How Many Holy Books in Islam: Exploring the Divine Scriptures and Their Mystical Connections

Islam, one of the world’s major religions, is deeply rooted in its sacred texts, which guide the spiritual and moral lives of its followers. The question “How many holy books in Islam?” often arises among those seeking to understand the faith’s foundations. While the Qur’an is the most well-known and central scripture, Islamic tradition acknowledges several other holy books revealed to different prophets throughout history. This article delves into the concept of divine scriptures in Islam, their significance, and the mystical connections that bind them together.
The Qur’an: The Ultimate Revelation
The Qur’an is the most sacred text in Islam, believed to be the literal word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel over 23 years. It serves as the primary source of Islamic teachings, covering aspects of faith, worship, morality, and law. The Qur’an is unique in its preservation, as Muslims believe it has remained unchanged since its revelation in the 7th century. Its 114 chapters, or Surahs, address a wide range of topics, from the oneness of God to the stories of earlier prophets.
The Earlier Scriptures: A Shared Legacy
Islamic tradition recognizes four other holy books, each revealed to a specific prophet before Muhammad. These scriptures are considered divine in origin but are believed to have been altered or lost over time. They include:
- The Torah (Tawrat): Revealed to Prophet Moses (Musa), the Torah is the foundational text of Judaism. In Islam, it is regarded as a guide for the Children of Israel, containing laws and commandments from God.
- The Psalms (Zabur): Given to Prophet David (Dawud), the Psalms are a collection of hymns and prayers. While the Islamic view of the Psalms is less detailed, they are acknowledged as a source of wisdom and spiritual reflection.
- The Gospel (Injil): Revealed to Prophet Jesus (Isa), the Gospel is seen as a continuation of God’s message to humanity. However, Muslims believe that the original teachings of Jesus have been distorted in the Christian scriptures.
- The Scrolls of Abraham (Suhuf Ibrahim): These are lesser-known texts believed to have been revealed to Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim). While their content is not explicitly detailed in Islamic sources, they are considered part of the divine legacy.
The Mystical Connection: Unity in Diversity
The recognition of multiple holy books in Islam highlights the religion’s emphasis on the continuity of divine revelation. Muslims believe that all prophets, from Adam to Muhammad, were sent with the same core message: the worship of one God and the pursuit of righteousness. This unity is reflected in the Qur’an, which often references earlier scriptures and prophets, affirming their shared mission.
However, the Qur’an also asserts its role as the final and most complete revelation, superseding previous texts. This belief underscores the concept of “Tawhid,” or the oneness of God, which is central to Islamic theology. The Qur’an’s preservation and universality are seen as evidence of its divine origin and its suitability for all of humanity.
The Role of Hadith and Sunnah
In addition to the holy books, Islamic teachings are also derived from the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) and the Sunnah (his way of life). These sources provide context and practical guidance for implementing the Qur’an’s teachings in daily life. While not considered divine scripture, the Hadith and Sunnah are essential for understanding and practicing Islam.
The Spiritual Significance of Divine Scriptures
The holy books in Islam are not merely historical documents; they are living texts that continue to inspire and guide millions of believers. They serve as a source of spiritual nourishment, offering wisdom, comfort, and direction in times of uncertainty. The Qur’an, in particular, is recited and memorized by Muslims worldwide, fostering a deep connection with God and a sense of community among believers.
Conclusion
The question “How many holy books in Islam?” opens the door to a rich tapestry of divine revelation and spiritual heritage. While the Qur’an stands as the ultimate and most preserved scripture, the recognition of earlier texts reflects Islam’s respect for the shared legacy of monotheistic faiths. Together, these holy books form a cohesive narrative of God’s guidance to humanity, emphasizing the timeless values of faith, justice, and compassion.
Related Q&A
Q: Are the earlier scriptures still valid in Islam?
A: While Muslims respect the earlier scriptures as part of God’s revelation, they believe that the Qur’an has superseded them. The original messages of these texts are considered valid, but their current forms are believed to have been altered over time.
Q: How do Muslims view the Bible?
A: Muslims regard the Bible as containing elements of divine truth but believe it has been subject to human alteration. They view the Qur’an as the final and most accurate revelation from God.
Q: Why is the Qur’an considered the most important holy book in Islam?
A: The Qur’an is seen as the literal word of God, perfectly preserved and applicable to all of humanity. It is the final revelation, completing and confirming the messages of earlier scriptures.
Q: Do Muslims study the earlier scriptures?
A: While Muslims primarily focus on the Qur’an, some scholars study the earlier scriptures to understand their historical context and the shared heritage of monotheistic faiths. However, the Qur’an remains the ultimate authority in Islamic teachings.