| Answer: Whether any verse in the Qur’ān
is abrogated or not is something that can be debated; however, this much is
certain that the above quoted verse does not support the view of abrogation.
You see the Qur’ān is a coherent book
and each verse should be understood with reference to its context. 18:27 is
actually connected to 18:6-8. The in-between verses are parenthetical in nature
and are just an answer to a question regarding the Ashābu’l Kahaf (people of the
cave) raised by the People of the Book to tease the Prophet (sws). The word
‘Kalimah’ refers to the established practice of the Almighty regarding His law
of guidance. 18:6-8 reads:
Perhaps [O Muhammad!] you would fret
yourself to death, following after them, in grief, if they believe not in this
Message. That which is on earth We have made but as a glittering show for the
earth in order that We may test them – as to which of them are best in conduct.
Verily what is on earth We shall make but as dust and dry soil. (18:6-8)
These verses ask the Prophet (sws) not
to fret over the disbelievers if they are not accepting faith. Now 18:27-8,
while referring to the law of the Almighty regarding guidance, say that this law
is unchangeable and the Prophet (sws) need not fret over these rich and arrogant
people. It is not that he is lacking in effort that they are not accepting
faith. In fact, it is their love for this life that stopping them. The law of
the Almighty is that people who do not want guidance are not given guidance. So
he must not fret over them. This law of the Almighty is unalterable.
In other words, the underlined portion
of 18:27 given above refers to this unchangeable law of guidance and does not
mean that the verses of the Qur’ān cannot change.
|