Reflection No. 86 on Q 17:82 – Cure for what is in the heart

وَنُنَزِّلُ مِنَ الْقُرْآنِ مَا هُوَ شِفَاءٌ وَرَحْمَةٌ لِلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

And We reveal of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to the believers.
Sura al-Israa, verse 82

The Holy Quran has been described in different ways by Allah. It is a reminder, a guidance, a distinguisher, an admonition, a mercy, and a cure for what is in the hearts. The Quran is the instruction manual for the human being, sent down by the One who made him from clay, and who knows what is best for his happiness here and hereafter.

The Quran is a mercy for the believer. It leads him to the right path, and lights up his way. It gives him a perspective on life that is different from those without faith. It gives meaning and direction to life. The Quran inspires through stories and examples, advises with wisdom and understanding, and clarifies that which may seem confusing. When you allow yourself to be led by the Quran, and submit completely to the guidance of the Lord in it, you feel a sense of relief and inner peace. It comes from trusting in a power much greater than your own to help you make the most of your life.

The Quran is a healing for believers. In another verse (10:57) Allah says it is a healing for what is in the chest. The Quran cures the diseases of the heart. It calms down the inner unrest and disturbances that threaten the stability of the spiritual heart. It is a medicine for sicknesses such as jealousy, selfishness, greed, apathy . . . etc. When you read verses that talk about the greatness of Allah and the beauty of creation, or verses that praise noble believers and describe their qualities, you cannot fail to be affected if you read them with faith and allow them to enter your heart. As soon as you allow them entry inside, they begin cleansing your insides and help get rid of the pollutants that have begun to seal the heart.

Allow the Quran to be a mercy and cure for you. Go to it to receive peace and healing. Recite it when negative thoughts seem to overwhelm you, when you feel alone and need support. If you make the Quran your constant companion you will find yourself unexpectedly strong. The sicknesses that weaken you will be cured, and your increased spiritual health will allow you to tread firmly on the right path.