Beginners Guide to the Quran (part 1 of 3)

Objectives

•    To understand what exactly is the Quran.
•    To learn the basics about Quran and how it is organized.
•  To know the major themes inclusive in the Quran.
•   To understand the style of the Quran in discussing its themes

 

Arabic Terms

•      Surah – chapter of the Quran.

·       Ramadan – The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.  It is the month in which the obligatory fasting has been prescribed.

·       Juz’ – one of thirty parts of the Quran.

·       Aayaat – (singular – ayah) the word aayaat can have many meanings.   It is almost always used when talking about proofs from Allah.  These include evidences, verses, lessons, signs, and revelations.

In three lessons, we will focus on some basic issues a beginner will face when approaching the Quran.  What is the Quran and how is it organized?  What are its major themes and its style of presentation?  What are some good translations for a beginner, and what must we keep in mind when reading them?  Can the Quran be interpreted freely according to one’s heart?  What if I don’t understand something I read?  Where do I go to get answers?  Finally, what frame of mind should I have before I open and read the Quran?

Exactly What is The Quran?

The Quran is the literal, spoken Word of Allah revealed to the last Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of Allah be upon him, through Gabriel, the Angel of Revelation, transmitted to us by numerous channels, both verbally and in written form.  Inimitable and unique, it is divinely protected from corruption. God says: