Al-Quran as guiding light
By Azaraimy HH

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam last night reminded his subjects that the Quran is a light above all lights sent by Allah the Almighty and added that is why he (the Sultan) never tires to encourage all, including government officers and staff, to know how to read the holy book.

His Majesty delivered a titah during the final of the National Al-Quran Reading Competition for Adults 2011 last night, which was telecast live nationwide from the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

Also present at the event were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik and HRH Prince 'Abdul Mateen.

His Majesty said Brunei is proud of holding the annual al-Quran reading competition, which the monarch said is a meaningful history not just for Brunei but between Brunei and Allah the Almighty, because the Quran is the book of Allah.

"We have pledged, by the will of Allah, to continue this tradition until it becomes a national tradition for generations to come," His Majesty stated.

The ruler said, in just half a decade the country has held the competition, it has borne results, with many talented Qari and Qariah surfacing and growing in numbers.

"They are not only being highlighted at the national level, but are also capable of competing at the international level," His Majesty added.

However, it is not the intention of the country to just produce Qari and Qariah for competitions, but to see all Muslims in the country well versed in reading the Quran.

"Because, al-Quran is a precious heritage: Allah's light that shines brightly. Whoever possesses it (al-Quran), but does not read it, it will be his/her loss not to receive that light. Imagine a house without a light, what will happen to its residents?" His Majesty asked.

His Majesty said he was particularly attracted to the theme of this year's competition, which is "Bersuluh Dengan al-Quran" or "Guided by the light of the Quran".

The monarch said, there is no doubt that the world today needs a guiding light.

"The world is in darkness, where its inhabitants are losing their direction," His Majesty said.

"Some can see; what is good is seen as bad, what is bad is seen as good. This has convinced us more of the importance of al-Quran as a guiding light," His Majesty stated.

His Majesty added that Allah the Almighty has characterised al-Quran as a light above all lights.

"What is the meaning of light above all lights, if it is not a divine light shining brightly?" His Majesty asked.

"This is what it means, the Quran was delivered to become our light and guidance to humankind. Whoever reads and takes heed of its guidance, they will be the ones who will see the light - the light that brings them to safety," His Majesty added. - Borneo Bulletin (13th May 2011)


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