(I don't want to sound like a regular visitor to this nice forum, but) Welcome, Zeinab!
It sounds like you are in a somewhat unique and ideal position: your mind is free from biases shaped by others' interpretations of the Quran, which are often intertwined with historical and cultural influences. This freedom allows you to focus directly on the verses themselves and develop your own personal understanding, which can serve as a meaningful guide on your spiritual journey.
However, I believe there's a fundamental bias in your perspective that I hope you'll reflect on and reconsider during your journey: the Quran does not refer to the "Muslims" you mention in your message as "Muslims." This is an assumption that can inadvertently overshadow many of the Quran's verses.
As a tip for further exploration, I suggest a methodology to deepen your understanding:
1. Identify a verse in the Quran that includes the word or concept you want to investigate (e.g., 22:78 in this case).
2. Look up the verse on a Quran corpus, such as this one:
Quran Corpus – 22:78.
3. Click on the word in question, which in this case leads to
this page.
4. Use your intellect to uncover the true meaning of the word by treating the Quran itself as your dictionary, exploring how that word is used in various contexts throughout the verses.
Through this approach, you may discover that the word "Muslim" fundamentally means "one who surrenders." Depending on the context, the subject of surrender can vary. Now, consider asking the Quran whether it recognizes the "Muslims" you mentioned—individuals who neither read the Quran daily nor apply its teachings—as truly surrendered. Reflect further: can someone genuinely be considered "surrendered" to anyone or anything if they do not even seek regular communication with that? These are profound questions, and the Quran itself addresses them in its verses. It would be redundant for me to paraphrase its wisdom or present my ideas as substitutes for the Quran's clarity. Instead, I encourage you to continue your journey with the Book before you, which contains all the answers you need to guide you toward becoming a 'good individual.'
Have you had the chance to read Chapter 29? You'll find verse 51 there, this verse 29:51 might help you realize that God has made it so you don't need anyone else to understand His religion. The Quran itself is the companion you seek, capable of easing any loneliness you may feel on this spiritual journey.
As you read the Quran, it will feel like you're traveling through time, meeting companions like Abraham and Joseph. Each of them has life lessons and advice to share, enriching your understanding along the way.
Also, keep in mind that your approach and methodology to understanding the Quran is something you'll be accountable for on the Day of Judgment. Engaging your intellect fully now and being able to say, "I sought guidance and realized that neither the stars, the moon, nor the sun could help me (I hope you'll discover which verses I'm referring to)—only God could. That's why I valued His Book not just as a religious text but as the book," would be truly remarkable.
Of course, such a strong claim requires equally strong evidence to support it, and achieving this understanding isn't something that happens instantly. This realization might offer you a glimpse into the deeper purpose of life. And if it doesn't, maybe you can cheat a little and take a look at the verse 35:37 for some insight
Wishing you the best on your spiritual journey.
