Question: Sometimes an important truth may remain hidden. Also, the reason for ending the narration of an ordinary event with a universal principle or a principle or aspect of Divine Unity cannot always be known. Some may consider this Qur’anic style defective. For example, after narrating how Joseph contrived to detain his brother (12:69‑76), the Qur’an mentions an exalted principle: “Above every knowledgeable person is someone who knows more.” This seems unrelated to the occasion with respect to eloquence. How do you explain this?

Answer: The Qur’an is a book of belief, reflection, and invocation, as well as a book of law, wisdom, and guidance. It therefore comprises, by its very nature, numerous books and contains innumerable instructions. To express the Divine Lordship’s all‑comprehensive and magnificent manifestations, it is a kind of copy and recitation of the great Book of the Universe. As a result, it pursues many aims in most of its long and medium‑length suras (each of which is like a small Qur’an), on each page, and in all its discussions. Given this, the Qur’an gives instructions on every occasion in knowledge of God, aspects of Divine Unity, and truths of belief. Wherever a suitable occasion appears, no matter how insignificant it seems, the Qur’an gives other instructions, thus making that occasion significant and adding to its eloquence.