The Quran was revealed in stages to the Prophet Mohammed to coincide with relevant events going on at the time, worshippers will hear in the sermon on Friday.
It was named the Quran because its chapters were gathered side by side. As its verses say: “Stir not thy tongue herewith to hasten it. Lo! upon Us (resteth) the putting together thereof and the reading thereof. And when We read it, follow thou the reading; Then lo! upon Us (resteth) the explanation thereof.”
The Quran was also given several names by Allah to highlight its honour, the sermon will say. “The most prominent names are Al Furqan (The Criterion), Al Nour Al Mubeen (The Clarifying Light.)”
The Quran was revealed over a period of 32 years so its meanings were firmly rooted in the heart of the Prophet Mohammed.
A verse from the Quran says: “And those who disbelieve say: Why is the Quran not revealed unto him all at once? (It is revealed) thus that We may strengthen thy heart therewith; and We have arranged it in right order.”
The chapters revealed in Mecca focused on strengthening people’s belief in the one and only God and His mightiness. “After faith was rooted in people’s hearts ... the verses in Medina were revealed, which focused on legislations and regulations, rights and obligations,” the sermon will say.
hdajani@thenational.ae
