a standard for verifying earlier ones. Key aspects include: 

Divine Guarantee for the Quran: Unlike previous scriptures, the Quran contains an explicit promise from God to guard it from corruption. Surah Al-Hijr (15:9) states: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the message and indeed, We will be its guardian”.

The Quran as a “Guardian” (Al-Muhaymin): The Quran describes itself as a guardian over previous scriptures (Surah 5:48). It serves as a standard to confirm what remains of the original truth in earlier books while identifying where human alterations or misinterpretations may have occurred.

Entrustment vs. Protection: Islamic theology distinguishes between the Quran and earlier books like the Torah and Gospel by noting that the preservation of previous books was entrusted to their followers (Surah 5:44), who eventually altered or lost parts of the original text. In contrast, God took the responsibility of protecting the Quran Himself.

Methods of Preservation:

Memorization: God facilitated the preservation of the Quran by making it easy to memorize (Hifz). Today, millions of people (Hafiz) know the entire text by heart.

Inalterable Source: The Quran is described as being recorded in a “Preserved Tablet” (Lauh Mahfuz) with God, ensuring the original remains beyond human reach for modification.

The Concept of Tahrif (Distortion): The Quran points out that some previous nations engaged in tahrif, which includes distorting meanings, concealing verses, or physically changing the text to suit worldly desires. The Quran was sent to restore the pure, original message of monotheism that had been obscured by these changes.”

Tell me more about the preservation of the Quran

GoogleAI Mode: “The preservation of the Quran is unique in religious history because it relies on a dual system: unbroken oral transmission and rigorous textual codification. Muslims believe this process fulfills the divine promise in the Quran (15:9): “Indeed, it is We who sent down the message and indeed, We will be its guardian.” 

1. Preservation During the Prophet’s Lifetime (610–632 CE) 

Memorization (Orality): The primary method was memorization (Hifz). The Prophet Muhammad recited new revelations to his companions, who would commit them to memory and recite them in their daily prayers.

Written Records: Although the Prophet was unlettered, he appointed 65 official scribes, such as Zayd ibn Thabit, to record verses immediately upon revelation. These were written on various materials available at the time, including parchment, leather, flat stones, and palm stalks.

Annual Verification: Every year during Ramadan, the Prophet would review the entire revealed portion of the Quran with the Angel Gabriel. In the final year of his life, he performed this review twice to ensure the complete and correct order of chapters (Surahs) and verses (Ayahs). 

2. The First Compilation (The Era of Abu Bakr)

After the Prophet’s death, the Battle of Yamama (633 CE) resulted in the martyrdom of many Huffaz (those who had memorized the entire Quran). Fearing the loss of the text, the first Caliph, Abu Bakr, commissioned Zayd ibn Thabit to compile the first official manuscript (Mushaf). 

Verification Standards: Zayd did not rely solely on his own memorization. He required two witnesses for every verse to testify that it was written in the Prophet’s presence and was part of the final revealed version.

Result: This master manuscript was kept by Abu Bakr, then passed to the second Caliph, Umar, and finally to Hafsa (the Prophet’s widow). 

3. Standardization (The Era of Uthman)

As Islam spread to non-Arabic regions, differences in regional dialects began to cause disputes over pronunciation. To maintain unity, the third Caliph, Uthman ibn Affan, ordered a committee to produce standardized copies based on the original manuscript held by Hafsa. 

The Qurayshi Dialect: The committee ensured the text was written in the dialect of the Quraysh (the Prophet’s tribe).

Universal Distribution: Official copies were sent to major cities (Mecca, Kufa, Basra, and Damascus), and all variant personal notes or incomplete fragments were ordered to be destroyed to prevent future confusion. 

4. Modern Evidence and Linguistic Safeguards

The Chain of Transmission (Isnad): To this day, students of the Quran receive an Ijazah (license) only after reciting the entire book from memory to a master. This creates a documented, unbroken chain of oral transmission dating back to the Prophet.

Ancient Manuscripts: Early manuscripts like the Birmingham Manuscript (carbon-dated to 568–645 CE) and the Topkapi Manuscript are largely identical to the Quran printed today, providing physical evidence of its stability.

Linguistic Consistency: The “Classical Arabic” of the Quran has remained the academic standard for 1,400 years. Unlike many ancient languages, it is still widely understood today, preventing the message from being “lost in translation”.”

THE QUR’AN (QURAN)

What should the world know about the Qur’an (Quran)?

GoogleAI Mode: “In 2025, the Quran remains a central spiritual and social guide for over two billion people. Beyond its religious significance, there are several key aspects of the Quran that provide a universal framework for life and ethics.

1. Fundamental Identity and Preservation

Direct Word of God: Unlike many other scriptures, the Quran is believed by Muslims to be the literal verbatim word of God. It was revealed in Arabic to the Prophet Muhammad over 23 years (610–632 CE).

Unique Preservation: It is the only religious book widely memorized “cover to cover” by millions worldwide, ensuring its oral preservation remains unchanged from the original 7th-century text. 

2. Universal Message to Humanity

The Quran explicitly addresses all of humanity (Ya aiyuhal Nas) directly hundreds of times, rather than just Muslims. Its core themes include: 

Absolute Monotheism (Tawhid): The central message is that there is only one God, who is indivisible and has no partners or children.

Human Dignity: It asserts that God has bestowed dignity upon all human beings regardless of race, gender, or status.

Social Justice: The text mandates the distribution of wealth through Zakat (charity) to alleviate poverty and promote a just society.

No Compulsion: It famously states, “There is no compulsion in religion” (2:256), affirming freedom of belief. 

3. Scientific and Rational Invitations

Reason over Blind Faith: The Quran does not ask for blind obedience but repeatedly urges readers to use their intellect and reasoning to reflect on the universe as a “sign” of the Creator.

Scientific Consistency: Many modern readers highlight verses that align with 20th and 21st-century scientific discoveries, such as:

The Big Bang theory (heavens and earth being a single mass before separation).

Embryology (detailed stages of human development in the womb).

Oceanography (barriers between fresh and salt water).

The Expansion of the Universe. 

4. Connection to Earlier Traditions

Confirmation and Correction: The Quran views itself as the “Criterion” (Al-Furqan), which confirms the original truths of previous scriptures (like the Torah and Gospel) while correcting what it describes as later human distortions.

Prophetic Continuity: It honors biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (Isa) and his mother Mary (Maryam) with great reverence, seeing them all as part of a single chain of messengers. 

5. Practical Guidance for Life

The Quran provides a “constitution” for a balanced life, covering: 

Ethics: Values like honesty, patience (Sabr), and forgiveness.

Social Ties: Instructions on maintaining family bonds, kindness to neighbors, and fair business dealings.

Accountability: The belief that every action has consequences in the Hereafter, encouraging personal moral responsibility.”

ABRAHAM (IBRAHIM)

According to the Qur’an (Quran) why is Abraham (Ibrahim) God’s friend?

GoogleAI Mode: “In the Qur’an, Abraham (Ibrahim) is uniquely honored with the title Khalilullah (Arabic: خليل الله), meaning the “Intimate Friend of Allah”. 

According to the Qur’anic text and major scholarly interpretations, he was chosen for this special status due to his extraordinary devotion and character: 

1. Total Submission to God 

The primary reason cited for his friendship with God is his absolute submission (Islam). When commanded by God to “Submit,” he immediately replied, “I have submitted to the Lord of the Universe” (Quran 2:131). This submission was most famously demonstrated by his willingness to sacrifice his son (identified as Ishmael in Islamic tradition) as a test of faith, which he prepared to do without hesitation before God intervened. 

2. Pure Monotheism (Hanif)

Abraham is described as a Hanif, one who instinctively turns away from false gods toward the pure worship of the One True God. He courageously rejected his community’s idolatry, even when it meant standing alone or facing being thrown into a blazing fire. The Qur’an states he was “neither a Jew nor a Christian” but a true monotheist (Quran 3:67). 

3. Success in Diverse Trials

God tested Abraham with various commands and trials throughout his life, and he fulfilled them all perfectly. For his unwavering loyalty, God declared him an Imam (leader) for all mankind (Quran 2:124). 

4. Exemplary Personal Qualities

The Qur’an explicitly praises Abraham’s personality, noting he was:

Forbearing and Tender-hearted: He was deeply compassionate, even pleading for the people of Lot when they faced divine punishment.

Grateful: He constantly showed gratitude for God’s favors.

A “Sound Heart”: He is described as coming to his Lord with a qalb salim (a pure, sincere heart). 

5. Theological Meaning of “Khalil”

In Arabic, the word Khalil signifies a friend whose love is so deep that it “permeates” (takhallala) the entire being. Scholars also note it can mean “one in need,” indicating that Abraham was a friend because he turned only to God for all his needs, relying on no one else even in moments of extreme peril.”

MOSES (MUSA)

According to the Qur’an (Quran), who is Musa (Moses) to God?

GoogleAI Mode: “In the Qur’an, Musa (Moses) is uniquely distinguished as the only prophet with whom God spoke directly. Because of this intimate and direct communication, he is known in Islamic tradition by the title Kalimullah (Arabic: كليم الله), meaning the “Speaker of God” or “The one who conversed with Allah”. 

Beyond this primary relationship, the Qur’an defines Musa’s status through several key roles and characteristics: 

1. The Direct Interlocutor

Musa’s most defining characteristic is his direct speech with God at Mount Sinai (Mount Tur). The Qur’an explicitly states, “…and to Moses, Allah spoke directly” (Quran 4:164). Unlike other prophets who typically received revelation through the Angel Gabriel, Musa was drawn near to God for “mystic converse”. 

2. A “Specifically Chosen” Prophet and Messenger

Musa holds the dual rank of Nabi (Prophet) and Rasul (Messenger). 

Specifically Chosen: He is described as being “specifically chosen” by God (Quran 19:51) and preferred over the people of his time.

The Lawgiver: God bestowed upon him the Torah (Tawrat), which the Qur’an describes as a “Light and Guide” for the Israelites. 

3. A Highly Humbler Servant 

According to Islamic tradition, when God was asked why Musa was selected to hear His direct word, He replied that it was because Musa was the most humble person on earth. The Qur’an also describes him as a “purified” or “sincere” servant (mukhlis) who was exclusively dedicated to God. 

4. A Position of Honor and Exoneration

God grants Musa a “position of honor” in the Qur’an. This status is emphasized by the way God exonerates him from the slanders and accusations directed at him by his people and the Pharaoh, ensuring his legacy remains blameless. 

5. The Most Mentioned Human

Musa is the most frequently mentioned individual in the Qur’an, appearing by name 136 times across 73 passages. His life story—from his miraculous rescue as an infant to his leadership during the Exodus—is recounted more extensively than that of any other prophet, serving as a primary example of faith and perseverance.”

NOAH (NUH)

According to the Qur’an (Quran), why did God end the world of Noah to start another?

GoogleAI Mode: “In the Qur’an, God destroyed the world of Noah as a divine punishment for widespread moral corruption and the persistent rejection of monotheism. The destruction and subsequent “restart” of the world through Noah’s descendants were driven by several key factors: 

Idolatry and Polytheism: Noah’s people had abandoned the worship of the one true God to venerate idols, specifically named in the Qur’an as Wadd, Suwa’, Yaghuth, Ya’uq, and Nasr.

Total Rejection of the Prophet: Noah preached for 950 years, appealing to his people both publicly and privately to seek forgiveness. Instead, they mocked him as a “madman,” called him a liar, and threatened him with stoning.

Moral Depravity and Oppression: The Qur’an describes the generation as being “even more unjust and oppressing” than those who followed, characterizing them as “wrongdoers” who were puffed up with pride.

Noah’s Final Prayer: After God revealed to Noah that no more of his people would believe, Noah prayed for God to “not leave upon the earth any dweller from among the unbelievers,” fearing they would only lead future generations astray.

A New Beginning: The flood served to wipe out the unrighteous and allow human civilization to begin anew with the few believers and Noah’s family who were saved on the Ark. 

The Qur’an presents this event as a powerful lesson in accountability and justice, demonstrating that God does not tolerate sin indefinitely and provides a way of salvation for those who remain faithful.”