Author: Dr. Noor Mohammad Mohibi
The Quran: A Miracle Beyond Time—A Study of Its Miraculous Nature (part 123)
The Consistency of the Qur’anic Message Amid Severe Historical Changes
The period during which the Noble Qur’an was revealed was one of the most turbulent eras in Islamic history. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers faced very different circumstances, from the difficult years of the call to Islam in Mecca to the establishment of the Islamic community in Medina and the subsequent wars and political challenges.
In Mecca, Muslims were subjected to various forms of pressure and persecution. Many of them were tortured and even forced to migrate. Under such circumstances, the verses of the Qur’an called the believers to patience, steadfastness, and perseverance.
After the migration to Medina, conditions changed, and Muslims were able to establish an independent society. At this stage, the Qur’an, in addition to strengthening faith and morality, also addressed the regulation of social and political relations. Nevertheless, even in this phase, the fundamental principles of the Qur’an did not change, and its central message continued to revolve around guiding humanity and establishing justice.
This consistency in the Qur’anic message, despite changing external conditions, demonstrates its wisdom and internal coherence. If the Qur’an had been the product of changing human thoughts, one would naturally expect major alterations in its message and methodology as a result of these transformations.
Comparison with Human Works
To better understand this characteristic of the Qur’an, it can be compared with human works. Throughout the history of literature, philosophy, and the humanities, numerous works have been written over time and in response to varying circumstances. However, almost all of these works have, in one way or another, undergone changes in viewpoints, intellectual contradictions, or differences in style and content.
For example, many philosophers presented differing theories at various stages of their lives. Some of them even revised or rejected their earlier views. Likewise, in literary works, changes in writing style and intellectual approach are clearly observable.
In contrast, although the Qur’an was revealed over more than two decades and under highly changing circumstances, it remained completely free from such inconsistencies. This has led many researchers to regard the Qur’an as an extraordinary book in human history.
Response to Some Doubts
Despite this reality, some individuals have attempted to present the existence of abrogation (naskh) in legal rulings or differences in the style of Qur’anic expression as evidence of contradiction within the Qur’an. However, careful examination shows that such claims arise either from misunderstanding the concept of abrogation or from failing to appreciate the educational methodology of the Qur’an.
Abrogation in legal rulings refers to the gradual modification of laws in accordance with the development of society. This is not considered a contradiction; rather, it is a sign of wisdom in divine legislation. For example, the prohibition of alcohol occurred gradually so that a society accustomed to its consumption could slowly distance itself from this harmful practice.
Sheikh al-Islam, the eminent scholar Allamah Jalilullah Mawlawizadah (RA), writes, “Abrogation is, in reality, a form of adjustment in legislative rulings by the Absolute Doer, in accordance with the conditions and interests of His servants. Through this, Allah the Almighty demonstrates His absolute sovereignty over His servants, for He is absolutely free in issuing any ruling, and nothing is obligatory upon Him.” [1]
Likewise, differences in the style of Qur’anic expression are mainly due to differences in subject matter, audience, and circumstances of revelation. The Makkan verses are generally shorter and carry a tone of warning and invitation, whereas the Madinan verses mostly deal with laws and social regulations. These differences are not signs of inconsistency; rather, they demonstrate the precise suitability between the message and the conditions of its audience.
In summary, examining the issue of the absence of contradiction in the Qur’an, despite its gradual revelation, leads us to an important conclusion. Although the Qur’an was revealed over twenty-three years and under highly diverse circumstances, it remained entirely coherent and harmonious in meaning, purpose, and message.
This characteristic is not found in human works in such a manner. Therefore, scholars have regarded this harmony as one of the clear proofs of the divine origin of the Qur’an. In other words, the absence of contradiction in the Qur’an is evidence that this Book originates from a source beyond human thought.
Finally, it should be noted that understanding this characteristic of the Qur’an is not possible through a superficial reading of its verses alone. As the Qur’an itself emphasizes, one must deeply reflect upon it. Reflection (tadabbur) means profound contemplation of the verses, paying attention to the relationship between them, and examining the progression of revelation and its objectives.
The more carefully a person studies the Qur’an, the more he will perceive its internal harmony, semantic coherence, and profound wisdom. It is precisely this reflection that leads a person to a deeper understanding of the miraculous nature of the Qur’an and to recognizing the truth of its divine origin.
To be continued…
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References:
- Al- ‘Irfān fī ‘Ulūm al-Qur’ān, 2nd edition, published by Allamah Taftazani Publications, publication date: 1396 A.H. Solar (2017 CE), p. 275.
