Abandoning the Quran- Part 2

In this blog, we continue discussing the reasons behind neglecting the Quran.

Third: Ignorance of the Arabic Language

Allah revealed the Quran in the language of the Arabs. He says:

"And this [Quran] is [in] a clear Arabic language." (Surah An-Nahl: 103)

"وَهَٰذَا لِسَانٌ عَرَبِيٌّ مُّبِينٌ" (النحل: 103)

"Indeed, it is the revelation of the Lord of the worlds. The Trustworthy Spirit has brought it down upon your heart, [O Muhammad] – that you may be of the warners – in a clear Arabic language." (Surah Ash-Shu’ara: 192-195)

"وَإِنَّهُۥ لَتَنزِيلُ رَبِّ ٱلْعَٰلَمِينَ نَزَلَ بِهِ ٱلرُّوحُ ٱلْأَمِينُ عَلَىٰ قَلْبِكَ لِتَكُونَ مِنَ ٱلْمُنذِرِينَ * بِلِسَانٍ عَرَبِىٍّ مُّبِينٍ" (الشعراء: 192-195)

Ibn Kathir (may Allah have mercy on him) explained:

"This is because the Arabic language is the most eloquent, clear, and expansive in expressing meanings. Therefore, the most honorable book was revealed in the most honorable language."

Allah also clarified the wisdom behind revealing the Quran in Arabic:

"Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Quran so that you may understand." (Surah Yusuf: 2)

"إِنَّآ أَنزَلْنَٰهُ قُرْءَٰنًا عَرَبِيًّا لَّعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ" (يوسف: 2)

"An Arabic Quran, without any deviance, so that they may become righteous." (Surah Az-Zumar: 28)

"قُرْءَٰنًا عَرَبِيًّا غَيْرَ ذِى عِوَجٍۢ لَّعَلَّهُمْ يَتَّقُونَ" (الزمر: 28)

If a person does not understand Arabic or its linguistic structures, how can they comprehend the message of their Lord or deeply reflect on the Quran?

At Al-Ameen Academy in Florida, we understand this challenge and provide structured courses to help non-Arabic speakers learn Arabic and the Quran with proper Tajweed.

Fourth: Failure to Remove Barriers to Understanding

Several obstacles prevent people from truly understanding the Quran, including:

1. Over-Focus on Pronunciation Without Reflection

Some individuals focus excessively on perfecting pronunciation without contemplating the meaning of Allah’s words. The devil deceives them into thinking they haven’t articulated the letters correctly, making them repeat words endlessly rather than reflecting on their significance.

2. Blind Imitation Without Personal Reflection

Many people adhere rigidly to an interpretation they learned by tradition. If they hear a different explanation backed by strong evidence, they reject it outright due to ingrained beliefs rather than thoughtful consideration.

3. Persistence in Sin, Arrogance, or Worldly Desires

These factors darken the heart and hinder understanding. Allah says:

"A reminder and insight for every servant who turns [to Allah]." (Surah Qaf: 8)

"تَبْصِرَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِكُلِّ عَبْدٍ مُّنِيبٍ" (ق: 8)

"None will take heed except those who turn to Him." (Surah Ghafir: 13)

"وَمَا يَتَذَكَّرُ إِلَّا مَن يُنِيبُ" (غافر: 13)

A person engrossed in worldly distractions often fails to grasp the deeper meanings of the Quran.

Fifth: Abandoning Tafsir (Exegesis)

Imam At-Tabari (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

"I am amazed at those who recite the Quran but do not understand its meaning—how can they find pleasure in reading it?"

How can one ponder the Quran while neglecting its tafsir (explanation) and the reasons behind its revelation? This often leads to misinterpretations and incorrect applications.

Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari (may Allah be pleased with him) provided a striking example of how some misunderstood an ayah:

During a battle against the Romans, a Muslim soldier charged alone into enemy ranks. Some Muslims cried out, “He is throwing himself into destruction!” referring to the verse:

"And spend in the cause of Allah and do not throw yourselves into destruction." (Surah Al-Baqarah: 195)

"وَأَنفِقُوا۟ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَلَا تُلْقُوا۟ بِأَيْدِيكُمْ إِلَى ٱلتَّهْلُكَةِ" (البقرة: 195)

Abu Ayyub corrected them, explaining that the verse was actually revealed about the Ansar, who considered staying behind to focus on their wealth instead of striving in Allah’s path.

If some of the early generations misunderstood certain verses despite their closeness to the time of revelation, how much more do we need tafsir today? It is essential to study reputable tafsir books, such as those by Imam At-Tabari, Al-Baghawi, Ibn Kathir, As-Suyuti, and Ash-Shawkani.

At Al-Ameen Academy in Florida, we help students develop a strong foundation in Arabic and Quranic interpretation, ensuring they understand the Book of Allah as it was meant to be understood.