In Surah Ale Imran, verse 137 it says: "Different traditions existed in the past.

In Surah Ale Imran, verse 137 it says: "Different traditions existed in the past. So travel across the land and see the fate of those who rejected the Truth ". * * The next verse says: "Do not waver nor grieve, for indeed you will have true dignity if you are true believers". Continuing the Qur'an says: "If you have received a blow, the unbelieving people had received the like thereof ( earlier ) .

These are only the vicissitudes which we cause to follow one another for mankind so that Allah may know those who believe and may choose those who make supreme sacrifice". (Surah Ale Imran 3:40). These verses considered together indicate that what brings about a change in the history of a nation, are the qualities of perseverance, sacrifice for a good cause and abstinence from selfishness and undignified actions. This is one of the norms that have always prevailed among the people.

From Surah Bani Israel, verses 70 ‑ 77, we can deduce the following principles: The nations and the communities are distinguished from each other by their leaders and the guidance which they receive from them. Adherence to one's ideological goal is necessary. If a community, in order to continue its selfish and mischievous activities, falls out with its hard­ working, selfless and sincere leaders and expels them, it shall not have much respite.

Thereafter the Qur'an says: "Such has been Our way in the case o f Our messengers whom We sent before you". The verse 16 of the same Surah tells us that when a place was to undergo destruction, those of its inhabitants who lived at ease would start indulging in licentiousness and mischief‑making. Then a command of Allah would be issued in respect of these corrupt and mean people given to hoarding money and seeking pleasure. The place would be destroyed and its people annihilated.

In Surah al‑Fajr, verses 6 ‑ 14, the Qur'an says: "Did you not consider bow your Lord dealt with the tribe of `Aad, who had many‑columned buildings at Erum, the like of which was not erected in other lands; and ( how We dealt ) with the tribe of Thamud who cleft the rocks in the valley; and with Pharaoh, firm of might? All these were haughty in their lands and created much mischief there. Therefore your Lord let loose on them the scourge of punishment. Surely your Lord is ever watchful ".

** ** These are only a few instances out of so many in which the Qur'an has referred to the usual course of history.