All things are subject to interpretation whichever interpretation prevails at a given time is a function of power and not truth. – Friedrich Nietzsche Interpretation lies at the heart of human understanding, shaping how societies construct meaning from events, ideas, and phenomena. Yet history reveals a persistent tension: while those in power may dictate interpretation, … Continue reading Power, Interpretation, and the Enduring Nature of Truth
The Messenger vs. The Message
A messenger of God comes to deliver God's message, and it is this message that should be valued and pursued throughout one's life. However, people often shift their focus from the message to the messenger, losing sight of the true purpose of their coming. This is evident, for example, in how many Christians have become … Continue reading The Messenger vs. The Message
When “god” is used for other than God in Quran
In English, there is no distinction between the words "god" with a lowercase "g" and "God" with a capital "G." Yet, this is not the case in Arabic. In Arabic, the word for "god" with a lowercase "g" is "إله" (ilah). In Arabic, "ilah" signifies a being that is worshiped, irrespective of whether it is … Continue reading When “god” is used for other than God in Quran
History of the Umayyad Caliphs & History of Islam & The Sunni Dilemma
Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti (1445–1505) was a prominent Egyptian scholar, muhaddith, theologian, and historian widely regarded for his prolific contributions to Sunni scholarship. Born and raised in Cairo, Suyuti was a Shafi'i jurist and belonged to the Ash'ari school of theology. He wrote on a wide array of subjects, including Quranic exegesis, hadith studies, linguistics, and … Continue reading History of the Umayyad Caliphs & History of Islam & The Sunni Dilemma
Academic Salafism
Salafism is a movement within Sunni Islam that advocates for a return to what it views as the pure, original practices of Islam as observed by the salaf—the first three generations of Muslims: the Prophet Muhammad and his companions (sahabah), their followers (tabi'un), and the followers of those followers (atba' at-tabi'in). Rooted in the belief … Continue reading Academic Salafism
Every Community Receives a Messenger
The Quran utilizes three terms that can be translated as "community" that are used in conjunction with sending a warner, guide, witness, or messenger. These terms are qaryah ( قَرْيَةٍ ), qawm ( قَوْمٍ ), and ummah ( أُمَّةٍ ). Each represents different types and sizes of groups, each with distinct meanings and connotations regarding … Continue reading Every Community Receives a Messenger
Was Muhammad the Final Messenger?
The Quran informs us that Muhammad was the final prophet (nabi). [33:40] Muhammad was not the father of any man among you. He was a messenger of GOD and the final prophet. GOD is fully aware of all things. مَّا كَانَ مُحَمَّدٌ أَبَآ أَحَدٍ مِّن رِّجَالِكُمْ وَلَـٰكِن رَّسُولَ ٱللَّهِ وَخَاتَمَ ٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَىْءٍ عَلِيمًا … Continue reading Was Muhammad the Final Messenger?
None can grasp it except the sincere (56:79)
The Quran informs us that it is inaccessible to those who are not sincere. [56:75] I swear by the positions of the stars.[56:76] This is an oath, if you only knew, that is awesome.[56:77] This is an honorable Quran.[56:78] In a protected book.[56:79] None can grasp it except the sincere.[56:80] A revelation from the Lord of the universe. (٧٥) فَلَا أُقْسِمُ بِمَوَاقِعِ النُّجُومِ(٧٦) وَإِنَّهُ لَقَسَمٌ لَوْ تَعْلَمُونَ عَظِيمٌ(٧٧) إِنَّهُ لَقُرْآنٌ كَرِيمٌ(٧٨) فِي كِتَابٍ مَكْنُونٍ(٧٩) لَا يَمَسُّهُ إِلَّا الْمُطَهَّرُونَ(٨٠) تَنْزِيلٌ مِنْ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ Ironically, most … Continue reading None can grasp it except the sincere (56:79)
Holy Spittle (Bible vs. Hadith)
In the Roman world, The Roman historian Tacitus (56-120 CE) reports that the emperor Vespasian (r. 69-79) had restored vision to a blind man by means of oris excremento, his saliva (Histories iv. 81). In another account by Suetonius (69-122 CE) in The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, the emperor he healed a paralyzed man (withered hand … Continue reading Holy Spittle (Bible vs. Hadith)
Ideal Goals, Practical Means
According to the Quran, God calls believers to strive to be the best worshipers and faithfully adhere to His laws. This entails choosing the more challenging path and striving towards the ideals that God has set forth whenever possible. [90:11] He should choose the difficult path.[90:12] Which one is the difficult path?[90:13] The freeing of slaves.[90:14] Feeding, during the … Continue reading Ideal Goals, Practical Means
