The Koran

1. The Oneness of God and the Path of Submission

The Arabs acknowledged one supreme GOD, the Creator and LORD of the universe, whom they called Allah Taâla, the most high GOD; and their other deities, who were subordinate to him, they called simply al Ilahât, i.e., the goddesses.

Monotheism is paramount. The central tenet of the Koran is the absolute oneness of God (Allah), the supreme creator and sustainer of the universe. All other deities or objects of worship are considered subordinate or false. This concept of Tawhid (oneness) is the foundation of Islamic faith.

Submission to God's will. The term "Islam" itself means submission, emphasizing the importance of surrendering one's will to God's commands. This submission is not passive but an active engagement with God's guidance, seeking to align one's life with His divine will.

Rejection of idolatry. The Koran strongly condemns idolatry, which is seen as a grave sin that undermines the oneness of God. This includes not only the worship of physical idols but also the elevation of any created being or thing to the status of a deity.

2. The Nature of Divine Revelation and Guidance

Mohammed was no doubt fully satisfied in his conscience of the truth of his grand point, the unity of GOD, which was what he chiefly attended to; all his other doctrines and institutions being rather accidental and unavoidable, than premeditated and designed.

Divine origin of the Koran. The Koran is believed to be the literal word of God, revealed to Prophet Mohammed through the angel Gabriel. It is considered the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, containing both divine commandments and historical narratives.

Guidance through prophets. God has sent numerous prophets throughout history to guide humanity, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Mohammed is considered the final prophet, and the Koran is the culmination of divine revelation.

Importance of understanding. The Koran emphasizes the importance of understanding and reflecting on its teachings, rather than blindly following them. It encourages believers to use their intellect and reason to discern the truth.

3. The Importance of Righteous Actions and Intentions

The accomplishments the Arabs valued themselves chiefly on, were, 1. Eloquence, and a perfect skill in their own tongue; 2. Expertness in the use of arms, and horsemanship; and 3. Hospitality.

Faith and good works. The Koran stresses the importance of both faith and righteous actions. Belief in God must be accompanied by good deeds, such as prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage. These actions are not merely rituals but expressions of devotion and submission to God.

Intention matters. The intention behind an action is as important as the action itself. Sincere devotion and a desire to please God are essential for any act to be considered righteous. Hypocrisy and ostentation are strongly condemned.

Moral virtues. The Koran emphasizes the importance of moral virtues such as honesty, justice, compassion, humility, and patience. These virtues are not only essential for individual well-being but also for the creation of a just and harmonious society.

4. The Reality of Judgment, Paradise, and Hell

They do not only believe one GOD, but produce many strong arguments for His unity, though they also pay an adoration to the stars, or the angels and intelligences which they suppose reside in them, and govern the world under the Supreme Deity.

Accountability for actions. The Koran teaches that all individuals will be held accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment. This belief in accountability serves as a powerful motivator for righteous behavior.

Paradise and hell. The Koran describes paradise as a place of eternal bliss, filled with gardens, rivers, and all manner of delights. Hell, on the other hand, is depicted as a place of eternal torment, with fire, boiling water, and other forms of suffering.

Intermediate state. The Koran also mentions an intermediate state (Barzakh) between death and resurrection, where souls await the final judgment. This state is described as a time of reflection and preparation for the afterlife.

5. The Struggle Between Good and Evil

The devil, whom Mohammed names Eblîs from his despair, was once one of those angels who are nearest to GOD'S presence, called Azazîl, and fell, according to the doctrine of the Korân, for refusing to pay homage to Adam at the command of GOD.

The nature of evil. The Koran attributes evil to Satan (Eblis), a fallen angel who rebelled against God. Satan is seen as a tempter who seeks to lead humanity astray from the path of righteousness.

Internal struggle. The Koran acknowledges the internal struggle between good and evil within each individual. It emphasizes the importance of resisting temptation and striving to overcome one's base desires.

External forces. The Koran also recognizes the existence of external forces that seek to undermine faith and righteousness. These forces include the influence of corrupt leaders, false prophets, and the allurements of worldly pleasures.

6. The Significance of Prophets and Scriptures

The several laws relating to marriages and divorces, and the peculiar privileges granted to Mohammed in his Korân, were almost all taken by him from the Jewish decisions, as will appear hereafter; and therefore he might think those institutions the more just and reasonable, as he found them practised or approved by the professors of a religion which was confessedly of divine original.

Divine messengers. The Koran recognizes the divine origin of previous scriptures, such as the Torah and the Gospel, and acknowledges the prophets who delivered them. However, it asserts that the Koran is the final and most complete revelation of God's will.

Respect for prophets. The Koran emphasizes the importance of respecting all prophets, including those who came before Mohammed. It condemns those who reject or ridicule any of God's messengers.

Scriptural guidance. The Koran is not only a source of divine law but also a guide for all aspects of life. It provides instructions on matters of faith, morality, social justice, and personal conduct.

7. The Impermanence of This World and the Eternity of the Next

The present life is only a deceitful provision.

Transience of worldly life. The Koran emphasizes the fleeting nature of this world and its pleasures. It encourages believers to focus on the eternal rewards of the afterlife rather than the temporary gains of this life.

Focus on the hereafter. The Koran repeatedly reminds believers of the importance of preparing for the Day of Judgment and the eternal life that follows. This focus on the hereafter is meant to inspire righteous actions and discourage worldly attachments.

Balance between worlds. While the Koran emphasizes the importance of the afterlife, it does not advocate for neglecting this world. Believers are encouraged to live a balanced life, fulfilling their worldly responsibilities while also striving for spiritual growth.

8. The Importance of Community, Justice, and Compassion

Hospitality was so habitual to them, and so much esteemed, that the examples of this kind among them exceed whatever can be produced from other nations.

Brotherhood of believers. The Koran emphasizes the importance of community and brotherhood among believers. Muslims are encouraged to support and care for one another, regardless of their social status or background.

Social justice. The Koran promotes social justice and condemns oppression, inequality, and exploitation. It calls on believers to stand up for the rights of the poor, the weak, and the marginalized.

Compassion and mercy. The Koran emphasizes the importance of compassion and mercy towards all creatures, including those who are different from us. It encourages believers to treat others with kindness and respect, even in the face of adversity.

9. The Balance Between Divine Decree and Human Agency

The several laws relating to marriages and divorces, and the peculiar privileges granted to Mohammed in his Korân, were almost all taken by him from the Jewish decisions, as will appear hereafter; and therefore he might think those institutions the more just and reasonable, as he found them practised or approved by the professors of a religion which was confessedly of divine original.

God's knowledge and power. The Koran affirms God's absolute knowledge and power over all things, including human actions. It teaches that nothing happens without God's will and permission.

Human responsibility. Despite God's absolute power, the Koran also emphasizes human responsibility for one's actions. Individuals are held accountable for their choices and will be rewarded or punished accordingly.

Free will and divine guidance. The Koran acknowledges the existence of free will, but also emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance. It teaches that God guides those who sincerely seek the truth, while allowing others to follow their own paths.

10. The Value of Reflection, Remembrance, and Gratitude

The worship of the stars the Arabs might easily be led into, from their observing the changes of weather to happen at the rising and setting of certain of them, which after a long course of experience induced them to ascribe a divine power to those stars, and to think themselves indebted to them for their rains, a very great benefit and refreshment to their parched country: this superstition the Korân particularly takes notice of.

Reflection on creation. The Koran encourages believers to reflect on the wonders of creation, both in the natural world and within themselves. This reflection is meant to inspire awe and gratitude towards God.

Remembrance of God. The Koran emphasizes the importance of remembering God in all aspects of life. This remembrance can take the form of prayer, meditation, or simply being mindful of God's presence in every moment.

Gratitude for blessings. The Koran encourages believers to be grateful for the blessings they have received from God. This gratitude is not only a matter of words but also of actions, expressing appreciation through service to others and the pursuit of righteousness.

Last updated: January 24, 2025