Ibn Khaldun (1332–1406) was a renowned Arab historian, philosopher, and sociologist from North Africa, widely regarded as one of the founders of sociology and historiography. Born in Tunis, he spent much of his life in the Maghreb (Northwest Africa), Andalusia (modern-day Spain), and Egypt, where he held various political and administrative roles and served as … Continue reading Ibn Khaldun Genius and Ignorance
Non-Arabs (Mostly Persian) Influence on Sunni Islam
In early Islamic society, a Muslim ruler once asked about the judges and scholars overseeing various provinces, only to learn that most were non-Arab clients, or mawālī—a term referring to freed slaves or non-Arab converts who became clients under the patronage of Arab tribes. This account is recorded in Al-ʿAqd al-Farīd, written by Ibn ʿAbd … Continue reading Non-Arabs (Mostly Persian) Influence on Sunni Islam
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?
Ruh
The Ruh ( ٱلرُّوحُ ), often translated as Spirit or Revelation, is a concept about which the Quran tells us that we have limited information. [17:85] They ask you about the revelation (ruh). Say, "The revelation (ruh) comes from my Lord. The knowledge given to you is minute." وَيَسْـَٔلُونَكَ عَنِ ٱلرُّوحِ قُلِ ٱلرُّوحُ مِنْ أَمْرِ رَبِّى … Continue reading Ruh
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)
Nazareth (Bible vs. Quran)
Nazareth ( נָצְרַת ) is mentioned 29 times in the New Testament in its various forms. It is primarily mentioned as a geographical location, specifically as the hometown of Jesus. Most of these references are in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, where Nazareth is associated with Jesus's early life and his identity … Continue reading Nazareth (Bible vs. Quran)
Different Words For Sin in Quran
In the Quran, several different Arabic words can be translated as "sin," each with distinct nuances in meaning based on their linguistic roots and usage. Below is a list of a number of the primary words for sin, their roots, and the subtle differences in meaning: Dhanb (ذنب): A sin that brings consequences or punishment … Continue reading Different Words For Sin in Quran
Evidence of Arab Literacy Through Arabic
It is a commonly held belief that the Arabs, particularly in the Hejaz region during the time of the Prophet Muhammad, were largely illiterate. This assumption, however, overlooks key factors that indicate otherwise. In this article, we will explore key features observed in Arabic that indicate literacy among the Arabs. These elements demonstrate that the … Continue reading Evidence of Arab Literacy Through Arabic
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)
