The Majestic Quran

him. No miracle could convince them, since their hearts were inclined towards evil. Satan motivates them and makes their works look attractive to them (105–24). On the other hand, the believers are open-minded; “The person God wishes to guide, He opens his mind to Islam ; and whomever He wishes to go astray, He closes his mind...” (125). The criticism is to prick the conscience, to encourage them towards awareness of reality and bring them out of their delusion. So, the Quran gives ten new Commandments: don’t commit idolatry; care for parents; stop infanticide; avoid sinning openly and secretly; don’t murder; look after orphans’ wealth; weigh and measure things accurately; be just; fulfil the contract of God; and follow the straight path. The final advice: “He made you representatives on Earth... to test you with what He has given you” (165). The message is that human life is both precious and purposeful, so take it seriously! The Makkah of seventh century relishes in pride, power and pleasure. Set in opposition to God. In that sense Makkah wasn’t too different from London, New York or Dubai of today. In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring E P G 1 Praise be to God, Who created the Heavens and the Earth and made darkness and light; though the disbelievers hold up others as equal to their Lord. 2 He created you from clay and fixed your lifespan, a lifespan firmly fixed by Him ; 55 but you still doubt. 3 He is God in the Heavens and on Earth. He knows your secrets and all that you reveal, and He knows all that you do. E G