Other Names of the Quran in Hadith: Exploring Their Significance
Introduction
The Quran is the holy book of Islam, revered and recited by believers worldwide. Apart from its well-known name, the Quran has multiple other names attributed to it in the Hadith literature, which offer a deeper understanding of its importance and significance. This article explores some of these lesser-known names of the Quran as mentioned in Hadith texts, providing context and insight into their meanings.Other Names of the Quran in Hadith
Among the names of the Quran, found in Hadith, are titles that convey various aspects of its content and value. Here are some notable names:
1. Al-Furqan (??????)
Al-Furqan is one of the most common additional names used for the Quran in Hadith literature. This term means 'The Criterion' or 'The Criterion of Truth.' It reflects the Quran's role as a guide that differentiates between right and wrong:
‘Messenger of God, read in the name of your Lord who created, created man from a clot. Read, and your Lord is the Most Generous, who taught by the pen, taught man what he knew not’ (Al-Alaq 96:1-5).
Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet Muhammad said: 'The Book of God is a criterion (al-Furqan) between right and wrong' (Sahih al-Bukhari).
2. Al-Kitab (??????)
Al-Kitab simply means 'The Book.' This name emphasizes that the Quran is a scripture communicated by God to the Prophet Muhammad, highlighting its status as divine revelation. It also underscores the book's comprehensive nature, encompassing all essential teachings:
‘And We have certainly sent down to you, [O Muhammad], a Book in which is reward for what you used to do’ (Al-Zumar 39:50).
Abu Hurairah narrated: 'The Messenger of Allah, may the blessings and peace of Allah be upon him, said, "The Book of Allah is divided into two parts, and whoever is given one part from it will inevitably be given the other part" (Sahih Muslim).
3. Al-Dhikr (?????)
Al-Dhikr means 'The Reminder' or 'The Mention.' This name emphasizes the Quran's role in reminding people of their faith and obligations towards God:
‘Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair preaching, and argue with them in ways that are best’ (An-Nahl 16:125).
Abu Hurairah reported: 'The Messenger of God, upon him be peace, said, "Know that none of you truly believes until he desires for his brother what he desires for himself" (Sahih al-Bukhari).
Additional Names in Hadith
Other names mentioned in Hadith include:
4. An-Noor (????)
An-Noor means 'The Light.' It highlights the Quran's role in illuminating the path to truth and righteousness:
‘Guide Us to the Straight Path’ (Al-Fatihah 1:6).
Abu Hurairah narrated: 'The Messenger of God, upon him be peace, said, "Whoever recites the Qur'an day and night, light will descend from the heavens upon him and a light trustworthy angel will be sent down to him" (Sahih Muslim).
5. Al-Imaam (??????)
Al-Imaam means 'The Leader.' This title underscores the Quran's role as a leader and guide for all Muslims:
‘And We send down from the Qur'an that which is healing and mercy for those who believe’ (Al-Isra 17:82).
Abu Umamah reported: 'The Messenger of God, upon him be peace, said, "He who recites one letter of the Qur'an for the sake of Allah will have a reward for it" (Sahih Muslim).
Conclusion
The Quran is more than a book; it is a guide, a teacher, and a source of light for Muslims. The additional names mentioned in Hadith, such as Al-Furqan, Al-Kitab, Al-Dhikr, An-Noor, and Al-Imaam, emphasize different aspects of its importance and significance. Understanding these names can deepen one's appreciation and commitment to the Quran as a central foundation of Islamic faith and practice.