Qur'an 2-3

Qur'an 2:3 is the third verse of Surah Al-Baqarah, and it reads as follows:

الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ

Transliteration: Alladhīna yū’minūna bil-ghaybi wa yuqīmūna as-salāta wa mimmā razaqnāhum yunfiqūn.

Translation: Who believe in the unseen, establish the prayer, and spend from what We have provided for them.

Explanation:

This verse describes the qualities of the muttaqīn (the pious or God-conscious people) mentioned in the previous verse (Qur'an 2:2). It outlines three key actions or characteristics of those who are truly guided by the Qur'an:

1. Belief in the Unseen (الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ):

The term "al-ghayb" refers to matters that are beyond human perception or understanding — those things that cannot be seen, touched, or directly experienced in the physical world. This includes belief in Allah (who is unseen), the angels, the Day of Judgment, the heavenly books, and other aspects of the unseen realm that are central to Islamic faith.
Belief in the unseen is a cornerstone of faith in Islam. It reflects a person’s trust in the reality of spiritual truths, even though they cannot be perceived with the senses. This belief demonstrates a deep faith in the unseen world and a reliance on what Allah has revealed through the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

2. Establishing the Prayer (وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ):

Salat (prayer) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it is the most important act of worship in Islam. To "establish the prayer" means not just to perform it, but to do so regularly, with proper care, humility, and sincerity. It involves maintaining the prescribed five daily prayers and offering them at their proper times.
Prayer in Islam is an essential way for Muslims to connect with Allah, seek forgiveness, and express gratitude. The term "establishing" prayer also emphasizes the importance of consistency and dedication in performing it with full attention, both physically and spiritually.

3. Spending from What Allah Has Provided (وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ):

Zakat (charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) are integral to Islamic social ethics. This part of the verse refers to the habit of spending on others — especially the poor, orphans, and those in need — from the wealth that Allah has provided.
Infaq (spending in the way of Allah) is considered a purification of wealth, and it encourages generosity, social responsibility, and community support. The verse does not specify an exact amount of wealth to be given but emphasizes that those who are conscious of Allah will share what they have, understanding that their wealth ultimately belongs to Allah.

Connection with the Earlier Verses:

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:1-2), the Qur'an is introduced as a clear guidance for the muttaqīn (the pious or God-conscious). This verse (2:3) explains who these "muttaqīn" are and provides specific attributes that define them. They are not only those who believe in Allah, but those who demonstrate their faith through actions — by believing in the unseen, performing their prayers regularly, and giving charity from what they possess.

The Impact of These Qualities:

Belief in the unseen establishes a strong spiritual foundation and reliance on Allah, especially in the face of trials or doubts.
Establishing prayer connects the individual to Allah, ensures regular remembrance of Him, and helps maintain moral and spiritual discipline.
Spending from what Allah has provided cultivates empathy, social justice, and the recognition that material wealth is a trust from Allah, not an end in itself.

Summary:

This verse highlights that the muttaqīn (those who are conscious of Allah) possess specific qualities: a deep belief in the unseen, a commitment to regular prayer, and a generous spirit in giving to those in need. These qualities are foundational to Islamic ethics and are essential for anyone seeking true guidance through the Qur'an.