format_quote Originally Posted by
ATR
But it does not answer things like, why Arabic? God's message should be universal to all. So, for one to see the Miracle of Islam, they must first learn Arabic? This is very limiting. A universal message is one that can be appreciated by all.
He does answer that question vaguely. There are numerous factors as to why the Qur'aan was revealed in arabic. The simplest and more obvious one being that it was the language of the people.
"Now if We had made it a Qur'an in a non-Arabic tongue they would surely have said, "Why is it that its verses have not been made clear? Why - a foreign tongue and an Arab?" Say, "For those who accept it, this is a Guidance and medicine for a wholesome life. But as for those who will not believe (Arabs or non-Arabs), in their ears is deafness, and so it remains obscure to them. They are like people who are called to from afar." [41:44]
Allaah (exalted and glorified be he) says:
"And thus: We have revealed to you a Qur'aan in Arabic so that you may warn the Foremost of all towns and those who dwell around it, and may warn of the Day of Gathering, which is beyond all doubt. One group will be in the Garden, and one group will be in the Flames." [42:7]
"Behold, We have sent it down in all clarity, in the Arabic tongue, so that you might encompass it with your reason." [12:2]
"Behold, We have made it a Qur'an in clear Arabic language that you may fully understand." [43:3]
It is important to note that the arabic language was the most advanced and comprehensive language at the time when the Qur'aan was revealed and till this day it still remains being comprehensive. The first thing you learn as an arabic studying student is that the language does not have synonyms Subhanallaah. Imaam As-Suyuti (rahimahullaah) mentioned 15 sciences in the arabic language, its a vast and precise language that in itself is a miracle.
It is not limiting at all. There is no 'universal' language anyways.
Jazakallaah khayr Abu Sayyad, an excellent lecture!
وَلَقَدْ يَسَّرْنَا الْقُرْآنَ لِلذِّكْرِ فَهَلْ مِن مُّدَّكِرٍ
:cry: