It`s important to understand the common objections raised by non-Muslims regarding Islam and the Quran. These objections often stem from theological, historical, moral, and philosophical perspectives that differ from Islamic teachings.
3. Objection: The Quran's Claim of Divine Preservation and Perfect Text.
Critique: Critics from a secular or historical-critical perspective argue that the Quran, like other religious texts, has a human history. They point to the existence of different early readings (qira'at) and the compilation process under Caliph Uthman, suggesting it was edited and standardized by humans.
Islamic Response:
Oral Tradition: The primary method of the Quran's preservation has always been memorization (Hifz) by millions of Muslims throughout history, creating an unbroken chain of transmission.
Uthman's Compilation: The official compilation was done to standardize the written text to eliminate dialectal disputes among new converts, but the underlying content was agreed upon by companions who had memorized it directly from the Prophet.
The Seven Ahruf: The different approved readings (qira'at) are considered a mercy from God, facilitating recitation for different Arab tribes, and they do not change the fundamental meaning of the text.
Category 2: Moral and Ethical Objections
4. Objection: Treatment of Women and Gender Inequality.
Critique: Specific practices and laws are heavily criticized, including polygyny (Quran 4:3), the verse on "beating" disobedient wives (4:34), laws of inheritance (where a daughter receives half of a son's share, 4:11), and the requirement of hijab.
Islamic Response:
Historical Progress: Scholars argue that the Quran introduced revolutionary rights for women in 7th-century Arabia, granting them the right to inherit, own property, and choose a spouse—rights women lacked in many contemporary societies.
Interpretation of 4:34: Many modern scholars argue that the word "idribuhunna" (translated as "beat") should be understood in its lightest possible meaning (e.g., a light tap) or symbolically, and that the verse emphasizes mediation and reconciliation first.
Financial Responsibility: The reasoning behind different inheritance shares is that financial responsibility for the entire family rests solely on the male members. A woman's wealth is her own to keep and invest.
Modesty as Empowerment: Hijab is framed not as oppression but as a command from God to modesty, dignity, and protection, focusing on a person's character rather than physical appearance.
Irfan Rashid
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