THE GREATEST AUTHOR
We often use the words writer and author interchangeably, but there is a slight distinction in that the author holds a higher degree. Not all writers are authors, but all authors are writers. An author writes professionally, publishes books and has gained recognition for their publications. The word “author” finds its roots in Latin: auctor, meaning creator, producer, originator, and authority.
Bookish types, including myself, extol the praises of the world’s great authors, and rightfully so. These literary giants have honed their penning skills into fine art and received the highest worldly acclaim. We offer ovations for their achievements, even long after their death.
But how many of us read the Quran and sing praises for the Greatest Author? Does the text move and inspire us, instilling within us a sense of awe? Do we allow it to inform us? Do our hearts stir at its mention? Are we mesmerised by it as we are by other texts? Do we weep in humility for its truth? Do our souls yearn to spend time with it?
We are in Allah’s company when we spend time with the Quran.
Indeed, the truest meaning of the word (title) author at its root is Allah’s, and His Speech is the Highest.
THE BOOKISH PROPHET
The Prophet Muhammad (s) was a creative genius. The most innovative, imaginative and unexpected bargaining ever used in war was his. After the Battle of Badr, the Prophet struck a deal with the prisoners of war: pay your ransom by teaching ten Muslims to read, proving the Prophet (s) valued literacy over spoils. This ingenious approach had many other benefits. The highest was learning to read the Quran and, thereby, gain the brightest lamp to light life’s path.
“I (Muhammad) am commanded to recite the Quran.” [27:92]
P.S. Reflect on what the other possible benefits of this strategy were.
The Muslim world is stirring and ripe with expectancy. It’s the month of the Prophet, Rabi ‘al Awwal, and the 12th, generally considered the day of his birth, is dawning. As the wave of excitement builds, it sweeps many into its current. But those who nurture their love for the Prophet Muhammad (s) all year round get to continue their swim toward him long after the wave’s energy ebbs. Keeping the flow, one must fall in love with him, and to fall in love with him means loving and following his message, the Quran.
Until next week, InshaAllah
Zaahied Sallie
Author of The Beloved Prophet – An Illustrated Biography in Rhyme
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