INTRODUCTION

This book comprises excerpts from the Quran, arranged under relevant headings. It provides an introduction to Islam which is derived directly from the original, revealed source. No interpretation or commentary has been added.

The theme of this book—the good life—is taken from the following verse of the Quran:

To whoever does good deeds, man or woman, and is a believer, We shall assuredly give a good life; and We will bestow upon them their reward according to the best of their works. (16:97)

The meaning of the “good life” mentioned in this verse is clear from the phrase “according to their noblest actions.” A good life is a life of good actions. A commentator of the Quran, ad-Dahhak, has defined it as “being content with an honest living and serving God in one’s life.” This is the meaning that the Companions of the Prophet and their followers generally inferred from the phrase.

To believe in God and implement His commandments is to qualify oneself for His succour. God bestows multiple blessings on a person who lives a life of faith and righteousness. He enables him to experience the joy of closeness to God in his worship; to settle day-to-day problems in a divinely-inspired manner; to deal with friends and foes in an equally honest-to-God way, God guides him on the straight path. He in turn always seeks God’s pleasure and nothing can turn him away from this aim.

The Quran has given a clear exposition of the theoretical and practical nature of the good life. The verses which have been selected for this book describe various fundamental aspects of this life in the Quran’s inimitable style. These passages thus provide both a description of the good life and an authentic example of how it should be lived.

Wahiduddin Khan

The Islamic Centre,
New Delhi