The Qur'an, 1st Edition

There is much more to the Qur'an than the selective quotations favoured by Islamic fundamentalists. This book provides a student-friendly guide to the many ways in which the Qur'an can be read.

Designed for both Muslims and Western non-Muslim students, it examines the Qur'an in Western scholarship as well as giving an overview of the rich interpretive traditions from the time of the Prophet Muhammad to the present day.

This guide is a concise introduction to all aspects of the Qur'an: history, understanding and interpretation, providing:

• coverage of both pre-modern and modern periods
• plenty of examples to illustrate key points and aid student understanding
• summaries, timelines and a glossary.

“'It is ideal as a text for serious academic work on the Qur'an. Summing up: Highly recommended.'-”

'Saeed's Introduction is an excellent work for students and general readers who are seeking a well-written and sympathetic introduction to the Qur'an that does not avoid the critical questions that feature in contemporary scholarship. The book provides a comprehensive view of both what the Qur'an says and how Muslims have interacted with the text during history. The full power of the Qur'anic text is conveyed along with the diversity of reactions to it in both olden and modern times. Overall Saeed has provided us with a valuable classroom tool that is both accessible and informative.' - Andrew Rippin, University of Victoria, author of Muslims: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices

'It is ideal as a text for serious academic work on the Qur'an. Summing up: Highly recommended.' - Choice

Abdullah Saeed is Sultan of Oman Professor of Arab & Islamic Studies and Director, Centre for the Study of Contemporary Islam at the University of Melbourne, Australia. His previous works include Islamic Thought (2006) and Interpreting the Qur'an (2005) both published by Routledge.

What is the Qur'an? Where did it come from? How have Muslims interacted with the Qur'an in the past, and how do they view it today? How does the Qur'an interact with the scriptures of the other major Abrahamic religions - Judaism and Christianity? This book is an essential introduction for all students who wish to learn more about Islam and the Qur'an. Abdullah Saeed introduces students to the Qur'an in three aspects: its history, understanding and interpretation, in both the pre-modern and modern periods. He traces the history of the Qur'an to its conception as revelation and scripture by Muslims, its compilation, and its reception through history through to the present day. He explores the major themes of the Qur'an, such as God, creation and the prophets, paying particular attention to the complex subject of interpretation and the influence of Western scholarship. Designed to be suitable both for Muslims and non-Muslim students, with a full glossary, helpful chapter summaries and suggestions for further reading, The Qur'an: An Introduction is a student-friendly guide to one of the most influential and important religious scriptures of the contemporary world.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.