and the next is found within it in relation to its worth. But why does the Qur’an not mention them explicitly so that obstinate unbelievers would be compelled to confirm it and our hearts also would be easy?”

The Answer: Religion is an examination, a test, proposed by God so that in the arena of competition elevated spirits and base spirits may be distinguished from one another. Just as materials are plunged in the fire so that diamonds and coal, gold and earth, separate out from one another, so too religion is a trial concerning the obligations placed on human beings by God and a driving to competition, which is what this abode of examination consists of. In this way the elevated jewels in the mine of human abilities become separated out from the dross. Since the Qur’an was revealed in this abode of examination for humans to be perfected through trial in the arena of competition, it will surely only allude to the hidden events of the future pertaining to this world which everyone will see, and will only open the door to the intelligence to a degree that proves its argument. If it mentioned them explicitly, the mystery of human accountability would be negated. Simply, it would be as self-evident as writing “There is no god but God” clearly in stars on the face of the skies. Then everyone would have to affirm it whether they wanted to or not. There would be no competition and the examination would go for nothing. A coal-like spirit would remain on the same level as a diamond-like spirit. [^9]

[^9]:Abu Jahl the Accursed and Abu Bakr the Truthful would appear to be equal, and the mystery of the examination set by God, lost.

In Short: The All-Wise Qur’an is wise; it affords everything a position in relation to its value. Thus, one thousand three hundred years ago, the Qur’an saw concealed in the darkness of the future, humankind’s hidden fruits and progress, and showed them in a form better than we see and shall see. This means that the Qur’an is the Word of One Who sees at the same instant all time and all within it.

Thus, one flash of the Qur’an’s miraculousness which shines on the face of the miracles of the prophets.

O God! Grant us understanding of the mysteries of the Qur’an and success in the service of it at every instant at all times.

Glory be unto You! We have no knowledge save that which You have taught us; indeed, You are All-Knowing, All-Wise.(2:32)

O God! Grant blessings and peace and benedictions and honour to our master and lord Muhammad, Your servant and