Is it true that the verses of legal rulings (Āyāt al-Aḥkām) range between 1,000 and 500 verses, as one scholar has mentioned?
Answer
In the name of Allah, this has been stated, and the number may in fact be higher. A ruling may be derived through various types of implicative indication, even if the verse initially relates a story, or mentions the reward Allah has prepared for the righteous, or the punishment for wrongdoers. Through these implicative indications, legal rulings can still be extracted. Allah is the Guide, and He grants success. Allah knows best.
Why did Mary, the daughter of Imran, wish for death? Would it not have been better for her to be patient and await what Allah had destined for her?
Answer
In the name of Allah, a noble man or woman, when thinking soundly, may prefer death over facing a false accusation of immorality. Mary feared such an accusation, so Allah caused Jesus to speak while still before her: “He called her from below her, ‘Do not grieve; your Lord has provided beneath you a stream.’” Through this, she became assured that someone would testify to her innocence. The words of Jesus served as encouragement, showing that she would have a defender. Therefore, she returned to her people with her head held high. Peace be upon them both, and may Allah grant them success in serving the Awaited Proof (AJ). Allah grants success, and He knows best.
If Hajj is described as occurring during “well-known months,” then why is the Hajj season performed on specific days?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the mentioned verse refers to both Hajj and the ʿUmrah whether performed independently or as part of the tamattuʿ rite. Although the days of Hajj are distinct from those of ʿUmrah, they are specifically defined from the noon of Arafah Day until the end of the nights spent in Mina. Allah is the Guide and He knows best.
Is the Noble Qur’an distorted? If it is not distorted, how should we understand the many narrations found in the books of both schools that explicitly or implicitly indicate addition or omission, which would imply distortion?
Answer
In the name of Allah, know, my son, that the term “distortion” has been misunderstood by many researchers. Its linguistic meaning refers to leaving the text as it is while the distorter alters the intended meaning through manipulative interpretation, without changing the text itself. In most Quranic contexts, distortion is used in this linguistic sense. Allah, the Exalted, says: “They distort words from their proper places,” and this was the practice of the Jews and Christians concerning the Torah and Gospel passages indicating the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH&HF).
There is a second, theological meaning which emerged during the Abbasid period and continues until today. It refers to altering the text itself through reordering, adding, or removing letters or words. Distortion in the first (linguistic) sense certainly exists, as can be seen by those who examine the statements of the commentators. As for the second meaning, some Muslims have indeed held this view. However, following our great master, Syed Abul-Qasim (may Allah sanctify his soul), I completely reject it.
Yes, there is a particular orthographic style in Quranic manuscripts used across the Muslim world that differs from the common Arabic writing conventions. Some imagined this to be distortion of Qur’anic words. For example, in Allah’s saying, “O Prophet, why do you forbid what Allah has made lawful for you? You seek the approval of your wives”, some thought the word “approval” (mardhat) [with the long T letter) was distorted because the more common modern spelling is “approval” (mardhat) [with the short T letter). Examples of this sort exist throughout the Quran we possess today, and those who claim distortion in such instances are simply unaware of the older script style used during the Prophet’s era. Nevertheless, the Quranic orthography found in our copies must be preserved to protect the text from tampering. Allah is the Guide and He knows best.
Does the verse “It is not righteousness that you enter houses from their backs, but righteousness is in one who fears Allah; so enter houses through their doors” refer to an example of indirect versus direct approaches in communication?
Answer
In the name of Allah, this verse is intended to refine and discipline a person in how they deal with others, whether they are believers or not. Allah knows best.
Allah the Exalted said: "They will bring to you every learned sorcerer" (Al-A'raf 112), and He also said: "They will bring to you every learned sorcerer" (Ash-Shu'ara 37).
Is there a difference between the terms "sahir" (ساحر) and "sahhar" (سحّار)?
Answer
In the name of Allah, "sāḥir" is a verbal noun (active participle), whereas "saḥḥār" is an intensive form (used for emphasis or exaggeration). Allah is the Guide.
Allah Almighty said: "Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while such [trial] has not yet come to you as came to those who passed on before you? They were afflicted with poverty and hardship and were shaken..." — Does this verse imply that the hardships mentioned are a condition for entering Paradise?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the apparent meaning of the verse is that whoever hopes to enter Paradise must be prepared to endure hardships in the path of religion and in safeguarding it. Allah is the All-Knowing and the Guide.
What is the difference between tafsir (interpretation) and tadabbur (contemplation)?
Answer
In the name of Allah, contemplation (tadabbur) is reflection and is a prerequisite to interpretation (tafsir). Tadabbur is for the person who is contemplating themselves, while tafsir is clarifying the meaning of the verse for others. Allah knows best and is the Guide.
I have a question regarding the corrupted Gospel. It occurred to me to ask about Allah’s statement: “Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find written in what is with them in the Torah and the Gospel…” Why does Allah describe their scriptures as the Torah and the Gospel, despite them being corrupted?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the corruption occurred at some stage during the time of the followers of Moses and Jesus (PBUT), while the original versions remained with their scholars. This is indicated by the verse: “Say, ‘Then bring the Torah and recite it, if you should be truthful.’” It is even possible that the original versions still exist with their scholars, as some esteemed scholars have considered. Allah, the Guide, knows best.
Allah Almighty says: “Abiding therein as long as the heavens and the earth endure, except what your Lord wills...” Does this exception not indicate the absence of eternal permanence in Paradise and Hell? That is, it means the permanence is only continuous until the Divine will to the contrary occurs, which happens when the heavens and the earth perish?
Answer
In the name of Allah, this exception clause indicates the possibility of this happening for some people of Hell, not for everyone. Allah knows best.
Is it permissible to dispose of Quranic verses and the names of Allah, the Exalted, after altering their appearance, such as crossing them out or changing them so their meaning is no longer recognizable when read?
Answer
In the name of Allah they must be erased before being disposed of or buried to avoid committing an offense against Islamic sanctities. Allah knows best.
When I recite the Quran for a long time, I need to change my sitting position, which is the commonly accepted position for reciting the Quran, and I sit with my legs extended because of prolonged sitting and numbness in my legs. Is there any sin in that?
Answer
In the name of Allah, there is no sin in that. Allah knows best.
What is our role as young people towards the Quran, and are there things that can keep us always connected to the Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, my children, you must respect and love the Quran if you are Shiite Muslims. Loving the Quran is required, as the great Prophet (PBUH) said, "I am leaving among you two weighty things: the Book of Allah and my progeny, my household." Don't you know about the love the Ahlulbait had for the Quran? This is the head of the Master of Martyrs (Imam Hussain) that was severed from the noble body while he was reciting the Quran. Haven't you heard from our respected speakers that Imam Hussain asked the oppressors who came to kill him on the night of the tenth to delay so he could recite the Quran, and that he loved it? Allah knows best.
What is the ruling of completing a recitation of the Quran at the request of a believer for an agreed-upon amount of money? Is there any difference in performing the recitation between a female and a male?
Answer
In the name of Allah, what you mentioned is permissible, and there is no difference between the reciter and the one who hires them, whether they are male, female, or intersex. Allah knows best.
There are mobile apps for reading the Quran, supplications, and visits. Is it permissible to read while lying in bed?
Answer
In the name of Allah, if one is unable to sit, there is no problem, or if one is reciting from memory. However, if one is reading from visible words, it is preferable to sit out of respect for the recitation of the Quran. Allah knows best.
A person is teaching students to memorize the Quran, and the verses of prostration frequently come up. How many times does he have to prostrate? Is it according to the number of times he repeated the verse for the students to memorize it, or is one prostration sufficient?
Answer
In the name of Allah, It is necessary to repeat the prostration according to the number of times the verse is recited. Allah knows best.
Is it permissible to complete the recitation of the Quran through a mobile phone or computer?
Answer
In the name of Allah, if you mean reading the inscribed words on the computer and the like, it is considered a recitation of the Quran. Allah knows best.
What is the ruling of reciting verses that require prostration in a place where prostration is not possible, such as in a car or classrooms?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the individual must place their forehead on anything in front of them. The conditions for the place of prostration for the Quran do not need to meet the same conditions as the place of prostration for prayer. Allah knows best.
Is it permissible for someone in a state of minor ritual impurity (hadath) to touch a translation of the Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that a translation of the Quran is not considered the Quran, and likewise, the interpretation of the Quran is not the Quran. If the translation and interpretation do not contain the names of Allah or the names of the infallibles (PBUT), it is permissible to touch them without ablution (wudu). Allah knows best.
What is the correct formula for seeking refuge from Satan when reciting the Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, "A'udhu billahi min ash-shaytanir-rajim" which translates into "I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed Satan." Allah is the Guide.
The science of Tajweed (Recitation of Quran) is of no value, yet we read in practical legal manuals several rules of Tajweed such as assimilation (idgham) and elongation (madd), among others?
Answer
In the name of Allah: Be advised, my son, that the science or art of Tajweed can refer to the correct pronunciation according to proper Arabic, specifically the Quraishi Hashimi dialect in which the Quran was revealed. This aspect must be learned by every Muslim to ensure the correctness of their prayer and other religious practices that depend on accurate pronunciation. The second aspect consists of the rules of the art of Tajweed that were established or practiced to enhance Arabic pronunciation. This second aspect is not obligatory; rather, it is an aesthetic addition that is respected by those who master it. Allah is the Guide.
Is it permissible to recite the Quran in English, because when reading the Arabic Quran written in English letters, we might make mistakes in the recitation?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it is permissible to translate the Quran into any language, provided that the translator is proficient in Arabic to avoid mistakes in conveying the meaning of words. However, the translation should not be printed independently of the original Quranic text; the original Arabic text must remain alongside the translation of each verse. It is not permissible to recite the Quran in any language other than the original Arabic in prayer. It is also not permissible to recite the Quran in Arabic using a different expression and then attribute it to Allah and pray with it. It should be understood that a translation into any language or an explanation of a verse in any language is not considered the Quran. The Quran is the text known to all Muslims, beginning with Surah Al-Fatiha and ending with Surah An-Nas. Allah is the Guide.
It is forbidden to consume animals that are considered monstrosities, including the pig, monkey, elephant, and bear. The question is: What is meant by monstrosities (masookh)?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be informed, my son, that Allah transformed some groups from previous nations into these animals. These animals existed before some humans were transformed into their forms. The monstrosities, as known, did not survive long and died. These animals resemble the transformed beings and are referred to as monstrosities, although this expression is used loosely. Allah is the Guide and the Knower.
What is the opinion of His Eminence the Marja' regarding using the Quran for istiftah (opening) or tafa'ul (seeking omens), even if it is not for the purpose of inquiring about the unseen?
Answer
In the name of Allah, not using the Quran for such purposes falls within respecting the Book of Allah the Almighty. It should not be used inappropriately. Allah is the Guide.
Allah (the Exalted) says: "And I consider those who followed you [Muhammad] above those who disbelieved until the Day of Resurrection." How can we understand this text considering the strength of the disbelievers in our time and the vulnerability of the Muslims?
Answer
In the name of Allah, this situation varies based on different circumstances, individuals, and societal conditions. Elevating one group over another with respect and psychological commitment is feasible. Allah is the Guide, and the Knower.
The Imam As-Sadiq (PBUH) said: "Whoever writes Taha Surah, puts it in a green cloth and goes to a people who wish to marry him, that will happen for him." The question is, regarding the method of writing the Surah, is it permissible for me to copy the Surah from the internet, print it, then place it in a green cloth and carry it? Is it permissible, or is it only allowed if I personally write it by hand, holding the pen and writing it on paper?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the preferred method is the latter one. Allah is the Guide.
If what the Prophet (PBUH&HF) did was by divine command or revelation, then why did Allah say "Allah forgive you, why did you give them permission"?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, there are many instances where Allah (The Exalted) allowed the Prophet (PBUH&HF)not to prohibit certain things out of His compassion and mercy towards him. However, the Prophet (PBUH&HF) was compassionate and merciful towards all humanity and even beyond. He bore pains and various forms of suffering in this cause. Perhaps Allah, The Highest, allowed him not to do or endure this severe burden as an honor and mercy towards him. However, he did so. In such instances, this expression was used, meaning 'May Allah not hold you accountable for it.' Allah is the Guide, and the Knower.
Does the Quranic statement "And what is the life of this world except amusement and diversion" encompass even what is usually described as serious work, not just amusement and play in the conventional sense?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the description of worldly life as amusement and diversion is in terms of the fact that the ultimate purpose of worldly beings, being worldly, is confined to what a person gains from such an act, even if it's a serious endeavor. This is because the worldly life is not everlasting, as evident. This might be manifested in the Quranic verse: "But the Hereafter is indeed the real life". Allah is the Guide.
If there is any mistake in al-Kursi Verse, intentionally or unintentionally, does it invalidate the entire recitation?
Answer
In the name of Allah, if a person is still within the act of reciting and makes a mistake, they should correct it and continue. However, if one notices the mistake after completing the recitation, they should repeat the entire surah. Allah knows best.
Why does the Quran use the term "Marital Relations [Rafath] "in relation to women during Ramadan while using indirect terms in other instances, such as "if you have touched women"?
Answer
In the name of Allah, expressing this act - marital relations between spouses - is described using [Rafath] when it is in the context of encouragement, while terms like 'touching' and 'intimacy' are used when the aim is not to discourage. Allah is the Guide.
Regarding the following part of the Quranic verse: "and do exalt Allah", does this mean that we should say 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest)?
Answer
In the name of Allah, no, what is meant - Allah knows best - is for you to recognize the greatness of Allah, and the depth of His wisdom in His decrees. Allah is the Guide, and He is the Knower.
"Whoever among you is ill or on a journey..." Is there an interpretation for Allah's saying "'on a journey" instead of saying "a sick or traveling"?
Answer
In the name of Allah: Perhaps, it is because the meaning of 'journey' is to exit the boundary of one's residence, and when a person is on a journey, they fulfill the conditions before entering the permissible boundary. When a person travels and exits the boundary before noon, they are considered a traveler from the moment they leave their homeland with the intention of traveling. This meaning, apparently, is derived from the expression 'on a journey' and not from 'traveling'.
It's important to note that a person isn’t considered a traveler, on the religious basis, until they have exited the permissible boundary. When they intend to make up for missed fasts, they should make up for the day they left their homeland, even if they reached the permissible boundary after the day had ended. Allah knows best.
Why was permission to have "Marital Relations [Rafath]"delayed for women and not legislated alongside fasting?
Answer
In the name of Allah: The revelation of religious rulings in the Quran, indeed all rulings, occurred gradually and according to the hidden interests that concern us all. Allah is the Guide and the All-Knowing.
Can we say that Satan did not disobey Allah by refusing to prostrate due to the apparent meaning of the verse "And [mention] when We said to the angels, 'Prostrate'" even though it is known that Satan is not one of the angels but from the jinn?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the Quranic verses are explicit that the command to prostrate was inclusive of Satan. This is evident in Allah's statement addressing the accursed Satan, and may Allah protect us from his evil, by Imam Hussein (PBUH), "What prevented you from prostrating when I commanded you?" Satan did not apologize by saying that he was not commanded; instead, he objected due to his corrupt belief that he was superior to Adam and considered Allah's command to prostrate to Adam as something inappropriate. Allah is the Guide.
Whom is meant in "Al-Ahloon" (families) in Allah's saying " protect yourselves and your families from a Fire"?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it means whoever under the care of man in regards to expenses, raising and other social care whether or not there is a blood relation between them, and a person is religiously not responsible for whoever lives with him in terms of expenses, but is also included in the abovementioned ruling. Allah knows best.
Since Asya daughter of Muzahim is a righteous woman, why did she marry a man like Pharaoh? Was it not possible for her to separate from him after she knew that he claims to be a god? And as a Muslim, how is it permissible for her to marry an infidel?
Answer
In the name of Allah, she got married before the advent of Moses (PBUH) to guide Pharaoh and before her conversion to Islam and after entering into the marriage of the tyrant, she could not get away from Pharaoh because he was a ruthless tyrant. Therefore, she resorted to Allah by saying "My Lord, build for me near You a house in Paradise and save me from Pharaoh and his deeds and save me from the wrongdoing people." Therefore, Allah drowned him and saved her and other righteous people from his evil. Allah knows best.
What does the Quran imply when it points out that the will should be rightful?
Answer
In the name of Allah, apparently -Allah knows best- the will should not be unfair in terms of the rights of the heirs by exceeding it for a third of what he left. Allah knows best.
In His saying "And those who differed in the Book are in a distant strife.", does the difference here mean that of the Muslim scholars in the interpretation of the Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, what you have mentioned is not a validation only for the concept of the honorable verse, but the Sunnah of Allah is to preserve His religion and the bearers of religion as much as creating differences between the enemies. Allah knows best.
What is the difference between the tempting self and the devil?
Answer
In the name of Allah, devil is the person of Satan who refused to prostrate to Adam. As for the tempting self, it is an energy present in human beings that motivates them and helps them follow their desires. Allah is the all Guide.
In the holy verse "So their transaction has brought no profit, nor were they guided.", the no profit in transaction has been foregrounded over the guidance. Which one is more important?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be informed my son that finding the right way to do trade becomes beneficial and profitable when it precedes transaction. However, in the holy verse, after Allah Almighty showed their loss in transaction, He wanted to show the reason for this loss. Therefore, for the sake of rhetoric His saying "nor were they guided" must be preceded by "So their transaction has brought no profit" and in reality guidance takes precedence over trade, then the order in the honorable verse meets the needs of speech which is the requirement of rhetoric. Allah knows best.
Allah Almighty says "Make us Muslims [in submission] to You and from our descendants a Muslim nation [in submission] to You." Prophet Abraham asked Allah to make him and his descendants Muslim after making him an Imam (leader) and then he asked Allah to make this to his descendants. "My covenant does not include the wrongdoers." Can we have a clarification for the rank "Muslim to You"?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be informed my son that the meaning of "Muslim" in the holy verse –Allah knows best- is the obedient and submissive to the commands of Allah Almighty, and it is the act of a Muslim, but with an ability endowed by Allah, glory be to Him, and success from Him, Almighty. So, Abraham and Ismail (Peace be our Prophet, his family and them) asked Allah for success and ability to be obedient and submissive. This meaning is referred to by the holy verse "When his Lord said to him, "Submit," he said, "I have submitted [in Islam] to the Lord of the worlds." and what is meant by the term Muslim is not only sound belief. Allah knows best.
Allah Almighty says "They are like those who kindled a fire, so when it lit up what was around it, Allah went away with their light." The act "kindled a fire" looks a good deed. Why did Allah went away with their light?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the example mentioned in the noble verse is for the hypocrites –Allah knows best. It is a statement and clarification of the one who exerts himself without looking at the consequences of his work and depends on his work only without paying attention to the One Who gave him this ability and benefit. And Allah Almighty - Allah knows best - refers in the honorable verse to those who kindle the fire, that is, strive to reach the kindling of fire, to enjoy it to ward off the cold and other benefits, and he was unaware of the Creator Who bestowed blessings upon him. If Allah, Almighty, extinguishes that fire, then man will remain in darkness, then he will know his inability before the power of Allah, glory be to Him. The good light means the light that originates from the fire, but if fire and other existents are not accompanied with faith in Allah, their harm becomes greater than their benefit. The verse describes the hypocrites who strived for some deeds with uncertainty about Allah Almighty, so their efforts went unheeded and became firewood for Hell. We should understand the honorable verse in the light of the subject in which it was mentioned. Allah knows best.
What is the ruling of getting rid of damaged materials that are not needed, but they contain the names of Allah Almighty, the Messenger and the Imams (PBUT)? Can such materials be thrown in the bin or the waste machine?
Answer
In the name of Allah, these materials have to be dumped and the names must be removed before throwing them in the garbage. Or, they can be buried so that no offence is committed towards the Islamic sanctities. Allah knows best.
The holy Quran stated that justice must be done when marrying more than one otherwise one is enough. The holy verse says: “If you fear that you cannot act justly towards the wives, then marry such women as seem good to you; two, three, four of them. But if you fear that you cannot do justice, then one only, or, those you possess. It is likelier then that you will not be partial.” However, Quran mentions in another verse “You will not be able to be just between your women, even though you determine to do that…”. So if justice cannot be served, why does Allah order that we are allowed to marry more than one wife? Is there any contradiction between the two verses?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that justice here means the apparent, just treatment for the wives at the actual level. However, the second verse implicates that most of people are helpless to show equality among the wives. Here, the equality is from the emotional perspective. There are degrees of love and closeness to the heart of the husband for each of the wives. These degrees are not the same, and the husband cannot curb his emotions to love all the wives alike. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
Is there a chapter in the Holy Quran that should not be recited in the prayer?
Answer
In the name of Allah, we have mentioned that the chapters which contain obligatory prostration are not permissible to be recited in the prayer. If the praying person recites the chapter of opening and any other second chapter and recites a third Quranic chapter, it is not permissible to recite the third chapter, except Al-Thuha and Alam Nashrah chapters.
Allah says “… 'The punishment and wrath of your Lord has already fallen upon you…”. After reviewing most of the interpretations and knowing the difference between the two words: rijs ‘filth’ and rijz ‘punishment’, and after reviewing the verses in which these two words appear, I did not understand the reason of having the word ‘punishment’ instead of ‘filth’ in some verses. The word rijz ‘punishment’ means to punish as in the verse mentioned above. Does what falls from the Lord refer to revelation?
Answer
in the name of Allah, be advised, my son, rijs means filth, as Allah says “filth from Satan” filthy things are of four kind: filthy temper, filthy mind, religiously filthy, or all the three types as the dead body by all the three types. Filth here – from a religious perspective- is like alcohol and gambling acts.
The verse “As for those whose hearts are diseased, they will be increased in filth added to their filth, so that they die as unbelievers” is mentioned about the infidels. Another verse “filth is put on the ones who do not understand” is mentioned under the same meaning. Filth here is interpreted as the evil smell and punishment. The verse that you have mentioned refers to the people of the prophet Hood (PBUH) whom Allah warned them of falling the punishment. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
Does the Quran Chapter of Al-Nassur refer to the Awaited Imam (may Allah hasten his reappearance) and his time?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that the end of the verse refers to the liberation (al-fatih) which will be achieved through the Awaited Imam (may Allah hasten his reappearance) as in the holy verse “and you saw the people enter to the religion of Allah in mass groups” the word “the people” is defined with the article ‘the’ which indicates the generic use. This means that all people embrace the religion of Allah, a matter which has not happened since the time of the prophet (PBUH). This interpretation does no go hand in hand with the interpretations of the other scholars who say that it means the liberation of Mecca or opening of Khaibar gate. Should this evident victory be achieved; the divine promise mentioned in the Quran chapter of Al-Teen “So, what then shall believe you concerning the Recompense?” will be achieved. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
What is the Quran evidence that the women of the prophet (PBUH&HF) are not included in the verse of Al-Tatheer. If so, it means that even Lady Zahraa (PBUH) is not included. Would you please respond to this suspicion with Quranic evidence?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised that the privilege of Ahlulbait (PBUH) to the wives of the prophet (PBUH&HF) should not be hidden from the one who understands Arabic. There is no way to interpret – as the exponents do- that the rulings related to Ahlulbait (PBUH) include the wives of the prophet (PBUH&HF). Though the verses were revealed in favor of Ahlulkissa (the infallibles who were under the groan of the prophet (PBUH&HF): Imams Ali, Hassan, Hussein and Lady Fatima, in addition to the prophet himself (. The fact is that the pronouns used to refer to the prophet’s (PBUH&HF) wives are used as feminine pronouns. However, the pronouns used to address which are related to the prophet’s family include feminine and masculine. Thus, it is unreasonable that the addressees include the prophet’s wives. Furthermore, the nature of the Arabic language is that it has a special system for the masculine and feminine pronouns which are different from each other. If the ruling includes both males and females, it comes in masculine forms of pronouns, and so do the males. If it is related to females, the feminine forms are used. If it is related to males and females but the males are more than the females, then as a matter of multiplicity, masculine forms are used. Ahlulkissa are four males and one female who is Lady Fatima (PBUH). As for the rulings that are related to the wives of the prophet (PBUH&HF) are all in feminine forms. This is the borderline between the ones who are concerned with the verse of Al-Tatheer and the wives of the prophet (PBUH&HF). The holy Quran is eloquent in conveying such meaning, and there is no excuse for those who have a heart or listen attentively while witnessing, regardless to the large number of the narrations concerned with the revelation of the verse of Al-Tatheer.
You should know that including all the verses related to Ahlulkissa (PBUH) within the rules of the prophet’s wives only show the greatness of Ahlulbait (PBUH), just like when you put white near black, the black makes the white brighter, and the white makes the black darker. Allah says: “believers are representatives of one another” showing the characteristics of the believers, and right after this verse the verse “the hypocrites represent one another” showing the contradicting characteristics of the hypocrites, as in the chapter of the Zumar “the ones who are unbelievers have been sent off to the hell in cohorts”. It is known that sending people to the hell is done involuntarily and by coercion - may Allah forbid. After this verse, “the ones who are believers have been sent to the heaven in groups.” It is known that sending the believers is recognized with respect and dignity from Allah to those who love Allah, and thus Allah has graced them with entering the heaven. Therefore, sending the criminals is humiliation and insult while sending the righteous ones is honoring and reverence so that the righteous is differentiated form the sinners. The righteous ones and sinners are recognized. In such similar way, Allah wants to distinguish Ahlulkissa (PBUH) from all the other ones who are related to the prophet (PBUH) through marriage. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
The ones who are disputers mention the following claim against the following Quran verse: “Those who disbelieve have this day despaired of your religion. Do not fear them, but fear Me. This day I have perfected your religion for you and completed My favor to you. I have approved Islam to be your religion. (As for) he who does not intend to commit a sin but is constrained by hunger to eat of what is forbidden, then surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.”:
1. In the verse, there is an evident indication that most of the companions of the prophet (PBUH&HF) were true believers and that their faith had led the unbelievers to be desperate from fighting the monotheists.
2. In the holy verse, there is a rejection or a refutation that it was revealed on favor of Imam Ali (PBUH). If it indicates the Imamate (leadership) or the representativeness, how come believers renegade from the religion? And where is the despair if the aim of apostasy was achieved after the verse in about four months?
Answer
A/ 1. In the name of Allah, the verse refers to the completion of the religion in terms of its branches and fundamentals in a way that there is no defect or shortage or even ambiguity which might lead the infidels to question the religion. This is evident in the part of the verse “today, I have completed your religion for you”. Additionally, it is the same way the chapter of Al-Munafiqen is interpreted as well as what is indicated in the chapter of Al-Juma’a “if they see a business or amusement, they will quickly rush to it, leaving you alone”. Furthermore, it is the reason behind the escape of a large number at the time of wars and rejecting to pledge homage to the representative of Allah and breaking their promise that they would not escape. Allah knows best.
A/2. In the name of Allah, the apostasy happened as it happened to the people of Israel after they went out of the sea and passed by a village whose residents used to worship the idols. They asked Muses (PBUH) to make them a god like that of the villagers’. It also happened as it happened to the same people when Muses (PBUH) was on the mountain of Toor for invocation and was late for days and they kept worshiping the calf. Afterward, Allah openly says as the apostasy happened “If he dies or is killed, will you turn about on your heels?”. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
Does Quran or prophetic tradition have extra words or letters?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it does not mean extra grammatical items added to the holy Quran, rather it means the extra idiomatic items which must have a reason. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
Is the Basmalah which is the utterance “In the name of Allah, the most Compassionate, the most Merciful” a Quranic verse? Can we recite it as a separate chapter?
Answer
In the name of Allah, definitely, for Shia Twelvers, the Basmalah is a part of each Quranic chapter, except the chapter of Al-Tawbah (Repentance), and in the chapter of Al-Namil this utterance is repeated twice: at the beginning of the chapter and within the chapter, in the message of the prophet Suleiman (PBUH) to Balqees. If one recites any Quranic chapter –except the chapter of Al-Tawbah (Repentance), he should start with the Basmalah. Allah knows best.
Are there relations among the verses of the Quranic chapter? Is there any relation among the chapters themselves in that the chapter has some relation to the next chapter according to the way they are arranged in the holy Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, some scholars have searched this area; chief among them is the book “Nudhum Al-Durar fi Tarteebul Siwar”. Most of the scholars try to relate the verses to each other and so do the chapters. What we should say is that as long as the arrangement of the Quran is done by the prophet (PBUH&HF) according to Allah’s order, there must be a reason for this arrangement. The act of the Wise (Allah) is not without a reason whether or not we know it. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
Allah says: “Stay in your homes and do not display your finery as pagan women used to do in the olden Days of Ignorance. Establish your prayers, pay the obligatory charity, and obey Allah and His Messenger. O family of the House, Allah only wishes to distance fault from you, and to cleanse you, and to purify you abundantly.”
The question is in the part “O family of the House, Allah only wishes to distance fault from you, and to cleanse you, and to purify you abundantly.” It is narrated that Othman, in his Quran, put the abovementioned part to the following part “Stay in your homes and do not display your finery as pagan women used to do in the olden Days of Ignorance. Establish your prayers, pay the obligatory charity, and obey Allah and His Messenger.” Is that correct? What is the evidence?
Answer
In the name of Allah, I believe that Quran is compiled entirely at the time of the prophet (PBUH&HF) as the holy spirit dictates. The Quran is not left scattered as the ones who have nothing to do with religion claim. Additionally, the Hadith of the two precious things (Hadithul Thaqlain) is an evident example to it, when he (PBUH&HF) said “I entrust you with the two precious things the book of Allah…”. The book of Allah cannot be named so unless it is written or craved. The prophet (PBUH&HF), as it is known, did not die by chance, he had been told about his death a year earlier. Thinking that the Quran is left scattered, the prophet himself is the one responsible for losing the Quran. However, how come that the prophet (PBUH&HF) paid attention to assign the kalifate but not did not pay attention to the Quran?!
The holy Quran was arranged according to the commandment of the prophet (PBUH&HF) in a way which is different from the way in which the Quran was revealed. This is according to Allah’s order.
As for Allah’s saying “Allah wishes…” which is included in the discourse related to women, any rational man should not imagine that the power of the infallibility includes the prophet’s (PBUH&HF) wives due to the differences of the pronouns and the necessity of contradiction between the implications of this discourse on this occasion. This is related to Allah, even if we are able to know it. Otherwise, we ignore most of parties for which the Quran chapters and verses are revealed. This issue might be one of them, which has a suspicion which is refuted in less than what we have mentioned. Allah is the all Guide.
There is a group of Quranic verses which proves that Allah, no one else, possess everything. One of the verses is: “for Allah everything in heavens and earth glorifies. Allah has the dominion. For Allah all the praise, He is capable of everything”. There is another group of Quranic verse which proves that the dominion is not only for Allah. One of such verses are: “my lord, you have given me from dominion and taught me how to interpret the Hadiths.” How to deal with these two groups? Are the people who say that the dominion is not attributed to Allah considered Infidels?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the first group refers to the complete power of Allah as He is the only constant existent and from Him all the things came into being, and heavens and earth have been established. As for the power and dominion for other than Him, it is a grant from Allah the exalted. The exact interpretation for it in the second group is that Allah authorizes some of the creatures to serve human beings. Therefore, power will be for other than Allah, but it is restricted and limited from Allah the exalted. Therefore, the power of those other than Allah as that of the prophet (PBUH&HF), the Imams (PBUH) or the religious rulers is limited and it is authorized from Allah as stated in some Quranic verses. Accordingly, the contradiction between the two groups is faded away. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
In the chapter of Al-Fath, verse 18: “Allah was pleased with the believers when they swore allegiance to you under the tree and He knew what was in their hearts. Therefore, He sent down tranquility upon them and rewarded them with a victory close by.” What is the story of this verse? What is meant by believers, because the ones who hate Ahlulbait (PBUH) claim that this verse was revealed for Abu Bakir?
Answer
the name of Allah, the most important book which explains this verse and is reliable for Sunni is “Aldurl Manthoor”. This book has not mentioned what you have just referred to. On the other hand, the verse implicates that Allah is pleased with the believers on a condition that the believers are the ones who believe in their heart and mind, where amongst the fundamentals of faith is to pledge homage to Imam Ali ibin Abu Talib (PBUH). Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
What is Jizyah (a tribute paid by non-Muslims under Muslim regime)? Does it contradict justice? There is a verse in the Holy Quran, Chapter of Al-Tawbah saying: “until they pay tribute out of hand and have been humiliated.” What is meant by that?”
Answer
In the name of Allah, when the infidel who lives under Muslims’ protection pays the tribute, he should be modest, not seeking to be appreciated by Muslims. It is known that such rules exist in the considerate Islam which reserves all human rights that are not available for the time being. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
In the name of Allah, if your intention is to object to the One Who says the words, I advise you to repent to Allah, before the bad consequences of such an act happen to you in this world before the hereafter. On the other hand, if you mean that language of Quran is not Arabic, a consensus agreement that Quran is revealed in Arabic, especially the proper nouns in it and so do the other types of nouns, as their rules are the same as those of the proper nouns. Additionally, Quran does not contain non- Arabic derivations. Allah is the all Guide and Knowing.
I would like to have an interpretation to the following verse: “Believers, have fear of Allah and seek the means by which you come to Him. Struggle in His Way in order that you are prosperous”?
Answer
In the name of Allah, Allah orders us to have piety because piety is the key to accept all deeds, as Allah says “Allah only accepts the deeds of the pious ones”. Allah also urges us towards whatever leads to Allah. This can be achieved through several things. It can be achieved through good deeds and recommended prayers such as Nawafil of the night as the Imam (PBUH) recommends. It could also be achieved through another aspect which is to win Ahlulbaits’ (PBUH) intercession. They (PBUH) are a crucial means to get us closer to Allah the exalted. Allah is the All-Guide and Knowing.
When I recite the whole Quran and want to dedicate the rewards of the recitation to a group of our diseased believers, is there any formula for that? Should I mention their name when dedicating?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it is enough to have the names in mind as an intention that you will dedicate the rewards of recitation of the whole Quran for them. Be advised that you can dedicate the act of recitation to a group and the rewards of the same recitation for another group or a person. Thus, in doing so, you will have two deeds; one is the recitation and the other is the rewards. Such acts are worshiping good deeds. Allah is the All-Expanded and Knowing.
Is the phonetic rule of Quran recitation from Ahlulbait (PBUH)? Taking a glance at the Islamic society, one might not find the Shia scholars interested in this field. For followers of Ahlulbait (PBUH), normal recitation of the Quran is preferred rather than the phonetic rules of Quran recitation. What is the reason?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it seems from your words that you are not aware of what Fatwas our scholars have and I have in this regard. The prayer’s pronunciation should follow the phonetic rules of Quran recitation which are of two types: A. The recitation will not be correct unless the phonetic rules of recitation are correct; something related to the articulations. B. The rules that embellish and better the recitation. This is not obligatory, a matter that the outstanding Shia scholars have stated and so have I. We have also stated that the first type should be paid much attention in terms of the phonetic rules of reciting the holy Quran such as the pronunciation of correct short vowels and where to pause or not to pause. Any incorrect short vowel or pause is considered a different melody and incorrect utterance. Some scholars regard parsing as overt melody and articulations as covert melody. Allah is the All- Guide and Knowing.
What is the opinion of our respected scholars in the issue of Distortion of Quran?
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that distortion is attributed to all the disputers and it is found in their books even that of Al-Bukhari. Some of our Shia scholars, as Abu Al-Qasim Al-Khoee (may Allah rest his soul in peace), however, denied it in his book “Al-Bayan”. I, myself, deny and reject the Quran distortion. If distortion is meant to increase or decrease in the Quran, it is not proved for me. What is proved for me is that the Quran was compiled and written at the time of the Prophet (PBUH&HF), a reason why he (PBUH&HF) said I entrust you with the two precious things: the book of Allah and my progeny. If the book is not written, how come the prophet called it a book?! Allah is the All-Guide and Knowing.
Is it obligatory to stop everything and listen to the Quran when being recited (sometimes it is being recited in many mosques at the same time)? What if the voice is not understood? What if one cannot hear the voice well?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the verse which ordered us to listen to Quran has been clarified by the Infallibles (PBUH) as the one which is recited loudly by the Imam (the leader of the congregational prayers) and it is obligatory for the one who prays after the Imam to listen to it if he hears the Imam’s voice. Allah knows best.
Whoever recites the chapter of Al-Tawbah, he seeks refuge to Allah from Satan and starts reciting without saying bismillah arrahmanul Raheem. In case, the reciter does not finish the chapter and wants to continue next day, after seeking refuge, should he recite the Basmalah, i.e. saying bismillah arrahmanul Raheem?
Answer
In the name of Allah, it is permissible to start with the Basmalah, provided that he is not allowed to regard the Basmalah as part of the Quran chapter. In other words, starting with the Basmalah is regarded as an act in which Basmalah is required as entering into or getting out of a room. As for seeking refuge, it should be uttered before reciting. Allah knows best.
It is mentioned in the holy Quran in the chapter of Al-Nahl, verse 98, which says: “If you recite Quran, you should seek Allah’s refuge from the stoned Satan”. Should the reciter say, “I seek refuge to Allah from the stoned Satan” before starting, not in another way like “I seek refuge to Allah from the evil of the stoned Satan”? If the reciter does not seek refuge from Satan, would he be a sinner?
Answer
In the name of Allah, the abovementioned formula is correct as required to seek refuge from the evil of the stoned Satan. However, shortening it in the way which says” I seek refuge to Allah from the stoned Satan” is better, following the Infallibles (PBUH). If the reciter does not seek the refuge, he will not be a sinner, but he will miss the reward of seeking refuge from Satan. Allah knows best.
Why is the name of the chapter Al Yaseen written Il Yaseen instead of Al Yaseen? Which one is correct? Is it permissible to recite it either way?
Answer
In the name of Allah, we have to commit to the way of reciting which is compatible to the writing. Thus, it is read as: Il Yaseen. This word is treated like the separated graphemes at the beginning of the chapters which should be persevered as they are until the reappearance of the Awaited Imam (may Allah hasten his reappearance) to interpret them. Allah knows best.
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that the names of most or all of the Quran chapters representing worshiping acts, although some imagine that some chapters are named after a particular issue in the chapter. Ikhlas precisely means monotheism, a reason why it is also named Chapter of Monotheism. Allah knows best.
My question is about the phonetic rules of Quranic recitation. Is it important in our Shia school of thought? Is following it regarded as an act of worship? Does it increase the reward of the reciter?
Answer
In the name of Allah, phonetic rules of Quranic recitation vary. Some of them are related to the pronunciation of the utterance; where to pause and not to pause, a matter which should be taken into consideration when reciting the holy Quran. Some of them are related to improving and bettering the recitation. This varies according to the different reciters and/or the Arabic dialects, a matter which does not have to be taken into consideration when reciting the holy Quran.
A suspicion and a question raised by the ones who disagree with Ahlulbait (PBUH) school of thought regarding the Quranic verse “Ayatul Mubahala” 61 Al Umran chapter which says: “Come, let us gather our sons and your sons, our womenfolk and your womenfolk, ourselves and yourselves…”. According to Ahlulbait’s (PBUH) interpretation, the verse conveys the interpretation that Imam Ali’s (PBUH) self is the same as the Prophet (PBUH&HF), while the disputers raise another reasoning that the sameness of the self contradicts the verse 79 in Al-Nissa chapter “the rewards that you have is from Allah, but the sin you have is through yourself”, and verse “ say if I was misguided, I am responsible for misguidance. If I was guided, then it is what my Lord wishes for me”, and so as the verse 50 Sabaa chapter which cannot interpret the Prophet’s and Imam Ali’s (PBUH) selves as the same. This is a second obligation that the Prophet’s and Imam Ali’s (PBUH) selves are not the same. The verse 61 in Al-Noor chapter which says: “When you enter houses, greet (with peace) one another with a salutation from Allah, blessed and good”. When the Messenger (PBUH) used to enter his house to Aisha and other wives, he used to greet her. Apparently, as in the verse, Aisha is the same as the Messenger’s (PBUH&HF) self. This is another obligation which refutes your justification, Twelver Imamia.
Answer
In the name of Allah, be advised, my son, that the verse of Al-Mubahala in which Imam Ali was regarded as the same self as the Prophet (PBUH) implicates that the status of someone is the same as of another’s in certain aspects not all. Otherwise, the one who is likened to another would be able to do whatever the latter does. Accordingly, the verse of Al-Mubahala is separated from all the verses that you have indicated. Additionally, the verse concerning greeting does not mean to greet or salute whomever in the house. If there is an infidel in the house, should the Muslim greet the infidel when entering the house? Scientifically speaking, the acceptable interpretation of the verse is that if one enters the house which has no one, one may greet himself. Allah knows best.
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