بِسۡمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

A/Introduction

B/Branches of the Science of the Quran

1/Muhkamaat And Mutashabihaat

2/Naskh (Abrogation) And Mansukh (Abrogated)

(A)Introduction

Allah says in the Quran.

الر ۚ كِتَابٌ أُحْكِمَتْ آيَاتُهُ ثُمَّ فُصِّلَتْ مِن لَّدُنْ حَكِيمٍ خَبِيرٍ (Surah Hud, 11:1)

TRANSLATION

Alif, Lam, Ra. [This is] a Book whose verses are perfected and then presented in detail from [one who is] Wise and Acquainted.

The Sciences of the Quran (Ulum al-Qur’an) encompass a wide range of disciplines that focus on various aspects of the Quran, its recitation, interpretation, and historical context. These sciences are essential for a comprehensive understanding of the Quran and its application in Islamic life.

Tafsir (Exegesis): This is the comprehensive study focused on explaining the meanings of the Quran’s verses in detail. Tafsir aims to clarify revelations and derive legal rulings from the text, ensuring that the essence of the divine message is fully understood.

The interpretation of the Quran requires various specialized knowledge, such as mastering Arabic linguistics, grammar, and rhetoric, along with an understanding of historical context and cultural nuances.

Additionally, it encompasses expertise in other natural, physical, social, formal and general sciences, including theology, jurisprudence, and ethics, allowing for a well-rounded approach to the scripture that respects its depth and multifaceted nature.

Understanding the Quran through Tafsir thus not only aids in personal spiritual growth but also fosters a deeper appreciation of its teachings within the community.

For Example;

Grammar and Morphology: This branch studies the linguistic structure of Arabic as it appears in the Quran. It includes understanding syntax, morphology, and phonetics.

Rhetoric: The study of rhetorical devices used in the Quran helps in understanding how language is employed to convey messages effectively. This includes analysing metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech. This field examines various forms and styles present in the Quranic text. It looks at stylistic elements that contribute to its beauty.

Science of Recitations (Qira’at): This involves studying different accepted readings of the Quran. Each reading may have slight variations in pronunciation or wording that can affect meaning.

Hadith Studies: While primarily focused on sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), this science also intersects with Quranic studies by providing context for certain verses through prophetic traditions.

Fiqh Science: This branch deals with deriving legal rulings from both the Quran and Hadith. It focuses on how Islamic law is informed by these texts.

Asbab al-Nuzul (Causes of Revelation): Understanding why specific verses were revealed helps contextualize their meanings and applications within Islamic teachings.

Ghareeb al-Qur’an (Obscure Words): This field focuses on identifying rare or unusual words found in the Quran, exploring their meanings and implications for interpretation.

Abrogation (Naskh): This science studies which verses have been abrogated or replaced by later revelations, helping scholars understand changes in legal rulings over time.

Importance of Studying Sciences of the Quran
Studying these sciences provides Muslims with a deeper appreciation for their faith by enhancing their understanding of religious texts, enabling them to defend against misconceptions, derive legal rulings accurately, and apply teachings effectively in daily life

In summary, the Sciences of the Quran consist of Tafsir, Grammar, Rhetoric, Recitation Science (Qira’at), Hadith, Fiqh, Causes of Revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul), Obscure Words (Ghareeb al-Qur’an), and Abrogation (Naskh and Mansukh). Natural, Formal, Social, and General Sciences are very important because they assist the understanding the Verses which deals with Science.

(B)Branches of the Science of the Quran

1/Muhkamaat And Mutashabihaat

MUHKAMAAT –The Verses which are Decisive

MUTASHABIHAAT-This branch deals with Verses which are allegorical and they are open to more than one opinion and interpretations.

Allah says in Surah Al-Imran Chapter Number 3 Verse Number 7

هُوَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أَنزَلَ عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ مِنۡهُ ءَايَـٰتٌ۬ مُّحۡكَمَـٰتٌ هُنَّ أُمُّ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبِ وَأُخَرُ مُتَشَـٰبِهَـٰتٌ۬‌ۖ فَأَمَّا ٱلَّذِينَ فِى قُلُوبِهِمۡ زَيۡغٌ۬ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ مَا تَشَـٰبَهَ مِنۡهُ ٱبۡتِغَآءَ ٱلۡفِتۡنَةِ وَٱبۡتِغَآءَ تَأۡوِيلِهِۦ‌ۗ وَمَا يَعۡلَمُ تَأۡوِيلَهُ ۥۤ إِلَّا ٱللَّهُ‌ۗ وَٱلرَّٲسِخُونَ فِى ٱلۡعِلۡمِ يَقُولُونَ ءَامَنَّا بِهِۦ كُلٌّ۬ مِّنۡ عِندِ رَبِّنَا‌ۗ وَمَا يَذَّكَّرُ إِلَّآ أُوْلُواْ ٱلۡأَلۡبَـٰبِ (٧)

TRANSLATION

He it is Who has revealed the Book to you; some of its verses are decisive, they are the basis of the Book, and others are allegorical; then as for those in whose hearts there is perversity they follow the part of it which is allegorical, seeking to mislead and seeking to give it (their own) interpretation. but none knows its interpretation except Allah, and those who are firmly rooted in knowledge say: We believe in it, it is all from our Lord; and none do mind except those having understanding.

So from the first and second verse we understand that All the verses of the Quran are Perfected and from these there are those which have precise meanings and others are allegorical which are open for interpretations.

The Nature of MUHKAMAAT Verses
MUHKAMAAT verses are characterized by their straightforwardness. They convey clear laws or principles that do not require further interpretation. For example, verses that outline fundamental beliefs or moral directives fall into this category. Their firmness ensures that they can be universally understood and applied without confusion.

The Nature of MUTASHABIH Verses
On the other hand, MUTASHABIH verses are those that are allegorical and require interpretation. These verses may use metaphorical language or allusions that can lead to multiple interpretations. This serves a purpose; it invites deeper reflection and contemplation among scholars. It also allows for flexibility in understanding complex theological concepts.

The existence of both MUHKAMAAT and MUTASHABIH verses in the Quran is complementary. The Quran itself acknowledges this duality:

Purposeful Design: The presence of both types serves a divine purpose—MUHKAMAAT provides clear guidance while MUTASHABIH encourages exploration and deeper understanding.

Interpretative Framework: Scholars often emphasize that while some verses are clear-cut, others require contextual knowledge, linguistic expertise, and theological insight for proper interpretation.

Faith and Reflection: This structure fosters a dynamic relationship between faith and reason within Islamic scholarship. Believers are encouraged to engage with both types of verses thoughtfully.

The classification of Quranic verses into MUHKAMAAT and MUTASHABIH illustrates a sophisticated approach to divine communication—one that balances clarity with depth.

EXAMPLE OF MUHKAM

لَيۡسَ كَمِثۡلِهِۦ شَىۡءٌ۬‌ۖ From the below Verse Surat Ash-Shuraa Number 42 Ayat Number 11

فَاطِرُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ۚ جَعَلَ لَكُم مِّنۡ أَنفُسِكُمۡ أَزۡوَٲجً۬ا وَمِنَ ٱلۡأَنۡعَـٰمِ أَزۡوَٲجً۬ا‌ۖ يَذۡرَؤُكُمۡ فِيهِ‌ۚ لَيۡسَ كَمِثۡلِهِۦ شَىۡءٌ۬‌ۖ وَهُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلۡبَصِيرُ (١١)

TRANSLATION

[He is] Creator of the heavens and the earth. He has made for you from yourselves, mates, and among the cattle, mates; He multiplies you thereby. There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.

The phrase “There is nothing like unto Him” لَيۡسَ كَمِثۡلِهِۦ شَىۡءٌ۬‌ۖ is clear and doesn’t require more Interpretations.

EXAMPLE OF MUTASHABIH

فَإِنَّكَ بِأَعۡيُنِنَا‌ۖ From the below Verse Surat At-Tur Number 52 Verse Number 48

وَٱصۡبِرۡ لِحُكۡمِ رَبِّكَ فَإِنَّكَ بِأَعۡيُنِنَا‌ۖ وَسَبِّحۡ بِحَمۡدِ رَبِّكَ حِينَ تَقُومُ (٤٨)

TRANSLATION

And be patient, [O Muhammad], for the decision of your Lord, for indeed, you are in Our eyes. And exalt [Allah] with praise of your Lord when you arise.

The Phrase فَإِنَّكَ بِأَعۡيُنِنَا‌ۖ you are in Our eyes is allegorical and open to Interpretations.

The Interpretation should be measured not to deviate the MUHKAM verses.

Allah has already said on the above Verse “There is nothing like unto Him” so we should not think that God has Eyes like humans. Here the meaning is Allegorical. So the meaning is “We are watching over you”. and we should not try to manipulate the meaning for any other gains. If he watches then we should not ask non logical questions like is he having Eyes like humans etc. because Allah gave us knowledge to a certain limit and no one knows what he hasn’t taught us.

2/Naskh (Abrogation) And Mansukh (Abrogated)

Allah Speaks about Nasikh and Mansukh in the below Verses:

Chapter 2 Verse 106
۞ مَا نَنسَخۡ مِنۡ ءَايَةٍ أَوۡ نُنسِهَا نَأۡتِ بِخَيۡرٍ۬ مِّنۡہَآ أَوۡ مِثۡلِهَآ‌ۗ أَلَمۡ تَعۡلَمۡ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىۡءٍ۬ قَدِيرٌ (١٠٦)
We do not abrogate a verse or cause it to be forgotten except that We bring forth [one] better than it or similar to it. Do you not know that Allah is over all things competent?

Chapter 16 Verse 101
وَإِذَا بَدَّلۡنَآ ءَايَةً۬ مَّڪَانَ ءَايَةٍ۬‌ۙ وَٱللَّهُ أَعۡلَمُ بِمَا يُنَزِّلُ قَالُوٓاْ إِنَّمَآ أَنتَ مُفۡتَرِۭ‌ۚ بَلۡ أَكۡثَرُهُمۡ لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ (١٠١)
And when We substitute a verse in place of a verse – and Allah is most knowing of what He sends down – they say, “You, [O Muhammad], are but an inventor [of lies].” But most of them do not know.

There are 3 types of Naskh.

1/Ruling + Ayah-were both removed

This is known as AL-INSAA or Causing to Forget. The Ayah is made to be forgotten completely as if it didn’t Exist. As Allah said in the Quran about this type of Naskh. The Ayat was removed and its law and the Companions couldn’t remember it anymore

Allah confirms this subject in the below Ayah.

2/Ruling-Was removed but the Ayat is recorded

Chapter 2 Verse 180

كُتِبَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ إِذَا حَضَرَ أَحَدَكُمُ ٱلۡمَوۡتُ إِن تَرَكَ خَيۡرًا ٱلۡوَصِيَّةُ لِلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ وَٱلۡأَقۡرَبِينَ بِٱلۡمَعۡرُوفِ‌ۖ حَقًّا عَلَى ٱلۡمُتَّقِينَ (١٨٠)
Prescribed for you when death approaches [any] one of you if he leaves wealth [is that he should make] a bequest for the parents and near relatives according to what is acceptable – a duty upon the righteous.

The Ruling of this Ayat was removed but the Ayat itself is still in the Quran and we can recite and pray but not apply the law which came with this Ayat. This Ayat shows the Wisdom and Knowledge of Allah and that humans understand the importance of Naskh which came as a Blessing.

3/Ayat-Was mentioned by Prophet as not part of the Quranic Verses but its ruling is in effect

The Ayat was not part of the Quranic Text but its ruling remains in effect.

Some of the hadith that talk about the verse on stoning…

Below The Hadith from Bukhari-Vol. 8, Book 82, Hadith 816

حَدَّثَنَا عَلِيُّ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، حَدَّثَنَا سُفْيَانُ، عَنِ الزُّهْرِيِّ، عَنْ عُبَيْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ ـ رضى الله عنهما ـ قَالَ قَالَ عُمَرُ لَقَدْ خَشِيتُ أَنْ يَطُولَ بِالنَّاسِ زَمَانٌ حَتَّى يَقُولَ قَائِلٌ لاَ نَجِدُ الرَّجْمَ فِي كِتَابِ اللَّهِ‏.‏ فَيَضِلُّوا بِتَرْكِ فَرِيضَةٍ أَنْزَلَهَا اللَّهُ، أَلاَ وَإِنَّ الرَّجْمَ حَقٌّ عَلَى مَنْ زَنَى، وَقَدْ أَحْصَنَ، إِذَا قَامَتِ الْبَيِّنَةُ، أَوْ كَانَ الْحَمْلُ أَوْ الاِعْتِرَافُ ـ قَالَ سُفْيَانُ كَذَا حَفِظْتُ ـ أَلاَ وَقَدْ رَجَمَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَرَجَمْنَا بَعْدَهُ‏.‏

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

`Umar said, “I am afraid that after a long time has passed, people may say, “We do not find the Verses of the Rajam (stoning to death) in the Holy Book,” and consequently they may go astray by leaving an obligation that Allah has revealed. Lo! I confirm that the penalty of Rajam be inflicted on him who commits illegal sexual intercourse, if he is already married and the crime is proved by witnesses or pregnancy or confession.” Sufyan added, “I have memorized this narration in this way.” `Umar added, “Surely Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) carried out the penalty of Rajam, and so did we after him.”

Below The Hadith from Sahih Muslim-Book 17, Hadith 4194

حَدَّثَنِي أَبُو الطَّاهِرِ، وَحَرْمَلَةُ بْنُ يَحْيَى، قَالاَ حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ وَهْبٍ، أَخْبَرَنِي يُونُسُ، عَنِ ابْنِ شِهَابٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي عُبَيْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عُتْبَةَ، أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ عَبْدَ اللَّهِ بْنَ عَبَّاسٍ، يَقُولُ قَالَ عُمَرُ بْنُ الْخَطَّابِ وَهُوَ جَالِسٌ عَلَى مِنْبَرِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم إِنَّ اللَّهَ قَدْ بَعَثَ مُحَمَّدًا صلى الله عليه وسلم بِالْحَقِّ وَأَنْزَلَ عَلَيْهِ الْكِتَابَ فَكَانَ مِمَّا أُنْزِلَ عَلَيْهِ آيَةُ الرَّجْمِ قَرَأْنَاهَا وَوَعَيْنَاهَا وَعَقَلْنَاهَا فَرَجَمَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَرَجَمْنَا بَعْدَهُ فَأَخْشَى إِنْ طَالَ بِالنَّاسِ زَمَانٌ أَنْ يَقُولَ قَائِلٌ مَا نَجِدُ الرَّجْمَ فِي كِتَابِ اللَّهِ فَيَضِلُّوا بِتَرْكِ فَرِيضَةٍ أَنْزَلَهَا اللَّهُ وَإِنَّ الرَّجْمَ فِي كِتَابِ اللَّهِ حَقٌّ عَلَى مَنْ زَنَى إِذَا أَحْصَنَ مِنَ الرِّجَالِ وَالنِّسَاءِ إِذَا قَامَتِ الْبَيِّنَةُ أَوْ كَانَ الْحَبَلُ أَوْ الاِعْتِرَافُ ‏.‏

‘Abdullah b. ‘Abbas reported that ‘Umar b. Khattab sat on the pulpit of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and said:

Verily Allah sent Muhammad (ﷺ) with truth and He sent down the Book upon him, and the verse of stoning was included in what was sent down to him. We recited it, retained it in our memory and understood it. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) awarded the punishment of stoning to death (to the married adulterer and adulteress) and, after him, we also awarded the punishment of stoning, I am afraid that with the lapse of time, the people (may forget it) and may say: We do not find the punishment of stoning in the Book of Allah, and thus go astray by abandoning this duty prescribed by Allah. Stoning is a duty laid down in Allah’s Book for married men and women who commit adultery when proof is established, or it there is pregnancy, or a confession.

Nasikh and Mansukh in the Quran
In Islamic jurisprudence, the concepts of Nasikh (abrogating) and Mansukh (abrogated) refer to verses in the Quran where one verse supersedes or replaces another. This process is significant in understanding how certain laws and guidelines were revealed progressively to accommodate the social context of the time.

Gradual Change in Habits
The example you provided regarding alcohol consumption illustrates a broader principle within Islamic teachings: that change can be implemented gradually to facilitate acceptance and adaptation among followers. The Quran addresses various behaviours, including alcohol consumption, through a series of revelations that progressively guide believers towards desired practices.

a/Alcohol Prohibition

Example of Alcohol Prohibition in Stages:

First Revelation

وَمِن ثَمَرَٲتِ ٱلنَّخِيلِ وَٱلۡأَعۡنَـٰبِ تَتَّخِذُونَ مِنۡهُ سَڪَرً۬ا وَرِزۡقًا حَسَنًا‌ۗ إِنَّ فِى ذَٲلِكَ لَأَيَةً۬ لِّقَوۡمٍ۬ يَعۡقِلُونَ (٦٧)

And from the fruits of the palm trees and grapevines you take intoxicant and good provision. Indeed in that is a sign for a people who reason.

Second Revelation: Chapter 2 Verse 219

It was permissible but indicated by Allah that it’s a major sin to drink

۞ يَسۡـَٔلُونَكَ عَنِ ٱلۡخَمۡرِ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرِ‌ۖ قُلۡ فِيهِمَآ إِثۡمٌ۬ ڪَبِيرٌ۬ وَمَنَـٰفِعُ لِلنَّاسِ وَإِثۡمُهُمَآ أَڪۡبَرُ مِن نَّفۡعِهِمَا‌ۗ وَيَسۡـَٔلُونَكَ مَاذَا يُنفِقُونَ قُلِ ٱلۡعَفۡوَ‌ۗ كَذَٲلِكَ يُبَيِّنُ ٱللَّهُ لَكُمُ ٱلۡأَيَـٰتِ لَعَلَّڪُمۡ تَتَفَكَّرُونَ (٢١٩)

“They ask you about wine and gambling. Say, “In them is great sin and [yet, some] benefit for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit.” And they ask you what they should spend. Say, “The excess [beyond needs].” Thus Allah makes clear to you the verses [of revelation] that you might give thought”.

Third Revelation: Chapter 4 Verse 43

Command not to perform prayers while drunk

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ لَا تَقۡرَبُواْ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَأَنتُمۡ سُكَـٰرَىٰ حَتَّىٰ تَعۡلَمُواْ مَا تَقُولُونَ وَلَا جُنُبًا إِلَّا عَابِرِى سَبِيلٍ حَتَّىٰ تَغۡتَسِلُواْ‌ۚ وَإِن كُنتُم مَّرۡضَىٰٓ أَوۡ عَلَىٰ سَفَرٍ أَوۡ جَآءَ أَحَدٌ۬ مِّنكُم مِّنَ ٱلۡغَآٮِٕطِ أَوۡ لَـٰمَسۡتُمُ ٱلنِّسَآءَ فَلَمۡ تَجِدُواْ مَآءً۬ فَتَيَمَّمُواْ صَعِيدً۬ا طَيِّبً۬ا فَٱمۡسَحُواْ بِوُجُوهِكُمۡ وَأَيۡدِيكُمۡ‌ۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ عَفُوًّا غَفُورًا (٤٣)

“O you who have believed, do not approach prayer while you are intoxicated until you know what you are saying or in a state of janabah, except those passing through [a place of prayer], until you have washed [your whole body]. And if you are ill or on a journey or one of you comes from the place of relieving himself or you have contacted women and find no water, then seek clean earth and wipe over your faces and your hands [with it]. Indeed, Allah is ever Pardoning and Forgiving”.

Fourth Revelation: Chapter 5 Verse 90-91

Information about Alcohol that it’s Devil’s handiwork so advised to avoid

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓاْ إِنَّمَا ٱلۡخَمۡرُ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرُ وَٱلۡأَنصَابُ وَٱلۡأَزۡلَـٰمُ رِجۡسٌ۬ مِّنۡ عَمَلِ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنِ فَٱجۡتَنِبُوهُ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تُفۡلِحُونَ (٩٠)
“O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful”.

إِنَّمَا يُرِيدُ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنُ أَن يُوقِعَ بَيۡنَكُمُ ٱلۡعَدَٲوَةَ وَٱلۡبَغۡضَآءَ فِى ٱلۡخَمۡرِ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرِ وَيَصُدَّكُمۡ عَن ذِكۡرِ ٱللَّهِ وَعَنِ ٱلصَّلَوٰةِ‌ۖ فَهَلۡ أَنتُم مُّنتَہُونَ (٩١)

“Satan only wants to cause between you animosity and hatred through intoxicants and gambling and to avert you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. So will you not desist”?

This gradual approach allowed individuals to adjust their behaviors over time rather than imposing an immediate and total ban that could have led to resistance or backlash.

Other Examples of Nasikh (Abrogation) and Mansukh (Abrogated) in Stages

b/Inheritance

Verses of Naskh and Mansukh

Mansukh 2:180 – This verse discusses inheritance laws.

Chapter 2 Verse 180

Nasikh 4:11, 12 – These verses provide updated rulings on inheritance.

Chapter 4 Verse 11-12

يُوصِيكُمُ ٱللَّهُ فِىٓ أَوۡلَـٰدِڪُمۡ‌ۖ لِلذَّكَرِ مِثۡلُ حَظِّ ٱلۡأُنثَيَيۡنِ‌ۚ فَإِن كُنَّ نِسَآءً۬ فَوۡقَ ٱثۡنَتَيۡنِ فَلَهُنَّ ثُلُثَا مَا تَرَكَ‌ۖ وَإِن كَانَتۡ وَٲحِدَةً۬ فَلَهَا ٱلنِّصۡفُ‌ۚ وَلِأَبَوَيۡهِ لِكُلِّ وَٲحِدٍ۬ مِّنۡہُمَا ٱلسُّدُسُ مِمَّا تَرَكَ إِن كَانَ لَهُ ۥ وَلَدٌ۬‌ۚ فَإِن لَّمۡ يَكُن لَّهُ ۥ وَلَدٌ۬ وَوَرِثَهُ ۥۤ أَبَوَاهُ فَلِأُمِّهِ ٱلثُّلُثُ‌ۚ فَإِن كَانَ لَهُ ۥۤ إِخۡوَةٌ۬ فَلِأُمِّهِ ٱلسُّدُسُ‌ۚ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ وَصِيَّةٍ۬ يُوصِى بِہَآ أَوۡ دَيۡنٍ‌ۗ ءَابَآؤُكُمۡ وَأَبۡنَآؤُكُمۡ لَا تَدۡرُونَ أَيُّهُمۡ أَقۡرَبُ لَكُمۡ نَفۡعً۬ا‌ۚ فَرِيضَةً۬ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمً۬ا (١١)
۞ وَلَڪُمۡ نِصۡفُ مَا تَرَكَ أَزۡوَٲجُڪُمۡ إِن لَّمۡ يَكُن لَّهُنَّ وَلَدٌ۬‌ۚ فَإِن ڪَانَ لَهُنَّ وَلَدٌ۬ فَلَڪُمُ ٱلرُّبُعُ مِمَّا تَرَڪۡنَ‌ۚ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ وَصِيَّةٍ۬ يُوصِينَ بِهَآ أَوۡ دَيۡنٍ۬‌ۚ وَلَهُنَّ ٱلرُّبُعُ مِمَّا تَرَكۡتُمۡ إِن لَّمۡ يَڪُن لَّكُمۡ وَلَدٌ۬‌ۚ فَإِن ڪَانَ لَڪُمۡ وَلَدٌ۬ فَلَهُنَّ ٱلثُّمُنُ مِمَّا تَرَڪۡتُم‌ۚ مِّنۢ بَعۡدِ وَصِيَّةٍ۬ تُوصُونَ بِهَآ أَوۡ دَيۡنٍ۬‌ۗ وَإِن كَانَ رَجُلٌ۬ يُورَثُ ڪَلَـٰلَةً أَوِ ٱمۡرَأَةٌ۬ وَلَهُ ۥۤ أَخٌ أَوۡ أُخۡتٌ۬ فَلِكُلِّ وَٲحِدٍ۬ مِّنۡهُمَا ٱلسُّدُسُ‌ۚ فَإِن ڪَانُوٓاْ أَڪۡثَرَ مِن ذَٲلِكَ فَهُمۡ شُرَڪَآءُ فِى ٱلثُّلُثِ‌ۚ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ وَصِيَّةٍ۬ يُوصَىٰ بِہَآ أَوۡ دَيۡنٍ غَيۡرَ مُضَآرٍّ۬‌ۚ وَصِيَّةً۬ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَلِيمٌ۬ (١٢)

Allah instructs you concerning your children: for the male, what is equal to the share of two females. But if there are [only] daughters, two or more, for them is two thirds of one’s estate. And if there is only one, for her is half. And for one’s parents, to each one of them is a sixth of his estate if he left children. But if he had no children and the parents [alone] inherit from him, then for his mother is one third. And if he had brothers [or sisters], for his mother is a sixth, after any bequest he [may have] made or debt. Your parents or your children – you know not which of them are nearest to you in benefit. [These shares are] an obligation [imposed] by Allah. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.

And for you is half of what your wives leave if they have no child. But if they have a child, for you is one fourth of what they leave, after any bequest they [may have] made or debt. And for the wives is one fourth if you leave no child. But if you leave a child, then for them is an eighth of what you leave, after any bequest you [may have] made or debt. And if a man or woman leaves neither ascendants nor descendants but has a brother or a sister, then for each one of them is a sixth. But if they are more than two, they share a third, after any bequest which was made or debt, as long as there is no detriment [caused]. [This is] an ordinance from Allah , and Allah is Knowing and Forbearing.

c/Widow Waiting Period

Verses of Naskh and Mansukh

3/Mansukh 2:240 – This verse pertains to the waiting period (`iddah) for widows.

وَٱلَّذِينَ يُتَوَفَّوۡنَ مِنڪُمۡ وَيَذَرُونَ أَزۡوَٲ جً۬ا وَصِيَّةً۬ لِّأَزۡوَٲجِهِم مَّتَـٰعًا إِلَى ٱلۡحَوۡلِ غَيۡرَ إِخۡرَاجٍ۬‌ۚ فَإِنۡ خَرَجۡنَ فَلَا جُنَاحَ عَلَيۡڪُمۡ فِى مَا فَعَلۡنَ فِىٓ أَنفُسِهِنَّ مِن مَّعۡرُوفٍ۬‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ عَزِيزٌ حَڪِيمٌ۬ (٢٤٠)
And those who are taken in death among you and leave wives behind – for their wives is a bequest: maintenance for one year without turning [them] out. But if they leave [of their own accord], then there is no blame upon you for what they do with themselves in an acceptable way. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.

Nasikh 2:234 – This verse shortens the waiting period to four months and ten days.

وَٱلَّذِينَ يُتَوَفَّوۡنَ مِنكُمۡ وَيَذَرُونَ أَزۡوَٲجً۬ا يَتَرَبَّصۡنَ بِأَنفُسِهِنَّ أَرۡبَعَةَ أَشۡہُرٍ۬ وَعَشۡرً۬ا‌ۖ فَإِذَا بَلَغۡنَ أَجَلَهُنَّ فَلَا جُنَاحَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ فِيمَا فَعَلۡنَ فِىٓ أَنفُسِهِنَّ بِٱلۡمَعۡرُوفِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ۬ (٢٣٤)
And those who are taken in death among you and leave wives behind – they, [the wives, shall] wait four months and ten [days]. And when they have fulfilled their term, then there is no blame upon you for what they do with themselves in an acceptable manner. And Allah is [fully] Acquainted with what you do.

d/Expectation of Muslim Warriors

Verses of Naskh and Mansukh

4/Mansukh 8:65 – This verse addresses the expectations of Muslim warriors in battle.

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلنَّبِىُّ حَرِّضِ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ عَلَى ٱلۡقِتَالِ‌ۚ إِن يَكُن مِّنكُمۡ عِشۡرُونَ صَـٰبِرُونَ يَغۡلِبُواْ مِاْئَتَيۡنِ‌ۚ وَإِن يَكُن مِّنڪُم مِّاْئَةٌ۬ يَغۡلِبُوٓاْ أَلۡفً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ بِأَنَّهُمۡ قَوۡمٌ۬ لَّا يَفۡقَهُونَ (٦٥)

O Prophet, urge the believers to battle. If there are among you twenty [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred. And if there are among you one hundred [who are] steadfast, they will overcome a thousand of those who have disbelieved because they are a people who do not understand.

Nasikh 8:66 – This verse reduces the number of enemies that one Muslim warrior is expected to overcome.

ٱلۡـَٔـٰنَ خَفَّفَ ٱللَّهُ عَنكُمۡ وَعَلِمَ أَنَّ فِيكُمۡ ضَعۡفً۬ا‌ۚ فَإِن يَكُن مِّنڪُم مِّاْئَةٌ۬ صَابِرَةٌ۬ يَغۡلِبُواْ مِاْئَتَيۡنِ‌ۚ وَإِن يَكُن مِّنكُمۡ أَلۡفٌ۬ يَغۡلِبُوٓاْ أَلۡفَيۡنِ بِإِذۡنِ ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ مَعَ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ (٦٦)
Now, Allah has lightened [the hardship] for you, and He knows that among you is weakness. So if there are from you one hundred [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred. And if there are among you a thousand, they will overcome two thousand by permission of Allah. And Allah is with the steadfast.

e/Fasting

Verses of Naskh and Mansukh

5/Mansukh 2-184- This verse relates to provisions for those who are unable to fast.

أَيَّامً۬ا مَّعۡدُودَٲتٍ۬‌ۚ فَمَن كَانَ مِنكُم مَّرِيضًا أَوۡ عَلَىٰ سَفَرٍ۬ فَعِدَّةٌ۬ مِّنۡ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ‌ۚ وَعَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ يُطِيقُونَهُ ۥ فِدۡيَةٌ۬ طَعَامُ مِسۡكِينٍ۬‌ۖ فَمَن تَطَوَّعَ خَيۡرً۬ا فَهُوَ خَيۡرٌ۬ لَّهُ ۥ‌ۚ وَأَن تَصُومُواْ خَيۡرٌ۬ لَّڪُمۡ‌ۖ إِن كُنتُمۡ تَعۡلَمُونَ (١٨٤)

[Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers excess – it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.

Nasikh 2-185 – This verse provides further clarification on fasting regulations.

شَہۡرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانُ هُدً۬ى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَـٰتٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡهُدَىٰ وَٱلۡفُرۡقَانِ‌ۚ فَمَن شَہِدَ مِنكُمُ ٱلشَّہۡرَ فَلۡيَصُمۡهُ‌ۖ وَمَن ڪَانَ مَرِيضًا أَوۡ عَلَىٰ سَفَرٍ۬ فَعِدَّةٌ۬ مِّنۡ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ‌ۗ يُرِيدُ ٱللَّهُ بِڪُمُ ٱلۡيُسۡرَ وَلَا يُرِيدُ بِڪُمُ ٱلۡعُسۡرَ وَلِتُڪۡمِلُواْ ٱلۡعِدَّةَ وَلِتُڪَبِّرُواْ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَٮٰكُمۡ وَلَعَلَّڪُمۡ تَشۡكُرُونَ (١٨٥)

The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.

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These verses illustrate how certain legal rulings were abrogated or modified over time within the Qur’an, reflecting changes in societal needs and circumstances as understood by scholars like Suyuti.

The concept of naskh (abrogation) and mansukh (abrogated) is significant in Islamic jurisprudence, particularly in understanding the evolution of legal rulings within the Qur’an. Imam Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti, a prominent Islamic scholar, identified various verses that exemplify this principle. Below are the verses categorized as naskh and mansukh according to Suyuti’s heritage.

Nasikh and Mansukh demonstrates a thoughtful progression in Islamic law aimed at facilitating gradual change in societal habits and practices. The example of alcohol prohibition serves as a clear illustration of this methodical approach. It is correct to say that NASIKH WALMANSUKH reflects a strategy for changing people’s habits step by step rather than all at once.