Learn Teachings of The Quran
The Quran is revered as a sacred text that imparts invaluable wisdom, moral principles, and guidance. The teachings of the Quran encompass a wide range of topics, from the fundamental concept of monotheism to the virtues of compassion, justice, knowledge, and peace.
Muslims have drawn inspiration from the Holy Quran to navigate the complexities of life, finding solace, purpose, and direction in its verses. Through its timeless message of spiritual enlightenment and moral guidance, the Quran offers comfort to the distressed and hope to the despairing.
In this blog, we will share some of the fundamental teachings of the Quran and discuss their significance and relevance in today’s world.
Fundamental Teachings of the Quran
- Monotheism (Tawheed)
- Prohibition of Polytheism and Idolatry in the Quran
- Compassion and Mercy
- Divine Attributes of Mercy in the Quran
- Guidance on Kindness and Compassion towards Others
- Teaching Kindness, Charity, and Forgiveness
- Justice and Equity
- Prohibition of Oppression and Exploitation
- Establishment of Just and Equitable Social Systems
- Moral Conduct
- Righteousness (Taqwa)
- Embracing Virtues and Rejecting Vices
- Fulfilling Obligations and Responsibilities
- Exercising Self-Restraint and Moderation
- Knowledge and Learning
- Reflection on the Signs of Creation
- Peace and Reconciliation
- Seeking Peaceful Resolutions
- Condemning Aggression and Injustice
- Promotion of Brotherhood and Solidarity
Monotheism (Tawheed)
The central theme of the Quran is the concept of monotheism or Tawheed, which asserts the absolute oneness of Allah. This foundational principle is affirmed frequently and explicitly in the Holy Quran, highlighting the sovereignty and oneness of the Creator.
Muslims believe that there is no God worthy of worship except Allah. They firmly believe He is the sole source of all existence, guidance, and sustenance.
“O humankind! Worship your Lord (Allah), Who created you and those who were before you, so that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious). [Quran 2:21]
The belief in Tawheed serves as the cornerstone of Islam. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Allah’s divine existence and omnipotence. Moreover, it also highlights the imperative of submitting to His divine will.
“That is Allah, your Lord! There is no god but He, the Creator of all things. Then worship Him, and He has the power to dispose of all affairs” [Quran 6:102]
Prohibition of Polytheism and Idolatry in the Quran
The Quran rejects any form of idolatry or polytheism. The holy Quran explicitly instructs us to refrain from attributing partners or associates to Him in any form.
A chapter in the Quran, “Surah Ikhlas,” is considered the summarized form of the concept of Tawheed and the rejection of polytheism. It explains that everything and everyone should worship Allah for their existence and needs.
In another Chapter, “Al-Mu’minun,” polytheism is condemned.
And whoever invokes (or worships), besides Allah, any other God, of whom he has no proof; then his reckoning is only with his Lord. Surely! The Disbelievers will not be successful.” [Quran 23:117]
Compassion and Mercy
The Quran emphasizes the importance of displaying compassion and mercy towards others, regardless of their background or beliefs. Muslims are instructed to exhibit empathy, kindness, and benevolence in their conduct towards others.
Divine Attributes of Mercy in the Quran
The Quran emphasizes compassion and mercy as indispensable qualities for Muslims to embody in their communications. The Holy Quran often describes Allah as the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
Say: “My servants, you who have transgressed against yourselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Truly Allah forgives all wrong actions. He is the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” (Quran 39:53)
Muslims are encouraged to reflect these divine attributes in their attitudes and behaviours towards fellow human beings.
Guidance on Kindness and Compassion towards Others
In Surah An-Nisa, Allah mentioned details of people one should be kind to.
“Worship Allah [alone] and associate none with Him. And be kind to parents, relatives, orphans, the poor, near and distant neighbours, close friends, [needy] travellers, and those [bondspeople] in your possession. Surely Allah does not like whoever is arrogant, boastful” [Quran 4:36]
Teaching Kindness, Charity, and Forgiveness
The teachings of the Quran uphold the virtues of kindness, charity, and forgiveness while concurrently condemning acts of injustice and cruelty. The holy text emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation over retaliation and retribution, urging its followers to emulate the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) example of forgiveness towards his adversaries.
Justice and Equity
Justice and equity are non-negotiable principles in Islam, as explicitly enshrined in the Quran. Muslims are directed always to uphold justice, even if it goes against their benefits, as stated clearly in the Quran.
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives” [Quran 4:135].
This verse demonstrates the importance of impartiality in every walk of life, including interpersonal relationships, governance, and legal matters.
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trust to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.” [Quran, 4:58]
Similarly, in another place, the Quran says
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.”
This verse highlights the significance of justice as a moral responsibility that surpasses personal biases and allegiances.
Prohibition of Oppression and Exploitation
The Quran forbids any form of oppression, exploitation, or wrongdoing. The holy book instructs Muslims to treat everyone with respect, dignity, and equality. Muslims are encouraged to stand up for the rights of those who are downtrodden to establish a just society.
Establishment of Just and Equitable Social Systems
Furthermore, the Quran advocates for establishing impartial and just social structures, ensuring a fair distribution of resources and wealth. The protection of every individual’s rights is of utmost importance. The concept of ‘Adl, or justice, is deeply ingrained in Islamic law and serves as a guiding principle for legal experts when crafting regulations and legislation that uphold the values of impartiality and fairness.
Moral Conduct
The Quran provides extensive guidance on moral conduct, distinguishing between right and wrong, virtue and vice. It lays out principles that regulate believers’ conduct in all areas of life, highlighting the importance of cultivating good character traits and avoiding destructive behaviours.
“O you who believe! Let not (one) people laugh at (another) people perchance they may be better than they, nor let women (laugh) at (other) women, perchance they may be better than they; and do not find fault with your people nor call one another by nicknames; evil is a bad name after faith, and whoever does not turn, these it is that are unjust.” [Quran 49:11]
Righteousness (Taqwa)
The core of Quranic morality is centred around righteousness (taqwa), purity, and obedience to Allah’s commandments. The faithful are called upon to hold a deep reverence for Allah and to make an earnest effort to uphold moral excellence in their thoughts, words, and deeds.
Embracing Virtues and Rejecting Vices
The Quran praises various virtues central to Islamic teachings, emphasizing honesty, integrity, humility, patience, and generosity. Conversely, it also condemns negative traits such as dishonesty, arrogance, greed, and cruelty. The religious text encourages believers to embody these virtues daily, seeking to emulate the example of Prophet Muhammad and other righteous predecessors.
Fulfilling Obligations and Responsibilities
The Quran strongly emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s obligations and responsibilities towards oneself, family, community, and society. It unequivocally underscores the significance of honouring commitments, upholding trust, and treating others with kindness, absolute fairness, and unwavering compassion.
Exercising Self-Restraint and Moderation
The Quran explicitly warns against the dangers of succumbing to our base desires and temptations, commanding its followers to exercise unwavering self-restraint and moderation in all matters. It strongly advocates for introspection and self-improvement, fostering a culture of accountability and moral integrity deeply ingrained within the Muslim community.
Knowledge and Learning
The Quran places significant importance on pursuing knowledge and intellectual growth, considering them essential elements of faith and spiritual development. It encourages individuals to seek knowledge from diverse sources and engage in lifelong learning to deepen their understanding of the world and enhance their faith.
One of the first revelations to Prophet Muhammad was the command to “Read!” (Quran 96:1), underscoring the importance of literacy and education in Islam. This verse highlights the Quran’s recognition of the power of knowledge and its role in shaping societies.
“…And when ye are told to rise, rise. Allah will raise, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those of you who believe and who have been granted (mystic) Knowledge. And Allah is well-acquainted with all ye do” [Quran, 58:11].
“Are those who know and those who do not know alike? Only the men of understanding are mindful.” (Quran, 39:9)
The Quran describes learning as a sacred duty obligatory upon every Muslim, regardless of age, gender, or social status.
Reflection on the Signs of Creation
According to the Quran, followers are encouraged to attain wisdom and insight by reflecting upon the signs of Allah’s creation. They are invited to contemplate the wonders of the natural world, the complexities of the human condition, and the mysteries of existence, all leading to a deeper understanding of Allah’s brilliance and wisdom.
Peace and Reconciliation
The Quran’s teachings on peace and reconciliation advocate for establishing harmonious relationships that transcend individual, communal, and national boundaries. Islam has often been described as a religion of peace, with the Quran emphasizing the importance of promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and fostering mutual understanding. These teachings hold great significance in today’s world, where discord and strife often marred inter-group relations.
“The believers are brothers [and sisters], so make peace between your brothers and be mindful of God so that you may receive mercy” (49:10).
Seeking Peaceful Resolutions
A fundamental doctrine in the Quran is the implication of pursuing harmonious resolutions to conflicts and disputes. Followers are counselled to prioritize dialogue and peaceful conciliation rather than hostility and retaliation. The Quran emphasizes the merits of compassion and endurance, greatly esteemed by Allah, and urges Muslims to replace hatred with benevolence and empathy.
Condemning Aggression and Injustice
The Quran strongly opposes acts of aggression, oppression, and injustice and encourages its followers to fight against all forms of oppression. It urges Muslims to promote justice, equality, and human rights and strive towards creating societies built upon fairness, compassion, and mutual respect.
Promotion of Brotherhood and Solidarity
The Quran promotes brotherhood and sisterhood among its followers, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or race. It emphasizes the importance of solidarity within the Muslim community, encouraging believers to care and support each other in times of need.
Moreover, the Quran advocates for peaceful coexistence with people of other faiths and beliefs, calling on Muslims to treat non-Muslims with kindness, fairness, and respect. It encourages dialogue, understanding, and cooperation to build mutual tolerance and understanding bridges.
Let’s Wrap it Up.
Amidst a world of turmoil, uncertainty, and division, the teachings of the Quran remain as valuable and relevant as ever. These teachings contain timeless guidance and wisdom that extends beyond Muslims. The Quran outlines a comprehensive framework for both Muslims and non-Muslims. We can build a more empathetic and unified society by reflecting on and implementing these teachings.