MUSJIDUL HAQ

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Encyclopedic Facts about The Holy Quran

The recital of the true believer and the munaafiq.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Moosa Ash’ari May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “The person who recites the Quran is like an orange. Its taste is delicious as well as its smell. As for the Muslim who does not recite the Quran, he is a like a date, the taste is good but there is no fragrance. As for the munaafiq who reads the Quran. He is like a flower whose smell is good but its taste is bitter. As for the munaafiq who does not read the Quran, he is a like a wild gourd. Its taste is bitter and there is no good smell.” (ibn Maja, Bukhari shareef).

 

In another narration it is mentioned that as the sun and moon seems bright to the people on earth, in like manner, the houses of those who read the Quran seems bright to those in the heavens. (Tabarani shareef). It is also mentioned that when a person recites the Quran, the angels place their lips on the lips of that person.

 

A small discourse on this subject.

It has been mentioned that the Quran is a book which guides and makes the Imaan of a person strong.

 

It also guides a person to the right path. It also gives news of glad tidings to those who do good deeds. One of the titles of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him is also someone who gives glad tidings. In other words, a Muslim certainly achieves guidance from both the Quran and the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. Therefore, those idiots who claim that one is not guided by the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him are certainly incorrect in their jaahil assumption.

 

If one wants to understand the Quran, it is obvious that one needs to have common sense also. In like manner, if one truly wishes to understand the Quran, one needs to have true love and reverence for the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him in ones heart.

 

As one is in need of a bright place to read the Quran, in like manner, one is in need of love for the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him to understand the deep secrets of the Quran. The Quran has mentioned that there has certainly come from the Almighty as Nur and a Book. The first thing mentioned in this verse is Nur and after that, the Book is mentioned. That person who refutes the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him as being Nur, he can never hope to understand the Quran. A person like this will also not be able to translate the Quran properly.

 

He will use all wrong types of words to describe the Almighty and the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him as we have seen in previous pages. If understanding the Quran was only based on understanding the Arabic language, then Abu Jahal and Abu Lahab would have understood the Quran better than anyone. Yet, it was Hadrat Sayyiduna Bilal May Allah have mercy upon him who understood the Quran because in his blessed heart was found love and reverence for the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.

 

This eminent companion as well as all the other companions understood that everything which they had received was through the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and through his blessing. Sayyidi Ala Hadrat May Allah have mercy upon him has mentioned that, “No, I swear by the Lord of the Arsh that whoever has received whatever he has received, has received this from the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him because the Divine Blessing of the Almighty is distributed through his Prophetic office.”

 

His blessed tongue is one. Sometimes the Quran appears from it and sometimes the Ahadith appears from it. If the hadith seems to be weak in front of us, the only reason is because perchance its arrival to us may seem weak to us. But, bear in mind, it is the hadith which has informed us that this Divine Book is the Quran. How else would we have known about the Quran?

 

After all, think carefully. Both have been narrated to us by the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. The stupidity of a person who rejects one of them is like that servant who was instructed by the king to bring a mirror. When he entered the room, he noticed two mirrors. Actually, one was merely a reflection of the other. He returned to the king to ask which mirror should be brought because he could see two of them. The king replied that he should break one of them and when he did this, he realised that both had disappeared.

 

Hence, if you refute the hadith, you are certainly destroying the Quran. The blessed words of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him are certainly reflected in both. He was the one who informed us that these are the words of the Quran and not Jibraeel. He is the one who gave us advice and educated us through the Ahadith. Therefore, if you break one, you will certainly destroy the other. If you wish to understand to truly understand the Quran, you will have to give all due respect and reverence to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him or else, you will never understand the Quran.

 

The difference between Hadith and Sunnah.

Since the foundation of Sunnah is based on the hadith, therefore at times, both are understood to be the same. However, there are marked differences between the both.

 

1. Difference in meaning and in technical terms.

The literal meaning of Sunnat is a ‘certain specific path or road’ whether this is bad or good. When we speak of the Sunnat of Allah, we mean the Divine Law or Decree of the Almighty. However, when we speak of Sunnat in religious terms, it implies the statements, the action or the speech (or the silence) of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.

 

In this manner, we can now see that there are three types of Sunnat. Every statements of his is to be considered as Sunnat-e-Qouli. Every action of his would be considered as Sunnat-e-Fe’li. And whatever action was performed in front of him and he remained silent, this is considered as Sunnat-e-Taqreeri.

The literal meaning of Hadith is speech or word. It can also imply a ‘new word or speech’.

 

In fact, in the Quran, the word ‘hadith’ has also been used to describe the Quran. The reason is that in that period, the words of the Quran which appeared to refute the corrupt beliefs of the non Muslims was something which was considered as something new. The beliefs of the Quran was also something which was new to the people in that period. In technical terms, hadith is considered to be all those sunnah which have been considered as acts which have been recorded and it also contains an Isnaad or a chain of narrators. Therefore, there are two parts to a hadith.

 

The first is considered to be an Isnaad and the second is considered to be Matan in which the sunnah is mentioned or recorded. At the same time, there are different categories of hadith compared to sunnah. This obviously pertains to the issue of Isnad or the chain of narrators and the subject matter or the matan itself. This is also the difference which can be found in an expert on sunnah and an expert in the hadith or a muhaddith. The expert in sunnah is that person who is an expert in sunnah matters and the life of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.

 

As for the expert in hadith, it is that person who is an expert in the life of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and besides this he is also aware of all of the narrators of the hadith and their individual life story and state. Whether they are reliable or not and the manner in which they are connected.

 

2. Expansiveness in meaning.

At the beginning, the term “sunnat of the Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him” was confined to the words of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. In fact Doctor Hameedullah also printed a book which was compiled by the student of Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah May Allah have mercy upon him, namely Humaam bin Mambah May Allah have mercy upon him in which was recorded 138 ahadith. All of them pertained to the words or statements of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. Thereafter, sunnah was something which entailed every action, behaviour or silence of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.

 

It then referred to all those things which were connected to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. Until here, the implication of sunnah ends. However, the hadith is much more expansiveness in its meaning and implication. It also includes the actions and statements of the blessed Ashaab and the Taaba’een. This is also referred to as “Asaar”. All of these have also been included as part of the ahadith.

 

3. In reference to its authenticity and establishment.

The sunnah of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him refers to all those ahadith which is related or connected to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and after careful investigation and analysis, it has also been fully established. Therefore, in matters of sunnah, two points can be said which is; is it a sunnah or not? As for the hadith, some are considered as sahih, some are considered as hasan, some are considered as dha’eef, some are considered as mou’du etc. In this manner, there are many categories of hadith. This cannot be said about a sunnah.

 

The sunnah of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him are all those actions which has been proven to be to exactly that and great effort has been taken to establish this fact as far as human effort is concerned.

 

4. The types or categories in this regard.

The other difference between the sunnah and hadith is the following. The statement of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him in which he has mentioned that, “the foundation of action is (based) upon the niyah or intention”. When we look at this hadith shareef, this is considered as his Sunnat-e-Qouli. This hadith has been transferred to us in seven hundred different methods.

 

Therefore, logically, this one sunnah can be established through seven hundred Ahadith or entails seven hunded ahadith. In like manner, through the institution of Sunnah or Asaar, it is also further established through different methods. When we say that Hadrat Sayyiduna Imam Bukhari May Allah have mercy upon him knew six hundred thousand Ahadith, it also means that he also knew the various chain of narrators as well! At the same time, there are certain words in certain matan of ahadith which are different.

 

Let us look at a typical example. When the word “tilaawat” has been used by certain authorities on Arabic grammar, it was used to signify “reading” from certain books which were Divinely revealed. However, the same word in the Quran has been used to describe the act of reading or reciting. In surah Baqarah, verse 102, the Quran declares:

وَاتَّبَعُوۡا مَا تَتْلُوا الشَّیٰطِیۡنُ عَلٰی مُلْکِ سُلَیۡمٰنَ

And they followed what the devils used to read during the rule of Sulaiman

 

When the Quran has used the word tilaawat to describe even the reading of un-Islamic words, then what is the problem to use this word to describe an act of describing a sunnah or or an act of wisdom! Therefore, you cannot confine the word “tilaawat” as meaning only the recital of previous books. As the Quran was recited in the blessed house of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him, in like manner, his blessed words were also mentioned or recited.

 

This was also something which was performed outside his blessed house. After all, we see that many Duas of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him are mentioned and recited by many Muslims all over the world. In fact, there is no doubt that all of these were words which were given to him from the Divine Court of the Almighty. In fact, they were words which were were sent to him through Ilhaam or Ilqaa.

 

At the same time, the blessed Ashaab also used to memorize his sunnah as they used to memorize the Quranic verses.

 

Is the hadith something which was revealed to him?

The words of Ahadith, are these words from Allah?

The majority of words found in the ahadith are not the words of the Almighty. In fact, when we look at the ahadith, we will find that a great part of it entails the Isnaad which is the chain of narrators. However, there is a certain section or category of the hadith which are considered as Words from the Almighty or Messages from the Almighty. These ahadith are considered to be the “Ahadith-e-Qudsiyah”. At the same time, the laws which are mentioned in the ahadith and various duas which are mentioned in the ahadith are also words which came from the Divine Court.

 

At the same time, these would include all those words which have an indication that they have come from the Divine Court. These would include words such as, “It has been placed in my heart that no person would die until and unless his sustenance has not become complete. Therefore, fear Allah when performing a deed and choose the best means of seeking sustenance.” These are words which came to him in secret revelation and is considered as words which came from the Divine Court of the Almighty.

 

The Quran and the entire.

The following is a very interesting incident. It is reported that once a person made the intention or swore an oath that he would give his daughter all the gifts of the world when she married. However, when the time came for her marriage, he was extremely concerned and worried. Whoever he approached, all of them mentioned that these words were very clear and apparent and therefore, there was no way that it could be translated in any other manner.

 

However, when he approached the great Imam of his time, the Imam mentioned that he should give his daughter a copy of the Quran as a gift. The reason is that the treasures of this world has been referred to as “little items” while the Quran has been referred to as “great”. This is seen in surah Hajr. In fact, whatever is in the world and bear in mind that there are many people who are considered as billionaires and millionaires, yet, in spite of all of this and whatever other wonders found on earth, all of this has been described as “little or small items” in the Quran.

 

It amazes the mind that people would would work day and night for something which is small and completely ignore Islam and the Quran which are declared as being great by the Almighty. Perhaps this is the reason that the phrase ‘enemies of the brain’ has appeared on the horizon. When we hear someone recite the Quran, one feels an immense spiritual effect.

 

Imagine when people heard the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him recite the Quran? Imagine when people heard Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Bakr May Allah have mercy upon him or the other blessed Khulafah recite the Quran! What spiritual effect and amazing feeling must have been felt by these listeners?

 

Stay awake through the Quran

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “Learn the Quran and recite the Quran and stay awake at night through it. The example of that person who stays awake at night through the Quran is like a container in which there is fragrance and its fragrance spreads everywhere. As for that person in whose heart is the Quran and he does not stay awake in the night (through it), he is also like a container of fragrance whose opening is closed and because of it this, the fragrance does not spread everywhere.”.

 

More excellences of the Quran.

There is no doubt that whosoever’s book you read, that person would be become well pleased and joyous. If you read Zarb-e-Kaleem or Baal-e-Jibraeel, certainly the soul of Allamah Iqbal would become happy. If you read the Kulistan and Bustaan, the soul of Shaikh Saadi May Allah have mercy upon him would become happy and joyous. There is no doubt that if you read the Holy Quran, the Almighty would certainly become well pleased with you.

 

There is no doubt that on the day of Judgement when every where the sounds of ‘nafsi nafsi’would be heard, the the person who used to read the Quran in abundance and practise on the Quran will be in the company of the Angels. On that day, the Hajis would be with the Hajis, the ones who used to read salah in abundance would be would the Namaazis, the Ghazis would be with the Ghazis and the one who used to read the Quran in abundance would be with the Angels.

 

*When a person in the world sits on a seat of power, he swells with pride. When a walks with wealth, he walks with pride. Yet, on the day of Judgement, the person who used to read the Quran, will sit on special thrones. Everyone will be below him.

 

*When a child goes to school or college his parents prepare a special transport for him. While the child who ges to the madressah, walks on the wings of the Angels.

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdur Rahman bin Auf May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “On the day of Judgement, among the three special groups who will enjoy the Divine Shadow of the Divine Throne, one of them will also be the people of the Quran.” Mishkaat.

 

*Hadrat Sayyduna Jaabir May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “The Quran will intercede and its intercession would be accepted. As for those who have opposed, their opposition would be listened to. That person who made the Quran his leader, this Quran will lead him to Jannah and that person who turned his back on the Quran, he will be led to the fire of hell.” (ibn Habban).

 

This is the reason that Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Abi Awfa May Allah have mercy upon him has mentioned that, “The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has given advice that we should hold fast to the Quran.”

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has also stated that the Almighty had declared that, “He who becomes busy with the recital of the Quran and does not have time to ask Me (for anything) or to make dua, I will certainly give him more than the person who seeks (from Me).” The supremacy and excellence of the Quran above all other writing is like the Divine Excellence and Greatness of the Almighty over His creation. (Tirmidi shareef).

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has declared that, “Those (parents) who teach their children the Quran, on the day of Judgement, they will be given such a garland to wear that all the people in the past and in the future will be surprised (and shocked)”. (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/533).

 

* On the day when two martyrs were about to be buried in one single grave after the battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him turned to those around him and asked, “Who among them knew the Quran better?” When this became known, this martyr was first buried followed by the other. (Bukhari shareef).

 

* This respect and decorum shown to the person who knows the Quran better is also a trait through which this greatness and status is even shown to them by the Almighty Himself. This fact was mentioned by Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Moosa Ash’ari May Allah have mercy upon him and is recorded in the book Al Adab Al Mufrad.

 

Certainly a very strange time has come when parents choose their most intelligent child to be either a doctor, an engineer or a scientist while the child who is blind or crippled, the parents make the automatic decision that this child should be sent to the local madressah or Uloom.

 

Yet, that which they thought very lowly of, that is the light and Nur that will burn forever. Look at what happens? The same child stands in front of the musallah while the doctor or engineer stands behind him with respect. The same child becomes the leader and the teacher while the doctor and engineer will always remain the student.

 

This same doctor and engineer continues to increase the fire of hell, while the student of Quran continues to extinguish the fire of hell. He does this not only for himself, but for his family as well. it may look like the doctor and engineer live in pomp and luxury in this world, but the poor student of the Quran lives in poverty but walks every day in immense luxury which will be clearly seen on the day of Judgement.

 

After all, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has given him a clear message that the best among you is he who learns the Quran and teaches it. This message has not been given to a doctor or an engineer.

 

*In the masterpiece Amnu wal ‘Ula of the great Mujaddid, it is mentioned that once, the Angels were commanded to destroy a complete city. However, when the Angels arrived to destroy the city, they notice small children who are awake before the crack of dawn revising the Quran. When they mention this to the Almighty (even though He is aware of everything), He commands the Angels to spare the city and not to destroy the major sinners of the city because of the little children who are reading the Quran. In other words, the big ones were spared because of the little ones.

 

It is said that the fire of hell will not destroy that person in whose heart is found the Quran. On the day of Judgement also, one of the important things which would restrict the fire of hell touching a person will be the Holy Quran. In fact, it is mentioned that as long as the Quran remains in the world, the moment of Qiyamah will not appear.

 

* In the hadith shareef it is mentioned that when an Islamic scholar or a student of Islam passes any cemetery, the Almighty lifts the punishment on those who are been punished for a period of forty days.

 

*If a person studies any other knowledge besides Islamic knowledge or the Quran, he can stand in the cemetery for a hundred years, the punishment on the inhabitants of the cemetery will never be lifted!

 

This honour is only applicable for that person who has Islamic knowledge and knowledge of the Quran. What must be the state of those people who remain in that cemetery where a person recites the Quran for a complete day?

 

In fact, it has been seen on many occasions that for those children whom the parents even sold their marriage jewellery for so that they can become a doctor or a lawyer or so that they acquire some other Western education, these are the children who would actually introduce their parents as their workers to their Western educated friends. In fact, they are embarrassed to introduce these old folks with ordinary clothing as their parents.

 

How can parents even have the slightest hope that children like these would actually read Quran for them when they pass away? In fact, such students who cannot even use the toilets properly, how can you rely on them to read Surah Yaseen for their deceased parents.?

 

A most amazing incident.

A friend of mine once mentioned the following shocking story to me which made my hair stand on end. He was a witness to this.

 

He narrates that once a modern educated person lost one of his parents. He only appeared from his house after a lengthy period making sure that he had the best suit on him. He then asked whether the Janaza was ready to be taken to the cemetery and when the people replied that it was ready, he then asked everyone to sit in their cars and travel to the grave site.

 

He had no sign of grief on him and there were no tears in his eyes. There is no doubt that the deceased of such people are certainly in great need for someone’s dua because dua from such children are certainly never coming to them.

 

If only parents spend their energy and finances on educating their children about Islam, certainly these type of children will certainly continue to kiss the feet of their parents and will certainly make dua for their parents when they leave this world.

 

*It is also sad to note that when a person studies the Quran or educates himself about Islam, he begins to sometimes suffer from an inferior complex. A person should refuse to feel like this. In the hadith shareef, it is mentioned that the Quran is such wealth after which no indication of poverty remains. In fact, without the Quran, no one becomes truly wealthy or rich. (Tabarani shareef).

 

There is no doubt that true respect only belongs to the Almighty, His Prophet and the believers. In fact for a person to claim that he has no respect simply because he is a student of the Quran is a great sign of ingratitude. In fact, in the hadith shareef the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has mentioned that such people are not from the ummah. (Kanzu Imaan).

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Huzayfah May Allah have mercy upon him once mentioned, “O people of the Quran stand upright! You have certainly surpassed many people and if you bend to the right or the left, then you will also increase in misguidance as much as your bowing (to others). (Bukhari shareef. no. 2143).

 

Doctor Hameedullah in the Khutbaat-e-Bahawulpur mentions a strange incident. He mentions that once a special faculty was established in a certain German university to study the Quran and find faults. Doctor Hameedullah then mentions that after some time, he met the Director of this faculty and asked him his findings. The Director was completely shocked and stunned and replied, “After a number of years, we could only find one fault with the Quran and the fault was that we did not notice the “Bismillah” recorded at the start of only one chapter (surah).

 

However, when we studied the Bible, we found nearly two hundred thousand faults in only two months.” (In other words, what he considered as a fault was actually a Divine Decree of the Almighty because the Bismillah was commanded not to be recorded at the start of Surah Taubah. Obviously, he was under the impression that the person who had recorded the Quran had made a mistake. Being a Western educated person, he was unaware of this Divine Secret of the Quran because they only look at the outer appearance of something and not the inner dimension of any message).

 

In fact, no person can give a guarantee that his book will remain the same after a hundred years.

 

In fact, even in the present age, a student living in a certain locality cannot even understand or memorize a book written by a person living in the same village. In fact, look at the Urdu language or any other language for that matter. How vast is the difference between the Urdu spoken a hundred years ago and the Urdu spoken in the present era? Yet, such is the greatness of the Arabic language that through the Quran, this language has been protected. In fact, Arabic poetry and literature has expanded and spread all over the world simply because the Quran is revealed in this language.

 

*It is mentioned that during the time of General Ayub Khan, one of his advisers who was a Christian made a public statement at one of his religious gathering that he read the Bible everyday being a Christian but was certain that the only instrument for the removal of all evil was the Quran!

 

*It is mentioned that prior to the separation of Pakistan, certain Sikh Hindus were also involved in printing and publishing the Quran. In fact, they used to also record their names as the official publishers. This started at the time of a certain person named Ranjit Singh. Once, certain of the Sikh Hindus approached him and mentioned that since he had control over the government, surely he could command some of these publishers to change and alter the Quran.

 

In reply, he mentioned, “Please speak something sensible. When a person like Abu Jahl who was an Arab could not change or alter the Quran, how can you people do something like this when you are not even Arabs but ordinary Punjabis? And that too, Punjabis who are Hindus by faith.” They then advised that at least he could order that the page numbers be altered. He replied that this he could do, but who would remove the proper sequence of the Quran from the hearts of people?

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Jubair bin Nufal May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “That, through which a person gains the greatest closeness to the Almighty is through the Quran.”

 

*In the Tabarani shareef, it is recorded that among the three people who would not experience any fear or danger on the day of Judgement and would not have to account for their deeds when others are busy giving account of their deeds and these same people would be immersed in a sweet fragrance; among one of these people would be that person who had recited the Quran for the Divine Pleasure of the Almighty and he continued to fulfil his duties of Imaamat (in such a manner) that the muqtadis were pleased with him.

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “It is not fitting for a person who recites the Quran to become angry with a person who displays anger or to display ignorance (jahaalat) with a person who displays ignorance while the Quran is in his heart.” (Mustadrak Haakim).

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Abbas May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that once Jibraeel Ameen presented himself in front of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and informed him that many Fitnah will appear in this ummah. When the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him inquired about the manner in which one can protect oneself from this, Jibraeel Ameen replied that it was through the Quran. (Zareen).

 

*It is mentioned that once, Hadrat Sayyiduna Akramah May Allah have mercy upon him asked the Muslims, “Why do you ask questions from the Ahle Kitab and from their books? Even though, you have the Book of Allah with you which is recent in terms of time and which you read. This is also a book which is pure and clean of alteration or addition.” (Bukhari shareef).

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Aanis May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “There are various actions through which one also receive the reward for this in the grave. One of this is when a person has allowed another to be an inheritor of the Quran. (In other words, when he has taught another the Quran. As long as the student recites the Quran, the teacher would continue to receive the reward of this recital in his grave). (ibn Maja shareef).

 

*Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Mas’ud May Allah have mercy upon him has mentioned that, that house is indeed barren in which there is no part of the Quran to be found.

 

*In like manner, that heart has also been declared as being barren in which no part of the Quran is to be found. This has been reported by Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Abbas May Allah have mercy upon him from the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. (Tirmidi shareef).

 

*Many of these reports and the explanation of these reports have been presented in the chapter which highlights the excellences of the Quran. We have presented this again in a brief manner so that the excellence of the Quran can be established upon the heart of a Muslim.

 

The message of the Prophets (a short lecture).

The book of Nabi Moosa peace be upon came to a specific nation or community. The same with the message of Nabi Ebrahim peace be upon him. The message of Nabi Yusuf peace be upon him came with the purpose of only guiding the people in Egypt. The Injeel or the Bible only came to the Bani Israeel. In fact, the Christians admit that this only came to the flock of the Bani Israeel.

 

However, when we question the Quran, the Quran admits that it has come as guidance for the whole of mankind. The Almighty is the Lord of mankind, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him is the guide and prince of mankind, the Kaba is the House of Allah designated for the worship of the Almighty by mankind and this Ummah has been created for the benefit of mankind.

 

*The Quran is a guide for the universe, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him is a Divine Grace for mankind and the Almighty is the Lord of the Universe. When we ask the Christians in which language the Injeel or Bible was revealed in, that language cannot be found in the world today. Even those who claim to have the Torah, they themselves cannot speak in the language in which it was revealed because this language cannot be found any longer.

 

The same with the book of the Hindus, the Sanskrit language cannot be spoken in the world today. Yet, the Quran remains in its original form and the language of the Quran is still spoken by Muslims until the present time.

 

The Almighty was fully aware that no revealed book will remain in its original form and no language in which they were revealed in would remain in its original form. This is the reason that the Quran was revealed in Arabic because the Almighty was fully aware that the language of the Quran will remain forever. We can clearly see that all these languages have disappeared except the language of the Quran.

 

*If all the Bibles were burnt or destroyed or if all the Torah in the world were burnt or destroyed, the Christian and Jewish religion would cease to exist. However, if all the Quran in the world were destroyed, in a short period, the Quran would be recorded from the hearts of the Huffaz. In fact, it would be recorded in such a manner that no harakaat of the Quran would even be missing.

 

*If you ask the Christian or a Jew in which month your book was revealed, in which year, on which day, at which time, they would never be able to give you an answer. Yet, if you ask the Quran at which time it was revealed, it would reply that it was revealed on the night of Qadr. If you ask the Quran in which month it was revealed, it would reply that it was revealed in the month of Ramadan.

 

We celebrate the birthday of anyone by cutting a cake while the Almighty celebrates the revelation of the Quran by freeing people from the fire of hell. The doors of Jannah are opened in the month of Ramadan, the satan is chained, Jannah is beautified even further, Nafil is given the reward as if one has performed a Fard act. When one performs a Fard act, the reward as having performed seventy acts of Fard are given to a person.

When one performs ibaadah on the big night of Qadr, it is considered as being better than a thousand months.

 

* We have the diwaan of major writers of literature, yet no one have been able to memorise the Diwaan of Ghalib. No one has been able to recite through memory the entire writings of Iqbal. No one has been able to memorise the works of Shakespeare. Many people have claimed to have memorized the works of Waaris Shah, yet until the present day no one has been able to recite the complete works of Waaris Shah through memory.

 

Yet, a little child of only eight years can appear in front of someone and recite the complete Quran through memory. When a person cannot memorise the works of humans and only memorise the Quran, this itself clearly proves that the Quran is certainly a Divine Book and is one of the greatest miracles of the Quran. In fact, a small child can memorize the same Quran as an old person.

 

*It is mentioned that once, the Christians had challenged the Muslims that both should throw their books into a pit of fire and which book was saved, it would prove that, that is the correct book. The books which is false would be completely burnt. However, an old man who was standing nearby objected to this. He mentioned that perchance the Christians had covered the Bible with a special heat and fire resistant chemical and also, it would be an insult to the Quran if it was thrown into a fire.

 

He then mentioned that the best manner of proving which book was true was for each person to hold the book he believed in and then enter the fire. He then mentioned that whoever was saved, he was on truth and whoever was burnt to ashes, he was a liar. They then convinced a Christian standing nearby to hold the Bible and jump into the fire. Obviously, within a few minutes he was burnt to ashes including the book he was holding.

 

However, the old Muslim then exited from the blazing fire while reciting the verse that the Almighty had indeed revealed this Zikr and He would be the protector of this Message. He then mentioned that when the blazing fire of hell could not burn a person who held the Quran, how could a small fire on earth burn the person.

 

*The Hindus believe in four books. The highest book in their religion is called the Brahman. Yet, they have such a belief that if someone is reading this book and happens to listen to any of the other three books his punishment is that his ears should be filled with hot lead!

 

As they say, when Imaan leaves a person, even his capability to understand and think also disappears. Yet, the Quran is such that anyone can recite it. The Muslim reads it, the non Muslim reads the Quran, there is no restriction on anyone.

 

This is the greatness of the book which was revealed on the blessed heart of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. In fact, it was the Divine Decree of the Almighty that the Quran be revealed on the blessed heart of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and on no one else.

 

A Haafiz of the Quran.

There is no doubt that the Almighty had guaranteed the protection of the Holy Quran. As He has blessed the Ulama with knowledge of the Quran, in like manner, He had also chosen certain special people to guard the Quran in their hearts. These people will always have the Quran in their hearts until the day of Judgement. In the Quran it is also mentioned that there are certain people whom the Almighty has chosen as the inheritors of the Quran.

 

In Surah Ankabut (29), verse 49, the Quran declares:

بَلْ ہُوَ اٰیٰتٌۢ بَیِّنٰتٌ فِیۡ صُدُوۡرِ الَّذِیۡنَ اُوۡتُوا الْعِلْمَ ؕ وَمَا یَجْحَدُ بِاٰیٰتِنَاۤ اِلَّا الظّٰلِمُوۡنَ ﴿۴۹﴾

 

In fact they are clear verses in the hearts of those who have been given

knowledge; and none deny Our verses except the unjust.

 

These are those special people who are called the Huffaaz or the protectors of the Quran. There are many excellences of this special group of Muslims which is mentioned in the ahadith shareef. We will present a few of these ahadith to educate your further.

 

Bear in mind that in protecting the pure and pristine teachings of the Quran, both the Ulama and Huffaz are certainly fully occupied in. In fact, even the Ulama can be considered as those who also are the protectors of the Quran. In the third part of our discussion, this will be become more clear.

 

The Haafiz of the Quran is below the Shadow of the Divine Arsh.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “There are three groups of people who on the day of Judgement will not be troubled by the frightening events on the day of Judgement. They will also not be held accountable (for their deeds). They will also be found in mounts of Kasturi, (fragrance) until the accountability of creation is complete.

 

The first is that person who recited the Quran for the Divine Pleasure of the Almighty. And he then made Imaamat of a nation and that nation is well pleased with him. The second person is that person who called people to salah for the Divine Pleasure of Allah. The third is that servant who performed his duty very well between himself and his master and himself and his Creator.” (Tabarani shareed in the Mu’jam Awsat).

 

The Haafiz is a means of peace for his parents.

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “He who recites the Quran and practised upon its laws, on the day of Judgement, the Almighty will allow the parents of this person to wear a crown. The brightness of this crown will be very beautiful even more than the sun in your homes. What is your opinion about that person who has practised upon this?” (Abu Daud, Musnad Imam Ahmed bin Hambal, Al Mustadarak, At Tagheeb wat Tarheeb).

 

It is through the Divine Grace of the Almighty that through the actions and deeds of the son, the father would be given such a high status and position. In the Sharah As Sunnah of Imam Baghwi May Allah have mercy upon him it is mentioned, “He who recites the Quran and then memorizes it properly and practises upon its laws and regulations on the day of Judgement, his parents would be given a crown to wear.” (4/436).

 

Besides a crown, the parents will also be adorned with clothing of respect and status.

 

In the Kanzul Ummaal, page 337, it is mentioned that, “He who reads the Quran and learns it, (becomes Haafiz of the Quran), on the day of Judgement, he will be given a crown of Nur. The light of this crown will be as bright as the moon. His parents will be given two pieces of clothing, the cost of which the entire world cannot afford. They will ask as to the reason for this and it will be told to them, ‘It is because your son had become a Haafiz’”

 

The status of the parents of a Haafiz of the Quran is also mentioned in another hadith shareef.

It is mentioned that a caller will call out, ‘Where are those who who did not become oblivious of reading My Book even when they were taking care of their animals? They will then stand up and they will be given a crown of miracle (status and respect). They will also be blessed in their right and left hand and if the parents were Muslims, they will be given clothing to wear which is more valuable than all the wealth of the world. They will ask, ‘Why are we adorned with such clothing?’ They will be informed that it was because of their son who used to recite the Quran.’” (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/439).

 

A Haafiz of the Quran is certainly a Divine Grace to his family.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Ali May Allah have mercy upon him has mentioned that, “He who recites the Quran and memorizes it. He considers its Halal to be Halal and considers its haram to be haram, due to this, the Almighty will allow the person to enter Jannah and through him, his intercession for ten people from his family will be accepted for whom punishment had become Waajib.” (Mishkaat. 187. Ibn Maja and Tirmidi shareef).

 

The words of this hadith shareef are also as follows. “He who recites the Quran and memorizes it, he will be allowed to enter Jannah and his intercession on behalf of ten members of his family would be accepted for whom the punishment (of hell) had become waajib.” (ibn Maja shareef. 19).

 

A Haafiz in Jannah.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Amar bin Al Aas May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “A Haafiz of the Quran will be informed to commence reading the Quran and continue to rise in status as he travels in Jannah and (he will be commanded) to recite the Quran in the same sequence as he used to read in the world and that his status in Jannah is as per the last verse he recites.” (Tirmidi shareef, Abu Daud shareef).

 

When a Haafiz of the Quran enters Jannah, he will be commanded to recite the Quran, he will continue to read the Quran with the same love and dedication as he used to read in the world. Such is the status of his recital that for every verse, his status and rank in Jannah will increase.

 

There is no limit to the rank and status in Jannah and how much of status will be given to a Haafiz that is also something which cannot be fully determined. Perhaps he will be given the same amount of status which is equal to the number of verses he had recited in Jannah. It could also mean that his status will be equal to the number of verses in the Quran and when he recites the very last verse of the Quran, that would be his final destination in Jannah. All of this is only known to his Creator.

 

The closeness of a Haafiz to the Divine Court of the Almighty.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Aanis bin Maalik May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him had stated that, “Among mankind, there are certain people who are Ahlullah or the people of Allah.” He was asked as to who were these people, he replied, “They are the people of the Quran. The people of Quran are the people of Allah and His special servants.’” (ibn Maja shareef. no. 215).

 

The Haafiz of a Quran is certainly someone to be envied.

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “Envy should be preserved for two people. The first is that person whom the Almighty has given knowledge of the Quran and during the day and night in long hours, he busies himself reciting the Quran. The other person is that person to whom Allah has given wealth and night and day, he spends this (wealth) in the path of Allah.” (Mishkaat shareef. 184. Bukhari shareef and Muslim shareef).

 

There is certainly a difference between jealousy and envy. Mullah Ali Qari May Allah have mercy upon him explains, “There are two types of Hasad. One is true or real jealousy or envy and the other is mere metaphorical. Real jealousy is when one wishes that the gift of another is taken away and it is unanimously accepted by the Muslims that this is Haraam. However, another meaning of hasad in a metaphorical sense is envy. This is when one sees the gift of another and wishes that he also has this (without the intention that this gift be taken away from the other person).” (Mirqaat. 4/337).

 

In the above hadith shareef, the second meaning is implied. In other words, the person clearly does not have the intention that the gift or reward of another is removed. He has a sincere wish that the Almighty also blesses him with this as well. This is the same when we are told in the Quran to compete with each other in doing good and noble acts or deeds.

 

A Haafiz will be blessed with immense Nur.

In the Kanzul Ummaal, page 523, it is mentioned that, “A Haafiz of the Quran is certainly someone who will teach the Quran. He is blessed with Divine Nur and friendship with such a person whose friendship is (displayed) for the Almighty. As for him who has enmity (with a Haafiz), without doubt, he had hatred for the Almighty.

 

The Haafiz of the Quran is someone who is immersed in the Divine Grace of the Almighty. He is beautified with the Divine Nur of Allah and certainly someone who has knowledge of the Book of Allah. He who has enmity with such a person without doubt, he has earned the Divine Wrath of Allah and he who has friendship with such a person, he has friendship with Allah. The Quran also explains that those who protect the Quran and practise upon its laws and respect the Quran, the Almighty will like this person even more and He will also make that person a beloved servant of His.

 

It is mentioned that one day, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him welcomed one his blessed companion who was in search of knowledge with the following words. He mentioned, ‘Welcome to the seeker of knowledge. For the seeker of knowledge, the Angels spread their wings.” The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him is said to have mentioned the same words for a person who teaches Islamic knowledge.

 

He has mentioned, “The teacher and the seeker are shareholders in reward.” (ibn Maja shareef. 228).

 

There is no doubt that when a student walks under the shadow of the wings of Angels, the teacher also enjoys this status and rank. One of the special traits of a Haafiz is that he adorns himself with the Divine Nur. His entire being is immersed in the Divine Nur of Allah. In fact, from his tongue, from his lips, from his entire being, the Nur of Allah shines brightly.

 

There is no doubt that a person whose physical being is like this, there is no sin which emanates from him and he is considered as pure as the Angels. In fact, the body of such a person is always immersed in obeying the Divine Command of the Almighty. All the limbs in his body is also used to obey to the Divine Command of the Almighty.

 

O that blessed soul which is blessed with the wealth of the Quran. Do not become guilty of committing such sin through which the Nur of Allah distances itself from you. Continue to wear the clothing of obedience so that the light of the Quran can continue to bless you with its spiritual grace.

 

Friendship and enmity with a Haafiz of the Quran.

Such is the greatness of the Quran that friendship with a true Haafiz of the Quran is considered as friendship with the Almighty and enmity with a Haafiz is actually considered as enmity towards the Almighty.

 

In another hadith shareef, it is mentioned that he who has enmity with a Haafiz, he has displayed enmity for Allah and he who displays friendship for a Haafiz, he had displayed friendship with Allah. (Musnad Firdous. Imam Daylimi. Kanzul Ummaal. 1/515).

 

Look at the Divine Grace of the Almighty in the manner in which He addresses the Haafiz of the Quran. He mentions, “O those who have secured the Book of Allah in their hearts. Practise upon the laws given by the Almighty. He has indeed blessed you by being those special people who have been blessed with this special grace. It is necessary upon you that you remain on the right path.

 

There is no doubt that this is indeed a requirement and a show of respect and reverence for the Quran. When you walk on the path of piety, the Almighty certainly blesses you with Divine Grace. There is also no doubt that, that person to whom the Almighty has given a special gift or blessing, there is no one like him in the world. Another important fact is that this person will also be shown immense respect by others as well.

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has also stated that, “O those who have memorized the Quran, there is no doubt that creation in the heavens certainly remember you with the Almighty. Therefore, through the status and sanctity of this Book, obey the Divine Commands of the Almighty so that you are made into someone who is even more respected and so that you can also be made a beloved (servant) among the people as well.” (Kanzul Ummaal. 547).

 

Imagine the status and rank of a Haafiz of the Quran in that they are being mentioned in the Divine Court of the Almighty by the Angels themselves! A Haafiz of the Quran should make sure that he protects this stature. He should also endeavour to practise on the Quran.

 

One dua of a Haafiz is certainly accepted!

It is mentioned that a person who memorizes the Quran, his dua is certainly accepted. If the Almighty wishes, certainly the result of this dua is seen very quickly in the world. And if he wishes, this is kept as a source of treasure for him in the hereafter. This hadith shareef is recorded in the Musnad Al Firdous. (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/517).

 

At times, a Haafiz may continue to make a certain dua yet, to him, it may seem that it is taking a very long time to be accepted. However, he should remember the words of the above mentioned hadith shareef. In fact, this is also a sign that his dua has been accepted.

 

As we have seen, the Almighty will either accept his dua in this world or the reward of this dua will be kept for the person in the hereafter.

 

A Haafiz of the Quran is under the Divine Shadow of the Divine Grace of the Almighty.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “Whichever nation recites the Quran and congregates to learn and teach the Quran in any house of the Almighty, then peace descends upon these people. The Divine Grace of the Almighty surrounds these people and the Angels take them in their safety. Glowing words are also mentioned about them in the Divine Court of the Almighty when one of them arrives in the Divine Court of the Almighty.” (Muslim shareef).

 

Imam Nawawi May Allah have mercy upon him explains the word ‘sakeenah’ in this hadith shareef as follows. He mentions that by sakeenah is meant that “creation which cannot be seen or visualized”. When they descend, there is extreme peace and tranquillity and with them, the Angels also descend.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Baraa’a May Allah have mercy upon him mentions that once a person was reading surah Kahaf and near him, a horse was also tied with a piece of rope. Suddenly a cloud made a shadow over him and this cloud continued to come closer and his horse also began to jump up and down. In the morning, he approached the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and narrated the entire incident. The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him replied that this was ‘sakeenah’ which had descended when the Quran was been recited. (Mishkaat shareef. 184).

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Saeed Khudri May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that Hadrat Sayyiduna Usaid bin Hudair May Allah have mercy upon him narrates the following incident which took place with him. He narrates that once during the night, he was reading surah Baqarah and his horse was tied near him. Suddenly his horse began to spin around and around.

 

When he saw this, he stopped reciting the Quran and the horse also stopped spinning around. When he again started to read, again the horse behaved in the same manner. He then completed his salah. His son Yahya was also sleeping near the area where the horse was tied. He feared that perchance the horse would injure his son. When he removed his son from this area and looked up at the sky, he saw a cloud which seemed to be glowing with light.

 

In the morning, he mentioned the entire incident to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. When he heard this, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him declared, “O son of Hudair! you should have continued reading the Quran. O son of Hudair! you should have continued reading the Quran! He replied, ‘O Prophet of Allah, my son was sleeping near the area where the horse was and I feared that perchance, it does not trample my son.’

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him then declared, ‘Those were the Nuri creation of the Almighty, (in other words the Angels) who appeared to listen to you reading the Quran. If you had continued to recite the Quran, people would have seen the Angels with their own eyes.’”. (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim shareef).

 

This also proves that when a person truly concentrates on his worship and recital, even the Angels are attracted to this person. Immersed in their intense reverence for the Almighty, they also appear to listen to the person reading the Quran. In other words, the Divine Grace of the Almighty falls on this person like rain drops.

 

A Haafiz is a friend of the Angels.

Hadrat Sayyidah Ayesha May Allah have mercy upon her narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “An expert Haafiz of the Quran is certainly someone who is well respected and will be in the company of the blessed Angels. As for that person who recites the Quran and falters or becomes stuck, for him, there is double the reward.” (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim shareef).

 

In the Sharah As Sunnah of Imam Baghwi May Allah have mercy upon him it is mentioned that, “That son of Nabi Adam peace be upon him who reads the Quran and he is a Haafiz, he will be in the company of the blessed and special Angels. As for him who reads the Quran and the recital is very difficult on him (in other words, he tries to read), for him, there is double the reward.

 

An expert Haafiz is considered as that person who reads the Quran fluently and does not stop during the recital and neither is the recital of the Quran difficult for him. The same scholar mentions that the word, “Sifrah” in this hadith signifies those Angels who carry the Lawh Mahfuz. (Mirqat. 4/336).

 

Allamah Baghwi May Allah have mercy upon him mentions that the word sifrah in this context signifies the Angels. The reason is that they are responsible for delivering the Divine Revelation of the Almighty and also the Divine Commands of the Almighty through which people are able to reform themselves as the ambassador of a nation would bring any information to reform his nation.

 

There is no doubt that the Haafiz of the Quran is in the company of the Angels. Wherever the Haafiz of the Quran goes, the Angels also accompany him. In fact, in times of danger, they are also present to protect and safeguard the Haafiz and also safeguard his Imaan.

 

Another view is that of Hadrat Sayyiduna Qadi Ayyaz Maliki May Allah have mercy upon him who explains that, ‘being in the company of the Angels could also imply that perhaps the Haafiz of the Quran will in the hereafter enjoy the company of the Angels to such an extent that he would be the friend and trusted companion of the Angels. (Mirqaat).

 

There is no doubt that the Angels are free of sins and only that person would enjoy the company of such creation who himself is free of sin. This also proves that when a Haafiz of the Quran leaves the world, he becomes completely clean and pure of any sin and transgression such as the Angels.

 

In the above mentioned hadith, it is also mentioned that the person who struggles to recite the Quran gets double the reward for trying. This is also a source of joy and happiness for those who read the Quran consistently but struggle to recite the Quran.

 

There is no doubt that the Almighty has certainly not robbed them of His Divine Grace. In fact, due to their sincerity, He has actually bestowed double the reward on them. It also does not mean that those who read fluently, their reward is less than those who who struggle to read the Quran. In fact, those who read the Quran fluently, we cannot even estimate the amount of reward which they receive.

 

Hadrat Mullah Ali Qari May Allah have mercy upon him explains that, “It does not mean that the person who struggles to read the Quran gets more reward than the one who recites the Quran fluently. There is no doubt that the expert reader of the Quran certainly achieves a higher reward. In fact, he achieves the companionship of the Angels and he is certainly greatly rewarded. This is the reason that he has been described as someone who acquires the blessed company of the Angels”.

 

In brief, a Muslim should have immense love and reverence for the Quran irrespective of whether he struggles to read the Quran or he is an expert in reading the Quran. In all circumstances, a person who reads the Quran acquires much reward and also becomes entitled for the Special Divine Grace of the Almighty.

 

A Haafiz is a flag and symbol of Islam.

In the Kanzul Ummaal, 1/515, it is mentioned that, “The Haafiz of the Quran is indeed someone who carries the flag of Islam. Whoever respects such a person, without doubt he has displayed respect for Allah. As for him who displays disrespect for the Quran, on that person is the Divine Wrath of Allah”.

 

There is no doubt that the flag is not given to any person. A flag is given to either a commander or a genuine representative of a country. The representative of a nation is certainly the body and soul of a nation.  There is no doubt that the Almighty has certainly blessed this nation with the presence of a Haafiz of the Quran.

 

O Haafiz of the Quran, certainly the Almighty has blessed you with the flag of Islam. The eyes of the enemies of Islam are certainly on you. Please do not commit such an act which would bring disgrace and dishonour to the Muslim community. In fact, you should present such a noble example to others that when others see you, they will be become extremely attracted to the message of Islam and the Muslims.

 

There is no doubt that this greatness and stature is only given to special people and that is the reason that respect displayed for a Haafiz of the Quran is actually respect displayed for the Almighty. As for that person who dishonours and disrespects a Haafiz, he has certainly insulted the Almighty.

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “O my Ummah! respect the Haafiz of the Quran. Whoever respects him, has certainly shown respect to me.” (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/512).

 

To respect a Haafiz of the Quran is to display respect for the Almighty and His beloved Habeeb Peace and Salutations be upon him. At the same time it is necessary upon a Haafiz of the Quran to realise and understand his position and therefore, he should enamour himself with good and noble qualities.

 

Allamah Nawawi May Allah have mercy upon him mentions that “The Haafiz of the Quran is a symbol of Islam or a flag of Islam. Keeping in mind the Quran, he should not busy himself with that person who spends his time in sport and play or become oblivious with those who become oblivious and forget (the message of Islam).

 

Imam Haakim Nishapuri May Allah have mercy upon him also presents the following report.

 

“It is not appropriate for a Haafiz to become confused with someone who is confused (about religion). He should also not busy himself with an ignorant person because in his chest is the Book of Allah.” (Al Mustadrak. 1/552).

 

A Haafiz is the richest of people.

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “The richest person among people is the Haafiz of the Quran whose chest the Almighty has beautified and decorated with the Quran”. (Kanzul Ummaal. A report from Ibn Asaakir May Allah have mercy upon him. 520).

 

One day, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him asked the blessed companions, “Who is a rich and wealthy person?” The blessed companions took the names of few wealthy companions. The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him then explained that the richest and wealthiest people in his Ummah were those who were Haafiz of the Quran and in whose heart the Quran was protected.

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has also mentioned that, “The Quran is that wealth after which, there is no poverty. There is nothing more valuable than this.” (Musnad Abu Ya’la Mousili).

 

Again, the wealthiest of people are those who are the Haafiz of the Quran. The wealthy person is that person in whose heart is found the Quran. At the same time, it is unbecoming that a wealthy person should seek aid and help from others or beg others for help. When a person is wealthy and he begs others for help, certainly he is someone who should be pitied.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Imran bin Husain May Allah have mercy upon him was one day walking past a Qari (or someone who was reading the Quran). After the recital, this person was begging for help.

 

When he noticed this, he recited the Inna lillah. He then mentioned, “I heard the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him once mentioning that whoever recites the Quran, he should seek help from the Quran. Very soon, there will come a time when people will read the Quran and through this, they will beg (or seek help) from people.”

 

The blessed words of Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar bin Khattab May Allah have mercy upon him also substantiates this. He once mentioned, “O those who are the Qaaris of the Quran, keep you head high. The path in front of you is clear and apparent. Excel in good deeds and works and do not become a burden on people.”

 

There is no doubt that when a person begs for help, it means that he has no money, however, the Haafiz has been given such wealth which can never be compared to anything.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Amar bin Al Aas May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “Whoever reads the Quran and believes that something (more valuable) has been given to another person, there is no doubt that he has thought low of the Quran which has been described as something mighty by the Almighty.”. Ihya ul Ulum.

 

There is no doubt that the greatest of wealth or riches is the Quran. That person is indeed silly who considers something else as being greater in wealth than the Quran.

 

In fact, keeping in mind the status and stature of the Haafiz, it has become necessary upon the government to nominate a portion of money for the upkeep of a Haafiz. Such is the position which is given to the Haafiz of the Quran by the religion of Islam.

 

In the Musnad Al Firdous highlighting the instructions during the era of Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him it is mentioned that the Muslims should give two hundred dinaars to a Haafiz every year from the Baitul Maal. Obviously, in that era, this was no small money.

 

Explaining this hadith shareef, a scholar mentions that, “A Haafiz of the Quran should be given two hundred dinaars every year on condition that he meets his needs. If not, it should be increased and if it is more than required, than it can be decreased. There are many other evidence and testimony which substantiate this law.”

 

In another narration, it is mentioned from Hadrat Sayyiduna Ali May Allah have mercy upon him that every year, a Haafiz of the Quran should be given two hundred dinaars or two thousand dirhams. If the government is in agreement to this, then it is well or else, it would have to be given in the hereafter. In the fatwah Kaamil, it is mentioned that every Islamic scholar or Haafiz has a right to the Baitul Maal.

 

This is either two hundred dinaars a year or two thousand dirhams a year. If this is not given by the person in charge, then on the day of Judgement, it will be taken from his good deeds. If the person in charge does not have good deeds, the sins of the person will be placed on him.

 

In the Muslim shareef, volume 1, page 270, it is reported that Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Mas’ud May Allah have mercy upon him mentions that once the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him asked him to recite the Quran. He then asked, “O Prophet of Allah! shall I recite the Quran to you when the Quran has been revealed on you?”

He then replied, “It is my wish that I hear the Quran from someone else.” I then began to recite Surah Nisa and when I reached the verse where it is mentioned that a witness will be brought for every Ummah I raised my eyes to look at the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. I noticed that there were tears flowing from his blessed eyes.”

 

In another narration it is mentioned that, “when I had reached this verse, he then informed me to stop and I noticed that tears were flowing from his blessed eyes.” (Bukhari shareef).

 

Allamah Badrudeen Aini in the Umdatul Qaari which is the sharah of the Sahih Bukhari presents another report.

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him once arrived among the Bani Zufur and in his blessed company, there was Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Mas’ud May Allah have mercy upon him and a few other companions May Allah have mercy upon them. He then ordered a Qari to recite the Quran. When the Qari reached the verse (already mentioned), he wept so much that his beard and blessed cheeks became wet.

 

He then mentioned, “O my Lord! I will bear witness for those among who I am. However, how will I bear witness for those whom I have not seen?’ Allamah Badrudeen Aini May Allah have mercy upon him answers this question as follows.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Saeed bun Massayib May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the actions of the Muslims are presented to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him every morning and evening. He then recognizes the actions and faces of his Ummah and because of this, he will bear witness on their behalf. (Umdatul Qari. 20/60).

 

There is no doubt that our Prophet is someone who is alive. He fully recognizes the features and the deeds of his Ummah. This is the reason that he will bear witness on their behalf. This is why it is so important and vital that we strive to practise on the Shariah.

 

The Haafiz is blessed with seeing the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.

In the book Anfaasul Aarifeen, a very strange incident is mentioned. It is mentioned that in the town of Sirhind, there were two Huffaaz that were busy revising the Quran. One of their names was Syed Abdullah. In fact, they were so intense in reading and revising the Quran, that they became completely oblivious of their surrounding. Suddenly, a few Arab stallions appeared in front of them and the riders stopped to listen to the Quran been recited.

 

Suddenly a young person from among these riders addressed them, “O readers of the Quran! you have certainly fulfilled the rights of the Quran”. After saying this, the group of Arab riders rode away. When they had disappeared, the two Qaris looked at each other and were confused as to the identity of these people who had appeared as if from no where. They were also surprised at the faces of these riders which were full of Nur. In fact, the blessed face of the leader among them was so bright that it was even impossible for them to look at his face directly. In fact, such was the awe of this person, that they were forced to stand with respect.

 

Suddenly as if from no where, another rider appeared in front of them who also looked Arab and rode an Arab stallion. He then looked at the two Qaris and asked, “O those who read the Quran! Has the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him arrived at this place and if he has, where has he gone to?” Obviously, when they heard these words, it was if the ground had disappeared from under their feet and they began to look at each other.

 

They were also full of regret that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him had arrived in front of them and yet they had not even had the opportunity of kissing his blessed hands. The blessed Prophet whose Kalimah they recite, they did not even have the opportunity of being of service to him.

 

By now, they had come to realise that this was indeed an amazing incident which was unfolding in front of them. They then approached the Arab rider on the horse and asked him who he was. The rider then replied, “I am asking about someone and yet, you are asking about me?” They then mentioned that he did not look like an ordinary person to them. The rider then replied, “I am the companion of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him who is called Abu Hurayrah”.

 

He then continued, “At night, from his Roza shareef, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him had mentioned that he will leave for Sirhind to listen to some Qaris from Sirhind reading the Quran and he had asked me to also accompany him as well. However, in the morning, he had sent me for another task and when I had completed this task and returned, he had already departed.”

 

The father of Hadrat Shah Waliullah Muhaddith Dehlwi May Allah have mercy upon him namely, Shah Abdur Raheem May Allah have mercy upon him mentions that the sweet smell of fragrance continued to appear from this area for many days thereafter.

 

The leaders of this Ummah.

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “The leaders of my Ummah will be the Huffaaz of the Quran and the Ashaab Lail. (In other words, those who spend the night in ibaadah). (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/50).

 

In this hadith shareef, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has termed the Huffaz, the leaders of this ummah. All of this is due to the fact that they have the Quran protected in their hearts.

 

He has also further elaborated on the status of the Huffaz. Hadrat Sayyiduna ibn Mas’ud Ansari Badari May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that, “That person should lead the nation who is the best Qari among them.”

 

There is no doubt that to stand on the musallah is indeed a huge undertaking. If there is a group of people who wish to perform the salah in congregation and there is no nominated Imam at that place, then the person who reads the Quran the best and knows the Quran the best, will be nominated as the Imam.

 

In fact during the blessed era of Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him, those people were called on to give advice or were included in a consultative forum who were the best of Haafiz among them.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Abbas May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that during the period of Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him, his close associates and those around him were those who were Huffaaz whether they were young or old. Both ages were present. (Bukhari shareef).

During the blessed era of Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him, those people were mostly included into his consultative forum who knew the Quran the most.

 

This fact is also mentioned by the eminent companion Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Abbas May Allah have mercy upon him. He also mentions that this included both young and old on condition they were Huffaz of the Quran. (Bukhari shareef).

 

Whether it is the position of Imaamat or whether it is any position, in all circumstances, a Haafiz of the Quran was given first preference.

 

He received the position of governor because he was a Haafiz.

It is reported that Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him had nominated Hadrat Sayyiduna Naaf’e bin bin Haarith to be the governor of Mecca shareef. However, one day, he happen to meet the same governor outside the limits of Mecca shareef in a place called ‘Asfaan.

 

He then asked the governor whom he had left in charge while he was away. The governor replied that he had left someone named Ibn Abzaa in charge of the city while he was away. The great leader then asked who this Ibn Abzaa was and he was told that he was the freed slave of Hadrat Sayyiduna Naaf’e bin Haarith May Allah have mercy upon him.

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him then asked in surprise, “While you are absent, you have left a former slave in charge as your deputy?” Hadrat Sayyiduna Naaf’e bin Haarith replied, “Ibn Abzaa is someone who is a good Qari of the Quran, he is learned in the laws of Faraa’id and he is also a good decision maker.”

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him declared, “Your Prophet has indeed mentioned that the Almighty through the Quran would elevate the status of certain communities and through (the Quran) He will also lower the status of certain communities.”

 

When we look at the qualities mentioned by the great companion, we will see that he mentioned three of them. In spite of all of this though, Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him specifically mentioned the merits of the Quran and the quality of being able to read the Quran as a very important quality. This was one quality which had transformed a once slave into the deputy governor of Mecca shareef. There is no doubt in the fact that the Almighty certainly raises the status of people through the Quran.

 

The report of Shaikh Nasr bin Mohammed Samarqandi May Allah have mercy upon him who passed away in 373 ah highlights this one single quality of ibn Abzaa.

 

It is mentioned that Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him asked the governor in surprise, “Have you nominated a former slave to be the leader of the eminent people of the Quraish?” The governor replied, “O Ameerul Mo’mineen! After me, I have never found someone else who was a better Qari of the Quran than this person.”

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Umar May Allah have mercy upon him replied, “It is better. There is no doubt that through the Quran, the Almighty raises the status of many people and the status of many are lowered. And without doubt, Abdur Rahman bin Abi Abzaa is certainly one of those who gained respect and status through the Quran.” (Tambeehul Ghaafileen. 328).

 

The Haafiz is a respected guest on earth.

It is reported that when a Haafiz of the Quran departs from the world, then the Almighty commands the earth not to consume the flesh of this person. The earth replies, “O Allah! how can I consume the flesh of such a person in whose chest is the Holy Quran.” (Musnad Al Firdous. Bahiqi, Tirmidi, ibn Maja in the Kanzul Ummaal).

 

There is no doubt that the Haafiz of the Quran is someone who is blessed with eternal life. Even with the arrival of death, he does not die. His body remains fresh in the grave all the time. When the Almighty can bless a martyr with eternal life in the grave, surely, He can also bestow the same Divine Grace on someone who has spent his life reading His Divine Book and also protecting the Divine Book.

 

It is mentioned that in the village of Muzaffarghar on the 4^th of November the body of a person was found still fresh in his grave. This was reported by the Jhang newspaper.

 

It is mentioned that while the grave diggers were trying to dig up a very old grave, the shovel hit the skull of the person buried in this grave and his heard began to bleed. Obviously the grave diggers went into a state of shock and ran in fright. However, on further investigation, it was found that the deceased person was a Haafiz of the Quran. (Rooz Nama Jhang. 18^th Muharram. 1403. November 1982).

 

There is no doubt that in certain times in history, the Almighty reveals such amazing testimony to those who are living which merely becomes a further testimony to the truth of Islam and the message of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. In fact, such types of miracles make it difficult for the sceptic to ignore or disbelieve. In other words, the Almighty is giving clear evidence to people on the truth of Islam and this is because of His Divine Kindness.

 

Yet, it is sad to see that people still refuse to accept the truth of Islam in spite of these clear messages and revelations. There are other forms of Divine Grace which are also accorded to a Haafiz of the Quran.

 

Even the earth displays respect for a Haafiz of the Quran.

Hadrat Allamah Imam Jalaaludeen Suyutwi May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that once Abdur Rahman bin Mohammed bin Mansur May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that Ebrahim Haffaar May Allah have mercy upon him was once busy digging a grave when suddenly the brick on the neighbouring grave fell. He suddenly sensed the sweet fragrance of kasturi.

 

He mentions that he then saw an old person with a white beard reading the Quran in his grave. (Tanweer Al Lam’aan).

 

There is no doubt that when a Haafiz of the Quran recites the Quran night and day, he will not rest until he does not complete this important task. When this happens, the Almighty in His Divine Grace blesses the person by allowing him to also recite the Quran in his grave. In other words, the Almighty gives the Haafiz the opportunity to recite the Quran so that he could feel more at ease in the grave.

 

Are such incidents possible in the grave? In the Musnad of Abi Ya’la, a hadith shareef is mentioned wherein the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has declared that indeed the Prophets are still alive and they perform the salah in their grave.

 

It is also reported that on the night of Mer’aj when the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him was passing by the blessed grave of Nabi Moosa peace be upon, he saw that Nabi Moosa peace be upon him was reading salah in his grave.

 

When the Almighty has blessed the Prophets with such miracles and amazing qualities, surely, He can also bless the ummah of these Prophets who are steadfast in following the laws of these Prophets. There is no doubt that when an Ummati of any Prophet is able to enjoy such qualities in his grave, this is also through the wasila of his Prophet whom he follows.

 

In the Mishkaat shareef, there is a report from Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Abbas May Allah have mercy upon him. He narrates that once a companion of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him placed his tent above a grave which he was unaware of. Suddenly, he heard someone recite surah Mulk in the grave and this person continued to read the surah until it had been completed. This companion then approached the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him and narrated what he had experienced.

 

After listening to this incident, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him explained, “This is a surah which restricts punishment and brings salvation and protects a person from the Divine Punishment.”

 

In another incident, another blessed companion also heard the sound of someone reciting the Quran coming from a grave. When he had mentioned this to the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him also authenticated this as well. This proves beyond a shadow of doubt that a true Haafiz of the Quran who fulfils all the requirements which needs to be fulfilled are certainly not people who die but they remain alive even in their graves.

Some of them are also blessed with the gift of reciting the Quran in their graves.

 

The Haafiz of a Quran is indeed successful.

The Haafiz of the Quran will be protected from all the hardship which would befall people on the day of Judgement.

 

The Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has declared, “Memorize the Quran, without doubt, the Almighty will not allow the flames (of hell) to fall on that heart in which is found the Quran. (Sharah As Sunnah by Imam Baghwi).

 

This hadith shareef is also found in the following words. “Continue to recite the Quran. The Almighty will never allow punishment to come on that heart in which the Quran is protected.” (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/512).

 

In the Musnad Al Firdous, in place of heart, the word “abd” or slave is mentioned. In other words, “the Almighty will not give punishment to such a slave who had memorized the Quran.”

 

This message has also been given by the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him in the following manner. He has mentioned, “If the Quran is placed in any leather and this is placed in a fire it will not burn.”

 

One lesson we learn from this is that the fire or any flame cannot harm the Quran. There have been many incidents where the complete house had burnt to the ground but the Quran remained unharmed. In some instances, a car was burnt to ashes and the heat was so intense that fire fighters could not even come near the flames, yet, after everything had been burnt to ashes, the Quran which was in the car remained untouched by the flames. This is the Divine Protection of the Almighty which He has promised for the Quran.

 

The eminent Muhadditheen also explain that in that heart in which is found the Quran, that heart will never be consumed by fire.

 

When this is the case with ordinary flames, how can such a person burn in the fire of hell?

 

Hadrat Mullah Ali Qari May Allah have mercy upon him explains, “When an ordinary piece of leather is able to gain such protection simply by being connected with the Quran, how can the heart of a Haafiz be destroyed by fire? What can be said about the actual body of a Haafiz in whose body the Quran was protected for many years? There is no doubt that such a body will indeed be protected against the fire of hell.

 

Imam Ghazzali May Allah have mercy upon him mentions a report from Hadrat Sayyiduna Uqbah bin Aamir May Allah have mercy upon him who narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “If the Quran is in a piece of leather, the fire will not be able to touch that (piece of leather).” In fact, besides burning the blessed body of a Haafiz, the flames will not even touch his body. The reason is because an ocean of knowledge runs through his body. How can the fire then destroy his body? In fact, the Nur of Allah in the form of knowledge and Quran are such attributes which can actually extinguish a flame of fire.

 

In the hadith shareef it is mentioned that when a true believer crosses the Pul siraat, the fire of hell will call out to him, “O believer! pass quickly because (through you) the flames of my fire is beginning to cool.” In like manner, when a true Haafiz of the Quran will pass over the Pul siraat, the flames of hell will also plead to him to pass quickly. Obviously the reason being is that in his heart is found the Book of Allah.

 

In one narration is mentioned that there is a river in Jannah which is called “Riyaan”. On the banks of this river, there is a city.

 

The complete city is built with pearls. It also has seventy thousand doors which are (made from gold and silver). This complete city will be given to a Haafiz of the Quran.

 

The respect accorded to a Haafiz.

There is no doubt that when a person keeps one of his names as one of the Divine Attributes of the Almighty, he is not permitted to keep this name on its own. He has to add the title of Abd before it. If he chooses the name Ghaffar, he cannot use this Divine Attribute on its own. He will have to keep his name Abdul Ghaffar. In like manner Abdul Qayyum, Abdul Jabbar etc.

 

Yet, such is the greatness of a person who memorizes the Quran that one is allowed to call him a Haafiz which is also one of the Divine Attributes of the Almighty without having to add any other title before it. When we look at the verse where the Almighty mentions that He has revealed this Quran and He is the Protector of the Quran. In this verse, the title Haafiz is used to describe a Divine Attribute of the Almighty. Yet, He has also allowed a person to be called a Haafiz on his own who protects the Quran in his heart.

 

However, when we look at some of the modern Muslim parents, a great tragedy is taking place. When a parent decides to send his child to a madressah to learn Islam or the Quran, his own family would make a comment that this child will grow up to eat sadqah and other charity. They also make mention that this child will now be eating the food of a madressah which is acquired through zakah money etc. Yet, they refuse to mention to the parent of this child that this is a child who will protect himself from the fire of hell.

 

This is that child through whom the parents will be given a crown to wear on the day of Judgement. This is that child who will be pardoned and though him, many others will also be pardoned. In fact, when the child hears such comments from his own family about eating zakah or charity, there is no doubt that he will become a person who will suffer from an inferior complex. Our advice to such children and such parents is not to listen to the comments of such people. Listen to the blessed words of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him instead and always bear these words in mind.

 

Look at the example set for us by the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him. Look at how he had to suffer on the streets of Taif. Stones rained down on him from all sides and his body was dripping blood. But, at the end of the day, the Almighty clearly declares that true respect and honour only belongs to Allah, His Prophet and the true believers.

 

In all of these instances, never once did the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him utter a word of complaint. He persevered in the face of all of this with patience. He also proved beyond a shadow of doubt that a person will never ever enjoy such peace even if he lived in the palaces of Caesar or Khusroe as the amount of joy a person experiences when he is tested in the Path of Allah. There is no doubt that the status enjoyed by the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him was achieved through being patient in the face of stones being hurled at him. A poet has said that if you wish to be in peace in both worlds, then you should hold fast to the garment of that Prophet whose name is Mohammed.

 

Look at the blessed lives of the Ashaab. How much of hardship did they endure in this world for the sake of Islam? Yet, never at one moment, did they ever utter words of complaint. They never ever said that what type of religion is this in that after accepting this religion, we are hounded and persecuted. Their words were the same words as declared by Sayyidus Sahaabah, Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Bakr May Allah have mercy upon him which was, “Our heads maybe be severed. our family destroyed and our houses burnt. But we will never allow our hands to leave the blessed garment of the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him.”

Hadrat Sayyiduna Aanis May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has declared that, “That person who teaches his child the Naazirah of the Quran, all his past and future sins are pardoned. As for him who makes his child a Haafiz of the Quran, on the day of Judgement, he will live a life of piety, he will die as a martyr, he will be saved on the plains of Mesher, on the day in which there is immense fear, he will be protected from fear, when there is darkness, he will receive light, when there is immense heat, he will receive shade, on the day when there is immense thirst, his thirst will be satisfied.

 

On the day when there is little amount of good, he will be full of good deeds. On the day in which there is misguidance, the Almighty will bless him with guidance. This is on condition that he continues to read the Quran. The Quran is indeed the Zikr of Rahman, it protects against the satan and an act which increases the weight on the scale of good deeds. (Kanzul Ummaal).

 

A humble appeal to the parents of Huffaaz.

It is important that there is constant revision of whatever one has memorized no matter how small an amount this may be. In fact, to forget the Quran is a very evil and bad omen.

 

There is a hadith shareef in which the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him had declared that, “The reward of my Ummah was presented to me and even a leper who was removed from a masjid by someone. Even the sins and transgressions of my ummah was presented to me. I have never seen a greater sin then when a person memorizes a surah or ayah of the Quran then forgets it.” (Tirmidi shareef).

 

In another report, the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has declared that, “he who reads the Quran and forgets it, he will meet the Creator in such a state that he is a leper”. (May Allah protect us from this. Ameen).

 

These are warning from that eminent Prophet who had also declared, “The person who carries the Quran, (a Haafiz), is indeed a flag (or symbol) of Islam. Whoever respects him, he has displayed respect for the Almighty and whoever disrespects him, the Divine Curse of Allah is upon that person”. This was reported by Hadrat Sayyiduna Abu Umaamah Baahili May Allah have mercy upon him.

 

He has also mentioned, “respect the people of the Quran (the Huffaz). However whoever respects them has respected me and whoever respects me, he has respected my Creator. Beware, do not decrease in the rights of this duty. (Kanzul Ummaal. 1/523).

 

It is also mentioned that these people are also close to the Prophets in status and respect, however, they do not receive Divine revelation. It is also mentioned that, “He who invites a Haafiz because of his immense respect for the Quran and shows great hospitality for him, he will be blessed with ten rewards for every letter which has been memorized by the Haafiz and ten sins of his will be eliminated and he will increase in status ten fold”.

 

On the day of Judgement, the Almighty will declare to him, “Because of Me, you had displayed respect for a Haafiz of the Quran in the world, therefore, to bestow respect and reward, I am sufficient for you today.” (Musnad Al Firdous).

 

Hadrat Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar May Allah have mercy upon him narrates that the Holy Prophet Peace and Salutations be upon him has stated that, “The Huffaaz of the Quran are the friends of the Almighty. He who has enmity towards them, he is an enemy of Allah and he who (displays) love for them, he is a friend of Allah.” (Hulyatul Awliyah by Imam Abu Naeem May Allah have mercy upon him).

 

In the Kanzul Ummaal, it is mentioned that when a persons recites the Quran, the Almighty commands silence so that the recital of that person can be heard.