The Quran - Revealed in Stages
Spiritual Lessons Taught By Degrees
God states in the Quran that it was created in stages. “(It is) a Qur'an which We have divided (into parts from time to time), in order that thou mightest recite it to men at intervals: We have revealed it by stages.” (Quran 17:106)
The Quran was given to mankind over a 23 year period. A period of time that saw the small fledgling Muslim group develop from a few hundred to over ten thousand. Islam has been increasing ever since.
Within a Muslim’s life she/he notices their life changing as they bring themselves into conformity with their belief; a belief that is evolving the believer’s mind and soul accordingly. Like the early pioneers of Islam in Arabia the Muslim progresses through cycles of understanding, growth, and development.
Each year, the Muslim, learns about new approaches, understanding, and philosophy regarding her/his belief; struggling at times to comprehend things that were once hidden. Imam Warith Deen Muhammad once called this the “ah ha” experience.
Muslim Devotion in the Heart
Those who reject Faith say: "Why is not the Qur'an revealed to him [Prophet Muhammad] all at once? Thus (is it revealed), that We may strengthen thy heart thereby, and We have rehearsed it to thee in slow, well-arranged stages, gradually.” (Quran 25:32)
As such, the meaning of revealed in stages does not simply refer to the time frame of the revelation coming to man but also refers to revelation coming to the heart.
The heart is crucial to being the center of one’s faith and belief. If it is not the center of one’s faith than it does not truly exist. One simply goes through the daily ritual of prayer and devotions without significantly participating in the religion itself.
The heart is the seat of love and true spiritual devotion. It is not only a mental activity but and activity of care, joy, and appreciation. So many believe they have true devotion to God, yet they merely go through life in fear, anger and hatred. They have fear of the consequences of disobeying corrupt leadership, anger at those who are godless and in power, and hatred for those who carry a different belief.
Good Works in Islam
Yet true devotion from the heart gives the believer unconditional love for God and goodwill towards humanity. The advanced soul abhors all kinds of violence. The spiritual self continues to pursue the pleasure of God through devotions and good works.
Good works is a central theme to all religion. It's a concept that's central to treating those in one’s community with dignity and respect. Community is not an opportunity for the select few to step on the masses to raise themselves to wealth.
Good works exist to give everyone a since of responsibility towards everyone else. It creates a harmonious relationship between all members of a community. It is a trait that was devalued when tribal, family and community allegiance was replaced by allegiance to ones bank account and position in life.
Good Works is a Core Trait in Islam
Islam reintroduces this core trait needed for the survival of any community. The Muslim is taught that she/he has a responsibility to self, family, and community.
Neither of these areas should be sacrificed to accommodate something outside this central group of responsibilities. Dependability to self, family, and community should balance in the Muslims life to bring about a harmonious existence.
Accordingly, As Muslims develop through stages they become the best citizens in their community, helpers of their neighbors, and a key component to the growth of the society in which they live.
The Quran is the basis for this type of progress for it brings development through stages by systematically increasing the spiritual awareness and maturity of the Muslim.
Prayer an Exquisite form of Devotion
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