A Prophet is one who also sees the angel bringing revelation from God.

A Prophet is one who also sees the angel bringing revelation from God. He hears the voice of revelation and he is ordained to guide people and invite them towards God. Being sent by God he is called a Prophet of Allah.

Messenger means one who has been given information and he is more general and the divine command to invite people might or might not have been given to him.” It is mentioned in some narrations that once Abu Zar asked the Prophet (‘s), “What is the number of Messengers?” He replied, “134 thousand.” He was again asked, “How many of them are Prophets?” The reply was: 313.[^1] Those who were appointed to call people towards God were three hundred and thirteen in number.

The next verse: On a right way. (36:4) *** *** is a predicate after predicate. Truly, you are among those who were sent from God for the call (message) and guidance of the people. Moreover, you are on the right path. Everyone who obeyed you is also on the right path. True path in this world and in the Hereafter Relevant to this verse, it is appropriate to discuss about ‘Sirat’ or the Path. ‘Sirat’ in this world and in the Hereafter, is a subject we speak about several times daily: O God!

Guide us to the right path. What is the difference between Path in this world referred here, and the Path in the Hereafter, crossing which is obligatory? Firstly, in Persian, ‘Sirat’ means Right Path. The road leading to anything is called ‘Sirat’. ‘Sirat’ is any means of reaching that thing or goal. Sometimes, the aim pertains to space. If you want to go to the holy city of Mecca, you say: The road or path to Mecca is by this way.

If the aim is spiritual, the path to it is of course the one appropriate to it. For example when somebody is ill, the way to health is a doctor and taking medicine and also refraining from certain things. Here it is the ‘Sirat’ to physical health. Or, for instance in trade or business the Path is market, shop, commodity, buying and selling. In case you want to become a doctor, the Path to it is to study and join a medical college and so on.

Monotheism—the true path of proximity to God If your aim is proximity of God and lasting welfare, entering paradise, salvation and approaching the Lord of the Worlds then what is the Path for it? What path should you take so that you may reach paradise and attain nearness to the Lord of the worlds? Doubtlessly there is a path for it. There is nothing, which does not have a way or means.