“Taking inspiration directly from the Qur’an, we must introduce Islam to the new age.”
This ideal, expressed by Mehmet Akif—a poet who explored themes such as religion, motherland, and freedom in the name of the Muslim world, hoping for enlightenment and a positive message from our holy book, the Qur’an—has been realized through the collection of the Risale-i Nur. The books you hold in your hands, written by Said Nursi, convey the Qur’an’s messages to the people of this age.
The Risale-i Nur is a profound exegesis of the Qur’an, providing spiritual guidance for individuals in the modern era. It preserves the fundamental message of the Qur’an while elucidating its verses in a manner suited to contemporary understanding. In this context, Risale-i Nur serves as a renewal of faith, adapting the Qur’anic message to the needs of this century.
Bediuzzaman Said Nursi, who deeply analyzed the characteristics of this era and diagnosed its spiritual ailments, addressed these needs through the treasury of belief. With the guiding principle of “It is time to save belief,” he composed the Risale-i Nur to counteract the challenges of the modern world.
Why Is It Time to Save Belief?
Belief is under threat in an unprecedented manner. In past centuries, faith had never faced such significant dangers. Societies largely accepted religious tenets with submission, and the words of great scholars were embraced without requiring extensive proof. However, with the rise of materialist movements, doubts and objections challenging faith have intensified, deeply affecting many minds.
For centuries, suspicions, objections, and misconceptions about the Qur’an have been spread through modern means, gaining widespread acceptance. Recognizing that these developments could endanger even the faith of Muslims, Bediuzzaman Said Nursi took decisive action. Through direct inspiration from the Qur’an, he created the Risale-i Nur, a collection that serves as a fortress against the tide of disbelief and misinformation.
What Does Risale-i Nur Do?
The Risale-i Nur provides compelling answers to existential questions such as:
- Who am I?
- Where did I come from?
- Where am I going?
- What is my purpose in this world?
These questions, which engage every individual’s mind, cannot be ignored by modern humanity. The collection explains and proves all tenets of faith, beginning with belief in Allah. It addresses and refutes doubts raised by science and philosophy, demonstrating the harmony between religion and reason.
Additionally, the Risale-i Nur defends Islam by dismantling claims of its incompatibility with science. It counters efforts to distort religious teachings and provides healing for the spiritual crises afflicting individuals in a materialistic society. Through rational, heartfelt, and soul-nourishing explanations of Qur’anic truths—such as the Unity of God and the Hereafter—the collection alleviates the disorientation and despair caused by spiritual and intellectual struggles.
Risale-i Nur and the Problems of the Modern Age
Another significant characteristic of the Risale-i Nur is its ability to offer sound and consistent solutions to contemporary social and political issues. It provides insightful and globally relevant interpretations on topics such as:
- The relationship between religion and democracy
- The interaction of religion and politics
- The true meaning of jihad and its distinction from terror
Furthermore, the Risale-i Nur introduces an exemplary and original service method based on positive action. It prioritizes democracy, human rights, freedoms, and civil society, advocating for a constructive approach in addressing modern challenges.
