The Two Levels of Understanding Quran
Before describing the significance of this
surah, it is important to state the fundamental principle that the Quran can be
comprehended on many levels. The real lesson which is implicit in any surah or
verse of the Holy Quran should be made explicit in order that the basic
guidance regarding hu-man conduct may be attained.
The Glorious Quran calls
this Tazakkur-bil-Quran, i.e., realizing through the Quran the fundamental
truths implicit in human nature. From this point of view, the Glorious Quran is
the easiest of books to understand.
The highest stage of contemplation of
Quranic verses has been termed Tadabbur-i-Quran, which means reflecting and
pondering over every word deeply, in order to deduce the philosophy and the
wisdom of the Holy Book. In this sense the Holy Quran is the most difficult of
books as it is not easy to attain the depth of its meaning.
In this paper, I will describe clearly and in
detail the basic guidance obtained through the application of Tazakkur-bil
Quran to Surah Al-’Asr. I will also include some hints concerning
Tadabbur-i-Quran so that those who are interested in the deeper contemplation
of the Quran may also benefit.
The English Translation of Surah AI-’Asr:
A simple translation of the surah is as
follows:
- By
Time,
- Verily
all human beings are in loss,
- Except
those who have achieved ‘Faith’, have performed Righteous deeds, and have
emphasized to each other the teaching of ‘Truth’ and (the value of)
‘Patience’ (perseverance and constancy).
Analysis of the Translation:
The three verses in this surah form one
complete sentence. The first verse “Wal-’Asr” is an oath. The second verse
describes a general rule. The third verse describes an exception from that
general rule. Combined together, all the three verses constitute a single
statement.
Please implant this simple statement firmly
and clearly in your mind. And by pondering over it, you should deduce four
conclusions which are the basic lessons of this surah.
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