The Scriptures of Ibrahim and Musa
Question :
In a study circle, we were discussing verses eighteen and nineteen from Surat Al-'Ala:
"Verily! This is in the former Scriptures, the scriptures of Ibrahim and Musa".
Under what circumstances or for what reason were these verses revealed? And why did Allah Almighty use the word Sulkuf (Scriptures) rather than Kutub (Books)?
Answer:
Some historians relate that Allah Almighty revealed scriptures (Suhuf) to Ibrahim, scriptures that contained both religious wisdom and rulings. And before Allah Almighty revealed the Tawrah to Musa, He revealed scriptures to him as well, though scholars disagree as to their exact number. Allah Almighty also mentioned these scriptures in Surat An-Najm: "Or is he not informed with what is in the pages (Scripture) of Musa. And of Ibrahim who fulfilled (or conveyed) all that (what Allah ordered him to do or convey)".
The singular of "Suhuf" is "Sahifah," which simply means paper.
The meaning of "Suhuf" in the two verses, though, could possibly mean everything that was revealed to Ibrahim and Musa, including the Tawrah. And Allah Almighty used the word "Suhuf" even to describe the Qur'an:
"(It is) in Suhuf held (greatly) in honor. Exalted (in dignity) purified."
This was before the Qur'an was written in full form or before it was revealed completely. Suhuf, then is perhaps more specific in its meaning than Kutub; however, they may at times be used to convey the same meaning. And Allâh knows best.
Source:
Ibn Jibreen
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 7 Pages 127-128
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