Who Wrote the Quran? Its Origins & Authenticity
The Quran is the holy and final book for the believer of One God, presently the Muslims with all the conditions filled for the faith of Tauheed. It is among the 4 divine books but the most authenticated book preserved in its finest form without any alteration. It was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) over a span of twenty three years by Angel Gabriel (Jibrail). Before advancing further, we need to understand exactly what is the Quran? While the present form of it is a proper book, found in nearly all Muslim households. There wasn’t any actual book shape in the beginning as the Prophet (SAWW) memorized it, and later on, his companions, the Sahaba (RA). This brings up the questions: How was this holy text maintained? Who wrote it and what techniques were employed to keep it the same for over 1400 years? These core issues will be analyzed in the paragraphs below.
The First written Quran and Preservation?
It was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) verbally, there wasn’t any substantial physical shape of it, rather the Prophet or his companions (R.A) memorized it. They were known as Hafiz or Hiffaz. This is how the early shape of Qur’an was formed but there wasn’t any proper physical structure of the Holy Book. Furthermore, the scribes documented the revelations on diverse materials such as palm leaves, animal skins, bones, and parchment. But after the passing of the Prophet in 632 CE, the first caliph, Abu Bakr, As-Siddiq (RA) saw the need to compile into one single book because during the Battle of Yamama, there was a massacre of the memorizers which caused issues for accumulation as a book for future generations which was a necessity. Abu Bakr (RA) gave the huge responsibility to Zayd ibn Thabit (RA) who was the closest scribe to the Prophet, and a memorized it, because he was capable of handling it. He was able to gather all of the verses, assemble them, and check against all of the people that had memorized.
Who Standardized it??
With the spread of Islam into new territories, different styles of recitation appeared. It was the third Caliph Uthman ibn Affan (RA), who actually recognized the need to maintain recitation consistency and ordered the production of official copies divine Book. He distributed these copies to strategic centers of Islamic learning and culture, such as Medina, Mecca, Basra, Ku, and Damask (Damascus). Materials that differed from the agreed copy were graciously omitted to aid in ensuring consistency. Today Muslims around the world refer to the Uthmanic codex version, making it one of the most preserved documents in the history of Islam. Even contemporary carbon dated manuscripts like the Birmingham’s version manuscript support this claim.
Who Wrote the Quran for Muhammad (PBUH)?
As a divine message revealed to him, Muhammad (PBUH) did not write himself, nor was it a composition of human labor, as stated in it: “Can you create even a single verse like us?”
If you have doubts about what We sent down to Our servant Muhammad, then bring forth a Surah and summon other than Allah to be your witnesses, should you be truthful. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:23).
The Islamic texts credits to Zayd ibn Thabit (RA), as the first compiler, with other notable titles including Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (RA) and Ubayy ibn Ka’b (RA) as Zayd’s equals. These notable men who served in Medina along with fourth Caliph later on, Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) and Mu’awiya ibn Abi Sufyan (RA) later took on the role of scribes during the caliphates. Traditionally, Ubayy ibn Ka’b along with abdullah ibn Mas’ud are renowned for their remarkable skill with the recitation as well as thorough devotion to the study. It is only natural that such individuals understood it as it was meant to be recited. Zayd ibn Thabit gave Zayd ibn Thabit the title of ‘primary compilers. He is now where he is because he was a scribe to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Ultimately there is also Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) who is a cousin of the prophet and son in law who eventually devoted himself to the task of writing the it down as did the later caliph Mu’awiya ibn Abi Sufyan (RA).
What Makes the Quran Unique?
The writing structure and narration of the major events of monotheistic or Abrahamic religions, and proper authentic history and arguments makes it a book to study. It linguistically outshines its counterparts, and scholars of the Arabic language contend means it is far beyond the reach of human construction. It poses a challenge of its own:
“Should you have any doubts about the abilities of our servant [Muhammad], try attempting a chapter of his level.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:23)
This challenge has gone unmatched for more than 1400 years which further bolsters the claim of the miracles of it. Furthermore, All the other books have been altered by their religious authorities in order to personal gains but it hasn’t been altered a single word and God, himself has taken the responsibility for its preservation and integrity.
Who Translated the Quran into English?
The most authentic first known English translation was done by Alexander Ross in 1649, who translated it from a French version. Many translations had already been done prior to this but the most famous one was done by Yusuf Ali Abdullah in 1934, admired for its exquisite style. Other notable or prominent English translations are by Marmaduke Pickthall, Saheeh International, and Muhammad Muhsin Khan. Presently, the noble-book has more than a hundred translations and various interpretations to understand in different languages which permits millions across the globe to comprehend the message it delivers.
Role as a Guide for Humanity:
A Muslim life is based on the Islam because it has instructions for every aspect of life. It offers fundamental wisdom, and at the same time, seems to touch religion, legalities, structure, authority, and spirituality. Some core values are:
- Belief in One God (Tawhid) or Monotheism
- Maintains Equity and Justice
- Bestows Compassion and Mercy
- Emphasizes Charity (Zakat) especially for the needy
- Endures Patience and Perseverance during hardships
As the saying goes, “Indeed, it guides to that which is most suitable.” (Surah Al-Isra17:9).
Conclusion:
The Ultimate Divine book has timelessly remained the word of God, from its divine revelation to its careful preservation. Authenticity checks were strictly enforced during the compilation of it through the era of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to Uthman (RA)’s standardization. The book surpasses historical accuracy, universal teachings, and linguistic perfection which still inspires billions across the globe. Regardless of being recited in its native language of Arabic or translated into different dialects, It will always serve as a symbol of wisdom, truth, and guidance for humanity.
About Ayrah Academy:
We are offering several online courses at Ayrah Academy, including Quran learning with female and male tutors, Quran recitation, Quran memorisation, and Arabic classes. All of our tutors have more than 7 years of experience, specializing in their respective fields, with professional educators on hand to guarantee superb educational standards. There are several other blogs for Quran quotes, verses and what does it say about the bible? Reading them would definitely increase your knowledge about Islam and Allah. Stay blessed!
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