The preservation of the Qur’an is an extraordinary phenomenon orchestrated by Allah Himself. In His infinite wisdom, He chose not to preserve it in stone tablets or mystical scriptures but in the most sacred abode in the universe—the hearts of His creation. Allow me to elucidate this divine marvel.

When the verses of the Qur’an were revealed, the Messenger (PBUH) would recite them to the people, while a select few acted as personal scribes, recording the words of the Prophet (PBUH) the moment they were uttered and committing them to memory.

These individuals, known as Hafiz, possess a remarkable gift—they have memorized the Qur’an word for word. They are acquainted with its beginning and its end, and they can recite any chapter or verse upon request.

The Two Methods of Qur’an Preservation

1. The Unwavering Oral Tradition

From the time of the Prophet (PBUH), the entire Qur’an has been memorized by countless individuals throughout the Muslim population. Each Ramadan, all 114 chapters are recited in mosques worldwide.

If any reciter makes the slightest error, they are promptly corrected, as there are multitudes who have memorized the Qur’an. It is astonishing to comprehend that even if every physical scripture were to be cast into the depths of the sea, it would be restored within an hour, for we have millions of Hafiz—a living testament to divine preservation.

2. Ancient Manuscripts as Physical Evidence

The preservation of the Qur’an is also confirmed through carbon-dated manuscripts from the first century. The Sana Manuscript, the Topkapi Manuscript, and the Birmingham Manuscript—some dating back to the time of the Prophet—stand as profound testimonies to its preservation.

These ancient manuscripts, meticulously preserved and authenticated, bear witness to the divine wisdom and providence that has safeguarded the Qur’an throughout the ages.

The Compilation of the Qur’an

As the Islamic empire expanded and battles were fought, a significant number of knowledgeable Sahaba, who had memorized the Qur’an, unfortunately lost their lives. Recognizing the potential risk of losing the Qur’anic knowledge with the passing of these Sahaba, Muslim scholars decided to compile the Qur’an into a written format.

A committee was established to meticulously compile the Qur’anic verses into a standardized written version. The process followed strict guidelines to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Multiple copies were produced and distributed, serving as tangible references for scholars and facilitating wider accessibility of the Qur’an’s teachings.

The compilation of the Qur’an into a book complemented the efforts of the Hafiz and played a vital role in preserving its authenticity throughout history.

A Living Testament of Divine Preservation

Reflect upon the extraordinary preservation of the Qur’an—a divine marvel encapsulated within the hearts of believers, passed down through generations, and reinforced by the existence of ancient manuscripts.

The Qur’an endures as an unwavering beacon of guidance and a testament to Allah’s promise. Embrace the remarkable miracle that is the preserved Qur’an, a testament to divine grace and the unyielding devotion of believers.