The **Qur’an** is the sacred scripture of Islam, revered by Muslims as the **literal word of God (Allah)**, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ($\text{PBUH}$) through the angel Jibreel (Gabriel, $\text{PBUH}$) over a period of **twenty-three years** (610 – 632 $\text{CE}$). The Arabic word *Qur’an* means **“recitation,”** emphasizing that it was meant to be spoken, listened to, and memorized.

Its language is **Arabic**, noted for its eloquence, rhythm, and profound beauty, and the text is organized into **114 chapters** (*surahs*), comprising over 6,000 verses (*ayat*). (Note: *Allah* is the name of God in Arabic, pronounced with a stress on the last syllable with emphatic “L”.)

A Message of Divine Guidance

Muslims believe that the Qur’an is not merely a book of theology or law, but a **complete guide** for all aspects of human life. It calls people to faith, moral uprightness, and compassion, addressing the heart, mind, and soul equally. The Qur’an describes itself as:

“a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion between right and wrong” (**Qur’an 2:185**)

It teaches belief in one God, encourages justice, mercy, and humility, and forbids oppression, arrogance, and falsehood. It presents itself as the **final revelation**, confirming and perfecting the divine messages brought by earlier prophets such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus ($\text{PBUH}$ all). As it declares:

“He has revealed to you the Book in truth, confirming what was before it; and He revealed the Torah and the Gospel” (**Qur’an 3:3**)

The Preservation of the Qur’an

Muslims hold that the Qur’an has **remained unchanged** since its revelation. It was memorized by many of the Prophet’s companions during his life and meticulously written down shortly after his death. Every detail of its pronunciation and grammar has been preserved through a continuous oral tradition, making it unique among sacred scriptures. The Qur’an refers to itself as:

“a well-preserved book” (*Kitabun Maknoon*) and **“We have sent down the Reminder, and surely We will guard it” (Qur’an 15:9)**

Style, Themes, and Role in Daily Life

The Qur’an’s style combines powerful prose, rhythmic cadence, and spiritual depth. Its verses convey both simplicity and profound subtlety. Its stories of past peoples and prophets are told not for entertainment but as **moral lessons and spiritual examples**. As God says:

**“Indeed, in their stories there is a lesson for people of understanding” (Qur’an 12:111)**

In Islam, the Qur’an is the **ultimate source of authority**, while the **Hadith**—the recorded sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad ($\text{PBUH}$)—serve as a detailed guide to living by its principles. For Muslims, the Qur’an is not merely recited but **lived**; it shapes ethics, worship, and family life. Its universal appeal lies in its invitation to thoughtful reflection:

**“Do they not then reflect on the Qur’an, or are there locks upon their hearts?” (Qur’an 47:24)**

In short, the Qur’an is more than a book—it is a living miracle for Muslims, a beacon of divine wisdom, and a timeless message of hope, justice, and mercy for all humanity, offering:

**“This is the Book about which there is no doubt — a guidance for those conscious of God.” (Qur’an 2:2)**