Distinctions of Divine Prophets
One distinction of divine prophets is receiving revelation, through which they maintain a connection with God and receive divine messages.
The Holy Quran tells the Holy Prophet (PBUH) about former prophets: “The messengers that We had sent before you were only men to whom We had given revelation. Ask the People of the Book if you do not know.” (Verse 7 of Surah Al-Anbiya)
There are many points about revelations, two of which are discussed here:
Why Don’t We Receive Revelation?
Not all hearts are ready for receiving revelation. There needs to be Ikhlas (purity of intention), Taqwa (God-fearing) and many more preconditions. The heart must be fully prepared for receiving revelation. Even correct recognition of issues requires pure heart that those with Taqwa and strong belief possess.
We read in the Quran, “Believers, have fear of God and believe in His Messenger. God will grant you a double share of mercy, a light by which you can walk, and forgive your sins. God is All-forgiving and All-merciful.” (Verse 28 of Surah Al-Hadid)
According to this verse, even the light (that shows the straight path) is not given to everyone, let alone revelation.
God says in Verse 29 of Surah Al-Anfal: “Believers, if you fear God, He will give you guidance, will expiate your bad deeds and forgive you. God's favors are the greatest.”
On his path in life, man needs criteria for distinguishing the truth from falsehood, good from evil, friend from enemy, and elements of salvation from those of misfortune and damnation. One’s intellect is ready to give him this knowledge but there are always dusts such as greed, lust, selfishness, envy, and extreme desires that blur his vision and prevent him from having a correct understanding of the situations in life. Here the rain of Taqwa can wash away the dust and help the intellect see the reality.
If in a society the press, radio and TV stations and advertisements are run based on some individuals’ worldly desires, soon there will be a situation in which people will be confused and unable to determine who is right and who is not.
But if biases, prejudices, and worldly desires are abandoned and people are left to decide for themselves, they can reach many truths and recognize many falsehoods.
We read in Verse 282 of Surah Al-Baqarah: “Have fear of God. God teaches you.”
Man’s heart is like a mirror. If its dust is removed, it can reflect the light of God. Even understanding and learning the truth requires pure heart and healthy spirit, let alone receiving revelation.
God tells the Holy Prophet (PBUH) in Verses 44-46 of Surah Al-Haqqa: “”
