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Surah Al Furqan - Understanding Allah Kabir in the Quran Sharif
Surah Al Furqan from the Holy Quran Sharif contains important verses that mention "Allah Kabir," also known as Supreme God Kabir. In this Surah, we find key references that explain the existence of a higher God named Kabir, who created the entire universe and all living things within it. Here, we will explore specific verses from Surah Al Furqan and their meanings to shed light on this understanding.
Key Verses from Surah Al Furqan (25:52 - 25:59)
Verse 25:52:
"So do not obey the disbelievers, and strive against them with the Qur'an, a great striving."
Meaning:
In this verse, Prophet Muhammad's God is instructing him not to listen to those who do not believe in the Supreme God (Allah Kabir). These disbelievers, who worship other gods, idols, or deities, refuse to accept that Kabir is the true God. The Prophet is advised to stay firm in his belief and rely on the knowledge given to him in the Quran, which emphasizes that Kabir is the Supreme God. The word "Kabir" here signifies greatness and superiority.
Verse 25:53:
"And it is He who has released [simultaneously] the two seas, one fresh and sweet and one salty and bitter, and He placed between them a barrier and a prohibiting partition."
Meaning:
This verse describes the incredible power of God, who created the oceans and placed boundaries between the fresh and salty waters. The significance here is that only a Supreme God like Allah Kabir has the ability to control nature in such an awe-inspiring way.
Verse 25:58:
"And rely upon the Ever-Living who does not die, and exalt [Allah] with His praise. And sufficient is He to be, with the sins of His servants, Acquainted."
Meaning:
In this verse, the God being referred to by Prophet Muhammad is instructing him to have faith in a greater, everlasting God—Allah Kabir—who never dies and is eternal. The verse encourages worship of Kabir, who is also described as capable of forgiving sins and being worthy of all praise. This points to Allah Kabir as the true God who has supreme control over life and death.
Verse 25:59:
"He who created the heavens and the earth and what is between them in six days and then established Himself above the Throne - the Most Merciful [Kabir], so ask about Him one well informed."
Meaning:
This verse emphasizes that Allah Kabir is the Creator of everything—the heavens, the earth, and everything in between. He created the universe in six days and rested on the seventh, sitting on His throne. The use of the word "Kabir" here indicates that this God is great and supreme. The verse also advises Prophet Muhammad to seek knowledge about this Supreme God from a "Baakhabar" or well-informed Saint (Tattavdarshi Saint) who fully understands God.
Important Insights from Quran Sharif
1. God is in Form and His Name is Kabir
In Surah Al Furqan, God is referred to as "Kabir," which means "Great." The fact that Kabir sits on a throne implies that God has a form. This also aligns with other scriptures like the Holy Bible, which mentions God creating the universe in six days and resting on the seventh. The Bible further states that humans were made in the image of God, reinforcing that God must have a form.
2. Surah Al Furqan 25:59 - Allah is Kabir
Verse 25:59 explicitly states that Allah Kabir is the one who created everything in six days and took His place on the throne. This shows that Allah Kabir is the Supreme God, the Creator of the universe.
3. Prophet Muhammad’s God Refers to Another Supreme God
In verse 25:58, the God speaking to Prophet Muhammad acknowledges the existence of a Supreme God, Allah Kabir, and encourages the Prophet to glorify Him. This indicates that there is a higher power, Allah Kabir, who is eternal and deserves worship above all others.
4. The Role of a Tattavdarshi Saint (Baakhabar)
Verse 25:59 suggests that Prophet Muhammad should seek guidance from a "Baakhabar" (a well-informed person or Tattavdarshi Saint) to gain full knowledge about Allah Kabir and the path to attain Him. This parallels teachings in other scriptures, like the Bhagavad Gita, where Arjun is advised to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable saint to find the way to the Supreme God.
The Mention of Kabir in Other Sacred Texts
Holy Bible: The Bible also mentions that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh, similar to the account in the Quran. It also states that humans were created in the image of God, further proving that God has a form.
Holy Vedas: The name "Kabir" also appears in the Vedas, where He is called "Kavir Dev," meaning the Great God.
Guru Granth Sahib: In the sacred teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Kabir is also mentioned as "Hakka Kabir," meaning the Eternal Kabir.
Surah Al-Ikhlas 112 Verses 1-4 and Allah Kabir
Qualities of Supreme God in Surah Al-Ikhlas 112: Praising Allah Kabir
Surah Al-Ikhlas, found in the Quran, consists of four powerful verses (112:1-4) that reveal essential truths about the nature of God. These verses describe God's attributes in a way that aligns with descriptions of Allah Kabir, the Supreme God, found in other spiritual texts. Let’s explore this connection in more detail.
Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:1 - The Oneness of God: Connecting to Allah Kabir
The first verse declares, "Say, 'He is Allah, [who is] One.'" This statement highlights God's absolute oneness, showing that He is unique and possesses infinite power. He is the Creator and eternal ruler of the universe. This concept reflects the idea of Allah Kabir, the Supreme God, as described in the Quran, Vedas, Bible, and Guru Granth Sahib. These texts also affirm the oneness of Kabir Sahib as the ultimate divine being.
Kabir’s Birth and Naming Ceremony: A Miraculous Event
God Kabir appeared in this world in infant form, miraculously arriving on a lotus flower in the Lahartara pond in Kashi, India. During Kabir Sahib’s naming ceremony, when religious leaders opened the Quran, every letter in the book turned into "Kabir-Kabir." No matter how many times they tried, the letters continued to change into "Kabir," signifying His divinity.
Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:2 - God as the Eternal Refuge
The second verse of Surah Al-Ikhlas describes God as the "Eternal Refuge," meaning He is the everlasting source of comfort and support for His followers. Similarly, Allah Kabir offers eternal refuge to His devotees through His teachings, providing spiritual protection and guidance. This shared principle reinforces the idea that both Allah and Kabir serve as sanctuaries for those who believe in them.
Surah Al-Furqan and Kabir Allah: A Complementary View
While not part of Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Furqan (25:58) gives us another perspective. This verse praises Kabir Allah, recognizing Him as the eternal, immortal God who has the power to erase the sins of His followers. This portrayal complements the description of Allah Kabir, further connecting Him to the Supreme God mentioned in Surah Al-Ikhlas.
Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:3 - Beyond Birth and Death
The third verse proclaims, "He neither begets nor is born." This highlights God's transcendence over the limitations of birth, death, and human reproduction. This is aligned with the belief in Kabir Parmeshwar, who exists outside the cycle of life and death. He is an immortal, divine being beyond time and space, unaffected by worldly constraints.
Kabir Sahib’s Unique Appearance: Beyond Human Birth
Kabir Sahib did not come into the world through a traditional human birth, and His body was not made of flesh and blood. He carried the weight of human sins and liberated others from them. He had no children of His own but brought two dead individuals back to life, and they became His spiritual successors. Kabir's power to give life is another sign of His divine identity, connecting Him to the Supreme God described in Surah Al-Ikhlas.
Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:4 - Incomparable Greatness
The final verse of Surah Al-Ikhlas asserts that there is "none comparable unto Him." This emphasizes God's unique greatness and divine attributes, which cannot be matched by anyone or anything. Similarly, Allah Kabir possesses unparalleled qualities, setting Him apart from all others.
Kabir’s Departure: A Unique and Divine Journey
Unlike other spiritual figures such as Moses, Adam, Prophet Muhammad, Ram, or Krishna, who passed away and left their earthly bodies behind, Kabir Sahib ascended to Satlok (the eternal abode) with His physical body intact. This extraordinary event reinforces Kabir Sahib’s uniqueness, as there is no one else like Him.
Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj: Clearing Up Misconceptions
In today’s world, where people have better access to education and information, it’s important to clear up religious misunderstandings. Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj aims to do just that by sharing the true knowledge of Allah Kabir. His teachings help people understand the deeper meanings of Surah Al-Ikhlas and recognize Allah in His true form.
It’s time for people, especially within the Muslim community, to read and reflect on their sacred teachings. By embracing the knowledge given by Allah, they can discern what is right and move closer to God’s truth.
God Kabir in Fazaile Darud Shareef
The Magnificence of God Kabir in Fazaile Darud Shareef
In the Fazaile Darud Shareef, there is a profound statement attributed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that highlights the immense significance of the phrase Laiila-h-Illallahh and its connection with God Kabir. Let’s explore the deeper meanings and spiritual importance of this phrase and its association with Kabir.
The Power of 'Laiila-h-Illallahh' and Its Connection to God Kabir
Understanding the Sacred Phrase 'Laiila-h-Illallahh'
The phrase Laiila-h-Illallahh is a core declaration in Islam, affirming the belief in the oneness of God. It expresses submission to God’s supreme authority and recognizes His omnipotence.
The Promise of Heavenly Doors Opening for the Believer
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that reciting Laiila-h-Illallahh sincerely opens the doors of heaven. This phrase allows the believer’s soul to move closer to divine presence, ascending to the spiritual realms.
Seeking Refuge in Kabir to Attain Salvation
The power of Laiila-h-Illallahh lies in seeking refuge with God Kabir, who is believed to offer spiritual liberation. By following Kabir’s teachings and embracing His protection, one can achieve salvation.
The Unparalleled Virtue and Acceptance of 'Laiila-h-Illallahh'
The Sacredness and Virtue of 'Laiila-h-Illallahh'
The phrase Laiila-h-Illallahh holds an unmatched place of virtue in Islamic teachings. It signifies the recognition of God’s oneness and Kabir's majesty.
Even Sinners Find Redemption through Kabir's Name
Kabir’s grace extends to everyone, even those with past sins. The sincerity with which one recites Laiila-h-Illallahh is what matters most, allowing even the sinful to find redemption.
Mulla Ali Kaari’s Hope in Kabir's Grace
Mulla Ali Kaari (may God have mercy on him) had strong faith in salvation through invoking Kabir’s name. He believed that even those burdened with sins could find acceptance by reciting Kabir’s name.
Kabir's Name - A Key to Heavenly Abode
Baaj Ulema's Interpretation of 'Laiila-h-Illallahh' and Kabir
Scholars, known as Baaj Ulema, teach that for those who recite Laiila-h-Illallahh sincerely, the doors of the heavens will open, even after death. This promises eternal peace and spiritual elevation.
Posthumous Blessings: The Doors of Heaven for the Faithful
The blessings of Laiila-h-Illallahh extend beyond life. After death, the doors of the heavens open to honor the soul that devotedly recited Kabir’s name.
Kabir's Name: A Path to Eternal Spiritual Ascendancy
Through Laiila-h-Illallahh, believers embark on a spiritual journey toward eternal greatness. The unwavering belief in God Kabir’s power leads to spiritual enlightenment and ascendancy.
The Boundless Significance of 'Allahu Akbar, (Kabir)'
Understanding the Universality of 'Allahu Akbar'
The phrase Allahu Akbar praises the greatness and power of God, Kabir. It celebrates His boundless might, which governs all creation.
Embracing the Grandeur of God Kabir
Allahu Akbar, (Kabir) underscores the divine greatness of Kabir, who is the source of all existence and wisdom. Acknowledging Kabir’s grandeur helps believers gain a deeper understanding of His role as the Creator.
The Divine Power of Kabir - The Creator of All
By saying Allahu Akbar, (Kabir), believers affirm their faith in God Kabir as the ultimate Creator of the universe. This sacred phrase reminds them of His presence in every part of life.
Rebirth Concept in Surah Al Anbiya (Quran Sharif)
Rebirth Concept in Surah Al Anbiya (Quran Sharif)
The Quran, Islam's holy scripture, is often interpreted differently when it comes to the concept of reincarnation. Some people believe that reincarnation is hinted at in the Quran, while others argue against this idea, citing contradictions or interpretive challenges. Here's a deeper look into the subject:
Reincarnation in the Quran: A Reflection
The Quran does not directly mention reincarnation. However, certain verses touch upon life after death and resurrection, such as in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:28) and Surah Al-Imran (3:33). These passages focus on themes of life, death, and resurrection rather than reincarnation.
Arguments Supporting Reincarnation
Some interpretations of the Quran suggest that reincarnation could be implied in certain verses:
Surah Al-A'raf (7:25): This verse mentions souls returning to their Lord, saying, "Our Lord, You have transferred us from dwelling to dwelling." Some interpret this as evidence that souls could be reborn in different bodies across lifetimes.
Surah Al-Mulk (67:2): It says, "He who created death and life to test you and see who would do best. And He is the Exalted [in Might], the Forgiving." This could be interpreted to support the concept of karma, where souls grow and develop through different lives, facing various tests.
Surah Al-Anbiya (21:104): This verse states, "The Day We fold the heavens like a folded scroll. As We originated the first creation, We will repeat it. It is a promise incumbent upon Us. Indeed, We are going to fulfill it." Some interpret this as suggesting a cyclical nature to creation, which may include the souls’ journey through multiple lifetimes.
Reincarnation Across Different Religions
The concept of reincarnation is not limited to one religion. The enlightened teacher Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj provides a universal view of reincarnation, applicable to followers of various religions, including Islam. Some examples from history are:
Kamali, who was reborn as Rabia Basri, a prominent mystic, and had past lives as a prostitute.
Sultan Ibrahim Ibn Adham, a former king of Balkh Bukhara, is said to have had past lives as Samman Maniyar and Nausherwa Khan, another king.
Sheikh Taqi is believed to have been reborn as a Brahmin Gangeshwar in the Dwapar Yuga (an ancient time period in Hinduism).
According to Sant Rampal Ji, the actions (like prayer, meditation, good or bad deeds) from past lives influence one's current status, health, and even whether they are reborn as a human or an animal. This idea applies to everyone, including Muslims, who also face the results of their past actions in their current life.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, both the Quran and the teachings of Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj recognize the possibility of multiple births. According to these teachings, souls go through cycles of birth and death, determined by their actions. The ultimate goal, however, is to achieve liberation (moksha) and break this cycle. This is only possible through the guidance of an enlightened spiritual teacher.
The Quran Sharif appears to address rebirth, challenging the common Islamic belief that after death, souls only go to Heaven and are never born again. This understanding is further supported by verses like Surah Al-Anbiya 21:104, which hints at the repetition of creation and the possibility of rebirth.
Quran Sharif - Surah Al Anbiya 21:104
"The Day when We will fold the heaven like the folding of a [written] sheet for the records. As We began the first creation, We will repeat it. [That is] a promise binding upon Us. Indeed, We will do it."
Supreme God in the Quran Sharif
Verses like those found in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4) and others praise the Supreme God, often referred to as Allah Kabir, the ultimate creator. This divine essence is celebrated in various religious texts, including the Quran, showing God's power and promise to all souls.
Life History of Prophet Muhammad
The Life History of Prophet Muhammad and His Teachings
Prophet Muhammad was an Arab religious and social leader, known for founding Islam. According to Islamic teachings, he was sent as a prophet to spread the word of Allah. This article explores the life of Prophet Muhammad, from his birth to his passing, and touches upon key events and his teachings.
Ancestors of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad was born into the Quraysh tribe, who were believed to follow the God of Abraham. His grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, had ten sons. During a significant moment in Mecca, while digging a well, Abdul Muttalib vowed to sacrifice one of his sons in Allah's name. When it was time to fulfill this vow, the arrow chosen indicated his son Abdullah. However, after community intervention and consulting with an astrologer, it was agreed that 100 camels would be sacrificed instead to save Abdullah's life.
Abdullah later married Amina, and soon after, he passed away, leaving Amina pregnant with Prophet Muhammad. This is documented in the book Biography of Hazrat Muhammad by Mohammad Inayatullah Subhani.
Early Life of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad was born in 570 A.D. The name "Muhammad" comes from the Arabic word "Hamada," which means to praise or glorify. Raised by his mother Amina and his grandfather, Muhammad was orphaned at six when his mother died. He was then cared for by his uncle, Abu Talib.
Marriage Life of Prophet Muhammad
Muhammad grew into a well-respected man known for his fairness and justice, earning the nickname "al-Amin" (the trustworthy one). At the age of 25, he married a wealthy widow named Khadija, who was 40 years old. Together, they had three sons (Qasim, Tayyab, Tahir) and four daughters (Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum, and Fatimah). Unfortunately, all three of his sons passed away young. Over time, Muhammad married other women, mostly widows, to give them shelter. In total, he had 11 wives.
Spiritual Life of Prophet Muhammad
From a young age, Prophet Muhammad displayed a kind and generous heart. He often meditated in the Hira cave, seeking spiritual answers. When he turned 40, his life took a significant turn. During one of his meditations, the angel Gabriel appeared to him, commanding him to read from a piece of silk. Despite Muhammad's initial fear and confusion, Gabriel delivered a message:
"Recite in the name of your Lord who creates. He created man from a clot. Recite, for your Lord is most generous, who taught by the pen, taught man what he did not know."
Muhammad was deeply shaken by this encounter. He later shared his experience with his wife Khadija, who reassured him that he was chosen by God.
Gabriel's Return and the Message of Islam
After his initial encounter, Muhammad continued his spiritual journey, often returning to the Hira cave. Gabriel visited him again, encouraging him to spread the message of Allah. Muhammad was tasked with calling people away from idol worship and towards monotheism—the belief in one God. The revelations continued, and Muhammad began preaching, calling people to accept Islam.
The Opposition Against Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad faced fierce opposition when he started spreading the message of Islam. At that time, Mecca was predominantly polytheistic, and the message of monotheism was seen as a threat. Muhammad, once called "the trusted one," was now mocked, attacked, and even physically harmed by his own people. Despite this, he continued spreading the message of Islam with patience and perseverance.
Prophet Muhammad's Battles
Over his lifetime, Prophet Muhammad fought in 29 battles to protect his people and spread Islam. By 630 A.D., he had successfully united most of the Arabian Peninsula, laying the foundation for Islam's future expansion.
How Did Prophet Muhammad Die?
Prophet Muhammad's health began to decline in 632 A.D., following his last pilgrimage, known as "Hajjatul Wida." Struck by a severe fever, Muhammad sought permission from his wives to stay with Aisha, one of his wives. His condition worsened over the days. Despite the pain, he asked for forgiveness from anyone he may have wronged and urged justice.
On his deathbed, Prophet Muhammad's daughter, Fatimah, was by his side. He comforted her, saying, "From today onwards, your father will not face misery." With these words, he passed away.
Kabir Saheb Met Prophet Muhammad
According to some spiritual teachings, it is said that Allah, in the form of Kabir, once met Prophet Muhammad. Kabir is mentioned in the Quran (Surat Al Furqan, Ayat 25:52) as the true God. Muhammad was taken to Satlok (the eternal abode of Allah Kabir) but chose to return to Earth due to the fame and responsibilities he had among his people.
Teachings of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad’s teachings emphasized kindness, brotherhood, and worshipping one true God (Allah). He was firmly against idol worship and the slaughter of animals. Though many Muslims today practice animal sacrifice, Prophet Muhammad himself was against unnecessary cruelty to animals.
Muhammad's teachings promoted truthfulness, patience, mutual cooperation, and compassion. He emphasized the importance of prayer, fasting, and charity. He called upon his followers to live moral lives, treating others with dignity and respect.
FAQ:
Question 1: Who Gave the Knowledge of the Quran?
The Muslim community widely believes that God Himself provided the knowledge of the Quran. However, let’s take a deeper look.
The Quran Sharif (25:59) states that the giver of this knowledge speaks about God as the Creator of all universes. It also says that full knowledge of God can only be attained by seeking the guidance of a well-informed saint. The person giving this knowledge admits they don’t fully comprehend God.
This reveals that the provider of the Quran's knowledge is not God and even lacks full awareness of who God truly is. He advises Prophet Muhammad to consult a “Baakhabar” (well-informed) saint for the ultimate spiritual understanding.
In Quran Sharif (25:55), it says people who worship other beings apart from Allah are considered disbelievers. They follow misguided practices and should be confronted with the truth.
This implies that while the knowledge provider is not God, he instructs Prophet Muhammad to stand firm for Allah, who is the true power to be worshiped.
From the biography of Prophet Muhammad, we learn that he was first visited by the angel Gabriel in a cave, who compelled him to receive the knowledge of the Quran, despite Muhammad’s initial fear and refusal. Gabriel even choked Muhammad to force him to accept the revelation.
Does it make sense for a loving God to terrify anyone? God is our caretaker, not someone who causes fear. Based on this, the real giver of the Quran's knowledge was not God but someone known as “Kshr Purush” or Kaal, who forced the knowledge upon Prophet Muhammad.
Question 2: Is Rebirth a Myth or Reality According to Islam?
Many Muslims believe that there is no concept of rebirth in Islam. They think a person lives only once, and after death, the body stays in the grave until the Day of Judgment, when people will be resurrected and sent to either heaven or hell based on their deeds.
However, this belief is not accurate. While the body may remain in the grave, the soul does not. After death, the soul is taken to God's court where its good and bad deeds are judged. Good souls may go to heaven for a limited time, and bad ones may suffer in hell. Eventually, these souls are reborn in new forms through the cycle of life and death, known as the 84 lakh life forms.
Quran Sharif (67:2) explains that God created both life and death to test who among us will perform the best deeds. This suggests the concept of karma, where our actions in past lives affect our current circumstances.
In Surah Al Anbiya (21:104), it’s said that on the Day of Judgment, God will recreate the universe in the same way He did before, hinting at the concept of rebirth.
This belief is further supported by the Bhagavad Gita, where the provider of its knowledge, Kaal, acknowledges that even he and the gods have gone through many births, proving the existence of rebirth.
Question 3: Is Meat Consumption Allowed in Islam?
Muslims often consume meat, especially during the festival of Bakr Eid, where goats are slaughtered as a religious offering. But is this truly allowed in Islam?
While some argue that slaughtering animals in the name of God is justified, this logic is flawed. How can God, who created these animals, be pleased when they are killed? Would a parent be happy if one of their children killed another?
Muslims believe that by praying before slaughtering an animal, they ensure that its soul goes to heaven. But if it were that easy, people would be offering themselves for slaughter to guarantee a spot in heaven!
Hazrat Muhammad, a pious figure, never killed an animal. Neither he nor his 180,000 followers harmed any creatures. Muhammad himself is said to have once brought a dead cow back to life with the power of God’s word.
Compassionate figures like Rabia, a female devotee, sacrificed her own comfort to save the life of a thirsty dog, showing immense kindness to God's creatures. This contrasts sharply with the practice of slaughtering animals for consumption.
Furthermore, the Quran does not advocate killing animals. It promotes peace and compassion, and meat consumption goes against the principles of mercy that the religion stands for. Eating meat is a sinful act, and those who do so are cursed with numerous future lifetimes of suffering.
Question 4: Is God in a Physical Form in Islam?
Many people believe God to be formless, but the Quran suggests otherwise. God created the heavens, earth, and everything in between in six days, and then sat on His throne (Quran Sharif 25:59). This indicates that God has a form, as He sits on a throne like a king.
In Quran Sharif (25:54), God created humans from water and gave them relationships, proving His power to create life. Only a being with form can perform such acts.
Another verse (25:53) talks about God creating two seas, one sweet and the other salty, with a barrier between them. This further illustrates God’s active, physical role in the creation of the world.
God is clearly portrayed as having a form in the Quran, contradicting the common belief that He is formless.
Question 5: Who is Allah/God According to Islam?
It is often said that God is one, but this truth is sometimes misunderstood. Whether we call Him Allah, Ram, Jesus, or Waheguru, God is the same for all religions. His true name, according to many sacred texts, is Kabir.
In Quran Sharif (25:52), the provider of the Quran's knowledge instructs Prophet Muhammad to reject the beliefs of disbelievers and follow Lord Kabir, who is the true God.
Lord Kabir has been mentioned in other religious texts as well. He is the same supreme being who took Prophet Muhammad to Satlok, a heavenly realm free of suffering, but Muhammad chose to return to earth due to the praises he received from his followers.
Quran Sharif (25:58) further mentions that this saint, who is immortal and beyond life and death, is the only one who knows all of our sins and has the power to forgive them.
The true God, Kabir, has come to earth in the form of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj, who teaches the correct spiritual path. He has brought light to the truths hidden in religious texts and has transformed the lives of countless people through his teachings.
