The Quran and Knowing Our Own Self

[Umm-Khaulah]

*Bismillahirrahmaanirrahiim*

Reading the Quran and Get to Know Our Own Self
​

Since young, we were taught how to read the Quran. We were introduced to the letters of the
Arabic language (huruf hijaiyyah). It is the most beautiful language, Quranic Arabic language.
A single word (kalimah) in the Quran should not be seen and understood as an individual
meaning. The linguistic structure of the Arabic language is established upon a system of roots.
Its semantic structure is a clearly defined system of meaning. It is well-preserved, leading
towards semantic permanence and even the spelling remains the same.

The Quran is hudallinnas (guidance for all mankind) and a revelation from Allah sent to us
via our beloved Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. as a bearer of glad tidings (mubasyirā) and as a
warner (nadhīrā). In the Quran, we are called al-Insān and it is the name given to a whole
surah (chapter). Al-Insān is derived from the root word, nasiya ( نسي ) which means “forgot”.
One will ask: What is it that man forgot? This question will bring us to the pre-existence
world where the souls of all humans assembled and sealed the covenant (al-mīthaq) with
Allah.

In Surah Al-A'rāf (7):172, Allah states:
When thy Lord drew forth from the Children of Adam--from their loins--their descendants, n
and made them testify concerning themselves (saying): “Am I not your Lord?", they said:
“Yea! we do testify!”

This event involved every single soul therefore all humans were Muslims, there. Only here
(dunya), they “forgot” the covenant that they had bound with Allah and they “forgot” to
fulfill their duty and purpose. This will drive towards disobedience, injustice (ẓulm) and
ignorance (jahl). In the pre-existence world, we recognize Allah as our true Lord or Rabb
(Provider, Creator and Sustainer); truly know Allah as we are equipped with the knowledge
of God (al-makrifah). This knowledge is like a hidden treasure and the key towards opening
it up again is via good deeds ('amal soleh), true knowledge that helps in the understanding of
our self, the Quran and Prophetic traditions (hadith) and also proper intentions in every action
('amal).

In conclusion, it is very important to know our origin, the meaning of our existence and self
and the faculties that Allah have equipped us with so that we know our self well. Thus,
bringing ourselves closer to Allah and truly know Him again. Confusion due to not knowing
the purpose of our creation will only lead towards not placing ourselves in the proper place,
with respect to the different faculties of our inner self. May Allah always Guide us in the
process of seeking true knowledge. Ameen.

WALLAHU A'LAM​