Exploring Quranist Beliefs and Practices: A Comprehensive Guide
Quranists present an intriguing perspective within the expansive landscape of Islamic theology and practice. Often mistaken by outsiders for liberal or hippie-like adherents, Quranists actually hold a very precise and detailed belief system grounded in the Quran itself. Their views differ substantially from the mainstream sects of Islam, particularly concerning the role of prophetic traditions such as Hadith literature.
Defining Quranism
At its core, Quranism emphasizes a strict adherence to the Quran as the sole source of divine revelation. This belief is rooted in the Quran's own text, where numerous verses emphasize that Muhammad was chosen to deliver the Quran and no additional revelations were received. Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 4:82, is a key reference: "And Allah has sent down the best statement, a judgment of truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Tauraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)." This verse aligns with the Quranist belief that Hadith literature, with its apparent contradictions, is not divine and therefore not reliable.
The Shahada and Prophetic Role
A common misunderstanding is that Quranists deny Muhammad's prophethood. In fact, they hold Muhammad in high regard as the deliverer of the Quran. Their shahada precisely echoes the Islamic declaration: I testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah (???? ??? ????? ??? ?????? ???? ????). (Surah Ali Imran, verse 3:18)
Daily Prayers and Rituals
Quranists often pray 5 times a day, though some pray only 3 times. This practice is based on a careful study of the Quran itself. Surah Al-Anfal, verse 10:114 reads, And complete the Hajj and 'Umrah (pilgrimage) for Allah. But if you are hindered, then [first] make its purification (perform Salat) in its manner. And sacrifice an acceptable animal. And do not wrong yourselves by neglecting [upholding] it. This verse supports the practice of Salat, or prayer, indicating it was established as a nightly practice for the pilgrims.
Hijab and Cultural Practices
On the topic of hijab, Quranists use the term khimar to refer to the head covering. The exact nature of the khimar (whether it covers the head or the entire body) is subject to debate among Quranists. however, the idea of a head-cover is more in line with the spirit of the verses (4:31-32), which encourage modesty but do not specify the type of covering.
The Role of Hadith and Quran in Practice
Quranists regard the Quran as the sole and complete source of divine guidance, with no need for additional sources like Hadith literature. Hadith, they argue, is self-contradictory and contains interpretations not supported by the Quran. Many Quranists reject the idea that Muhammad serves as a perfect model for human conduct, although they do recognize his importance in delivering the Quran.
Conclusion: The Quran's Importance
The Quran is seen as the ultimate and detailed guidance from Allah. Quranists hold that no additional explanations or modifications to the Quran should be made. Verses like Surah Al-Isra, verse 17:9 (Guide us to the straight path. The path of those whom You have favored. Not that of those upon whom is punishment. And You will neither treat us unjustly.) and Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 17:88 (No indeed! Today We will certainly reward the virtuous with the best of what they used to do. Do they not know that Allah accepts the repentance from His servants and He knows what they do?) reinforce the idea that the Quran is the definitive and immutable message from Allah.