Exploring Change: A Simple Guide from the Quran

The Holy Quran is full of rich wisdom and deep meanings, providing guidance for those seeking self-improvement and enlightenment. The process of change, though it may seem complicated, is beautifully simplified in one Quranic verse. It brilliantly simplifies this process. It outlines four main elements: i) the source of change, ii) the object of change, iii) the conditions for change, and iv) the obstacles to change.

Ibn al-Qayyim, the highly respected scholar, presents a clear explanation of this concept in his remarkable book, al-Fawa’id. He sheds light on this verse, sharing this straightforward guide to change.

Allah says, “Truly, there is in this (i.e, The Quran) a reminder for whosoever has a heart, gives ear whilst being attentive.” (The Quran 50:37)

The Source of Change (Truly, there is in this)
The Quran, in this context, serves as the ultimate source of change. Its divine words are powerful enough to shatter mountains yet gentle enough to touch human hearts, inspiring a deep transformation. It encompasses profound truths, just rules, enlightening stories, and guides towards the righteous path. By understanding more about our Creator through the Quran – His qualities, actions, majesty, likes, dislikes, promises, warnings, rewards, punishments, and the future meeting with Him, we can stimulate profound change within ourselves.

The Object of Change (a reminder for whosoever has a heart)
The heart, a place of feelings and understanding, is where this divine-inspired change occurs. As the heart changes, it influences the entire person. The heart is like a pot of boiling water, always reacting to what happens around it. A small amount of spiritual awareness in the heart can use the Quran as a source of change, leading to continuous self-improvement.

Condition for Change (gives ear)
A crucial condition for this change is careful listening. The link between the source of change and the object of change is through our senses, especially hearing. The Quran is meant to be recited and heard, which means listening is necessary for real transformation. It is the medium through which change can be effected.

Obstacles to Change (whilst being attentive)
The last step in the process of change involves overcoming distractions. A heart, even when ready for change, can get caught up in distractions and carelessness, blocking the divine message. True change needs more than just hearing – it requires focused awareness, free from distractions and disinterest.

Often, we have the first three elements, but struggle with this last step. The journey of self-improvement asks us to recognise and remove these distractions, creating a space for focus and awareness.

In short, this verse gives us a simple guide for change: the Quran as the ultimate source, the heart as the ready receiver, listening as the essential conduit, and concentrated awareness to overcome obstacles. As we work towards self-improvement, let’s keep these four elements in mind, constantly aiming for personal and spiritual growth.

A story from the time of the Prophet (PBUH) that embodies these concepts beautifully is that of Abu Dharr Al-Ghifari.

Abu Dharr was a seeker of truth. When he heard about a man claiming to be a Prophet in Makkah, he sent his brother to gather information. His brother returned with little knowledge, which prompted Abu Dharr to take the journey to Makkah himself.

In Makkah, he waited for signs of this new Prophet. Finally, he met Ali ibn Abi Talib, who introduced him to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Prophet shared the message of Islam, recited verses from the Quran, and Abu Dharr was deeply moved.

The Source of Change: Here, the Quran served as the source of change. Abu Dharr found the profound truths he had been seeking in the verses that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recited.

The Object of Change: Abu Dharr’s heart was the object of change. His heart was open, yearning for truth and guidance. Upon hearing the verses of the Quran, his heart accepted the message.

Condition for Change: Abu Dharr gave an ear to the recitation, attentively listening to every word. His focus on the divine words facilitated his acceptance of Islam.

Obstacles to Change: Despite the danger of accepting Islam in Makkah at that time, Abu Dharr overcame this obstacle. He didn’t let fear or societal pressure distract him from his new faith.

Upon accepting Islam, Abu Dharr rushed to the Kaaba and openly declared his new faith, ignoring the potential backlash. Indeed, he was attacked, but he remained steadfast, embodying the teachings of the verse and becoming a testament to the power of change when the heart listens attentively to the Quran.

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