Introduction

Surah Al Baqarah is the second chapter of the Quran, and it is one of the longest surahs in the holy book. The surah covers a wide range of topics that are essential for Muslims to understand and implement in their lives. Surah Al Baqarah 177 is one of the most significant verses in the surah that talks about the essence of Islam and what it means to be a true Muslim.

Understanding Surah Al Baqarah 177

The verse starts by saying, “It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the East or the West, but true righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book and the Prophets.” This verse explains that righteousness is not limited to performing certain acts of worship, but it is a way of life that is based on belief in Allah and following His guidance.

Belief in Allah

The first aspect of righteousness mentioned in this verse is belief in Allah. Belief in Allah is the foundation of Islam, and it requires a Muslim to acknowledge that Allah is the only God and that He is the creator of everything in the universe. Believing in Allah also means that a Muslim must love and obey Him and seek His guidance in all aspects of life.

Belief in the Last Day

The second aspect of righteousness mentioned in this verse is belief in the Last Day. Belief in the Last Day means that a Muslim believes in the day of judgment when every person will be held accountable for their deeds. This belief encourages Muslims to live their lives in a way that pleases Allah and to avoid committing sins that will lead to punishment on the Day of Judgment.

Belief in the Angels

The third aspect of righteousness mentioned in this verse is belief in the Angels. Belief in the Angels means that a Muslim believes in the existence of Angels and their role in carrying out Allah’s commands. Muslims believe that Angels are created by Allah and that they are pure beings that do not disobey Allah’s orders.

Belief in the Books

The fourth aspect of righteousness mentioned in this verse is belief in the Books. Belief in the Books means that a Muslim believes in the holy books revealed by Allah to His Prophets. Muslims believe that the Quran is the final and complete revelation from Allah, and it contains guidance and instructions for all aspects of life.

Belief in the Prophets

The fifth and final aspect of righteousness mentioned in this verse is belief in the Prophets. Belief in the Prophets means that a Muslim believes in all the Prophets and Messengers sent by Allah to guide humanity. Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final and last Prophet sent by Allah, and his message is for all humanity until the Day of Judgment.

Understanding true righteousness

After explaining the five aspects of righteousness, the verse concludes by saying, “And he gives wealth, for love of Him, to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and to set slaves free; and he performs the prayer and pays the alms-tax: and those who keep their treaty when they make one, and the patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are those who are sincere. Such are the God-fearing.”

Generosity

True righteousness is not limited to belief; it also requires Muslims to be generous and give to those in need. Muslims are encouraged to give to their relatives, orphans, the needy, and travelers. Giving to those in need is a way of showing love for Allah and fulfilling one’s duty as a Muslim.

Prayer and Charity

True righteousness requires Muslims to perform their prayers and pay the Zakat (charity). Praying and giving charity are essential components of Islam, and they help Muslims to stay connected to Allah and to purify their souls.

Honesty and Integrity

True righteousness requires Muslims to keep their promises and treaties. Honesty and integrity are essential components of Islam, and Muslims are encouraged to be truthful and trustworthy in all their dealings.

Patience and Perseverance

True righteousness requires Muslims to be patient in times of tribulations and adversity. Patience and perseverance are essential components of Islam, and Muslims are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and to trust in Allah’s wisdom.

Conclusion

Surah Al Baqarah 177 is a powerful verse that explains the essence of Islam and what it means to be a true Muslim. The verse emphasizes that true righteousness is not limited to performing certain acts of worship, but it is a way of life that is based on belief in Allah and following His guidance. Muslims are encouraged to be generous, honest, patient, and to perform their prayers and give charity. By following these principles, Muslims can lead a successful and fulfilling life in this world and the hereafter.