Last updated on November 14th, 2023 at 02:36 pm
The Holy Quran provides guidance and inspiration for over a billion Muslims worldwide. The second Para contains a significant surah of the holy Quran, “Al-Baqarah.” This surah holds great importance for the Muslims. Let’s walk through the guidance and significance that Surah Al-Baqarah holds for humans.
The Main Themes of Surah Al-Baqarah
Surah Al–Baqarah (Cow) is known as the longest chapter of Islam. It contains two and a half chapters, including para 2. What does this surah refer to as “cow”? The reason is that this surah mentions the story of an Israelite Calf.
This magical surah is full of miracles, wisdom, and guidance for Muslim Ummah. It discusses the status of humans as a successor on this planet that God divinely ordains. Humans, the greatest creation have certain responsibilities to maintain this world. There are three themes highlighted in the Surah:
- Explaining why humans were created and their purpose.
- Sharing the stories of those entrusted with similar responsibilities in the past and the lessons we can learn from them.
- Assigning our community the responsibility of safeguarding and preserving the faith until the world’s end.
Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى says in the Holy Quran:
“All people followed a single faith before they went astray. Then, God sent prophets to deliver good news and warnings. He also sent the true scriptures to settle disputes among them. The only ones who disagreed were those who had received the scriptures, out of envy and rivalry, after clear evidence had come to them. However, God has guided the believers to the truth in those matters of disagreement. God guides whoever He chooses onto the right path.”
Surah Al-Baqarah: A Chapter of Miracles
Surah Al-Baqarah contains 286 verses. But it’s not only the length that makes this surah significant. It was the first surah revealed in Medina. That’s why it is called “Madaniah.” Besides, it features the verse of “Al-Kursi, ” the longest verse in the Quran. This is called the “verse of debt” (verse 282).
The Quran contains numerous miracles, with many of them encapsulated within Surah Al-Baqarah. If you had read this surah, you would certainly have noticed the literary excellence and eloquence of this surah. The linguistic precision and rhythm in Surah Al-Baqarah have challenged the most skilled poets and orators of the time. This linguistic miracle is an enduring testament to the divine origin of the Quran.
Allah mentions in this surah that:
“if you have any doubts related to the revelations of Allah, then create a chapter like this” (Al-Baqarah 2: 23)
Another significant miracle found within Surah Al-Baqarah is the scientific accuracy it contains. While the Quran is not a science textbook, it presents numerous verses that align with modern scientific discoveries.
Allah discussed the solar and lunar system 1400 years ago in the second chapter of the holy Quran.
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of the night and the day, are signs for believers.”
This verse mentions the alternation of night and day, a phenomenon beautifully explained by the rotation of the Earth. In addition, many miracles of Islam have been mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah. For instance, the miracle of twelve springs emerged when Hazrat Musa was struck with his staff.
“When Moses prayed for water for his people, we instructed him, “Strike the rock with your staff,” and lo and behold, twelve springs gushed forth, each tribe knowing its designated source. So, enjoy the sustenance provided by Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى and do not engage in wrongdoing, spreading mischief on the land.”
Wisdom in Surah Al-Baqarah
The Quran, particularly Surah Al-Baqarah, is a wellspring of wisdom. It offers insights into various aspects of life and human nature. Besides, it addresses the complexities of faith, doubt, and the challenges believers may face.
The Quran acknowledges the doubts that can arise in the hearts of believers and encourages them to seek knowledge and understanding. It says,
“O believers, spend from the good things which you have earned.”
This verse shows the importance of giving to those in need. Besides, it encourages people to stay patient in the face of adversity. It reminds believers that trials and tribulations are part of life’s journey and that maintaining steadfastness in faith is crucial.
“And We will surely test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits. But we give good tidings to the patient.”
Guidance for Humanity
Surah Al-Baqarah addresses various aspects of human life, providing a blueprint for a just and righteous society. At the very start of this chapter, Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى mentions that:
“This book is undeniably a source of guidance for those who are mindful of their actions. It’s for those who believe in the unseen, maintain their prayers, and give from what we have provided for them.”
In addition, this surah addresses different aspects of human life. This includes marriage, divorce, legal matters, and finance. Hence, this chapter is a roadmap to spend your life according to the principle of Islam.
Signs of Allah’s Creation
Surah Al-Baqarah invites readers to contemplate the signs within God’s creation. One of the most profound signs highlighted in the chapter is the creation of humans. Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى says,
“It is He who created for you all that is in the earth”
This world reflects the connection of humans with the natural world. It reminds us of our responsibility as stewards of the Earth. Moreover, Surah Al-Baqarah speaks of the signs in the heavens and the earth. It provides proof of God’s existence by urging believers to recognize the universe’s order, balance, and intricacy.
Who created earth and heaven? And who alters days and nights? Who is responsible for this balanced ecosystem? There is a wide array of questions and doubts that this surah addresses. These signs point out God’s presence and His unparalleled power over His creation.
Virtues of Surah Al-Baqarah
The virtues of Surah Al-Baqarah are widely acknowledged:
· Protection Against Satan
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ noted that Satan flees from a house where this surah is recited.
“Don’t make your homes feel like tombs. Satan doesn’t enter a house where Surah Al-Baqarah is being recited.”
· Protection on the Day of Judgement
Surah-e-Baqarah is a great asset for Muslims around the world. It guides us to a righteous path and protects us on the day of judgment.
“Recite the Quran, for on the Day of Judgment, it will intercede for those who recite it. Specifically, recite the two illuminating chapters, Al-Baqara and Surah Al-‘Imran, because on that day, they will come like two protective clouds, two comforting shades, or two flocks of birds in perfect formation, advocating on behalf of those who recite them.”
· Protection from Black Magic
53 verses in the Quran exorcise the jinn’s and devils. Ten of them are from this chapter. These include the first four verses, Ayat-ul-Kursi, two verses following Ayat-ul-Kursi, and the last three verses.
“Recite Surah Al-Baqarah regularly because doing so brings blessings, while neglecting it leads to regret. Even the most skilled magicians cannot contend with its power.”
· A Guardian for Whole Night
The magnificent “verse of Al-Kursi” within Surah Al-Baqarah adds to its importance. The Prophet noted that one who recites this verse before sleeping will be protected from the devil, with Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى appointing a guardian until they awaken.
Gift of Shab-e-Mairaaj
When Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) went on a night journey (Shab-e-Mairaaj), he was awarded with some of the greatest gifts. We all know that one of these gifts was five-time prayers. However, there is another valuable gift, and that is the last two verses of the Holy Quran.
“During the Night Journey, when the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) ascended to the heavens, he described the experience, mentioning that he received three significant gifts: the obligation of performing the five daily prayers, the last verses of Surah Al-Baqara”
Take Away
Surah Al-Baqarah entails a set of miracles, guidance, and wisdom for the whole Ummah. If you want virtues and guidance from this remarkable holy chapter, make it a part of your life. If you cannot recite the whole surah in one day, recite at least one small section each day.
It’s not just a Surah: it’s a roadmap for every Muslim to spend their lives as per Islam. Those seeking truth will find in it. Those who approach with pure heart and clear intention will thrive under the protection of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى. By following the teachings of Islam and committing to purification from sins, we can find our way to paradise.
May Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى bless us with His guidance and allow us to be torch bearer for others.
