Are the Guidance of the Quran Still Applicable Today?

Yes, without a doubt, the guidance of the Holy Quran is not only applicable today but will remain a guiding light and a roadmap for humanity for all ages, generations, and places, until the Day of Judgment. The Quran is the eternal and unparalleled word of Almighty God, originating from an infinite source of knowledge, and therefore, it is not bound by specific time or place. The concepts and principles presented by the Quran are so comprehensive, profound, and innate that they consistently meet the fundamental needs of human beings under any circumstances, even in the most complex periods of human history. One of the primary reasons for the Quran's timelessness and applicability is its focus on universal and inherent values. Concepts such as justice, honesty, benevolence, piety, patience, gratitude, mercy, and compassion are values that never become obsolete in any era or culture. For instance, the Quran emphasizes establishing justice in all aspects of life, whether in judgment or transactions (e.g., Surah An-Nisa, verse 58). This principle of justice, in every society and every era, serves as the backbone of healthy human relations and progress. Furthermore, the call to piety and righteousness (Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 13) is not merely an ethical command but also a strategy for individual tranquility and social order, which is increasingly needed in today's turbulent world. The Quran teaches us how to maintain a correct and constructive relationship with ourselves, with others, with the environment, and with our Creator. The comprehensiveness of the Quran is another aspect that keeps it perpetually applicable. The Quran is not merely a book of worship; it is a complete charter for life that addresses various dimensions of human existence. This divine book provides guidance for individual matters (such as personal ethics and mental health), family issues (such as the rights of parents, children, and spouses), social matters (such as peaceful coexistence, resolving disputes, observing the rights of neighbors and the needy), economic matters (such as prohibiting usury and extravagance, encouraging lawful trade and charity), and even general principles of governance and international relations (such as peace and war based on ethical principles). These guidelines are often presented as general and foundational principles, allowing humanity to adapt them to changing times through reason and ijtihad (independent reasoning in Islamic law). This flexibility is not a weakness but the pinnacle of divine wisdom, which allows humans room for contemplation and innovation within a framework of fixed values. In confronting the challenges of the contemporary era, the applicability of the Quran becomes even more evident. The rapid growth of technology, the complexities of social relations, environmental crises, and mental health issues all necessitate a strong ethical and spiritual compass. By emphasizing human responsibility towards divine blessings (Surah Al-A'raf, verse 56 and Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77), the Quran provides a framework for the responsible use of technology and environmental preservation. In the realm of international peace and coexistence, Quranic teachings on justice and avoiding aggression offer solutions for reducing tensions and building a safer world. For mental well-being, Quranic verses, by inviting reliance on God, patience in adversity, and remembrance of God (Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28), bring profound and lasting tranquility to humanity that no material remedy can replace. Most importantly, the divine promise in Surah Al-Hijr, verse 9: "Indeed, We have sent down the Qur'an, and indeed, We will be its guardian," guarantees the preservation and immutability of this heavenly book. This divine guarantee assures Muslims and all humanity that what we hold today as the Quran is the original and untouched word that was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This authenticity and lack of alteration is itself proof of its timelessness and perpetual applicability; for if it were subject to change and distortion over time, it could no longer serve as an eternal guide. Ultimately, the Quran is not merely a relic of the past but a living, dynamic guide that can reveal new horizons of wisdom through contemplation and reflection on its verses every day. Its applicability has not diminished with the passage of time; rather, with the increasing complexity of human issues and challenges, the need for its guidance is felt more and more. The Quran is a lamp of guidance that will illuminate the path to felicity for every human being seeking truth and perfection until the end of time.