Module: 1

Understanding the Qur’an

An Introduction to ‘Ulum al-Qur’an

Course Overview:
This course provides an introductory understanding of the Qur’an and its study through the lens
of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an. Students will explore the significance of the Qur’an, the stages of
engagement, and key aspects of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an.

Course Objectives:
1. Understand the importance of the Qur’an as the message from Allah to mankind.
2. Recognize the three stages of engagement with the Qur’an: receiving, understanding, and
applying its message.
3. Explore the concept of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an and its branches.
4. Gain insight into key topics related to the study of the Qur’an, such as revelation,
interpretation, and modern perspectives

Lesson Content:
Introduction to the Qur’an:
- Explanation of the Qur’an as the divine revelation and its significance in the lives of
Muslims. Recognize the significance of the Qur’an as the message from Allah to
mankind.
The Qur'an contains the revelations of Allah, the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, to
mankind. It is the message from God to man and therefore of utmost importance to us. To
properly grasp a message, one needs
first of all to understand its contents exactly, and for this purpose one must study the Qur'an
deeply and in detail. In fact, some people do spend their whole lives studying the Qur'an,
reading and reflecting upon it and, as they grow and develop, both physically and spiritually,
they discover for themselves new meanings and implications.
Secondly, some special knowledge of the circumstances that surround the message is
also necessary for fuller understanding of its meaning and implications. Although some
part of this special knowledge can be derived from the Qur'an itself, there remain other areas of
knowledge that can only be discovered by wider study and research. Muslims have from earliest
times, applied themselves not only to the message from Allah the Qur'an but also to its setting
and framework, and the preoccupation with these ultimately developed into the 'sciences' of or
'knowledge' about the Qur'an, known as "ulum al-qur'an'.
Three Stages of Engagement:
1. Receiving the Message: Understand the process of receiving the Qur’anic message through
reading or hearing.
2. Understanding the Message: Reflect on the Qur’an’s meanings and implications through
deep study and reflection.
3. Applying the Message: Implement the teachings of the Qur’an in personal life and society.

Introduction to ‘Ulum al-Qur’an:

Definition and scope of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an.
-The branch of knowledge, called 'ulum al-Qur'an may be used as a means for the
accomplishment of the second stage, understanding the message of the Qur'an, by
understanding its setting and circumstances.
-According to a general definition, 'ulum al-qur'an denotes studies concerned with the book of
revelations sent down upon the last Prophet Muhammad, (Allah's blessings and peace be upon
him) namely:

 Its revelation.

 Its collection.

 Its order and arrangement.

 Its writing down.

 Information about the reasons and occasions of revelation.

 About what was revealed in Makka and what in Madina.

 About the abrogating and abrogated verses.

 About the 'clear' and the 'unclear' verses.

The term also covers Qur'an-related studies, such as:

 The explanation of verses and passages by the Prophet himself, his Companions, their
followers and the later exegetes of the Qur'an.

 The methods of explanation.

 The scholars of exegesis and their books.

- Branches of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an, including revelation, collection, arrangement, and
interpretation.
Exploration of Key Topics:
- Reasons and occasions of revelation.
- Distinction between Makkan and Madinan revelations.
- Abrogated and abrogating verses.
- Clear and unclear verses.
- Explanation methods and scholars of exegesis.

Conclusion:
By the end of this module, learners should have a deeper understanding of the Qur’an, its
significance, and the various aspects involved in its study. Through exploration of ‘Ulum al-
Qur’an and key topics, learners will be equipped with foundational knowledge to further engage
with the Qur’an and its interpretation.
Assessment:
1. Quiz (Multiple Choice):
What are the three stages of engagement with the Qur’an?
A) Listening, Memorizing, Applying
B) Receiving, Understanding, Applying
C) Reflecting, Interpreting, Memorizing
D) Reading, Reflecting, Interpreting

2. Short Essay:
- Explain the significance of ‘Ulum al-Qur’an in understanding the Qur’an’s message.

3. Discussion Forum:
- Discuss the challenges and opportunities in interpreting the Qur’an in the modern context.

4. Case Study Analysis:

- Analyze a modern interpretation of a Qur’anic verse and its implications for contemporary
society.
Answer Guide:
1. Quiz Answer: B) Receiving, Understanding, Applying
2. Short Essay: ‘Ulum al-Qur’an plays a crucial role in providing deeper insights into the
Qur’an’s message by examining its context, circumstances of revelation, and methods of
interpretation. This knowledge enhances one’s understanding and application of the Qur’anic
teachings in personal and societal life.’
3. Discussion Forum: Responses may vary but should address the complexities of interpreting
the Qur’an in modern times, considering cultural, linguistic, and societal factors.
4. Case Study Analysis: Responses may vary, but students should analyze the interpretation’s
consistency with Qur’anic principles and its relevance to contemporary issues.