God said
… a guidance unto man and a self-evident proof of that guidance, and as the standard by which to discern the true from the false. …. Q.2: 185 { C.f., Behold, this (Qur’an) is indeed a word that cuts between truth and falsehood, … Q.86:13 }
… follow it, then, and be conscious of God, that you might be graced with mercy. Q.6: 156
…. (This is ) a Scripture which We have revealed unto you (Muhammad) that thereby you may bring forth mankind from darkness unto light … Q.14: 1
[O men!] We have revealed for you a book which contains all that you ought to bear in mind: will you not, then, use your reason? Q.21: 10
Hence, the phrase contains, apart from the concept of a “reminder”, an indirect allusion to the dignity and happiness to which man may attain by following the spiritual and social precepts laid down in the Qur’an.
Had We caused this Qur’an to descend upon a mountain thou would indeed see it humbling itself, breaking asunder for awe of God…And [all] such parables We propound unto men (and women) so that they might [learn to] think. Q.59: 21
i.e. in contrast with those who, by remaning oblivious of God and all moral imperatives, are spiritually more dead than inert mountain.
Prophet said
1. “Peace of mind descends on people who recite the Qur’an in company. These people are encompassed by the mercy of God; are surrounded by angels of compassion and are mentioned favourably by God in the gathering of angels.” -- H: Muslim. N: Abu Hurairah.
2. “Be particular about the recitation of the Qur’an. It is light in this world and storehouse of reward in the hereafter” – H. “Blessings of the Holy Qur’an”. N: Abu Zarr.
3. “(Do) read the Qur’an because it will be an intercessor on the Resurrection Day for its readers” – H: Muslim. N: Abu Hurairah.
4. “The best among you is one who has learnt the Qur’an and then teaches it” – H: Bukhari. N: Usman-b-Affan.
Quite obviously, one should learn to read the word of God correctly, learn the meanings with the help of explanations, and read from beginning to the end, as you would to study any valuable work in a language that you did not know. You being the representative of God, surely you know the stakes are much greater in case of neglecting God’s guidance on this planet!!
Eid Mubarak!
