The Koran (Al-Qur'an)

“There is no compulsion in religion: true guidance has become distinct from error, whoever rejects false gods and believes in God has grasped the firmest hand-hold, one that will never break. God is all hearing and all knowing.”

This verse achieves its impact through its concise and absolute phrasing, employing a declarative structure that leaves no room for ambiguity. The juxtaposition of “compulsion” with the abstract and all-encompassing concept of “religion” highlights a tension between external coercion and internal conviction. The choice of negation (“no compulsion”) underscores the Qur’an’s emphasis on free will and individual agency, emphasizing that individuals must find genuine faith on their own. The line “true guidance has become distinct from error” highlights The Qur’an’s Claim of Divine Authorship by framing its guidance as unmistakable since it is divinely given.

“You may dislike something although it is good for you, or like something although it is bad for you.”

This verse employs antithesis, setting “dislike” and “like” against “good” and “bad” to explore the tension between human perception and divine wisdom. The parallel structure mirrors the balance between opposing forces and reinforces the inherent symmetry in God’s decrees. The use of modal verbs like “may” introduces a sense of possibility, leaving room for interpretation and reflection. This linguistic choice aligns with the Qur’an’s didactic approach, prompting people to trust in God’s omniscience while grappling with their limited understanding.