Status of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and Quran: A Seal and Touchstone

According to Islam, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is one of the many messengers sent to humankind by God almighty.

However, chronologically, he happens to be the Seal of the Prophets often interpreted as the last and final messenger of God on Earth to have propounded god-consciousness on such a vast scale.

Similarly, the Holy Quran is also a touchstone and criteria to distinguish truth from falsehood and often said to be one of the last, final and conclusive revelation of God almighty for humanity on such a scale before the day of Judgement.

It does not propound any new religion but it only substantiates, confirms, and authenticates what had already been revealed in earlier scriptures to earlier Prophets who came before Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the same is evident from the authentic verses and narration’s cited below.

Status of Muhammad PBUH

No good person of any culture, civilisation or background can have any problem in accepting the goodness of Prophet Muhammad PBUH.

Isn’t this strange that people in this world so easily accept, revere and worship so many charlatans, fake Gurus and priests claiming to possess miraculous powers, designating them as deputies, angels and what not of the unseen God. People also readily believe in and even boast about their belief in crores and crores of deities and just everything.

However, when it comes to accepting Muhammad PBUH not as a God or Deity but simply as slave of God, people develop a strange form of inhibition and aversion against him.

How can they then not accept Muhammad who never claimed to possess any supernatural powers or knowledge but was so humble and down to earth that he simply called himself a plane Warner and a slave of God Almighty and lived a simple and ascetic life?

And what did he warn people of? That God is one, worship none but God and do Good in life and be kind to each other especially kith and kin.

Slave of God

So God revealed to His slave [Muhammad] whatever He revealed. 53:10

Blessed be He Who sent down the criterion (of right and wrong, i.e. this Quran) to His slave (Muhammad) that he may be a warner to the world. 25:1

It is He Who sends down manifest verses (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) to His slave (Muhammad) that He may bring you out from darkness into light. And verily, God is to you full of kindness, Most Merciful. 57:9

All the praises and thanks be to God, Who has sent down to His slave (Muhammad) the Book (the Quran), and has not placed therein any crookedness. 18:1

Say (O Muhammad): “Praise and thanks be to God, and peace be on His slaves whom He has chosen (for His Message)! Is God better, or that you ascribe as partners (to Him)?”

And if ye are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad), then produce a surah of the like thereof, and call your witness beside God if ye are truthful. 2:23

Narrated Umar: I heard the Prophet saying, “Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a Slave. So, call me the Slave of Allah and His Apostle.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3445)

Plane Warner

Say [O Muhammad], ‘I am not the first of God’s messengers, and I do not know what will be done with me or with you: I do not follow anything but what is revealed to me, and I am merely a plain warner.’ Al-Quran 46:9

We have surely sent you with the truth as a deliverer of good news and a warner. There is no community that has not had a warner. 35:24

إِنَّآ أَرْسَلْنَـٰكَ شَـٰهِدًۭا وَمُبَشِّرًۭا وَنَذِيرًۭا ٨

Indeed, ˹O Prophet,˺ We have sent you as a witness, a deliverer of good news, and a warner. 48:8

And they swore by God their strongest oaths that if a warner came to them, they would be more guided than [any] one of the [previous] nations. But when a warner came to them, it did not increase them except in aversion. 35:42

O people of the Book, Our Messenger has come to you making things clear to you after a gap between Messengers, lest you were to say, “There has not come to us a bearer of good news, and a warner.” So, now there has come to you a bearer of good news, and a warner. Allah is powerful over everything. 5:19

Seal of Prophecy

According to the Holy Quran, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is neither the first nor the one and only messenger of God but he is the seal of the prophethood i.e. the messenger of God sent to humankind to confirm and authenticate the teachings of previous messengers.

While Quran does not explicitly states so but many scholars believe that that after Muhammad PBUH, no other prophet is going to come in same form and situation till the day of judgment.

Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah has ˹perfect˺ knowledge of all things. Holy Quran 33:40

What Prophet wanted in Return?

It is that of which Allah gives good tidings to His servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, [O Muhammad], “I do not ask you for this message any payment but only good will through kinship.” And whoever commits a good deed, We will increase for him good therein. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Appreciative. Al-Quran 42:23

Did Prophet know everything?

The issue of the infallibility of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is quite a contentious issue amongst Muslims.

While some believe that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born like any other human being and later chosen by God as his messenger, others firmly believe that the Prophet (PBUH) was born a Prophet with the knowledge of the unseen.

Nevertheless, even if Prophets were common human beings, literates or illiterates in worldly senses, they were still special and must be seen as such because they were bestowed with Prophethood by Allah Almighty.

In this regard following verses are noteworthy.

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “I do not say to you that I possess Allah’s treasuries or know the unseen, nor do I claim to be an angel. I only follow what is revealed to me.” Say, “Are those blind ˹to the truth˺ equal to those who can see? Will you not then reflect?” 6:50

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “I am only a man like you, ˹but˺ it has been revealed to me that your God is only One God. So take the Straight Way towards Him, and seek His forgiveness. And woe to the polytheists. (Al-Quran 41:6)

Say [O Muhammad], “I do not know if what you are promised is near or my Lord has set a distant time for it. He [God] is the Knower of the unseen, disclosing none of it to anyone except messengers of His choice. Then He appoints angel-guards before and behind them to ensure that the messengers fully deliver the messages of their Lord – though He ˹already˺ knows all about them, and keeps account of everything. Al-Quran 72:25-28

Say [O Muhammad], ‘I am not the first of God’s messengers, and I do not know what will be done with me or with you: I do not follow anything but what is revealed to me, and I am merely a plain warner.’ Al-Quran 46:9

We did not send ˹messengers˺ before you ˹O Prophet˺ except mere men inspired by Us. If you ˹polytheists˺ do not know ˹this already˺, then ask those who have knowledge ˹of the Scriptures˺. Holy Quran 21:7

We did not give those messengers ˹supernatural˺ bodies that did not need food, nor were they immortal. Then We fulfilled Our promise to them, saving them along with whoever We willed and destroying the transgressors. Holy Quran 21:8-9

He is the One Who raised for the illiterate ˹people˺ a messenger from among themselves—reciting to them His revelations, purifying them, and teaching them the Book and wisdom, for indeed they had previously been clearly astray. (Holy Quran 62:2)

This is the favour of Allah. He grants it to whoever He wills. And Allah is the Lord of infinite bounty. (Holy Quran 62:4)

Indeed, We have granted you a clear triumph ˹O Prophet so that Allah may forgive you for your past and future shortcomings, perfect His favour upon you, guide you along the Straight Path. 48:1-2

Narrated `Umar: I heard the Prophet saying, “Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a Slave. So, call me the Slave of Allah and His Apostle.” Sahih al-Bukhari 3445

Narrated Abu Huraira, Two persons, a Muslim and a Jew, quarreled. The Muslim said, “By Him Who gave Muhammad superiority over all the people! The Jew said, “By Him Who gave Moses superiority over all the people!” At that, the Muslim raised his hand and slapped the Jew on the face. The Jew went to the Prophet and informed him of what had happened between him and the Muslim. The Prophet sent for the Muslim and asked him about it. The Muslim informed him of the event. The Prophet said, “Do not give me superiority over Moses, for on the Day of Resurrection all the people will fall unconscious and I will be one of them, but I will. be the first to gain consciousness, and will see Moses standing and holding the side of the Throne (of Allah). I will not know whether (Moses) has also fallen unconscious and got up before me, or Allah has exempted him from that stroke.” Sahih al-Bukhari Volume 3 Book 41 Number 594

Ar-Rubai bint Muawwidh said: “The morning after the consummation of my marriage, the Prophet came and sat on my bed as far from me as you are sitting now, and our little girls started beating the Duff and reciting verses mourning my father who had been killed in the battle of Badr. One of them said: ‘Among us is a Prophet who knows what will happen tomorrow.’ On that, the Prophet said: ‘Stop saying this, and keep on saying what you were saying before.’” Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1090

It was narrated that ‘Ali said: “The Unlettered Prophet informed me (saying) that none but a believer would love me and none but a hypocrite would hate me.” Sunan Ibn Majah Book 1, Hadith 114

Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with both of them) reported Allah’s Apostle as saying: We are an unlettered people who can neither write nor count. The month is thus, and thus folding his thumb when he said it the third time. Sahih Muslim 1080n

Sahih Muslim 2600a A’isha reported that two persons visited Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and both of them talked about a thing, of which I am not aware, but that annoyed him and he invoked curse upon both of them and hurled malediction, and when they went out I said: Allah’s Messenger, the good would reach everyone but it would not reach these two. He said: Why so? I said: Because you have invoked curse and hurled malediction upon both of them. He said: Don’t you know that I have made condition with my Lord saying thus: O Allah, I am a human being and that for a Muslim upon whom I invoke curse or hurl malediction make it a source of purity and reward.

Sahih Muslim 2601b Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Apostle (ﷺ) as saying: O Allah, I make a covenant with Thee against which Thou wouldst never go. I am a human being and thus for a Muslim whom I give any harm or whom I scold or upon whom I invoke curse or whom I beat, make this a source of blessing, purification, and nearness to Thee on the Day of Resurrection.

Sahih Muslim 2601e Salim, the freed slave of Nasriyyin, said: I heard Abu Huraira as saying that he heard Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: O Allah, Muhammad is a human being. I lose my temper just as human beings lose temper, and I have held a covenant with Thee which Thou wouldst not break: For a believer whom I give any trouble or invoke curse or beat, make that an expiation (of his sins and a source of) his nearness to Thee on the Day of Resurrection.

Did Prophet had Supernatural Powers?

Only Allah almighty is capable of doing anything (Inna Allah kulli shaiyin qadeer).

Say [O Prophet], “It is not in my power to harm or benefit you.” 72:21

Say [O Prophet], “I hold not for myself [the power of] benefit or harm, except what Allāh has willed. And if I knew the unseen, I could have acquired much wealth, and no harm would have touched me. I am not except a warner and a bringer of good tidings to a people who believe.”7:188

Say [Prophet], ‘I cannot control any harm or benefit that comes to me, except as God wills. There is an appointed term for every community, and when it is reached they can neither delay nor hasten it, even for a moment.’ 10:49

He invokes instead of Allāh that which neither harms him nor benefits him. That is what is the extreme error. 22:12

and ‘Do not invoke, instead of Allah, what can neither benefit nor harm you—for if you do, then you will certainly be one of the wrongdoers,’ 10:106

Abraham said, ‘How can you worship what can neither benefit nor harm you, instead of God? 21:66

Did they not see that [the calf] gave them no answer, that it had no power to harm or benefit them? 20:89

Ask ˹them, O Prophet˺, “Should we invoke, other than Allah, those ˹idols˺ which cannot benefit or harm us, and turn back to disbelief after Allah has guided us? ˹If we do so, we will be˺ like those disoriented by devils in the wilderness, while their companions call them to guidance, ˹saying˺, ‘Come to us!’ Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “Allah’s guidance is the ˹only˺ true guidance. And we are commanded to submit to the Lord of all worlds, 6:71

Guru Granth Sahib on Prophet Muhammad PBUH

This section is dedicated to those Indians who spew hatred against Islam & Prophet PBUH but claim to revere Baba Guru Nanak Dev and Sikhism whether in Good faith or in Bad faith to further their agenda of divide and rule and perpetuate the false, unjust & discriminatory brahmanical rule & domiance in the subcontinent.

How can he escape from falling into hell, when he does not remember the Prophet? (Guru Granth Sahib)

My mind has faith, that the Prophet has given You access to the Profound Lord. Your body has been purged of the deadly poison; You drink the Ambrosial Nectar deep within. Your Heart has blossomed forth in awareness of the Unseen Lord, who has infused His Power throughout the ages. O True Guru, You are intuitively absorbed in Samaadhi, with continuity and equality. You are open-minded and large-hearted, the Destroyer of poverty; seeing You, sins are afraid. Says Kal, I lovingly, continually, intuitively chant the Praises of Lehnaa with my tongue. (Guru Granth Sahib)

“It is difficult to be called a Muslim; if one is truly a Muslim, then he may be called one. First, let him savor the religion of the Prophet as sweet; then, let his pride of his possessions be scraped away. Becoming a true Muslim, a disciple of the faith of Mohammed, let him put aside the delusion of death and life. As he submits to God’s Will, and surrenders to the Creator, he is rid of selfishness and conceit. And when, O Nanak, he is merciful to all beings, only then shall he be called a Muslim.“(Guru Granth Sahib 141:10-12)

Also Read| Guru Nanak’s Teachings: Quotes from Guru Granth Sahib

Opinion of Great Personalities on Muhammad PBUH

Even many non-Muslim intellectuals and philosophers like Mahatma Gandhi, La Martiniare, Leo Tolstoy, and Martin Luther, etc were greatly impressed by Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH), simplicity, good character and personal qualities and have often expressed it in their intellectual discourses and writings.

Alphonse de Lamartine: Western

“If greatness of purpose, the smallness of means, and astonishing results are the three criteria of a human genius, who could dare compare any great man in history with Muhammad? The most famous men created arms, laws, and empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes. This man moved not only armies, legislations, empires, peoples, dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs, and the souls.” (Alphonse de LaMartaine in ‘Historie de la Turquie,’ Paris, 1854)

Mahatma Gandhi: Oriental

“I wanted to know the best of the life of one who holds today an undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind….I became more than ever convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet the scrupulous regard for pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission. These and not the sword carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the second volume (of the Prophet’s biography), I was sorry there was not more for me to read of that great life. (Mahatma Gandhi, Young India, 1924)

Leo Tolstoy: Northern

On the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Tolstoy wrote-

“Muhammad has always been standing higher than the Christianity. He does not consider god as a human being and never makes himself equal to God. Muslims worship nothing except God and Muhammad is his Messenger. There is no any mystery and secret in it.”

“It suffices Muhammad for pride that he was able to rescue a humiliated and bloody people from the devil of blameworthy habits and opened to them the way of development and progress. I am one of those who admire the Prophet Muhammad, whom God chose to carry His last message and be the last Prophet.”

‘This is indeed a great work’: Undoubtedly, the Prophet Muhammad is one of the greatest reformers who served the social community. It suffices him for pride that he guided an entire nation to the light of truth, made his people inclined to peace and tranquility and giving preference to an ascetic life, prevented them from bloodshed and offering victims from among mankind and opened to them the way of development and civility. This is indeed a great work which could be done only by a man gifted with power, and such a man is worthy of respect and honor.”

Also Read| Quotations from famous people on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Obedience to Prophet Muhammad PBUH

According to Islam, one cannot get away by having a mere belief in the Almighty without following his commandments as were revealed to Prophets all over the world and as it has been confirmed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the form of the Holy Quran.

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. And if you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. That is the best [way] and best in the result. (Al-Quran 4:59)

Say, “Obey Allah and the Messenger.” But if they turn away – then indeed, Allah does not like the disbelievers. (Al-Quran 3:32)

My duty is only to convey from Allah and His messages.” And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger will certainly be in the Fire of Hell, to stay there forever and ever. (Al-Quran 72:23)

Whoever obeys the Messenger has truly obeyed Allah. But whoever turns away, then ˹know that˺ We have not sent you ˹O Prophet˺ as a keeper over them. (Al-Quran 4:80)

And whoever defies the Messenger after guidance has become clear to them and follows a path other than that of the believers, We will let them pursue what they have chosen, then burn them in Hell—what an evil end! 4:115

Status of Islam: Not a New Religion

It is generally believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the founder of the religion of Islam.

However, according to the Holy Quran, the religion he was inviting people to was the same as that of the previous Prophets of God like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and Jesus, etc, peace be upon them all.

Further, Islam carries forward certain major principles and traditions common to religions such as belief in God (Tauheed), regular prayers (Salah), doing good things and refraining from evil deeds (amr bil maruf nahya nal munkar), fasting (Sawm), charity (Zakat), and pilgrimage (Haj), sacrifices (Eid-ul-Adha), etc.

Same Religion as of Previous Prophets and Saints

The same religion has He established for you [O Muhammad] as that which He enjoined on Noah – the which We have sent by inspiration to thee – and that which We enjoined on Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: Namely, that ye should remain steadfast in religion, and make no divisions therein: to those who worship other things than Allah, hard is the way to which thou callest them. Allah chooses to Himself those whom He pleases, and guides to Himself those who turn to Him. (Al-Quran 42:13)

Say, “We have believed in God and in what was revealed to us and what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Descendants, and in what was given to Moses and Jesus and to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and we are Muslims [submitting] to Him.” (Al-Quran 3:84)

So to that religion of Allah, I invite you, [O Muhammad], and remain on a right course as you are commanded and do not follow their inclinations but say, “I have believed in what Allah has revealed of the Qur’an, and I have been commanded to do justice among you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us are our deeds and for you, your deeds. There is no need for an argument between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to Him is the final destination. (Al-Quran 42:15)

The Long established Religion: Sanatan?

سُنَّةَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّتِى قَدْ خَلَتْ مِن قَبْلُ ۖ وَلَن تَجِدَ لِسُنَّةِ ٱللَّهِ تَبْدِيلًۭا ٢٣

˹This is˺ God’s way, already long established ˹in the past˺. And you will find no change in God’s way. 48:23

The Religion of Truth which will Prevail: Satyameva Jayate?

هُوَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أَرْسَلَ رَسُولَهُۥ بِٱلْهُدَىٰ وَدِينِ ٱلْحَقِّ لِيُظْهِرَهُۥ عَلَى ٱلدِّينِ كُلِّهِۦ ۚ وَكَفَىٰ بِٱللَّهِ شَهِيدًۭا ٢٨

He is the One Who has sent His Messenger with guidance and the religion of truth, making it prevail over all others. And sufficient is God as a Witness. 48:28

Thus, Islam is the religion of submission to God and it has been sanctioned by God for Humanity since its inception.

In this sense, it can be said to be the real and true Sanatan religion which is true and which will prevail. But if Sanatan means something which has no beginning and no end then that is a status and attribute of God almighty.

Islam duly acknowledges previous Prophets

According to the Holy Quran, before sending Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Allah had already sent Messengers in each and every community of Human beings all over the world.

They all had enjoined their respective communities to do good, refrain from bad, and submit to Allah alone without associating any partners with him. Peace be upon them all.

Islam acknowledges them all and enjoins Muslims to accord due respect to all of them on equal footing with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The Noble Prophet (PBUH) once even said that if a man believes in Jesus (as) and then believes in Him, he will get a double reward from Allah Almighty.

Before thee [O Muhammad], We sent messengers to many nations, and We afflicted the nations with suffering and adversity, that they might learn humility.(Al-Quran 6:42)

Thus has He revealed to you, [O Muhammad], as He did to those before you – Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Wise. (Al-Quran 42:3)

Say to them, ‘Surely, the true guidance is the guidance from God.’ But you think it is impossible that someone else may be granted [revelation] such as you were granted or else that they should contend against you before your Lord. Say, All grace is in the hands of God; He grants it to whom He wills: for God is boundless, and all-knowing, He singles out for His mercy whomever He pleases. God is the Lord of exceeding bounty. (Al-Quran 3:73-74)

By God! We have sent messengers before you to other nations. But Satan made their foul deeds seem fair to them and today he is their patron. It is God who splits the seed and the fruit-stone. He brings forth the living from the dead, and the dead from the living. That is God. How then can you, deluded, turn away from the truth? (Al-Quran 6:95)

Narrated Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari: Allah’s Apostle said, “If a person teaches his slave girl good manners properly, educates her properly, and then manumits and marries her, he will get a double reward. And if a man believes in Jesus and then believes in me, he will get a double reward. And if a slave fears his Lord (i.e. Allah) and obeys his masters, he too will get a double reward.” (Sahih-al-Bukhari, Volume 4, Book 55, Number 655)

Abu Sa’id al-Khudri reported the Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him) as saying: Do not distinguish between the Prophets. (Sunan Abi Dawud 4668)

Ibn ‘Abbas reported the Prophet (May peace be upon him) as saying: It is not fitting for a servant to say that I (The Prophet) is better than Jonah son of Matta. (Sunan Abi Dawud 4669)

However, the Holy Quran mentions only a few of them by name. And if we go by the name, you would be surprised to know that Prophet Jesus (PBUH) has been mentioned in the Holy Quran more times than Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Way of Abraham and Muhammad is Same PBUT

The true religion of humankind as sanctioned by the Almighty is one and it is the same for all times and for all people.

In the Holy Quran, Allah reminds Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that He has prescribed to him the same religion as was enjoined on previous Prophets including Noah, Moses, Abraham, and Jesus, peace be upon them all.

The same religion has He established for you [O Muhammad] as that which He enjoined on Noah – the which We have sent by inspiration to thee – and that which We enjoined on Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: Namely, that ye should remain steadfast in religion, and make no divisions therein: to those who worship other things than Allah, hard is the way to which thou callest them. Allah chooses to Himself those whom He pleases, and guides to Himself those who turn to Him. Al-Quran 42:13

And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth. And Allah took Abraham as an intimate friend. Al-Quran 4:125

They say, “Be Jews or Christians [so] you will be guided.” Say, “Rather, [we follow] the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth, and he was not of the polytheists.” Al-Quran 2:135

Say, [O believers], “We have believed in Allah and what has been revealed to us and what has been revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Descendants and what was given to Moses and Jesus and what was given to the PROPHETS from their Lord. We make NO DISTINCTION between any of them, and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him“. Al-Quran 2:136

And who is better in faith than those who submit themselves to God, do good, and follow the Way of Abraham, the upright? Allah chose Abraham as a close friend. 4:125

Anas said: A man said to the Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him): O best of all creatures! The Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him) said: That was Abraham (peace be upon him). Sunan Abi Dawud 4672

Anas bin Malik narrated that: A man said to the Prophet: “O best of creatures!” So he said: “That is Ibrahim.” Jami` at-Tirmidhi Vol. 5, Book 44, Hadith 335

No Distinction between Prophets of God

Holy Quran categorically prohibits distinction and ranking as such between prophets of God, peace be upon them all. In fact, it expressly chastises those who attempt to do so.

Lo! those who disbelieve in Allah and His messengers, and seek to make distinction between Allah and His messengers, and say: We believe in some and disbelieve in others, and seek to choose a way in between; 4:150

But God will give [due] rewards to those who believe in Him and His messengers and make no distinction between any of them. God is most forgiving and merciful. 4:152

The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, as do the faithful. They all believe in God, His angels, His scriptures, and His messengers. ‘We make no distinction between any of His messengers,’ they say, ‘We hear and obey. Grant us Your forgiveness, our Lord. To You we all return!’– 2:285

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “We believe in Allah and what has been revealed to us and what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and his descendants; and what was given to Moses, Jesus, and other prophets from their Lord—we make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we ˹fully˺ submit.” 3:84

“O Zakariya! We give thee good news of a son: His name shall be Yahya: on none by that name have We conferred distinction before.” 19:7

Abu Sa’id al-Khudri reported the Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him) as saying: Do not distinguish between the Prophets. (Sunan Abi Dawud 4668)

No Compulsion in Religion

There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction is henceforth distinct from error. And he who rejecteth false deities and believeth in Allah hath grasped a firm handhold which will never break. Allah is Hearer, Knower. 2:256

Thus We clearly set forth Our signs so that the way of the wicked might become distinct. 6:55

Status of Holy Quran

Confirmation of Previous Revelations

Like Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last and final messenger of God on Earth, the Holy Quran is also the last revelation of God on earth.

This means that this is not the one and only scripture revealed by God in Islam but it is the last one to be revealed and hence an important benchmark or criteria to judge the veracity of previous scriptures.

According to the Quran, it only reiterates and confirms the messages of truth as contained in the previous scripture. So, according to Islam, God has revealed several scriptures to humankind before the Holy Quran.

Allah has revealed from time to time the most beautiful Message in the form of a Book, consistent with itself, yet repeating it’s teaching in various aspects: the skins of those who fear their Lord tremble thereat; then their skins and their hearts do soften to the celebration of Allah’s praises. Such is the guidance of Allah: He guides therewith whom He pleases, but such as Allah leaves to stray, can have none to guide. Al-Quran 39:23

This Qur’an is not such as can be produced by other than Allah; on the contrary, it is a confirmation of revelations that went before it, and a fuller explanation of the Book – wherein there is no doubt – from the Lord of the worlds. Al-Quran 10:37

To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have We prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but His plan is to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah; it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute; Al-Quran 5:48

He has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel. Al-Quran 3:3

A Criteria and Guidance

Before, as guidance for the people. And He revealed the Criterion [i.e., the Qur’an]. Indeed, those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah will have a severe punishment, and Allah is exalted in Might, the Owner of Retribution. Al-Quran 3:4

The Balance to weigh conduct

It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in Truth, and the Balance (by which to weigh conduct). And what will make thee realize that perhaps the Hour is close at hand? Al-Quran 42:17

Indeed, We have sent down the Book to you ˹O Prophet˺ in truth to judge between people by means of what Allah has shown you. So do not be an advocate for the deceitful. 4:105

Aisha (ra) said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) recited this verse: “He has sent down to thee the Book: in it are verses basic or fundamental . . . .” Up to “men of understanding”. She said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) then said: When you see those people who follow that which is allegorical in the Quran, those are the people whom Allah has named (in the Quran). So avoid them. Sunan Abi Dawud 4598

A Guide to Good Doers

Surely this Quran guides to what is most upright, and gives good news to the believers—who do good—that they will have a mighty reward. Holy Quran 17:9

A Warning to Bad Doers

And ˹it warns˺ those who do not believe in the Hereafter ˹that˺ We have prepared for them a painful punishment. 17:10

And humans ˹swiftly˺ pray for evil as they pray for good. For humankind is ever hasty. 17:11

Status of Previous Scriptures in Islam

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran gain wide significance for Muslims because they are the final messenger and revelation from God respectively and they sum-up, compliment, and confirm all other previous revelations.

This, however, does not mean that Muslims are supposed to discard previous messengers and books. Holy Quran cautions that all messengers of Allah are to be accorded equal respect and prohibits discrimination or differentiation amongst them in any negative sense. I hope the verses cited below will clear a lot of misconceptions regarding this issue.

Those who deny Allah and His messengers, and those who wish to separate Allah from His messengers, saying: “We believe in some but reject others”: And those who wish to take a course midway, they are in truth equally unbelievers, and we have prepared for unbelievers a humiliating punishment. Holy Quran 4:150-151

O ye who believe! Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the scripture which He hath sent to His Messenger and the scripture which He sent to those before him. Anyone who denieth Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Day of Judgment, hath gone far, far astray. Al-Quran 4:136

It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in Truth and the Balance by which to weigh conduct. And what will make thee realize that perhaps the Hour is close at hand? Al-Quran 42:17

Those who do not believe in it are impatient for it, but those who believe are fearful of it and know that it is the truth. Unquestionably, those who dispute concerning the Hour are in extreme error. Al-Quran 42:18

Or have they other deities who have ordained for them a religion to which Allah has not consented? But if not for the decisive word, it would have been concluded between them. And indeed, the wrongdoers will have a painful punishment. Al-Quran 42:21

Holy Quran Enjoins Human beings to use Reason

The Holy Quran enjoins human beings to use reason and not blindly follow anything especially matters that do not conform to the deen of Allah as contained in the Holy Quran and supplemented by the Prophetic traditions. So we must use reason in the light of the Quran and Prophetic Sunnah.

In one of the Quranic verses, Allah SWT asks Prophet to invite people to the way of Allah with insight and reason. And Holy Quran in a number of verses asks human beings to exercise reason to believe in Allah Almighty.

Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses [i.e., laws] that you might use reason. Al-Quran 2:242

And We have certainly left of it a sign as clear evidence for a people who use reason. Al-Quran 29:35

And it is He who gives life and causes death, and His is the alternation of the night and the day. Then will you not reason? Al-Quran 23:80

And the worldly life is not but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah, so will you not reason? Al-Quran 6:32

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “This is my way. I invite you to Allah with insight – I and those who follow me. Glory be to Allah, and I am not one of the polytheists.” Al-Quran 12:108

Say, “Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited to you. [He commands] that you do not associate anything with Him, and to parents, good treatment, and do not kill your children out of poverty; We will provide for you and them. And do not approach immoralities – what is apparent of them and what is concealed. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.” Al-Quran 6:151

Do you order righteousness of the people and forget yourselves while you recite the Scripture? Then will you not reason? Al-Quran 2:44

O People of the Scripture, why do you argue about Abraham while the Torah and the Gospel were not revealed until after him? Then will you not reason? Al-Quran 3:65

fOR you who have believed, do not take as intimates those other than yourselves [i.e., believers], for they will not spare you [any] ruin. They wish you would have hardship. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater. We have certainly made clear to you the signs if you will use reason. Al-Quran 3:118

And when you call to prayer, they take it in ridicule and amusement. That is because they are people who do not use reason. Al-Quran 5:58

Allah has not appointed [such innovations as] bahirah or saibah or wasilah or ham. But those who disbelieve invent falsehood about Allah, and most of them do not reason. Al-Quran 5:103

Indeed, the worst of living creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf and dumb who do not use reason [i.e., the disbelievers]. Al-Quran 8:22

And they will say, “If only we had been listening or reasoning, we would not be among the companions of the Blaze.” Al-Quran 67:10

Say, “If Allah had willed, I would not have recited it to you, nor would He have made it known to you, for I had remained among you a lifetime before it. Then will you not reason?“ Al-Quran 10:16

And it is not for a soul [i.e., anyone] to believe except by permission of Allah, and He will place defilement upon those who will not use reason. Al-Quran 10:100

O my people, I do not ask you for it [i.e., my advice] any reward. My reward is only from the one who created me. Then will you not reason? Al-Quran 11:51

So have they not traveled through the earth and have hearts by which to reason and ears by which to hear? For indeed, it is not eyes that are blinded, but blinded are the hearts which are within the breasts. Al-Quran 22:46

Though the Quran acknowledges other Prophets and scriptures sent before Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it declares itself the final touchstone to test the veracity and authenticity of previous revelations on account of being the last revelation of God on Earth.

It is so because other scriptures no longer exist in their original version and have been subject to all sorts of corruption and manipulation over a period of time.

There no longer exists any single version of them and they have lost their authenticity due to constant manipulations and extrapolations by corrupt people over a period of time.

On that account, the Holy Quran declares that the version of Islam as preached by Prophet Muhammad (s) remains the only religion in the sight of Allah.

Like a newer law takes precedence over the older laws on the same subject matter, the Holy Quran on account of being the latest and final revelation also takes authoritative precedence over previous scriptures on matters of the religion of humankind as sanctioned by the Almighty.

Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. And those who were given the Scripture did not differ except after knowledge had come to them – out of jealous animosity between themselves. And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allah, then indeed, Allah is swift in [taking] account. Al-Quran 3:19

And whoever desires other than Islam as religion – never will it be accepted from him, and he, in the Hereafter, will be among the losers. How shall Allah guide a people who disbelieved after their belief and had witnessed that the Messenger is true and clear signs had come to them? And Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people. Those – their recompense will be that upon them is the curse of Allah and the angels and the people, all together, abiding eternally therein. The punishment will not be lightened for them, nor will they be reprieved. Except for those who repent after that and correct themselves. For indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. Al-Quran 3:85-89

Set your face to the right religion before that Day comes from God which cannot be averted. Al-Quran 30:43

Indeed, those who disbelieve and die while they are disbelievers – never would the [whole] capacity of the earth in gold be accepted from one of them if he would [seek to] ransom himself with it. For those, there will be a painful punishment, and they will have no helpers. Al-Quran 3:91

So direct your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. Adhere to the fitrah of Allah upon which He has created all people. No change should there be in the creation of Allah. That is the correct religion, but most people do not know. Al-Quran 30:30

We have sent down clear signs to you and no one will reject them except the wicked. Al-Quran 2:100

Kindly appreciate these verses again.

Al-Quran 10:37 This Qur’an is not such as can be produced by other than Allah; on the contrary, it is a confirmation of (revelations) that went before it, and a fuller explanation of the Book – wherein there is no doubt – from the Lord of the worlds.
Al-Quran 39:23 Allah has revealed (from time to time) the most beautiful Message in the form of a Book, consistent with itself, (yet) repeating (it’s teaching in various aspects): the skins of those who fear their Lord tremble thereat; then their skins and their hearts do soften to the celebration of Allah’s praises. Such is the guidance of Allah: He guides therewith whom He pleases, but such as Allah leaves to stray, can have none to guide.
Al-Quran 42:13 The same religion has He established for you as that which He enjoined on Noah – the which We have sent by inspiration to thee – and that which We enjoined on Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: Namely, that ye should remain steadfast in religion, and make no divisions therein: to those who worship other things than Allah, hard is the (way) to which thou callest them. Allah chooses to Himself those whom He pleases, and guides to Himself those who turn (to Him).
Al-Quran 6:42- Before thee We sent (messengers) to many nations, and We afflicted the nations with suffering and adversity, that they might learn humility.
4:150-151 Those who deny Allah and His messengers, and (those who) wish to separate Allah from His messengers, saying: “We believe in some but reject others”: And (those who) wish to take a course midway, they are in truth (equally) unbelievers, and we have prepared for unbelievers a humiliating punishment.
Al-Quran 4:136 O ye who believe! Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the scripture which He hath sent to His Messenger and the scripture which He sent to those before (him). Anyone who denieth Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Day of Judgment, hath gone far, far astray.
Al-Quran 46:9 Say [O Muhammad], ‘I am not the first of God’s messengers, and I do not know what will be done with me or with you: I do not follow anything but what is revealed to me, and I am merely a plain warner.’
Al-Quran 33:40-Muhammad is not the father of any one of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the last of the prophets. And ever is Allah, of all things, Knowing.
Al-Quran 5:48-To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have We prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah; it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute;
Al-Quran 30:30 So direct your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. Adhere to the fitrah of Allah upon which He has created all people. No change should there be in the creation of Allah. That is the correct religion, but most people do not know.
Al-Quran 2:100 We have sent down clear signs to you and no one will reject them except the wicked.
Al-Quran 2:114 Who could be more wicked than someone who prevents God’s name from being mentioned in His places of worship, and seeks to bring about their ruin.
Al-Quran 18:57-58 Who is more wicked than he who has been reminded of the revelations of his Lord, then turns away from them and forgets what his own hands have done? We have cast veils over their hearts lest they understand Our words, and made them hard of hearing. Call them as you may to the right path, they shall never be guided. Your Lord is the Forgiving One, the possessor of mercy.
Al-Quran 42:3 Thus has He revealed to you, [O Muhammad], as (He did) to those before you – Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Wise.
Al-Quran 42:7 And thus We have revealed to you an Arabic Qur’an that thou mayest warn the Mother of Cities and all around her,- and warn (them) of the Day of Assembly, of which there is no doubt: (when) some will be in the Garden, and some in the Blazing Fire.
Al-Quran 42:15 So to that [religion of Allah ] invite, [O Muhammad], and remain on a right course as you are commanded and do not follow their inclinations but say, “I have believed in what Allah has revealed of the Qur’an, and I have been commanded to do justice among you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us are our deeds and for you, your deeds. There is no [need for] argument between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to Him is the [final] destination.
Al-Quran 42:17 It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in Truth, and the Balance (by which to weigh conduct). And what will make thee realize that perhaps the Hour is close at hand?
Al-Quran 42:18 Those who do not believe in it are impatient for it, but those who believe are fearful of it and know that it is the truth. Unquestionably, those who dispute concerning the Hour are in extreme error.
Al-Quran 42:21 Or have they other deities who have ordained for them a religion to which Allah has not consented? But if not for the decisive word, it would have been concluded between them. And indeed, the wrongdoers will have a painful punishment.
Al-Quran 42:23 It is that of which Allah gives good tidings to His servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, [O Muhammad], “I do not ask you for this message any payment [but] only good will through kinship.” And whoever commits a good deed – We will increase for him good therein. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Appreciative.
Al-Quran 42:24 What! Do they say, “He has forged a falsehood against Allah”? But if Allah willed, He could seal up thy heart. And Allah blots out Vanity and proves the Truth by His Words. For He knows well the secrets of all hearts.
Al-Quran 43:31-32 They said, ‘Why was this Quran not sent down to one of the great men of the two cities?’ Is it they who apportion the mercy of your Lord? It is We who distribute among them their livelihood in the life of this world, and raise some of them above others in rank, so that they may take one another into service; and the mercy of your Lord is better than [the wealth] which they amass.
Al-Quran 43:20-25 They say, ‘If the All-Merciful had so willed, we would not have worshipped them.’ They have no knowledge of that. They are only conjecturing. Have We given them a Book before this, to which they are holding fast? No indeed! They say, ‘We have found our fathers following a certain course, and we are guided by their footsteps.’ Whenever We sent a messenger before you to warn a township, the affluent among them said, in the same way, ‘We saw our fathers following this tradition; we are only following in their footsteps.’ Each messenger said, ‘What if I should bring you better guidance than what you found your forefathers had?’ They replied, ‘We reject any message you have been sent with!’ So We wreaked Our vengeance on them: now see what was the end of those who rejected [the Truth]!
Al-Quran 3:73-74 Say to them, ‘Surely, the true guidance is the guidance from God.’ But you think it is impossible that someone else may be granted [revelation] such as you were granted or else that they should contend against you before your Lord. Say, All grace is in the hands of God; He grants it to whom He wills: for God is boundless, and all-knowing, He singles out for His mercy whomever He pleases. God is the Lord of exceeding bounty.
Al-Quran 6:95 By God! We have sent messengers before you to other nations. But Satan made their [foul] deeds seem fair to them and today he is their patron. It is God who splits the seed and the fruit-stone. He brings forth the living from the dead, and the dead from the living. That is God. How then can you, deluded, turn away from the truth?
Al-Quran 3:24 The false beliefs which they have invented have deluded them in the matter of their religion.
Al-Quran 12:39-40 Joseph said-O my two fellow prisoners! Are many diverse lords better, or God, the One, the Almighty? All those you worship instead of Him are mere names you and your forefathers have invented, names for which God has sent down no authority: all power belongs to God alone, and He orders you to worship none but Him: this is the true faith, though most people do not realize it.
Sahih Bukhari Volume 1 Book 3 Number 106: Narrated ‘Ali (r): The Prophet said, “Do not tell a lie against me for whoever tells a lie against me (intentionally) then he will surely enter the Hell-fire.” (Also confirmed by Salma (r) in number 109 of the same book and volume)
Sahih Bukhari, Vol. 9, Book 92, Hadith 382, Narrated `Abdullah: The best talk (speech) is Allah’s Book ‘Qur’an), and the best way is the way of Muhammad, and the worst matters are the heresies (those new things which are introduced into the religion); and whatever you have been promised will surely come to pass, and you cannot escape (it).
Sahih Bukhari, Vol. 9, Book 92, Hadith 422, Narrated Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri: The Prophet (s) said, “You will follow the ways of those nations who were before you, span by span and cubit by cubit (i.e., inch by inch) so much so that even if they entered a hole of a mastigure, you would follow them.” We said, “O Allah’s Messenger (s)! (Do you mean) the Jews and the Christians?” He said, “Whom else?”
Sahih al-Bukhari Volume 3 Book 41 Number 594, Narrated Abu Huraira, Two persons, a Muslim and a Jew, quarreled. The Muslim said, “By Him Who gave Muhammad superiority over all the people! The Jew said, “By Him Who gave Moses superiority over all the people!” At that, the Muslim raised his hand and slapped the Jew on the face. The Jew went to the Prophet and informed him of what had happened between him and the Muslim. The Prophet sent for the Muslim and asked him about it. The Muslim informed him of the event. The Prophet said, “Do not give me superiority over Moses, for on the Day of Resurrection all the people will fall unconscious and I will be one of them, but I will. be the first to gain consciousness, and will see Moses standing and holding the side of the Throne (of Allah). I will not know whether (Moses) has also fallen unconscious and got up before me, or Allah has exempted him from that stroke.”
Sahih al-Bukhari 3445: Narrated `Umar: I heard the Prophet saying, “Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a Slave. So, call me the Slave of Allah and His Apostle.“
Sahih-al-Bukhari, Volume 4, Book 55, Number 655: Narrated Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari: Allah’s Apostle said, “If a person teaches his slave girl good manners properly, educates her properly, and then manumits and marries her, he will get a double reward. And if a man believes in Jesus and then believes in me, he will get a double reward. And if a slave fears his Lord (i.e. Allah) and obeys his masters, he too will get a double reward.“
Al-Quran 30:43 Set your face to the right religion before that Day comes from God which cannot be averted.
Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 49, Number 861: Narrated Aisha: Allah’s Apostle said, “If somebody innovates something which is not in harmony with the principles of our religion, that thing is rejected.”

Innovations in Religion & False Assertions against Prophet PBUH

Given the widespread practice of manipulation of religious scriptures by corrupt people to suit their needs, Holy Quran contains adequate safeguards against such tampering and manipulations. In one of its verses, it warns those who attempt to manipulate its verses to further their own agendas. The Prophet also warned against such manipulative innovations in the religion of Islam.

It is He who has sent down to you, [O Muhammad], the Book; in it are verses [that are] precise – they are the foundation of the Book – and others unspecific. As for those in whose hearts is deviation [from truth], they will follow that of it which is unspecific, seeking discord and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them]. And no one knows its [true] interpretation except Allah. But those who are firm in knowledge say, “We believe in it. All [of it] is from our Lord.” And no one will be reminded except those of understanding. Al-Quran 3:7

Narrated Aisha (ra): Allah’s Apostle said, “If somebody innovates something which is not in harmony with the principles of our religion, that thing is rejected.” Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 49, Number 861

Narrated ‘Ali (ra): The Prophet said, “Do not tell a lie against me for whoever tells a lie against me (intentionally) then he will surely enter the Hell-fire.” (Also confirmed by Salma (r) in number 109 of the same book and volume) Sahih Bukhari Volume 1 Book 3 Number 106

Narrated Abu Hurayrah: The Prophet (ﷺ) said: Controverting about the Qur’an is disbelief. Sunan Abi Dawud 4603

Aisha (ra) reported the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone introduces into this affair of ours anything which does not belong to it, it is rejected. IbnIsa said: The Prophet (ﷺ) said: If anyone practices any action in a way other than our practice, it is rejected. Sunan Abi Dawud 4606

Aisha said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) recited this verse: “He it is who has sent down to thee the Book: in it are verses basic or fundamental . . . .” Up to “men of understanding”. She said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) then said: When you see those people who follow that which is allegorical in the Quran, those are the people whom Allah has named (in the Quran). So avoid them. Sunan Abi Dawud 4598

A’isha reported that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) recited (these verses of the Qur’an): “He it is Who revealed to thee (Muhammad) the Book (the Qur’an) wherein there are clear revelations-these are the substance of the Book and others are allegorical (verses). And as for those who have a yearning for error they go after the allegorical verses seeking (to cause) dissension, by seeking to explain them. AND NONE KNOWS THEIR IMPLICATIONS BUT ALLAH, and those who are sound in knowledge say: We affirm our faith in everything which is from our Lord. It is only the persons of understanding who really heed” (Al-Qur’an 3:7). ‘A’isha (further) reported that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said (in connection with these verses): When you see such verses, avoid them, for it is they whom Allah has pointed out (in the mentioned verses). Sahih Muslim 2665