Why Could Allah Not Have Written the Quran Himself?

In the Islamic tradition, it is believed that the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Allah. However, some critics question how it is possible for an unlettered individual to have written such a profound and complex scripture. This article explores several reasons that support the notion that the Quran is genuinely a divine creation, rather than the work of a human author.

The Unlettered Prophet

One of the key reasons that the Quran is considered to be of divine origin is the fact that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was unlettered. This means that he was not able to read or write, yet he was entrusted with the task of delivering the Quran to the people of his time and beyond. The Quran explicitly refers to him as an 'unlettered prophet,' emphasizing that his ability to convey the divine message was not due to human learning or intellectual capability.

Quran 29:48–49 states:

And you were not able] to recite a book before this [the Quran nor are you able to transcribe it with your right hand: in that case indeed would the talkers of vanities have doubted. Nay here are signs self-evident in the hearts of those endowed with knowledge: and none but the unjust reject Our signs.

Psychological Analysis of the Quran

Another compelling reason for the belief that the Quran is divinely authored is the manner in which it interacts with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Quran is not written in a typical manner; it does not contain self-doubt or apologies for its contents. Instead, it begins with a statement of certainty and confidence that is characteristic of divine revelation.

Quran 2:2 reads:

This is the Book about which there is no doubt a guidance for those conscious of Allah.

The Quran addresses the Prophet (PBUH) directly, instructing him on what to say and preach. For example, the verse "Say: God is One" in the singular form, as if directly addressed to the Prophet (PBUH), indicates his role as a messenger rather than an author. Additionally, the Quran corrects the Prophet (PBUH) in certain instances, which would be highly unusual if he were the sole author of the text.

Other Personalities and Evidence of Divinity

The Quran also provides further evidence of its divine origin by not portraying the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as superior to other prophets. Notably, the Prophet (PBUH) is mentioned by name only twice in the Quran, and Mary, the mother of Jesus (PBUH), is mentioned once. This placement places Muhammad (PBUH) alongside other prophets rather than elevating him above them.

Another piece of evidence is the statistical and methodical nature of the Quran. The Quran contains numerous references that are difficult to explain as the work of a human. For example, the word "day" is mentioned exactly 365 times, and the word "month" is mentioned 12 times, corresponding to the number of days in a year and months in a calendar. Such precise numbers are unlikely to be coincidental and suggest a divine hand in its creation.

Quran 72:28 also highlights the meticulous design of the Quran:

God has enumerated all things in numbers.

The Quran is a book that contains a wealth of information, including historical events, scientific facts, and moral guidance. It is remarkable that the Quran was revealed over a period of 23 years, and much of the information included in it could not have been known to the Prophet (PBUH) without divine intervention. This precise and consistent information is impossible to achieve through human means alone.

Conclusion

The Quran is a living testament to divine revelation, evident in its unlettered nature, confident tone, and the statistical precision of its content. Through these various aspects, the Quran continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. Whether one believes in its divine origin or not, its enduring impact and consistency as a religious text are undeniable.