Quran Sharif Ka Satva Para, the holy book of Islam, is divided into 30 equal parts, known as Juzs or Parahs. Each Juz is further divided into verses called Ayahs. The 7th Para of the Quran holds special significance, and it is part of the broader narrative and spiritual teachings of the Quran. To understand the content and importance of the Satva Para (7th Para), we must delve into its verses and the context in which they were revealed.
Significance of the Quran’s Division
Before diving into the Satva Para, it’s important to understand the rationale behind the division of the Quran. The Quran was revealed over a period of 23 years, and its contents were given in stages to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the Angel Jibril (Gabriel). The division of the Quran into 30 Juzs helps make it easier for Muslims to recite and memorize, and to understand its teachings in a structured way. These divisions are not based on themes but rather serve as an organizational tool for the recitation.
The Satva Para: Content and Themes
The 7th Para of the Quran spans from Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:41) to Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:50). Surah Al-Ma’idah is the 5th Surah in the Quran, and it deals with a variety of subjects including laws regarding food, oaths, legal punishments, and interfaith relations. The 7th Para is part of the concluding sections of this Surah.
Here are some key themes found within the 7th Para:
1. Addressing the People of the Book
The People of the Book refers to the Jews and Christians. The Quran invites them to follow the true guidance from Allah (SWT). In this Para, Allah addresses the disbelievers from among the People of the Book, admonishing them for not adhering to the commandments of the scriptures they received. The passage reminds them that the message of Islam is a continuation of the messages delivered to previous prophets, including Prophet Moses (Musa) and Prophet Jesus (Isa).
For example, in Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:41, Allah says:
“O Messenger, let not those who hasten to disbelief grieve you, of those who say, ‘We believe’ with their mouths but their hearts do not believe. And from those who are Jews—eager to listen to falsehood, eager to listen to other people who have not come to you. They alter words from their proper places. They say, ‘If you are given this, take it; but if you are not given it, then beware.'” (5:41)
This verse discusses the insincerity and manipulation of the scriptures by some among the Jews, highlighting the dissonance between their words and their actions.
2. Prophet Muhammad’s Role as a Messenger
The 7th Para further emphasizes the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) mission as a messenger of Allah. The message is clear: the Prophet (PBUH) has been sent not just for the Arabs, but for all of humanity. His role is to communicate and uphold the law of Allah, irrespective of opposition.
3. Justice, Punishment, and Reward
The Satva Para also touches on important themes of justice, where Allah commands fairness and the proper execution of legal rulings. It calls for establishing justice based on divine guidance, and warns against those who manipulate the truth for personal gain. For example, the Quran speaks about those who change the meaning of the word of Allah or misuse their knowledge to mislead others.
4. Rules Regarding Food and Halal
In the broader context of Surah Al-Ma’idah, the 7th Para also includes verses that discuss the dietary laws for Muslims. Halal (permissible) and Haram (forbidden) foods are part of the divine regulations mentioned throughout the Surah.
The Key Verses of the 7th Para
The 7th Para primarily consists of Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:41-50). Let’s highlight some key verses within this portion:
- 5:41 – The Inconsistency of Some People of the Book: This verse addresses the inconsistency and insincerity of some from among the Jews, who outwardly profess belief but do not follow the guidance in their hearts.
- 5:42 – False Accusations: Allah warns against taking unjust accusations or accepting false testimonies. The people who alter the truth for their benefit are criticized.
- 5:43-44 – Justice in the Law: The Quran emphasizes that the law of Allah should be applied fairly, including in disputes involving legal punishments. The people who do not judge by the law revealed by Allah are warned.
- 5:45 – The Importance of Divine Law: Allah reveals that anyone who does not rule by His law is in error. This underscores the importance of adhering to divine justice rather than man-made laws.
- 5:46 – The Injunctions of Jesus (Isa): A reminder of the divine scriptures revealed to Prophet Isa (Jesus), including the guidance for morality and piety.
- 5:47-50 – The Consequences of Rejecting Divine Guidance: Allah warns those who reject the divine guidance and continue to follow their desires, indicating the consequences of failing to heed the message of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Spiritual and Practical Lessons from the 7th Para
- Upholding Justice: The 7th Para emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness, not only in legal matters but also in our everyday dealings. This is a reminder for all believers to uphold justice based on divine laws, not personal whims or societal pressures.
- Sincerity in Faith: The Quran warns against hypocrisy, particularly when people outwardly profess faith but do not live by it. True belief must come from the heart and manifest in actions. The Para teaches us to reflect on our own sincerity and commitment to the principles of Islam.
- Adherence to Divine Laws: Allah’s laws are not meant to be altered or ignored. In the 7th Para, the message is clear: the Quranic laws are for the benefit of mankind, and following them brings peace and prosperity. This applies to everything, from dietary restrictions to moral guidance.
- Respecting the Prophets: The Quran reminds us that the message of Islam is a continuation of the teachings of earlier prophets. By understanding the teachings of Prophets Musa and Isa (Moses and Jesus), we gain a deeper appreciation for the message brought by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). All prophets were part of the same divine mission to guide humanity.
Conclusion
The 7th Para of the Quran, found in Surah Al-Ma’idah, contains important teachings regarding justice, sincerity, and the rejection of falsehood. It addresses both the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) and the Muslim community, urging everyone to follow the guidance of the divine scriptures. As part of the broader message of the Quran, the 7th Para serves as a powerful reminder of the need to adhere to the path of righteousness, respect divine laws, and seek justice in all matters.
Muslims are encouraged to reflect upon these verses and incorporate their teachings into daily life, as they help foster a sense of moral responsibility, fairness, and spiritual devotion. As we recite and reflect on these verses, we are reminded of the continuous relevance of the Quran’s message to every aspect of human existence.
