Activity 6.2

Various arguments have raised concern over the verses in the Quran and how they supplement each other. This is because they are interpreted differently by some scholars and critics. According to the Quran, miracles performed are supposed to be a reflection of the teachings of Islamic religion and an encouragement to people of the existence of Allah and his sent prophets (Sachedina, 1998). The performance of these miracles is also considered a responsibility and service of the prophets as defined by the Quran and not for any malicious motives. This is translated as inimitability. According to Sachedina, “…contrariety in the Quranic narratives from the two Testaments; the inconsistencies of the Gospel; nega- tion of free will and delegation of authority [to humankind]” (Pg 69). This content has been subject to controversy considering the teachings in Surah 3:41 and 19:10. The two verses describe the authorization by Allah, for the prophet to unquestionably follow his command. On the other hand the sane Holy Book preaches the exercising of free will in the service of Allah. This explains the questions that have risen to understand this concept and where the loyalty of the people should be in service.

Activity 6.4

Besides the Quran which is considered a great miracle by the Islamic community, the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have performed other miracles as well (Ali Khan, 1983). As mentioned above, these were all for the service of Allah which was referred to as inimitability (Sachedina, 1998). The author here discusses the abilities that were evident in the prophet especially during his last days. Muslims strongly believe that Muhammad was a messenger directly from Allah and represented him to his people. For instance, he had the ability to cure a sick person which was a gift presumed to come from Allah (Ali Khan, 1983). This was a rare gift and anyone who could do this was highly regarded by the religious group. Similarly, it was one of the roles of a prophet and the mystery behind the healing was referred to as a miracle, thus the work of Allah through his prophet. There is also a detailed review by the author of the prophet’s meeting with the Angel Gabriel (Ali Khan, 1983), which is viewed as a miraculous event since not all people of the faith could get favor with Allah. This enabled him foresee events and warn the people in advance.

Activity 6.5

Muslims are well known of placing their values of life and drawing their morals from the Quran’s teachings. They are also obliged to their own courts as opposed to most religions where they are judged according to the teachings of the Quran. Ibn Kathir, (2003) gives an illustration of a man marrying one of his daughter’s as a narrative present in the Holy Book. This brings to a discussion the legalities behind the same religion since their law is simply the Quran. In relation to this text, the authority of the Quran is limited especially because of the changing circumstances today. According to Muslim scholars, though the legal issues should be sorted out using the Quran, it is advisable that the extremes be cautioned. For as long as both parties benefit from the solution, it is valid. The authorization to use narratives and verses from the Quran can therefore be applied to the extent that is humanly sensible and respectful.

Review Question 6.1

The Quran has not been subjected to any adjustments for many years. In defense, most Islamic leaders feel it should remain the same to avoid alteration that may occur especially during translation. This explains its existence in Arabic today and the need to learn the language before studying the Holy Book. Years back, a critic named Theodor explained the formation of the Quran and attempted to produce a new version which he did together with his students (Armas, 1998). He posed a great challenge to the Arabs for the need to revise the Holy Book and maintain the content. His efforts were widely acknowledged since he produced a review of the Quran as well which made it easier for people to understand and positively interpret the teachings (Montgomery, and Frank, 2006). He also achieves a successful mission which the prophet expected by providing the simpler versions.

Review Question 6.2

The Quran is also meant to give people hints of what is to happen in the future, prophesies. This is also a miraculous aspect where the Muslims can know what to anticipate. For instance, Surah Q. 30: 2-3 talks about the defeat of the Romans which happened after the Quran was written thus had been predicted by the Prophet. It is also viewed as miraculous due to its prediction of the future (Wheeler, 2002). Surah Q. 111 has been debated from the view of whether it is a part of the Quran or not. However, it clearly shows the need for people to stick by the rules of God since punishment and denial of the promises from God will befall those who shift from his teachings. Collection of material wealth will not be beneficial as long as one does not abide by the teachings.

Review Question 6.5

It is clear that most of the texts in the Muslims Holy Book are highly regarded by the muslin community. However, an evident style of narration has been used to convey the messages to the people. This is because besides its religious use, it is also used as a legal guide where morals are concerned. The narratives therefore enable the direct direction concerning what a person should do when faced with any of the circumstances requiring wise solutions. Scholars have also observed that this is more interesting to use. There are uses of examples regarding specific issues which may need to be referred to incase of misunderstandings. It is clear that the purpose of this is to be more effective to the readers to avoid confusion or misinterpretation by those using it.

Works Cited:

Ali Khan, Majid. Muhammad, The Final Messenger. Daawah Academy, 1983. Print.

Armas, Adnin. “Al-Quran and Orientalists” 1998. Web. 31 July, 2010.

Ibn Kathir, Umar, & Mubarakufuri Rahman. Tafsir Ibn Kathir. Riyadh: Darussalam, 2003. Print.

Montgomery, James, E, & Frank Richard. M. Arabic theology, Arabic philosophy : from the many to the one : essays in celebration of Richard M. Frank. Leuven: Peeters, 2006. Print.

Sachedina, Abdulaziz, A. The Prolegomena to the Quran. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998. Print.

Wheeler, Brannon. Moses in the Quran and Islamic Exegesis. Routledge, 2002. Print.

Yahya, Harun. Miracles of the Qur’an. Al-Attique Publishers, 2001. Print.