“(O Prophet), recite the Book that has been revealed to you and establish Prayer.”
(Al Qur’an – 29:45)
This is apparently addressed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be to him) but in fact is meant for all believers. The believers were then facing immense hardship in their effort to follow their faith. In the earlier ayahs of this Surah, the believers were continually urged to remain patient and resolute and place all their trust in Allah. They are now being directed to adopt certain practical measures – to recite the Qur’an and establish Prayer. The underlying idea is that these will equip them with firm character and such remarkable qualities that they will be able to withstand all onslaughts from evil forces. Once they are so equipped, the believers will have acquired the ability to turn the tide of the forces of evil pitted against them.
It is evident, though, that one can only derive strength from reciting the Qur’an when one correctly comprehends its teachings and when one’s heart and soul absorb them. This is not the case, however, when Qur’an-recitation is merely a mechanical repetition of the Qur’anic text. Likewise, offering Prayer should not be confined to a set of bodily acts; rather, it should instil in the reciter’s heart the message of the Qur’an and make it the driving force of his character and conduct.
If one faithfully follows the message of the Qur’an, one will benefit from it immensely; he need not fear any punishment from any quarters or any punishment in the Hereafter.