The History of Quran Codification

Assurance of Preservation

“Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an and indeed, We will be its guardian.” (QS. Al-Hijr: 9)

This verse indicates that the assurance of the preservation of the Quran is Allah’s prerogative. This has been evident throughout history. The Quran we read today remains unaffected by irresponsible interventions. The authenticity of the Quran, for more than fourteen centuries, has been preserved and safeguarded from the schemes of disbelievers.

Below are the technical impossibilities of falsifying the Quran by irresponsible individuals:

Firstly, it has been recited and memorized by millions of people. The Quran was memorized because at the time of its revelation, the words of Allah were transmitted orally, not in writing. From the outset, the Quran was memorized by the companions of the Prophet. Thus, it is reasonable that over time, the number of memorizers (huffadz) has increased. These memorizers are granted guidance by Allah, which brings tranquility and peace while memorizing the 30 juz of the Quran.

Moreover, Arabic is a language relatively easy to pronounce. Compared to other languages, Arabic is much easier to read and memorize. To date, there are numerous Quran memorization institutions producing memorizers across the country and around the world. Therefore, it is impossible for the Quran to be corrupted by those who reject it.

Secondly, it was written down since its revelation. From the moment the Prophet received revelation from Allah through the angel Gabriel, the Quran was written down. The Prophet had scribes for revelation, and until the death of Prophet Muhammad, not a single revelation from Allah was left unrecorded.

During the time of the Prophet, the Quran was written on various simple materials such as date palm leaves, camel bones, or animal skins. This further ensures the authenticity of the Quran throughout history.

Thirdly, it was compiled into one volume. This also serves as a technique for preserving the Quran. By compiling it into a single book, bound in a specific order, the authenticity of the Quran is further guaranteed. Thus, in addition to Allah’s assurance of authenticity, in reality, the Quran is truly preserved through techniques that cannot be refuted by human logic.

This is the history of Quranic codification in simplified terms, as part of the treasure trove of knowledge. It turns out that the history of Quranic codification required sacrifice and dedication. Scholars have exerted tremendous effort to devote all their abilities for the betterment of the Quran.

It is only fitting that we understand that Quranic history involves codification. There are specific techniques and codes to ensure that the Quran imparts wisdom to all humanity. Even with the compilation of the Quran, non-Muslims can study it and hopefully receive guidance from their efforts to study the Quran.

Wallahu A’lam.