Guidance for mankind

"Indeed, this Quran is a rope; hold fast to it, and you will never be led astray or ruined again."

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) delivered Allah's message during his last sermon on Mount Arafat. The Hadith reveals a complete code of life, while the Quran is the Holy Scripture of God, containing His intentions and instructions. By adhering strictly to the Quran and following its principles, humans can avoid the path to destruction. As the Quran says, "Surely it is for Us to provide guidance." (Surah Al-Layl 92:12).

During a period of ignorance 1,400 years ago, the Arabs practised polygamy, polytheism and female infanticide. Women were viewed as personal property and a source of entertainment. Daughters were buried alive immediately after birth as a curse. It was all due utter ignorance.

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) emerged as the last prophet to dispel the darkness. He explained Allah's revelations to the people of Arabia, spread Islam, and guided them towards the path of salvation. Since then, the Quran has proven to be a guiding book for mankind. Living life according to the teachings of the Quran has become essential for all. The Holy Book outlines the fundamental beliefs and pillars upon which a meaningful life can be built.

But are we guided or astray? Have we mended our ways through the Quran, or have we lost our grip on its rope? Why does human fate now hinge between fire and water?

Today, we face terrorism, extremism, poverty, corruption, injustice and impatience. Tyranny triumphs while the oppressed survive in defeat. The poor are marginalised, while the elite are revered. The Quran strictly prohibits oppression and warns of severe punishment, regardless of colour, creed or caste. It states: "As for those who hurt, abuse, humiliate, and do injustice to believing men and women unjustifiably, they will bear the guilt of slander and a blatant sin." (Surah Al-Azhab 33:58).

Corruption, a widespread issue, has deeply impacted life globally. The Quran warns, "Do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it (in bribery) to the rulers in order that (they might aid) you to consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know (it is unlawful)." (Surah Al- Baqarah 2:188).

Elsewhere, the Quran prohibits hoarding and encourages moderation. But today's world is dominated by capitalism and communism, pushing the downtrodden further into misery. The Quran provides a clear solution to poverty by commanding: "Establish prayer and pay zakat." Zakat purifies wealth and helps reduce poverty.

Allah says in the Quran: "Let not your hand be tied (like a miser) to your neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach (like a spendthrift), so that you become blameworthy and in severe poverty." (Surah Al-Isra: 29). The Quran teaches balance in life, but humanity often fails to follow its principles, leading to crises. The Quran is both a reward when recited and a guide when interpreted, leading to morality, unity, justice and fairness.

Currently, we are polarised by race, caste, creed and sect, leading to violence and destruction. The Quran says, "Those who divided themselves into sects do not belong with you. Their judgment rests with God, and He will inform them of everything they had done." (Surah Al-An'am 6:159).

If we follow the Quran, we will avoid violence and religious extremism, instead promoting peace. The Quran commands equality, justice and fair treatment for all, regardless of their status or faith. These ordained principles are for the guidance of all humanity. If followed in their true meaning, no one will go astray. However, if neglected, disgrace and disregard are inevitable.

Today, although Muslims make up almost 24% of the global population of 8 billion, they are still facing crises. The reason is that many have strayed from the true guidance of the Quran as commanded by Allah. If Muslims adhered to its teachings and spread the Quran's true message, they would protect themselves from crises.