TheQuranGuides

I am from India. I have spent the last decade working in management consulting. Born and raised in a Hindu family, my early years were immersed in the rich mythologies and stories of my religion, which sparked my curiosity about the larger questions of existence—such as where we come from, what happens after this life, and the overall purpose of life. However, none of the religious scriptures I encountered provided satisfying answers to these deep questions.

At 28, I discovered the Buddhist scriptures and delved into the Pali canon, which offered me valuable insights into moral conduct and meditation practices( which is as simple as closing your eyes and following the sounds that goes outside and gradually shutting them off and focussing on the inner flux of thoughts and gradually closing them out, people have made it complex so as to run a business out of it ). Although these scriptures discussed essential principles like good deeds, controlling desires, and the concepts of reward and punishment in the afterlife, they lacked a concrete framework to guide my duties and responsibilities.

In my mid-thirties, I came across the Qur'an through a friend in India. I began reading The Qur'an by Ahmed Ali and was impressed by the eloquence and coherence of its verses. The translation stretched the limits of English to capture the essence of the Qur'an, though I felt some elements made it seem specific to Islam. I questioned whether a book claiming divine origin should have a universal message applicable to all. Guided by the same friend, I discovered the works of Sam Gerrans and Said Mirza. Their insights have clarified many of my earlier questions about the Qur'an.

I believe that if the Qur'an is to be seen as embodying integrity and universality, its guidance should be relevant to all people, across all times. Therefore, the Qur'an addresses broad and abstract concepts but remains practical and actionable. It offers a framework for action expressed in general yet practical terms. Key terms and concepts should be understood in a legalistic, general, and action-oriented way. Translations should capture these elements, focusing on intentions, desires, attitudes, behaviors, and thought patterns. As a guide or agreement, the Qur'an's teachings should align within the broader context of human relationships, helping individuals apply its principles effectively in their own lives.

Reading, reflecting on, and applying the Qur'an has become a daily ritual for me. I look forward to connecting with others who share similar inclinations in this forum. Thank you, Said, for inviting me to join.


Note : As for my approach to dealing with personal life relationship , I follow the following Quranic message from Chapter 31, Verse 15 :


“But if they strive with thee to make thee ascribe a partnership to that of which thou hast no knowledge, then obey thou them not. And accompany thou them in the World according to what is fitting; but follow thou the path of him who turns to Me. Then to Me is your return, and I will tell you what you did.”
 
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Peace be upon you Bibhas,

I also read Yusuf Ali's translation of the Qur'an for the first time and I could see that the Qur'an was actually condemning the Muslims; the very same people who claimed to follow it!

The Qur'an is literal, practical and actionable.

Thank you for sharing your story! I look forward to interacting with you more, brother.

-Said
 
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