Quran: An ‘Abandoned’ Book
One of the most thought-provoking and significant verses in the Quran pertains to verse 30 of Surah Furqan. In this verse, Allah conveys a message from the Prophet regarding the Day of Judgment: “The Messengers will say, ‘Lord, my people had abandoned this Quran.’”
Another hadith by Imam Baqir (AS) sheds light on another aspect of the issue. The hadith reads:
On that day, the Almighty will say: "O my proof on Earth and the voice of my truthful messenger, raise your head and make your requests, for they shall be granted, and intercede so that your pleas may be accepted. How have you found my servants?" Thus, the Quran says: "O my Lord, some of them upheld my teachings and wasted nothing, while others disregarded me, humiliated me, and denied my message, despite my role as a guide for all of creation." God then declares: "I swear by my majesty, today I shall reward you with the finest rewards and punish those who have caused you pain most severely."
This discussion holds immense importance, as it finds mention not only in the Quran but also in the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). Its significance extends further because the happiness or sorrow of individuals hinges on their adherence to the Quran.
Mullah Mohsen Fayz Kashani, a prominent Shia figure, shared his experience regarding the neglect of the Quran and its impact on human guidance. He stated, "I wrote books, conducted research, but found no remedy for my pain, no water for my thirst; I was afraid and turned to God in prayer until the Quran and Hadith guided me."
Some interpretations define neglect as not reciting the Quran, failing to make it a foundation in one's life, neglecting its contemplation, not acting upon it, and neglecting to teach it to others. In another interpretation, even failing to follow a single verse constitutes neglect of the Quran.
Hence, those who wish to avoid reproach from the Prophet (PBUH) and the Quran on the Day of Judgment must earnestly engage in reading the Quran and adhering to its guidance.
In another narration, Imam Baqir (AS) quotes Imam Ali (AS) as saying: "I am the remembrance from which people strayed, the path they deviated from, the faith they disbelieved in, the Quran they abandoned, and the religion they denied."
This narration helps us understand why Imam Ali (AS) was a reference to the Quran.
He was a live Quran whose words were meant to be followed under all circumstances. Nevertheless, history reveals that the people of his time oppressed him and the Imam's rightful position was unjustly taken away from him.
The comprehension of the Quran should be rooted in the interpretations of the Imams (AS). This historical account demonstrates how extensive misinterpretation led to the abandonment of the Quran's true meaning.
