Approaching the West — Page 132
A pproaching the West—132 10 Signs of All ā h What is a Sign of All ā h? A “Sign” is a practical operation or a verbal expression of God’s will intended to lead men to a Divine purpose, to establish a relationship between God and His people. In the Holy Qur’ ā n, a “Sign” ( Ā yah; pl. ā y ā t) has several connotations. Most commonly, an Ā yah is understood to be a communication from God. All the verses (complete lines) of the Qur’ ā n are called “Signs” ( ā y ā t) because every one of them constitutes a sign of guidance and wisdom for mankind to stay close to God. And thus do We make clear the Signs, that they may be admonished and that they may return to Us. (7:175) However, a “Sign” of God, in the real sense of the word, means a wonder and miracle, a spectacular event that appears from God to lead men to know Him. For example, Moses performed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt and in the wilderness. A logical and convincing argument is also known as a “Sign” ( Ā yah). In addition, the Qur’ ā n uses the term “Signs” for all natural phenomena. A careful study of natural things and their functions tends to give strong indication that there is a creator and sustainer of all that