Quran-Based Islam

Much of what you've been taught about Islam is not supported by the Quran

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 0 - READ ME FIRST

Purpose and Intent of This Website and Pre-Reading Preparation

Sources and Recognition

Who Created This Website?

PART 1 - SOURCES OF INFORMATION

1

The Quran - The Final and Complete Message from God

Proof that the Quran is final, complete and the one and only acceptable source of Islamic law

  • The Quran and previous scriptures (e.g. the Jewish Torah and Christian Gospel) are all from the one and only God (3:2-3) (5:46) (61:6)
  • The Quran replaces previous scriptures and tells everyone to believe in it (4:47)
  • Some verses are specific and others are unspecific for a reason (3:7)
  • God never runs out of words (31:27)
  • The Quran is without a doubt clear guidance (huda) (2:2)
  • The Quran is clear proof (burhan) from God (4:174)
  • The Quran is complete (6:115) (6:38)
  • The Quran is fully detailed (fussilat) of all things (6:114) (12:111) (41:3) (11:1)
  • The Quran is clarification (tibyana) of all things (16:89)
  • The Quran provides its own best explanation (ahsan tafsir) (25:33)
  • The Quran is the ultimate scale (mizaan) (42:17)
  • The Quran is evidence (bayyinah) (20:133)
  • The Quran is the criterion (furqan) between right and wrong (25:1)
  • God forbids people from following any law except God’s laws in the Quran (6:114)
  • Whoever judges by other than the Quran, they are Kafir (disbelievers) (5:44)
  • The best hadith (statement) is God’s statement (the Quran) (39:23)
  • The Quran forbids you from following or believing in something without understanding it (17:36)
  • The Quran expects you to study and think deeply about its verses (47:24)
  • God protects the Quran from human tampering / corruption (15:9)
  • No one can alter God’s words (6:115)
  • Don’t spread false information / say a lie against God (16:116)
  • The Quran is in Arabic but only due to circumstances
  • How the Quran was transmitted and preserved
  • Muhammad is the seal of the prophets and the Quran is the last book of God (33:40)

2

The Ahadeeth - Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Proof that the ahadeeth is an unacceptable source of Islamic law

  • What is ahadeeth?
  • Not everything Muhammad said was a revelation. Muhammad himself only followed what was revealed to him. (10:15), (46:9), (6:50), (7:203)
  • God forbids people from believing in any statement (hadith) or book besides the Quran (45:6) (68:36-38)
  • God forbade the prophet from forbidding something that God never forbade (66:1)
  • The Quran forbids any other source, e.g. ahadeeth, to be used as law (6:114)
  • The prophet’s job was to deliver a message (the Quran) and nothing more (5:99) (42:48) (13:40)
  • Examples of “saheeh” ahadeeth that contradict each other
  • Examples of “saheeh” ahadeeth that contradict the Quran
  • Examples of “saheeh” ahadeeth that are unacceptable and questionable

3

Parents, Islamic Scholars, Popular / Majority Belief, Government, and Tradition

Many people are blind followers and don’t use their brains. Some overcomplicate religion.

  • Many Muslims are blind followers just like Prophet Abraham’s (pbuh) father and his people (21:52-68) (2:170)
  • If you follow and believe most people on earth, they will mislead you (6:116)
  • If you follow some Islamic scholars, they may also mislead you
  • Humans overcomplicate religion
    • Yellow cow example (2:67-71)
    • Astronaut example (2:177) (64:16)
  • The majority belief in something is not a valid proof or argument that it is correct
  • God gave humans a brain for a reason, not to be like cows (8:22) (7:179) (25:44)
  • Circular reasoning
  • Trained monkeys

4

Quran Translations

Examples showing that Quran translations are not always accurate and sometimes misleading

  • Inconsistent translations and interpretations (tafsir)
  • Inaccurate translations

5

Classical Arabic Dictionaries

Reputable dictionaries that can be used to help understand the Quran

6

Conclusion and Method of Analysis

The Quran, Quran Translations and Dictionaries, Common Sense Logic

PART 2 - TOPICS

POPULAR BELIEFS

1

Righteousness - Based on Lineage, Relationships, Companionship, etc.?

Proof that no one, including Muhammad’s wives, are automatically righteous

2

Will There Be a Bridge Over Hell (As-Sirat)?

The Quran doesn’t mention any such bridge and doesn’t indicate there will be any such thing

3

What Does the Quran Mean by “Ask Those That Have Knowledge”?

It doesn’t mean you can just blindly accept the advice of others, e.g. parents, scholars, gurus, etc.

4

Can I Just Blindly Follow What Others (Scholars, Imams, etc) Teach Me?

No. You may only follow what you understand and have proven to yourself.

5

Black Magic - Is It Real?

Proof that black magic is real and can, among other things, cause divorces

6

Gold and Silk - Is Wearing It Forbidden by Men?

Proof that men are allowed to wear gold and silk

7

Ablution (Wudu) - Must You Perform It Before Touching the Quran?

Proof that making ablution before touching the Quran is not required

8

Idolatry (Shirk) - More Than Just Worshipping Statues

An explanation of the different types of idolatry

9

Imam and the Shi’a Imamate - What Exactly is It?

An Quranic examination of the term “Imam”

10

Intercession - Can Anyone Help You on the Day of Judgement?

Proof that no one, including Muhammad (pbuh), can help anyone on the Day of Judgment

11

Gabriel (Jibril) - An Angel or a Spirit?

An Quranic examination as to whether Gabriel is an angel or The Holy Spirit

12

Punishment of Hell - Temporary or Eternal?

A Quranic examination of whether hell is eternal for everyone who goes there

13

Prophet Jesus (pbuh) - Will He Come Back?

Proof that Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will not come back

14

Music and Singing - Is it Forbidden?

Proof that listening to music and singing are not forbidden

15

Nikaah Al-Mut’ah (Temporary Marriage) – Is It Permitted?

Proof that temporary marriage with predetermined duration is forbidden

16

Sects (Sunni, Shia, etc) - Can You Join or Create One?

Proof that dividing into or joining a sect is forbidden

17

Death and Punishment in the Grave - Is There Such a Thing?

A Quranic examination of what happens after death

18

Radhi Allah Unho - A Potentially Dangerous Saying

An Quranic examination of the meaning and whether saying it is allowed

19

Superstitions - One of Satan’s Weapons

Proof that believing in and following superstitions contradictory to the Quran is forbidden

20

Taqiyya (Lying for a Greater Good or Lying to Save Your Life) - Permitted or Forbidden?

Proof that taqiyya is forbidden except in dire situations, e.g. threat of persecution or death

21

The Christian Concept of the “Trinity” and Jesus as Son of God

Proof that the Christian Bible, which Muslims must believe, does not teach the “Trinity”

23

Hadith and Sunna - What’s the Difference?

An explanation of the difference between “hadith” and “sunna”

24

The Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj) - Did it Really Happen?

An examination of the sources describing The Night Journey

25

The Qibla Change - Mecca to Jerusalem and Back to Mecca Again

An analysis showing that the Qibla was originally at the Kaa’ba and was not once, but twice

26

Will an Actual Trumpet be Blown on the Day of Calamity and Resurrection?

An analysis as to whether an actual “trumpet” will be blown on the Day of Calamity and Resurrection

27

The Sunna of Muhammad (pbuh) - Is it an Islamic Requirement?

Proof that the Sunna is time-bound and not a religious requirement

28

Jihad - Holy War Against Non-Muslims or Something Else?

A Quranic explanation of what “jihad” really means

29

Wasilah - A Means of Access to God

An Quranic analysis of “wasilah”, what it means and how it’s often misunderstood

30

What is a Muslim Name - A Misnomer

There’s no such thing as a Muslim name

31

What is Quranic Ruh (Spirit)?

Ruh as the holy spirit and ruh as divine energy

32

Zam Zam Water - Is it Blessed or Just Believed to Be So?

The Quran says nothing about Zam Zam water but does talk about rain water and honey

BELIEVERS, MUSLIMS AND NON-MUSLIMS

33

Death Penalty for Apostasy (Rejecting and Leaving Islam)?

The Quran does not prescribe the death penalty as punishment for apostasy

34

Some Muslims Today are No Different Than Christian and Hindu Polytheists

A Quranic analysis showing how some Muslims are actually polytheists (mushrikeen)

35

Death Penalty for Blasphemy (Ridiculing Islam)?

The Quran does not prescribe the death penalty as punishment for blasphemy

36

Don’t Judge! Not All Jews and Christians are Kafir

Quranic proof that some Jews and Christians are actually righteous

37

Forced Faith is No Faith

Proof that it is forbidden to force any aspect of religion on anyone

38

Marriage With the People of the Book (Jews and Christians)

Muslims may marry Jews and Christians but only under certain conditions

39

Muslim (Submitter) and Mu’min (Believer) - What’s the Difference?

Many people (including some Jews and Christians) are Muslim but not all Muslims are Mu’mins

40

People of the Book (Jews and Christians)

A Quranic explanation of the People of the Book

41

The Walking Dead

To some people, God closes the door of forgiveness before death. They live only to wait for Hell.

42

Understanding “Kufr” (Disbelief) and “Kafir” (Disbelievers)

Not all Non-Muslims are automatically Kafir. Only certain people under certain circumstances are Kafir.

43

Islam - The Religion of Muhammad or Also of Abraham, Moses, Jesus, etc?

Proof that Islam existed before Muhammad and was inspired in all prophets before him

44

Who are Muslims?

Many people (including some Jews and Christians) are Muslim but not all Muslims are Mu’mins

45

Will the Sins of Muslims be Transferred to Jews and Christians?

The ahadeeth say “Yes”. The Quran says “No”. So, “No”. Common sense also says, “No”, by the way!

QURAN

46

Are Some Verses of the Quran Replaced with Other Verses or the Hadeeth?

An analysis showing that no verse in the Quran is canceled or replaced by another verse or source

47

How the Quran Describes Itself

Absolutely clear guidance and proof explained in detail of all things; a judge between truth and falsehood

48

Lailat Al-Qadr - Is it Like an Islamic Lottery?

The Quran does not tell one to find it as if to reap some huge reward or to wash away all sins.

49

Mother of the Book (Umm Al-Kitaab)

It is a master source within God’s presence from which the Quran was derived.

50

Some Commandments from the Quran

Some obvious and not-so-obvious commandments from the Quran

51

Some Prayers from the Quran

A collection of prayers taken directly from the Quran

52

The Best Hadeeth is Not Any of the Prophet’s “Ahadeeth”

The Quran states that it itself is the best hadeeth and that one should not follow any other hadeeth

53

When and How Was the Quran Compiled into a Book?

The Quran was completely written down on paper during the lifetime of the prophet

54

The Quran is the ONLY Acceptable Source of Religious Guidance

The hadeeth or any other book are not allowed to be used as religious guidance

GOD

55

How Does God Communicate with Humans?

Through inspiration and signs, behind a veil, and by sending a messenger

56

What Does it Mean to Say “Ameen”?

"So be it", "Truly" or '"Verily"

57

“Allah” is Not the Only Name for God

Other prophets knew God as “El” and “Yahweh” but any beautiful name is the name of God

PROPHET ABRAHAM (pbuh)

58

Are the Arabs and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Descendants of Prophet Abraham (pbuh)?

There is no evidence in the Quran that they are related

59

Did Prophet Abraham (pbuh) Really Send His Wife Hagar and Son Ishmael Away Alone to a Barren Land?

There is no evidence in the Quran that this occurred

60

Prophet Abraham’s (pbuh) Original Sanctuary - At Makkah (Mecca) or Bakkah (Baca)?

An analysis that strongly indicates that the original site was a Baca, not at Makkah.

61

Prophet Abraham’s (pbuh) Sacrificial Son - Ishmael or Isaac (pbut)?

Strong arguments that indicate that the sacrificial son was actually Isaac, not Ishmael.

PROPHET MUHAMMAD (pbuh)

62

“Iktatabaha” - Did Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Write the Quran Himself?

An analysis indicating that he himself, rather than anyone else, wrote the Quran

63

Can Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Help You?

Proof that no one, including Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), can help you on the Day of Judgement

64

Is Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Exclusive and More Special Than the Other Prophets?

Quranic proof that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is no different than the other prophets

65

Follow the Example of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - What is That Example?

Quranic analysis that the example is not his personal preferences, e.g. having a long beard

66

God and the Angels Bless Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - What About Everyone Else?

Proof that God and the Angels also bless the believers

67

Did Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Perform Any Miracles as Did Some Other Prophets?

No. The only sign given to Prophet Muhammad was the Quran.

68

Does “Obey God and His Messenger” Mean I Must Follow the Hadeeth and Sunna?

No. It means to obey his authority with matters related to the Quran.

69

Is Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Alive in His Grave “Hazir” (Present) and “Nazir” (Witnessing) Us?

No. He’s dead. And he had no knowledge of the unseen.

70

Is Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) a Mercy to All Mankind?

No. But the Quran is, which Muhammad brought by Divine inspiration.

71

Does “Take What the Prophet Gives You” Mean I Must Follow His Sunna?

No. That is a reference to the booty (valuables) acquired during war.

72

Was Prophet Muhammad’s Mission Superior to That of Other Prophets?

No. All prophets are equal. They all faced varying degrees of challengers. Some were even murdered.

73

Was Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Illiterate (Couldn’t Read and Write)?

No. He actually wrote the Quran himself.

73

Was Every Word the Prophet Said a “Wahi” (Revelation) from God? (Divinely Inspired)?

No. It was only his sayings that were then than written in the Quran that were from God.

PROPHETS AND MESSENGERS

74

Adam (pbuh) and Jannah - Was Jannah on Earth or in Paradise?

Arguments indicating that Adam’s “Jannah” was actually on Earth

75

Are All Messengers of God Equal? Or Are Some Superior to Others?

They are all equal. Not even Muhammad is superior to the others.

76

Have There Been or Will There Be Any Other Prophets or Messengers after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) ?

Muhammad was the last prophet and the Quran is the last scripture. There can be other messengers.

77

Exodus of Prophet Moses’ (pbuh) People Across the Red Sea?

An analysis that compares the stories from the Bible and the Quran

78

PBUH (Peace Be Upon Him) - For Prophet Muhammad Only or For All Prophets?

An analysis of the use of PBUH as a suffix

79

Mary’s Virgin Birth of Prophet Jesus

An analysis showing agreement between the Bible and the Quran

80

The Limits of Obeying a Messenger

The limit is to what is considered right and just

81

The Crucifixion of Jesus (pbuh)

A Quranic analysis of what happened

82

Was Prophet Jesus (pbuh) Sent to the Gentiles (Non-Jews) or To Just the Jews?

The Quran confirms that he was only sent to warn the Jews. The Bible supports this.

83

What is the Injeel?

Quranic analysis that suggests that it may be the wisdom given to Prophet Jesus (pbuh)

HISTORICAL SOURCES

84

Hadith Qudsi (Sacred or Divine Sayings)

Supposed sayings of God that are not included in the Quran. You must disregard them.

85

Ibn Ishaq’s Sira of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

The earliest surviving Muslim source of the prophet’s biography after the Quran

86

Non Muslim Sources of Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) Ministry

Greek and Syriac writings from within decades of the prophet’s death

87

Poetry From a Quran’s Perspective

The Quran isn’t poetry and considers poetic speech as to deliberately confuse and mislead

88

The Shi’a Doctrine

An explanation of the Shi’a belief and how the Quran doesn’t support it

LANGUAGE

89

Is Arabic a Holy or Superior Language?

Quranic analysis indicating that Arabic is not a holy or superior language

90

Understanding the Challenge “Produce a Surah Like It”

A Quranic analysis of why the target audience could not meet the challenge

91

Why Was The Quran Revealed in Arabic?

For no reason other that so that the designated primary audience at the time (Arabs) could understand it clearly

WOMEN

92

“Daraba” (To Beat) - A Deeper Look in the Context of Wives

In context of wives, “daraba” means to “turn away from”, not “beat” your wife

93

“Khimar” (A Cover) - Does it Only Mean a Head Cover / Hijab?

“Khimar” means anything that covers, e.g. a shirt covers a chest, a hat covers one’s hair, etc.

94

Aggressive (Mis)Translations of the Quran to Enslave Women

Does the Quran say that wives are enemies and that they should stay fixed at home? No.

95

Are Menstruating Women Required Fast?

Yes, unless they become ill / feel pain or are generally unwell during the menstruation.

96

Does the Quran Confine Widows to Their Homes in Their Waiting Period (Iddat)?

No, widows may leave their home during the waiting paid.

97

Does the Quran Really Allow the Beating of Wives?

An analysis that indicates that, rather than “beat”, one may “shun” or “separate” with their spouse

98

Does the Quran Allow Consummating a Marriage with Female Minors?

A Quranic examination that indicates that this is now allowed

99

Hijab / Veil / Head Covering - Do Women Have to Wear It?

Quranic proof that women are not required to cover their hair, face, and neck

100

Can a Man Have Multiple or Up to Four Wives (Polygny) in Islam?

The Quran does not seem to encourage nor discourage polygny nor specify a particular maximum number of wives

101

Nikaah - The Islamic Marriage Contract

An explanation of the contract

102

Nikaah Al-Mut’ah (Temporary Marriage) - Allowed or Forbidden?

Marriage may only be entered into for sincere and honest wedlock and not for temporary lust

103

Will Men Get Sexy Female Virgins in Paradise?

Not necessarily. Both men and women will be recreated and have purified and righteous companions.

104

Should Women Lead Mixed Prayer Congregations or Religious Leaders?

A Quranic and historical examination of this topic

105

Stoning for Adultery

There is no directive in the Quran regarding stoning whatsoever

106

Thobe and Jilbab

A detailed explanation of what they are

107

Was Ayesha (One of Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) Wives) a Child?

The Quran says nothing of this and based on Quranic marriage requirements, probably not

108

Was Adam’s (pbuh) Wife Created From His Rib?

The Quran says nothing about this

109

Where Do We Learn About Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) Wives?

The Quran hardly says anything about his wives. Most information if from unreliable hadith.

110

Do Women Have the Right to Earn Equally as Men?

According to the Quran, yes.

PRACTICES

111

Circumcision - Is it Required?

There is nothing in the Quran that requires circumcision.

112

Cutting the Hands of a Thief - No Ordinary Thief

A Quranic analysis that indicates that this punishment is meant only for extreme cases

113

Eating with Your Left Hand - Is It Forbidden?

Proof that eating with your left hand is not forbidden

114

Eid Festival After Ramadan - Is it Required?

The Quran says nothing about the Eid festival. Therefore, practicing it is permitted.

115

Must We Fast Until Maghrib (Sunset) or Night (Layl)?

Despite popular belief and practice, the Quran says to fast until “night”, not “sunset”

116

Homosexuality - Is it Permitted or Forbidden?

The Quran clearly says that homosexuality is forbidden

117

Inheritance Law According to the Quran

A explanation of inheritance law according to the Quran

118

Divorce Law According to the Quran

A explanation of divorce law according to the Quran

119

Kissing the Black Stone - Veneration or an Idolatrous Practice?

The Quran says nothing about kissing the Black Stone. So why do people do it?

120

Riba (Interest) and Whether Charging and Paying Interest is the Same Thing

Riba is clearly forbidden but paying interest, e.g. on a home loan, is not forbidden

121

Sadaqah (Charity)

An explanation of sadaqah (optional charity) and how it differs from zakah

122

Zakah

An explanation of zakah (required alms giving similar to tax) and how it differs from sadaqah

123

The Hajj and Umrah

A Quranic explanation of what is required or not regarding the Hajj and Umrah

124

Begin Fasting at the Time of Fajr or the End of Sehri

You may eat until dawn when you start to see the a bit of light, which is later than the time of Fajr

125

Do You Have to Circle the Kaa’ba Seven (7) Times?

You must circle the Kaa’ba but the Quran does not require you to circle it seven times

126

Must You Wash Your Feet in Wudu (Ablution) or Can You Wipe it?

The Quran clearly says your must wipe your feet to your ankles so washing it is okay as well

127

(Wudu) Ablution Instructions

How to perform wudu (ablution) according to the Quran

ISLAM

128

Are Dogs Impure? Can I Have a Pet Dog?

The Quran does not forbid anything with respect to dogs

129

Is it Forbidden (Haram) to Have Statues and Images?

No. They are only forbidden if you worship them.

130

Does the Quran Encourage War or to Live by the Sword?

No. Fighting is only permissible in self defence with those who aggress and oppress believers

131

Quranic Punishment - Murder VS Manslaughter

Killing is only allowed in two circumstances: 1) retribution for committing evil beyond bounds and 2) retribution for murder

132

The Concept of Hijrah (Emigrating)

If all attempts to resolve issues in one place fails, emigrate to a different place (city, country)

133

Can You Only Perform the Hajj during the 5 Days (8th - 12th) of Dhul-Hijjah?

The Hajj pilgrimage, which takes a certain number of days to complete, can be performed anytime by any person during the four sacred months beginning from the new moon (Dhul Hijjah) until four lunar months later.

134

The True Definition of “Deen” According to the Quran

“Deen” is a “system” and does not have to be religious in nature

FOOD AND DRINK

135

Are Intoxicants, e.g. Wine, Alcohol, Forbidden (Haram) in the Quran?

Whether considered “haram” or not, the Quran clearly says to stay away from intoxicants

136

Does the Quran Allow the Eating of Lions, Dogs, Cats, Rats, etc?

A Quranic analysis of what can and cannot be eaten

137

Eat and Drink But Don’t be Extravagant

The Quran clearly tells people not to consume food and drinks excessively and wastefully

138

What You Can and Cannot Eat

A list of the types of food you are permitted to and forbidden from eating

139

Is it Okay to Eat Jewish Kosher Meat?

Yes, but only if certain conditions are met

140

Why is it Forbidden to Eat Pig / Swine Flesh?

The Quran doesn’t say why. You’re just not allowed to eat it.

141

How to Correctly Slaughter an Animal for Sacrifice

A Quranic analysis of how to correctly slaughter an animal

142

Thakaytum - Slaughtering Lawfully to Make Food Fit for Consumption

An analysis of the word “thakaytum”

COSMOS

143

Are There Seven (7) Heavens or Several Heavens?

The word “seven” in the Quran and in classical Arabic can mean “several”

144

Do Aliens Exist?

According to the Quran, yes!

145

Heaven(s) and Paradise - What’s the Difference?

The heavens are the wider universe and paradise is Jannah - the Gardens of Eternal Bliss

146

The Jinn

A Quranic analysis of the invisible creature called “jinn. Satan is a jinn.

PRAYER

147

Jewish Prayer VS Muslim Prayer - Same or Different?

Ancient (original) Jewish prayers are in complete resonance with Quranic verses on the requirements of prayer

148

Darud Shareef Prayer

An examination of the meaning of the prayer about prophets Muhammad and Abraham (pbut)

149

Do We Have to Pray in Arabic?

An examination of the Quran indicating that one can pray in any language, not just Arabic.

150

How Can We Learn How to Pray If We Don’t Have Hadith to Teach Us?

The Quran explains all requirements for prayer, not the hadith.

151

Verse 2:239 “Pray As We Have Taught You How to Pray”

An Quranic analysis that supports the fixed form of prayer that we have today

152

Praying “For” The Dead is Different From Praying “Through” The Dead

You can pray for the dead but not through the dead

153

Preparing a Dead Body for Burial - A Quran’s Persective

There is not right or wrong way, as long as it’s with dignity and respect

154

Shortening of Prayers - Even on Vacation?

You may only shorten your prayer if you are in danger, e.g. at war.

155

The Five (5) Daily Prayers From The Quran

Proof of the five daily prayers and when to do them

156

The Importance of Congregational Prayer (Praying Together)

A Quranic analysis of congregational prayer

157

The Tahajjud Prayer

The Tahajjud prayer was only required on prophet Muhammad; it’s optional for everyone else.

158

What is “Salaat” (Prayer) According to the Quran

A Quranic analysis of various aspects of prayer including form, speech, direction, ablution, etc

159

Why Do We Have to Recite the Quran Back to God When We Pray?

The Quran actually doesn’t require nor forbid one to recite the Quran during prayer. So why not?

WISDOM

160

Do the Best You Can with Sincerity

Everyone has different limits. The Quran doesn’t expect you to do more than what you can handle.

161

Is the Mixing of Men and Women Forbidden, e.g. In School or Work?

The Quran does not forbid free mixing. But it does require modest attire and good behavior.

162

inna Lillaahi Wa inna ilayhi Raajiuun - A Saying When Someone Dies?

The Quran actually encourages saying this whenever you are hit with any misfortune

163

Behavior Towards Parents - Justice Over Blind Obedience

Obey them unless they breach Quranic values; remain civil and respectful even if they are unjust.

164

A Simple Summary of Quranic Prohibitions

1. Shameful deeds, 2. sin and oppression, 3. associate partners with God, 4. say things about God of what you don’t know

165

Quranic Wisdom

A selection of verses

166

Salaam Alaikum (Peace Be Upon You) - What is an Islamic Greeting?

The best greeting offers peace, regardless of language. It doesn’t have to be in Arabic.

167

How Satan (The Devil) Attacks Us and Leads Us Astray?

In the end, most people will be led astray.

168

How to Present Your World Views and Religious Understandings

Not by shouting and yelling but by, according to the Quran, polite and gentle speech

169

Are We Required to Stand Up for Justice or Can We Just Mind our Own Business?

Believers are required to side with truth and justice, even if against ourselves or relatives

170

Suffering and Hardship

Everyone will be tested and will suffer, including righteous people. No one is exempt.

171

Following Tradition Instead of God - A Small Lesson From the Bible

Unfortunately, many people, including Muslims and Christians, follow tradition instead of God.

172

Why Me? What Did I Do? - Understanding Our Trials

How and why we are tested

173

God Will Test Us

Everyone will be tested and will suffer, including righteous people. No one is exempt.

174

Transfer of Sin - Will Someone Who Has Wronged Me Get My Sins?

Fortunately, yes, to some extent, per the story of Adam’s two sons (5/27-37)

175

Judgement Day Questions

A hypotheticial dialogue between God and a man name Ahmed

TOC

Punishment of Hell - Temporary or Eternal?

This has been a question that has troubled many. It is often asked, how can a merciful God punish His creation in an eternal fire for sins they may have committed in a relatively short period of life on Earth or if their balance of scales did not quite fall in their favour? What about all the verses relating to God's mercy and also of just retribution? How could an eternal punishment be a befitting requital for a ‘finite’ life? How does one reconcile a serious criminal and an ardent sinner such as Pharaoh who receives the same eternal punishment of burning in hell as with one whose sins are not of that magnitude, but has been doomed for eternity? What does it actually mean when the Quran informs the reader that not an atom’s weight of injustice will be done? (99:7-8).

There are many other related questions that get asked.

It must be appreciated that God is not only a merciful God but also a just God and His justice also extends to just retribution. It is only correct therefore, that one expects to be recompensed for what they have earned which is the fundamental teaching of the Quran.

Though children have no qualms in posing such questions, it appears many adults try not to deal with this or simply hope that in some way despite their sins, the problem is somehow resolved by a merciful God.

So the question inevitably arises, if one has sinned and the balance of scales are not in one's favour, does this really imply that one will burn and abide in hell forever?

SEEKING THE QURAN’S GUIDANCE

First, we must appreciate that the Lord did not make His creation to punish them. He is foremost most gracious, most kind.

001:001

“In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful”

006.012

“Say: "To whom belongs all that is in the Heavens and on Earth?" Say: "To God. He has inscribed for Himself (the rule of) Mercy (Arabic: Kataba ala nafsihi l-rahma). That He will gather you together for the Day of Judgment, there is no doubt whatever. It is they who have lost their own souls, that will not believe”

'KHALID' AND 'ABAD'

To gain a better understanding of the Quran's point of view, let us first obtain some familiarity with the Arabic verb 'Khalada'. The root of this term is KH-L-D and many Muslims remain familiar with the word from popular names such as Khalid (male) and Khalida (female). Its derivatives appear numerous times in the Quran.

It has also been used to describe the time period for both the dwellers of heaven and hell.

003.107 (Heaven)

“And as for those whose faces have been whitened, in the mercy of God they dwell for ever (Arabic: Khalidun)

016.029 (Hell)

"So enter the gates of Hell, to dwell therein (Arabic: Khalideen). Thus evil indeed is the abode of the arrogant."

ROOT KH-L-D

Source: Edward Lanes Lexicon [1]

Source: Edward Lanes Lexicon [2]

Source: Edward Lanes Lexicon [3]

It is clear that the word exhibits two meanings which are:

  1. A long duration or
  2. A period that is eternal and unceasing.

Both are correct and restricting the meaning to its present common usage ‘eternal’ is not correct from a classical Arabic or Quranic perspective.

ROOT A-B-D

Another Arabic word which is at times translated in a manner to imply an unceasing duration is 'abadan'. 'Abad' in Arabic simply means to remain, to stay or dwell. Albeit it can imply duration in an absolute sense, this is not always the case. It can also simply refer to a long duration.

Source: Edward Lanes Lexicon [4]

If we analyse the Quran with all the relevant verses in which ‘heaven’ is coupled with its duration, there seems to be no indication of a limitation of time by the usage of the word 'khalid'. Therefore, in this context (at least from a scriptural point of view), heaven seems to strongly imply an unceasing, endless abode. Another example is cited further in the article to corroborate this point. (*) (verse 11:108)

However, this is not the case with the duration of Hell.

Indeed, the root ‘KH-L-D’ has been used numerous times to indicate the duration of Hell as has been shown in example 16.29 above. If there was no further elaboration, then as with heaven, it would appear that the duration of the punishment was also everlasting.

However, all related verses and themes of the Quran must be kept harmonised and it appears that the punishment of Hell is not necessarily endless as we note in the following verse.

078.021-3

إِنَّ جَهَنَّمَ كَانَتْ مِرْصَادًا لِّلطَّاغِينَ مَآبًا لَّابِثِينَ فِيهَا أَحْقَابًا

“Truly Hell is as a place of ambush, for the transgressors a place of destination: They will dwell in it for ages (Arabic: Ahqab(a))

أَحْقَابًا = ahqaaba (for ages)

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE ARABIC WORD 'AHQABA' (AGES)?

The Arabic word ‘Ahqaba’ is plural and is formed from the root HA-QAF-BA which denotes no more than a period of time. Different authorities render different time periods but whichever way one chooses to define it, it is obvious that the term signifies a limited period of time (irrespective of how long) and not eternity.

Source: Edward Lanes Lexicon [5]

WHERE ELSE IS THE ROOT WORD 'HA-QAF-BA' USED?

018:060

وَإِذْ قَالَ مُوسَىٰ لِفَتَاهُ لَا أَبْرَحُ حَتَّىٰ أَبْلُغَ مَجْمَعَ الْبَحْرَيْنِ أَوْ أَمْضِيَ حُقُبًا

"And when Moses said to his servant: I will not give up until I reach the point where the two rivers meet, though I march on for ages (Huqba - Root: Ha-Qaf-Ba)"

حُقُبًا = huqba (ages)

With the use of the word 'ahqab' in verse 78:23, it is clear therefore that the duration of the punishment in hell is not unceasing, but limited.

OTHER EXAMPLES:

006.128

“In the day when He will gather them together (He will say): O ye assembly of the jinn! Many of humankind did ye seduce. And their adherents among humankind will say: Our Lord! We enjoyed one another, but now we have arrived at the appointed term which Thou appointed for us. He will say: Fire is your home. Abide therein (Arabic: Khalideena feeha), save him whom God wills (to deliver). Indeed! thy Lord is Wise, Aware”

It appears that contrary to the everlasting bliss of paradise (which will also have many ranks - 58.11 in accordance to the measure of one’s deeds 76.16), the suffering of the sinners will also be in accordance to one’s sins, a perfect retribution for the extent of the sins, but not necessarily everlasting.

This can again be seen in 11.106-7 where the 'limitation' of the punishment of Hell is alluded to but the rewards for those in heaven seem unceasing which cements an earlier point (*)

011.106-107 (Hell)

“Those who are wretched shall be in the Fire: There will be for them therein (nothing but) the heaving of sighs and sobs: They will dwell therein for all the time that the Heavens and the Earth endure, except as thy Lord wills: for thy Lord is the (sure) accomplisher of what He plans”

011:108 (Heaven)

وَأَمَّا الَّذِينَ سُعِدُوا فَفِي الْجَنَّةِ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا مَا دَامَتِ السَّمَاوَاتُ وَالْأَرْضُ إِلَّا مَا شَاءَ رَبُّكَ ۖ عَطَاءً غَيْرَ مَجْذُوذٍ

“And those who are blessed shall be in the Garden: They will dwell therein for all the time that the Heavens and the Earth endure, except as thy Lord wills: a gift without break (Arabic: Ata'an ghayra majdud)

عَطَاءً غَيْرَ مَجْذُوذٍ = ataa’an ghayra majdzuuz (gift without break)

In the above verses, both heaven and hell are synonymous with the phrase until the 'heavens and earth endure’ along with the exception, ‘as thy Lord wills’. However, with regards heaven, we note the elaboration a ‘gift without break’ – ‘Ata'an’ (Bestowal) ‘ghayra Majdud’ (Uninterrupted). This elaboration is omitted with reference to hell which once again suggests a limitation to the punishment.

Furthermore, when heaven and hell are contrasted together in verses 64:9-10 below, the duration of the inhabitants of 'Janah' is described as 'khalidina' with an elaboration of 'abad' which gives a sense of perpetuity / absoluteness. In contrast, the duration of hell is limited to 'khalidina' without the elaboration 'abad'.

064:009 (part)

"...He will admit them to Gardens beneath which rivers flow, to dwell therein for ever (Arabic: khalidina fiha abadan). That will be the supreme achievement."

064.010

"But those who disbelieved and denied our verses, they will be Companions of the Fire, to dwell in it (Arabic: khalidina) and wretched is that destination"

HOW CAN A PUNISHMENT BE EXTENDED IF THE PUNISHMENT IS INFINITE?

In the following verse we note a punishment being prolonged or extended. This would arguably be in contention with a view that a punishment in hell is ipso fact, infinite.

019.079

"Nay, but We shall record that which he says and We will extend / prolong (* yamuddu) for him from a span of punishment extensively"

* 'Yamuddu' from the primary verb 'madda' means to extend, to lead on, prolong, to spread out or the act of extending. This does not imply a sense of infinite punishment.

HELL IS A MULTIFACETED ABODE TO FIT THE CRIME OF THE SINNER

The Quran at many places alludes to the ‘abode of the sinners’ as a multifaceted place (15.43-44) which is geared to fit the numerous levels of crimes of the sinners. It is not a place where every sinner will be given the same punishment or necessarily of hell-fire.

God informs the reader that not an atom’s weight of injustice will occur (4.40). All punishment will be in exact accordance to the measure of the evil deed of the sinner.

046.019

“And to all are (assigned) degrees according to the deeds which they (have done), and in order that (God) may recompense their deeds, and no injustice be done to them

010.027 (Part)

“But those who have earned evil will have a reward of like evil...

078.024-26

“Therein taste they neither coolness nor (any) drink. Save boiling water and a paralysing cold: reward proportioned (to their evil deeds)”

006:132

To all are degrees (or ranks) according to their deeds: for thy Lord is not unmindful of anything that they do”

006:160

"He that does good shall have ten times as much to his credit: He that does evil shall only be recompensed according to his evil (or the like of it Arabic: illa mith'laha) : no wrong shall be done unto (any of) them"

The hypocrites, however, will be in the lowest depths (4.145)

SOME WILL WANT TO COME OUT OF HELL - BUT THEIR PUNISHMENT WILL ENDURE UNTIL THEY HAVE BEEN FULLY RECOMPENSED

005.037

“Their wish will be to get out of the Fire, but never will they get out from there: their penalty will be one that endures.”

032.020

“As to those who are rebellious and wicked, their abode will be the Fire: every time they wish to get away from there, they will be returned to it, and it will be said to them: "Taste the Punishment of the Fire in which you used to deny"”

002:167

“And those who followed would say: "If only We had one more chance, We would clear ourselves of them, as they have cleared themselves of us." Thus will God show them (The fruits of) their deeds as (nothing but) regrets. Nor will there be a way for them out of the Fire”

At every moment the sinner intends to escape or plead for a second chance on Earth (2.167), they will be brought back to the recompense that they have earned. The punishment will not be lightened (2.86) and complete justice will be dispensed.

This also negates any form of unqualified intercession.

THE FIRE OF HELL IS FOR THE ‘MOST’ WICKED

For many Muslims it is commonly understood that despite the various details of 'hell' given in the Quran and many indirectly insinuated, the severe burning in the fire of hell is for everyone that enters it. From a Quran's point of view this does not necessarily seem to be the case. In the following verse it is clear that only the most wretched will experience the fire.

092.014

“Therefore have I warned you of the flaming fire

092.015

لَا يَصْلَاهَا إِلَّا الْأَشْقَى

“Which only the most wretched (Arabic: Ashqa) must endure”

الْأَشْقَى = al-ashqa (the most wretched)

The usage of 'Ashqa' is an exaggerated expression signifying an extreme degree (superlative). This can also be seen in verse 87.11.

However, a legitimate question arises as to why there is significant mention of the fire of hell and many other serious punishments in the Quran, if it is only meant for the most wicked.

Here we must first appreciate that the primary audience for delivery of the Quran are those people that are receiving the scripture directly from a Prophet of God (Prophet Muhammad) (pbuh) who is narrating them the truth leaving them with no reason to deny the message. (Clear manifestation / completion of proof - Itmam ul-Hujjah).

Hence the threat of punishment is proportional to the level of clarity of the message that is reaching them. If they continue to reject, they will be classed as 'Kaffir' (Those that deny the truth once it has reached them with utmost clarity) and the punishment would potentially be severe.

Nations that have rejected the manifestation of truth to this extent (directly from a messenger appointed by God) and continued with their transgressions have been utterly destroyed; for example, Aad, Thamud, people of the messengers Lot, Noah, Shoaib and others. (Peace be upon the messengers).

There is little or no substitute for the 'complete clarity of message' coming directly from a messenger of God Himself. If despite the fact that the clarity of message from such a messenger has no effect, then indeed we need only to visit the many examples before where nations were destroyed. There is no change in God's ways.

Indeed Pharaoh is such an example, who denied all the signs that he received from the Prophets of God (Prophet Moses and Aaron pbut). Pharaoh will be punished with a most severe burning and roasting in the fire of hell because he denied the truth when it reached him until he came to his earthly demise (40.46). At this point, even his shahada (Testimony) of God (10.90) was deemed unacceptable. He has been rightly cited as an example befitting the severest of punishments.

However there are many punishments described in the Quran and whether they are literal or they take some allegorical form, there is no doubt that the threat and significance of the punishments are a reality and quite severe in some cases.

The paralysing cold (78.25), scorching fire and scolding water and shade of black smoke (56.43) burning till it changes the colour and skins of man (74.29) and every time their skin is roasted it will be recreated (4.56), They will eat from the deadly tree of Zuqqum with its food like the heads of devils (37.62-68) and like molten brass will boil in their bellies like boiling scolding water (44.43-46) and it will cut up their bowels to pieces (47.15). They will also drink boiling water because of the intensity of their thirst like that of camels (56.55), from a boiling spring (88.5) and eat food of bitter thorns that neither nourishes nor avails against hunger (88.6-7). The fuel of fire is men and stones (66.6) and their garments are of melted copper and their faces will be covered in fire (14.49-50).

The threat of punishment is real and one must never underestimate this. However, we must remain hopeful for the Lord’s mercy who has inscribed for Himself (Kataba ala Nafsihi) the ‘rule of mercy’ (6.12; 6:54) who multiplies our good deeds but only takes one to task for the amount of evil that they have committed (6.160).

Having said this we must appreciate that we will all be recompensed fully for what we have done in terms of evil. Every hidden thought will be enquired into and searched out (86.9), every little deed will be laid out bare (99.7-8) and this should keep us humble and always seeking God’s mercy and His guidance.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It is neither the purpose of this article, nor for any creation of God to inform of God’s will other than what He Himself has informed us. We can only remain true to what God has revealed to us and not go beyond into what is concealed from us, as this will amount to nothing more than conjecturing.

This is what this article attempts to explore and challenges the commonly held belief that the punishment of the fire of Hell is automatically eternal for anyone that enters it.

From a Quran’s perspective, it appears that this may not necessarily be the case. (Only God knows best).

As cited already, we can only but remain restricted to the scripture and what it reveals to us in knowledge and within context. I trust that this article has remained true to that sentiment and provides some food for thought.

Whatever one’s position, there is one absolute truth without contest. Not an atom’s weight of injustice will occur and our Lord God is perfect in justice.

REFERENCES

[1] LANE. E.W, Edward Lanes Lexicon, Williams and Norgate 1863; Librairie du Liban Beirut-Lebanon 1968, Volume 2, Page 783

[2] Ibid., Page 784

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid., Volume 1, Page 4

[5] Ibid., Volume 2, Page 610