The Koran (Qur’an) Books

Book SynopsisThe Holy Quran edition includes original Arabic text, Roman transliteration, and English translation side by side for readers' benefit. Unique format aids understanding and comparison of text versions, making it valuable for students and those seeking deeper insight.

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Book SynopsisTranslated by Abdullah Yusuf Ali, The Holy Qur'an (also known as The Koran) is the sacred book of Islam. It is the word of God whose truth was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of 23 years. As it was revealed, so it was committed to memory by his companions, though written copies were also made by literate believers during the lifetime of the Prophet. The first full compilation was by Abu Bakar, the first Caliph, and it was then recompiled in the original dialect by the third Caliph Uthman, after the best reciters had fallen in battle. Muslims believe that the truths of The Holy Qur'an are fully and authentically revealed only in the original classical Arabic. However, as the influence of Islam grows and spreads to the modern world, it is recognised that translation is an important element in introducing and explaining Islam to a wider audience. This translation, by Abdullah Yusuf Ali, is considered to be the most faithful rendering available in English.

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Book SynopsisFakhr al-Din Razi''s Tafsir, The Great Exegesis, also known as Mafatih al-Ghayb, is one of the great classics of Arabic and Islamic scholarship. Written in the twelfth century, this commentary on the Qur''an has remained until today an indispensable reference work. The Great Exegesis is a compendium not only of Qur''anic sciences and meanings, but also Arabic linguistics, comparative jurisprudence, Aristotelian and Islamic philosophy, dialectic theology and the spirituality of Sufism.The present volume is the first ever translation into English from The Great Exegesis and focuses on the first chapter of the Qur''an, the Fatiha. This scholarly yet accessible translation gives readers a thorough understanding of the most commonly recited chapter of the Qur''an; it also opens up for readers a window into the thought and practice of one of Islam''s greatest theologians. This volume includes a foreword by Professor M.A.S. Abdel Haleem, King Fahd Professor of Islamic Studies, University of London.

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Book SynopsisThe Sufi commentary on the Qur''an by ''Abd al-Razzaq al-Kashani (Ta''wilat al-Qur''an)long believed to have been written by Muhyi al-Din Ibn ''Arabi (d. 1240)is one of the masterpieces of Sufi exegesis. It is a complete commentary on the Qur''an, commenting on every chapter but not on every verse. A Sufi Commentary on the Qur''an is the first translation into English of this seminal work. Though little is known about the life of ''Abd al-Razzaq al-Kashani (d. between 1329-35), it is accepted that he studied under Mu''ayyid al-Din al-Jandi, who himself had studied with Sadr al-Din Qunawi, the stepson of Ibn ''Arabi and leading exponent of Akbarian doctrine. Despite the paucity of information on his life, Kashani is recognised for the significant contribution he made to the school of Ibn ''Arabi; his influence and legacy lie in his systemisation of the ideas and thoughts of Ibn ''Arabi. The central theme of Kashani''s commentary on the Qur''an is gnosis or direct experiential knowledge of God: the seeker of the Divine is to engage in dedicated spiritual exertion in conformity with the Sacred Law until the heart becomes illuminated.The Ta''wilat al-Qur''an has been translated in two volumes: Volume I includes the commentary from the first Chapter, The Opening (al-Fatiha), until the eighteenth Chapter, The Cave (al-Kahf); while Volume II includes the commentary from Chapter nineteen, Mary (Maryam), to the end of the Qur''an.

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Book SynopsisThe Sufi commentary on the Qur''an by ''Abd al-Razzaq al-Kashani (Ta''wilat al-Qur''an)long believed to have been written by Muhyi al-Din Ibn ''Arabi (d. 1240)is one of the masterpieces of Sufi exegesis. It is a complete commentary on the Qur''an, commenting on every chapter but not on every verse. A Sufi Commentary on the Qur''an is the first translation into English of this seminal work. Though little is known about the life of ''Abd al-Razzaq al-Kashani (d. between 1329-35), it is accepted that he studied under Mu''ayyid al-Din al-Jandi, who himself had studied with Sadr al-Din Qunawi, the stepson of Ibn ''Arabi and leading exponent of Akbarian doctrine. Despite the paucity of information on his life, Kashani is recognised for the significant contribution he made to the school of Ibn ''Arabi; his influence and legacy lie in his systemisation of the ideas and thoughts of Ibn ''Arabi. The central theme of Kashani''s commentary on the Qur''an is gnosis or direct experiential knowledge of God: the seeker of the Divine is to engage in dedicated spiritual exertion in conformity with the Sacred Law until the heart becomes illuminated.The Ta''wilat al-Qur''an has been translated in two volumes: Volume I includes the commentary from the first Chapter, The Opening (al-Fatiha), until the eighteenth Chapter, The Cave (al-Kahf); while Volume II includes the commentary from Chapter nineteen, Mary (Maryam), to the end of the Qur''an.

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Book SynopsisThe renowned scholar and Sufi master, the late Dr Martin Lings (Shaykh Abu Bakr Siraj ad-Din) was working on a full translation of the Qur''an when he passed away. The Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought, who had commissioned Dr Lings to translate the Qur''an, and the Islamic Texts Society were granted access to his papers. The Publishers extracted from these previously unpublished writings, and from all his other publications, his translations of verses from the Qur''an. These are here presented as The Holy Qur''an: Translations of Selected Verses accompanied by the original Arabic text on facing pages.Occasionally, Dr Lings translated a particular verse in more than one way; all the different versions have been retained. On the one hand, this is a reflection of the fact that there can never be a definitive translation of the sacred text; on the other hand, this brings out the multiple meanings that may exist in one verse.In addition, there is an appendix of Dr Lings'' translation of the Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God with the original Arabic and transliteration; and a cross-referenced index which is intended to work as a minor concordance.For all those wishing to learn about the Qur''an, for non-Arabic-speaking Muslims, for students of Arabic and translation, for scholars of Islamic studies, The Holy Qur''an: Translations of Selected Verses is a short and accessible introduction with the additional benefits of the profound learning of an eminent scholar and the beautiful language of a published poet.

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Book SynopsisLove in the Holy Qur''an is the first work to discuss all aspects of love from the perspective of the Holy Qur''an. The author treats in a simple and accessible style, with reader-friendly and teaching-friendly features, not only of love of God and love of the neighbour, but also of family love; friendship; the stages of falling in love; sexual love; extra-marital love; beauty; taste and much moreall based entirely on the Holy Qur''an. At least one verse from every chapterand over one fifth of the total text of the Holy Qur''anis cited. Love in the Holy Qur''an is written and structured both to be read in its totality or as individual ''stand-alone'' chapters to be sampled at will. This work is thus essential reading not only for Muslims and those interested in Islam and the Holy Qur''an, but for all those interested in the secrets and mysteries of love as such. This new edition contains a number of expanded discussions on love and mercy and suggests other types of love not mentioned in previous editions.

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Book SynopsisTabari''s Qur''an Commentary, Comprehensive Exposition of the Interpretation of the Verses of the Qur''an, is one of the great monuments of classical Arabic and Islamic scholarship which, over a millennium, has been a fundamental reference work for scholars engaged in the tradition of Qur''anic exegesis. This two-volume translation focuses on thirty selected verses and Suras, or Chapters, associated with special merits and blessings and also includes Tabari''s own introduction to the Comprehensive Exposition.Volume II contains: The Companies (39:53-55); The Smoke; The Beneficent; The Inevitable Occasion; Iron; The Gathering (59:18-24); Sovereignty; The Resurrection; The Most High; The Sun; The Night; The Earthquake; The Chargers; Rivalry; The Disbelievers; Aid; Sincerity; Daybreak; People.

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Book SynopsisFitzroy Morrissey's brilliant guide to Islamic thought – from its foundation in the seventh century to the present day. 'A magisterial accomplishment' Professor Eugene Rogan 'The best guide to Islamic thinking that I've read' James Barr 'I greatly enjoyed [it]' Peter Frankopan, Spectator, Books of the Year Day after day we read of the caliphate and the Qur'an, of Sunni and Shi'a, Salafis and Sufis. Almost a quarter of the world's populate is Muslim. Understanding the modern world requires knowing something about Islam. Tracing fourteen centuries of Islamic history – from the foundation of Islam in the seventh century and the life of Muhammad, through the growth of great Islamic empires, to the often fraught modern period – Fitzroy Morrissey considers questions of interpretation and legacy, of God and His relationship with His followers, of the lives of Muslims and how they relate to others. He presents the key teachings of the Qur'an and Hadith, analyzes the great works of Islamic theology, philosophy, and law, and delves into the mystical writings of the Sufis. He considers the impact of foreign cultures – Greek and Persian, Jewish and Christian – on early Islam, accounts for the crystallization of the Sunni and Shi'i forms of the faith, and explains the rise of intellectual trends like Islamic modernism and Islamism in recent times. In this way, Morrissey presents not a monolithic creed, but a nuanced faith made up of several often competing – and always fascinating – intellectual tendencies. This concise and engaging volume will appeal to readers looking to better understand the world's second largest religion and to those interested in the intellectual history of the last millennium and a half.Trade ReviewA magisterial accomplishment based on extensive reading into Islamic sources across the centuries. Balanced and clear, and a fascinating read, this is the best guide to the history and theology of Islam in print -- Professor Eugene RoganThis lucid, concise and humane book is the best guide to Islamic thinking that I've read. Fitzroy Morrissey explains the key developments, from the Qu'ran to Khomeini, setting them in a context that makes them much easier to grasp and writing in a way that makes you want to know what happened next. If you are looking for an introduction to the principles of Islam, or for enlightenment on the Sunni-Shia split or Islam's different schools of thought, this is the book you need -- James BarrI greatly enjoyed Fitzroy Morrissey's A Short History of Islamic Thought * Spectator *This is a book I know I will frequently refer to. The subject is both relevant and daunting. In Morrissey's hands it is fascinating and a pleasure to read -- James Barr, Engelsberg Ideas

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Book SynopsisTabari''s Qur''an Commentary, Comprehensive Exposition of the Interpretation of the Verses of the Qur''an, is one of the great monuments of classical Arabic and Islamic scholarship which, over a millennium, has been a fundamental reference work for scholars engaged in the tradition of Qur''anic exegesis. This two-volume translation focuses on thirty selected verses and Suras, or Chapters, associated with special merits and blessings and also includes Tabari''s own introduction to the Comprehensive Exposition.Volume I contains: Tabari''s introduction; The Opening; the Throne Verse and the final three verses from The Cow (2:255 and 284-286); The Family of Imran (3:7 and 18); Repentance (9:38-40 and 128-129); the story of Moses and al-Khadir from The Cave (18:60-82); the Verse of Light from The Light (24:35-42); Prostration; Ya'' Sin.

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Book Synopsis“My eyes have never seen anything better than you. No woman has ever given birth to anyone as beautiful as you. You were created free from all flaws. As if you were created exactly as you wished. – Hassan Ibn Thabit (RA)Allah has never sent a Prophet except that Prophet had a beautiful face and a beautiful voice. In the case of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as Ali (RA) said, “I’ve never seen anything like him, before him or after him”. However, as stunning as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) appearance was, his character was even more strikingly beautiful.Do you ever wonder what it would be like to be in the presence of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, as his companions were? What would it be like to see him, to host him in your home, pray behind him, and have him as a teacher and friend?Through 30 beautifully detailed chapters with narrations from companions, take a journey from only knowing about him to knowing him and loving him and feel what it was like to be a companion of his in this life and strive to be companions of his in the next.

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Book SynopsisAs our community encounters death at an increasing rate, how do we honor those who have left us beyond the Janazah? How can the families of our deceased brothers and sisters cope and grow, while staying connected to their loved ones? This book is meant to provide guidance spiritually to those who are grieving, while also covering the rulings associated with death and mourning for practical purposes. We pray that this will offer clarity and comfort to those who need it most in these difficult times.Table of ContentsEpisode 1 - The Jana zah Episode 2 - The Burial Episode 3 - The Best Du'a's Episode 4 - The Best Deeds on their Behalf Episode 5 - Where are They? Episode 6 - Are they with each other? Episode 7 - Do they hear me when I visit? Episode 8 - Do they Know What is Happening to Me? Episode 9 - What if I Dream about Them? Episode 10 - Are they Considered Shahi d? Episode 11 - Losing a Child Episode 12 - Condolences Episode 13 - The Widow Episode 14 - Women praying Jana zah Episode 15 - How do I move on?

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Book SynopsisThis beautiful presentation of a selection from the Holy Qur'an engages the reader in a moment of daily reflection. Edited for ease of comprehension, English-speaking readers will find this compilation both spiritually enriching and easy to understand. With 365 verses covering the whole year, this is a must for every home. An introduction to the Qur'an and its eternal message for humanity is included, giving the reader an insight into its origin, purpose, and style. Abdur Raheem Kidwai is professor of English at the Aligarh Muslim University in India and the well-known author of many works on the Qur'an and Islam.Trade Review"Just 1 page each day makes a difference in each of the 365 days of the year." Goodreads

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Book SynopsisMillions of non-Muslims know the name of the Muslim scripture, whether it is written as Qur''an or Quran or Koran. But for most, that is all they know. Many have fallen victim to the mass of misinformation that circulates about the Qur''an. Others may have tried to read the Qur''an, but the text itself is tough to decipher. With no sense of context, chronology, or interpretive history, many would-be readers of the Qur''an quickly give up the effort. As for those trying to find out what the Qur''an says about any particular subject or issue, they, too, soon discover that this is not a simple or straightforward undertaking.A clear, concise introduction to the holy book that guides the lives of 1.6 billion people on our planet, this brief volume opens the world of the Qur''an to interested readers who want to know where this scripture came from and how it has achieved a profound influence in today''s world. Writing in an easy-to-read question-and-answer format, Jane McAuliffe, one of the world''s foremost scholars of the Qur''an, introduces readers to this important text by discussing its origins, structure, themes, interpretations, and what it has to say about a host of critical contemporary issues. Where did the Qur''an come from? Do Muslims believe that the Qur''an is God''s own word? How do Muslims study the Qur''an? What does the Qur''an say about God? About family? About ethics? About violence? By answering the questions that many people have about the Qur''an and its role in Muslim faith, this book offers an invaluable resource for anyone who is curious about one of the world''s most important faiths.Table of ContentsThe Text Takes Shape Introduction Origins o Where did the Qur'an come from? o Who is Muhammad? Did Muhammad write the Qur'an? o How did the Qur'an get its name? o How long did it take to finish the Qur'an? o Did Muhammad know any Jews or Christians? o What happened to the Qur'an after Muhammad died? Structure o Does the Qur'an have different parts? o Why do people say that the Qur'an is hard to read? o Are some parts of the Qur'an more important than others? o Is the Qur'an poetry or prose or both? Beliefs About o Why do Muslims say that the Qur'an is God's own word? o Who is Gabriel and what is his connection to the Qur'an? o Does the Qur'an talk about itself? o Do Muslims believe that the Qur'an existed from all eternity? o Are all Qur'ans exactly the same or do different Muslim groups have different Qur'ans? o Why do Muslims take a shower before touching the Qur'an? Major Messages and Themes Introduction God and Creation o What does the Qur'an say about God? o Is the God of the Qur'an the same as the God of the Bible? o Does the Qur'an tell a creation story? o How does the Qur'an talk about the natural world? o What is the relation of human beings to God and to nature? o Are there angels and devils in the Qur'an? Revelation, Prophecy and History o Why is Muhammad called both a prophet and a messenger? o Does the Qur'an mention other prophets? o Does the Qur'an talk about historical events? Behavior and Judgment o How does the Qur'an talk about death and life after death? o Are there descriptions of heaven and hell? o Is it true that the Qur'an promises a paradise of virgins? o Does the Qur'an have commandments? Is it a law book? o Do people determine their behavior or does God? o If people sin, can they repent and be forgiven? o Does the Qur'an predict the end of the world? Who is the AntiChrist? Religious Practices o Why do Muslims pray five times a day? o Does the Qur'an say that Muslims must fast for an entire month? o Does the Qur'an require pilgrimage to Mecca? o What does the Qur'an teach about charity? Family and Social Relations o What does the Qur'an say about love and marriage? About children? o If a person dies, who inherits his or her property? o Is there a concept of community in the Qur'an? Other Religions and Nonbelievers o Does that Qur'an tell Muslims how to treat non-Muslims? o Can Muslims marry non-Muslims? o Are there Qur'anic passages about other religions? o Does the Qur'an promote religious tolerance? Experiencing By Sound, Sight and Touch Introduction Recitation o How do Muslims study the Qur'an? What if they don't speak Arabic? o Why is the Qur'an always recited in Arabic? o Do some people become famous for recitation? o Are there university degrees in Qur'anic studies as there are in Biblical studies? Ritual and Prayer o Could you call the Qur'an a prayer book? o Is the Qur'an used in public worship? In other formal ceremonies? o What role does the Qur'an play in Islamic mysticism? o Can the Qur'an keep bad things from happening? Can it secure blessings? Manuscripts, Public Architecture and Material Culture o How important is the Qur'an to art and architecture in the Muslim world? o Is there a tradition of calligraphy and illumination for the Qur'an? o Are verses of the Qur'an ever written on ordinary objects? Interpretation, Influence (Intellectual, Artistic and Literary) and Global Diffusion Introduction Interpretation o Can the Qur'an be interpreted? o What are hadith and are they part of the Qur'an? o Do certain verses in the Qur'an guide its interpretation? o Are there different schools of interpretation among Sunni Muslims? Among Shi'i Muslims? o Who decides which interpretation is the right one? o Can anyone interpret the Qur'an or do you have to be an expert? o Are there modern and contemporary interpreters of the Qur'an? Scholarship o How have non-Muslims studied the Qur'an? o If a non-Muslim writes a book about the Qur'an, will that offend Muslims? o Is the Qur'an ever studied as a literary rather than a religious text? Bible and Qur'an o Is there a connection between the Qur'an and the Bible? o Has the Bible been used to understand the Qur'an? Influence o How did the Qur'an shape Islamic philosophy and theology? o What is the relationship between the Shari'a and the Qur'an? o How do some Muslims make a connection between the Qur'an and contemporary science? o What role does the Qur'an play in Arabic literature? In the literatures and folklore of other Muslim cultures? Translation and transmission o Are Muslims allowed to translate the Qur'an? o When was the Qur'an translated into European languages? When was it translated into English? o Was the Qur'an printed as early as the Bible? o When did the Qur'an come to America? o How has the Internet affected the teaching and transmission of the Qur'an? What Does the Qur'an Say About: · Women? · Veiling and separation? · Multiple marriages? · Circumcision and female genital mutilation? · Hetero- and homosexual relations? · Domestic violence? · Divorce? · Jihad? · War and terrorism? · Martyrs? · Slavery? · Peace? · Governance and politics? · Democracy? · International relations? · Financial transactions? · Science? · Environment? · Food and fasting? · Drinking and drugs? · Justice? · Punishment? · Jews? · Christians? · Apostasy? · Religious toleration/religious pluralism?

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when authorities you venerate condone something you know is wrong? Every major religion and philosophy once condoned or approved of slavery, but in modern times nothing is seen as more evil. Americans confront this crisis of authority when they erect statues of Founding Fathers who slept with their slaves. And Muslims faced it when ISIS revived sex slavery, justifying it with verses from the Quran and the practice of Muhammad. Exploring the moral and ultimately theological problem of slavery, Jonathan A.C. Brown traces how the Christian, Jewish and Islamic traditions have tried to reconcile modern moral certainties with the infallibility of God’s message. He lays out how Islam viewed slavery in theory, and the reality of how it was practiced across Islamic civilization. Finally, Brown carefully examines arguments put forward by Muslims for the abolition of slavery.Trade Review‘Slavery & Islam hints at some of the great questions that are still outstanding in this field.’ * Literary Review *‘For any system of belief that vests ultimate authority in the past, slavery is a big moral problem… For several reasons, this dilemma is an acute one for Muslims, as emerges in [this] scholarly but digestible new book.’ * The Economist *‘A must-read for students and scholars of slavery in historical and contemporary Islam, as well as for anyone interested in slavery and its relationship to religion… Slavery & Islam is a thoughtful, well-researched, and well-written elucidation of a very difficult problem.’ * Journal of Islamic Ethics *‘This insightful, courageous and comprehensively argued book is bound to constitute a new beginning. It is certain to be as widely debated as it is widely read. And we will all be all the better for it.’ -- Sherman A. Jackson, King Faisal Chair of Islamic Thought and Culture, University of Southern California‘A prodigiously researched, provocatively argued, learned and multi-faceted treatment of a difficult and complex problem. One might not agree with all of Brown’s conclusions, but the book will be a must-read for students and scholars of historical and contemporary Islam, as well as for anyone interested in slavery and its relationship to religion.’ -- Bernard K. Freamon, Professor of Law Emeritus, Seton Hall University School of LawTable of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments Notes on transliteration, dates and citation Introduction: Can We Talk About Slavery? What I Argue in this Book Apology for Slavery? Power and the Study of Slavery Blackness, Whiteness and Slavery 1 Does ‘Slavery’ Exist? The Problem of Definition The Main Argument Definition: A Creative Process Definition to Discourse: A Political Process Defining \ˈslā-v(ə-)rē\: We Know It When We See It Defining Slavery as Status or a Condition Slavery as Unfreedom Slavery as Human Property Patterson & Natal Alienation Slavery as Distinction: The Lowest Rung & Marginality Slavery as Coercion & Exploitation under the Threat of Violence The Problem with Modern-Day Slavery Slavery & Islam – A Very Political Question Conclusion: Of Course, Slavery Exists The Proper Terms for Speaking about ‘Slavery’ 2 Slavery in the Shariah What Islam Says about Slavery – Ideals and Reality Slavery in the Quran & Sunna Inheriting the Near East – Roman, Jewish and Near Eastern Laws versus Islam Islam’s Reform of Slavery Basic Principles of Riqq in the Shariah The Ambiguities of Slavery in the Shariah Riqq & Rights in the Shariah Religious Practice Freedom of Movement Social and Political Roles Marriage and Family Life Right to Property Rights to Life and Physical Protection Summary: Law and Ethics 3 Slavery in Islamic Civilization What is Islamic Civilization? Is there ‘Islamic Slavery’? The Shariah & Islamic Slavery Muslims Enslaving Muslims The Classic Slavery Zone Consuming People & ‘Ascending Miscegenation’ Slave Populations Routes of the Muslim Slave Trade Blackness and Slavery in Islamic Civilization The Roles and Experiences of Slaves in Islamic Civilization The Slave as Uprooted Person and Commodity The Slave as Domestic Labor . . . Even Trusted Member of a Household Slave as Sexual Partner Slave as Saint, Scholar or Poet Slave as Elite Administrator & Courtesan Slave as Soldier – When Soldiers often Ruled Slave as Rebel 4 The Slavery Conundrum No Squaring the Circle: The American/Islamic Slavery Conundrum Slavery is Evil The Intrinsic Wrongs of Slavery Religions and Slavery Minimizing the Unminimizable or Historicizing the Unhistoricizable Slavery is Slavery: The Problem of Labeling ‘Slavery’ with One Moral Judgment The Moral Wrongness of Slavery as Unfreedom The Moral Wrongness of Slavery as Owning Human Property The Moral Wrongness of Slavery as Inequality The Moral Wrongness of Slavery as the Threat of Violence The Bald Man Fallacy and the Wrongness of Slavery When Slavery is ‘Not that Bad’: The Problem with Conditions vs. Formal Categories Do Some People Deserve to be Enslaved? Or, Is Freedom a Human Right? The Past as Moral Authority: Can We Part with the Past? The Natural Law Tradition and Slavery Critics of Slavery and the Call for Abolition The Consequences of Moral Progress Muslim Efforts to Salvage the Past 5 Abolishing Slavery in Islam Is Abolition Indigenous to Islam or Not? Islam as Emancipatory Force – An Alternative History Abolishing Slavery . . . For Whom? Concentric Circles of Abolition ‘The Lawgiver Looks Expectantly Towards Freedom’ – Abolition as an Aim of the Shariah Doubling Down – Progressive Islam & the Axiomatic Evil of Slavery Prohibited by the Ruler but Not by God: The Crucial Matter of Taqyid al-Mubah If You Can’t Do it Right, You Can’t Do it at All – Prohibiting Riqq Poorly Done Same Shariah, Diff erent Conditions – The Obsolescence or Unfavorability of Slavery Slavery: A Moot Point & Bad PR Defending Slavery in Islam 6 The Prophet & ISIS: Evaluating Muslim Abolition Do Muslim Approaches to Abolition Pass Moral Muster? A Consensus on Abolition Could Slavery in Islam ever be Unabolished? Abolition vs. ISIS This Author’s Opinion 7 Concubines and Consent: Can We Solve the Moral Problem of Slavery? Species of Moral Change Moral Disgust at Slavery Today Conclusion & Crisis: Concubinage and Consent Consent and Concubines Disbelief is Unproductive Appendix 1 – A Slave Saint of Basra Appendix 2 – Enlightenment Thinkers on Slavery Appendix 3 – Did the 1926 Muslim World Congress Condemn Slavery? Appendix 4 – Was Māriya the Wife or Concubine of the Prophet? Appendix 5 – Was Freedom a Human Right in the Shariah? Appendix 6 – Enslavement of Apostate Muslims or Muslims Declared to be Unbelievers Select Bibliography Notes Index

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Book SynopsisAS RECOMMENDED ON THE TROJAN HORSE AFFAIR PODCASTWhy are Muslim men portrayed as inherently violent? Does the veil violate women's rights? Is Islam stopping Muslims from integrating?Across western societies, Muslims are perhaps more misunderstood than any other minority. How did we get here? In this landmark book, Tawseef Khan draws on history, memoir and original research to show what it is really like to live as a Muslim in the West. With unflinching honesty, he dismantles stereotypes from inside and outside the faith, and explores why many are so often wrong about even the most basic facts. Bold and provocative, Muslim, Actually is both a wake-up call for non-believers and a passionate new framework for Muslims to navigate a world that is often set against themMuslim, Actually was previously published in 2021 in hardback under the title The Muslim Problem.Trade ReviewI can't recommend this sober, level-headed and highly readable book too highly. It painstakingly dismantles the poisonous myths about Muslims spread in the British media and on the far right. I read it at a sitting and learnt something new from every page. * Peter Oborne, author and journalist *A thoughtful, exploratory, candid, passionate and thoroughly modern book on migration, identity, individuality, integration and faith, reflecting on what it means to be a member of the religion we both belong to. * The i *This is a remarkable, insightful, searingly honest book on how British Muslims live and feel and think, and how one can be a happy and fulfilled Muslim in a world so frequently defined by Islamicist extremists and racists. For me, a progressive Muslim, it was like finding an oasis of intelligence and truths, of hope and possibilities. * Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, author and journalist *Meticulously researched and thought-provoking... an utterly convincing treatise on Muslim identity... Even readers who consider themselves sympathetic and well informed should find food for thought in the depth of analysis Khan offers... the book's defining characteristics are humanity and hope. * Business Post *Timely, urgent and eloquent. An honest and well-researched exploration of how biases, stereotypes and prejudices affect identity both from within and outside the Muslim community. * Pragya Agarwal, author of Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias *Powerful and disturbing. This deeply personal and forensically researched book exposes the stain of Islamophobia that has long festered in British society * Chris Atkins, Sunday Times bestselling author of A Bit of a Stretch *A vital exploration of Islamophobia. I learned so much from reading this book. Tawseef Khan has given us an insightful, intelligent and intimate discussion of issues we all need to grapple with. * Jeffrey Boakye, author of Black, Listed *A bracing and brilliant book. From women's rights to terrorism, [Muslim, Actually] takes apart misconceptions and shows what it's really like to be a Muslim today. By placing Islamophobia in a historical context, Khan gives powerful insights into one of the most hotly-contested and topical issues of our times. * Reza Aslan, author of No God But God *Through an eclectic and powerful mix of personal memoir and first-hand reporting, Tawseef Khan shows the unique challenges faced by British Muslims as they seek to remedy decades of fear-baiting media narratives and government policy that have negatively impacted their communities. * Hussein Kesvani, journalist *A vital and timely book for those who wish to engage more honestly with Muslims and for those Muslims struggling with their identity in 21st century Britain. * Tez Ilyas, author of The Secret Diary of a British Muslim Aged 13 ¾ *Essential reading... a blisteringly honest account of what it means to be a Muslim today and a much-needed corrective to prejudice. * Magid Magid, author and former Lord Mayor of Sheffield *A powerful book demystifying the Islamic experience and a must read for those wishing to expand their world view beyond stereotypes. * Asifa Lahore, Britain’s first out Muslim drag queen *Table of Contents0: Introduction 1: 'Muslims Don't Integrate' 2: 'Islam Is Violent' 3: 'Muslim Men Are Threatening' 4: 'Islam Hates Women' 5: 'Islam Is Homophobic' 6: Conclusion: The Muslim Problem

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Book SynopsisWhile in the service of India's Nizam of Hyderbad, Marmaduke Pickthall converted to Islam, and, with the help of Muslim theologians and linguists, produced this English interpretation of the Holy Koran.

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Book SynopsisThe renowned scholar and Sufi master, the late Dr Martin Lings (Shaykh Abu Bakr Siraj ad-Din) was working on a full translation of the Qur''an when he passed away. The Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought, who had commissioned Dr Lings to translate the Qur''an, and the Islamic Texts Society were granted access to his papers. The Publishers extracted from these previously unpublished writings, and from all his other publications, his translations of verses from the Qur''an. These are here presented as The Holy Qur''an: Translations of Selected Verses accompanied by the original Arabic text on facing pages.Occasionally, Dr Lings translated a particular verse in more than one way; all the different versions have been retained. On the one hand, this is a reflection of the fact that there can never be a definitive translation of the sacred text; on the other hand, this brings out the multiple meanings that may exist in one verse.In addition, there is an appendix of Dr Lings'' translation of the Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God with the original Arabic and transliteration; and a cross-referenced index which is intended to work as a minor concordance.For all those wishing to learn about the Qur''an, for non-Arabic-speaking Muslims, for students of Arabic and translation, for scholars of Islamic studies, The Holy Qur''an: Translations of Selected Verses is a short and accessible introduction with the additional benefits of the profound learning of an eminent scholar and the beautiful language of a published poet.

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Book SynopsisThe Qur''an and the Prophet in the Writings of Shaykh Ahmad al-''Alawi presents for the first time in English all the collected works of the Shaykh on the two guiding principles of Islam. The Shaykh al-Alawi had embarked on a full commentary on the Qur''an, but only completed an introduction explaining his approach to Qur''anic exegesis and commentaries on three chapters. All these pieces are included here with an additional appendix of answers to questions that the Shaykh''s disciples had put to him on the Qur''an.The Qur''anic commentaries are followed by a treatise on the meaning of the invocation of blessings on the Prophet. This extremely profound treatise delves into the spiritual nature of the Prophet explaining how he represents both the summit of spiritual attainment and the example for all those seeking enlightenment. Also included in the appendix are answers that the Shaykh gave his disciples on sayings of the Prophet.

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Book SynopsisThe Qur''an and the Prophet in the Writings of Shaykh Ahmad al-''Alawi presents for the first time in English all the collected works of the Shaykh on the two guiding principles of Islam. The Shaykh al-Alawi had embarked on a full commentary on the Qur''an, but only completed an introduction explaining his approach to Qur''anic exegesis and commentaries on three chapters. All these pieces are included here with an additional appendix of answers to questions that the Shaykh''s disciples had put to him on the Qur''an.The Qur''anic commentaries are followed by a treatise on the meaning of the invocation of blessings on the Prophet. This extremely profound treatise delves into the spiritual nature of the Prophet explaining how he represents both the summit of spiritual attainment and the example for all those seeking enlightenment. Also included in the appendix are answers that the Shaykh gave his disciples on sayings of the Prophet.

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Book SynopsisAl-Sirat al-mustaqim fi tibyan al-Qur?an al-karim (The Straight Path: A Commentary on the Holy Qur'an) is also known by the title of Tafsir al-akhawayn (Exegesis of the Two Brothers) perhaps because the work was considered a kind of brother volume' to the well-known Tafsir al-Jalalayn by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti. The two works are somewhat similar inasmuch as they are both short complete commentaries on the Qur'an. In his introduction, Kazaruni lays out his approach to tafsir and provides a useful explanation of the distinction between exegesis (tafsir) and interpretation (ta'wil). Throughout the work, he displays a conscious effort to rely upon sound narrations of hadith, such as those of Bukhari and Muslim. Kazaruni was a staunch adherent to the Ash''ari school of theology and was also particularly devoted to the great theologian and exegete Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 1210). Kazaruni was clearly a proponent of Sufism, yet his tafsir is by no means a Sufi exegesis'. As he explains in his introduction, his occasional references to Sufism are among the other auxiliary matters which serve to uncover some deeply buried secrets'. The same can be said of his occasional forays into language, theology, jurisprudence, history and other concerns, never with the intention of being exhaustive, but always aiming to provide, as he promises at the outset, a refreshing draught to quench the thirst of those who seek exegesis that is brief, especially those who wish to recite the Qur?an while pondering its meanings'.Al-Sirat al-mustaqim fi tibyan al-Qur?an al-karim has been translated in two volumes: Volume I includes the commentary from the first Chapter, The Opening (al-Fatiha), until the eighteenth Chapter, The Cave (al-Kahf); while Volume II includes the commentary from Chapter nineteen, Mary (Maryam), to the end of the Qur'an.

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Book SynopsisAl-Sirat al-mustaqim fi tibyan al-Qur?an al-karim (The Straight Path: A Commentary on the Holy Qur'an) is also known by the title of Tafsir al-akhawayn (Exegesis of the Two Brothers) perhaps because the work was considered a kind of brother volume' to the well-known Tafsir al-Jalalayn by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti. The two works are somewhat similar inasmuch as they are both short complete commentaries on the Qur'an. In his introduction, Kazaruni lays out his approach to tafsir and provides a useful explanation of the distinction between exegesis (tafsir) and interpretation (ta'wil). Throughout the work, he displays a conscious effort to rely upon sound narrations of hadith, such as those of Bukhari and Muslim. Kazaruni was a staunch adherent to the Ash''ari school of theology and was also particularly devoted to the great theologian and exegete Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 1210). Kazaruni was clearly a proponent of Sufism, yet his tafsir is by no means a Sufi exegesis'. As he explains in his introduction, his occasional references to Sufism are among the other auxiliary matters which serve to uncover some deeply buried secrets'. The same can be said of his occasional forays into language, theology, jurisprudence, history and other concerns, never with the intention of being exhaustive, but always aiming to provide, as he promises at the outset, a refreshing draught to quench the thirst of those who seek exegesis that is brief, especially those who wish to recite the Qur?an while pondering its meanings'.Al-Sirat al-mustaqim fi tibyan al-Qur?an al-karim has been translated in two volumes: Volume I includes the commentary from the first Chapter, The Opening (al-Fatiha), until the eighteenth Chapter, The Cave (al-Kahf); while Volume II includes the commentary from Chapter nineteen, Mary (Maryam), to the end of the Qur'an.

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Book SynopsisA paradigm-shifting book, arguing that, far from supporting male privilege, the Qur'an actually encourages the full equality of women and men.Trade Review`This is an original and, at times, ground-breaking piece of scholarship.' John L. Esposito, University Professor and Founding Director of the Alwaleed Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University; `[A] brilliantly executed work . . . A new generation of scholar-activists . . . will take cues from such a study to open up interpretations and modes of Islamic praxis that will resonate with the avowedly non-repressive divine intentions for Muslim and other faith communities worldwide.' Arab Studies Journal; `Barlas's thesis is irresistible: the Qur'an itself has a very positive view of women whereas patriarchal culture caused the various interpreters of the Qur'an to read their own biases into the text to justify the oppression of women. Barlas quotes from a smorgasbord of Islamic scholars, resulting at times in a choppy read that drowns out her own more appealing voice. The opening chapter is bogged down in such quoting, and also in excessive worrying over her critics on either side of the debate. Despite these flaws, this book is loaded with interesting facts about Islam that may even surprise Muslims' Publishers Weekly; `A refreshing read ... a unique analysis that underscores the exclusively the role of women in Islam' New Arab

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Book SynopsisThe tenets of Islam cannot be grasped without a proper understanding of the Qur'an. In this important new introduction, Muhammad Haleem examines its recurrent themes - life and eternity, marriage and divorce, peace and war, water and nourishment - and for the first time sets these in the context of the Qur'an's linguistic style. Professor Haleem examines the background to the development of the surahs (chapters) and the ayahs (verses) and the construction of the Qur'an itself. He shows that popular conceptions of Islamic attitudes to women, marriage and divorce, war and society, differ radically from the true teachings of the Qur'an.Trade Review'Has a breadth of reading and attention to style that readers will welcome ... Articulately presents ways in which contemporary Muslims understand their scriptures.' - Choice; 'Understanding the Qur'an is a priceless book, and I use it enthusiastically for my classes. For many of my students, Muhammad Abdel Haleem's introduction is their first contact with Qur'an interpretation, so it is really important to be able to assign them such an excellent piece of scholarship that is so easily readable and accessible.' - Natana J. DeLong-Bas, Lecturer in Theology, Boston College, and Visiting Lecturer in Islamic Studies, Brandeis UniversityTable of ContentsPreface The Qur’an Al-Fatiha: the Opening of the Qur’an Water in the Qur’an Marriage and Divorce War and Peace in the Qur’an Tolerance in Islam Life and Beyond Paradise in the Qur’an The Face, Divine and Human, in the Qur’an Adam and Eve in the Qur’an and the Bible The Story of Joseph in the Qur’an and the Bible The Qur’an Explains Itself: Surat al-Rahman Dynamic Style: Iltifat and Some Other Features Conclusion Notes Index

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Book SynopsisThe Islamic Mary explores the figure of Mary/Maryam shared between Christians and Muslims. Maryam is revered throughout the Islamic tradition, beginning already in the scripture of the Qur'an. This book examines the varied appearances of Maryam in different Islamic literary, theological, pious, and interfaith contexts.

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Book SynopsisThe Qur’an has spoken to Muslims for over one thousand years; it is seen as law-maker, moral code, and the word of God. Drawing on both contemporary and ancient sources, Esack outlines the key themes and explains the historical and cultural context of this unique work whilst examining its content, language and style, and the variety of approaches, including fundamentalist, feminist, and modernist, that have been used to interpret it. Other areas covered include: the Qu'ran as evocative oral experience; understanding and interpreting the Qu'ran; the major themes of the Qu'ran, including such issues as truth, justice and gender relations.

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Book SynopsisM. A. S. Abdel Haleem's acclaimed translation of the Qur'an is now published with the original Arabic text to give a greater appreciation and understanding of the holy book. The traditional Arabic calligraphic pages are displayed alongside the English translation; the text is accompanied by an invaluable introduction, notes, and an index.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition ''[Haleem] transforms the Holy Book's complex grammar and structure into smooth, contemporary English mercifully free from archaisms, anachronisms and incoherence. The result it both accessible and compelling...a remarkable achievement' (on the English translation)' * New Statesman *a refreshing, very useful and interesting new translation ...one of the best to have appeared in recent times. * Muslim News *[Haleem] has managed to transform the complex grammar and structure of the holy book into a form of modern English which reads easily and flows smoothly without taking liberties with the inviolable text. * The Economist *[Haleem] knows the text by heart, and his intimacy with it shows in the brevity and intuitive intelligence of his solutions. * Times Literary Supplement *accurate, sensitive, well-annotated English translation of the Qur'an. * Scotland on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisThe Holy Quran with Arabic Text and English Translation by Abdullah Yusuf Ali is a renowned and accurate resource for studying the Quran in its original language while gaining deeper understanding through the English translation. Includes clear Arabic text, brief introductions to each Surah, and an extensive index for readers.

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Book SynopsisA commentary on Surah al-Mulk, the 67th chapter in the Qur’an, written in English complete with diagrams and illustrations.Table of ContentsForeword by Mufti Menk The Heart of Surah al-Mulk Timeline of Revelation 19 Descriptions of God in Surah al-Mulk 5 Section Thematic Breakdown of Surah al-Mulk The Sources Section 1 [verses 1 - 5] Allāh is Powerful Section 2 [verses 6-12] Heaven & Hell Section 3 [verses 13-22] Threats to the Stubborn Section 4 [verses 23-24] Life is short & time is running out Section 5 [verses 25-27] Those who reject the Afterlife Section 6 [verses 28-30] People are weak Conclusion

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Book SynopsisUtilising a pioneering theological and hermeneutic framework adapted from both classical Muslim literature and contemporary academic studies of the Qur'an, Ramon Harvey explores the underlying principles of its system of social justice.

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Book SynopsisA new, updated edition of this modern classic in religious publishing, capturing the complexity, power and poetry of the early suras of the Qur’anApproaching the Qur’an presents brilliant translations of the short, hymnic chapters, or Suras, associated with the first revelations to the Prophet Muhammad. These early Suras contain some of the most powerful, prophetic, and revelatory passages in religious history, offering the vision of a meaningful and just life that anchors the faith of one fifth of the world’s inhabitants. In addition to these translations, Michael Sells provides an introduction to the Qur’an, commentaries on the Suras, a glossary of technical terms, and discussions of the auditory nature and gender aspects of the Arabic text. An ideal resource for students and interested lay readers, this third edition also includes a new full Sura and associated commentary, a new preface, and a thoroughly updated bibliography.Trade Review‘Michael Sells has performed an invaluable service in making the beauty, spiritual energy, and compelling power of the Qur’an accessible to a Western audience for the first time.’ -- Karen Armstrong, author of the bestselling A History of God‘Scholars and students interested in the Qur’an are indebted to Michael Sells for his outstanding contribution to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Holy Book of Islam. His book, with its scholarly introduction, its sensitive English translation of the early Suras, its insightful commentary on them, its analytical study of the auditory and literary aspects of selected Suras, its visually pleasing illustrations from the Arabic text of the Qur’an, and its accompanying [recordings], is a veritable and enriching spiritual experience for everyone seeking a meaningful exposure to the Scripture of Islam.’ -- Issa J. Boullata, Professor Emeritus, McGill University‘Michael Sells is to be congratulated for making a major contribution to religious literature with Approaching the Qur’an, the best version of Muslim scriptures available in English. This is an important and illuminating work, one that will be welcomed by scholars, students, believers, and all who seek to better understand Islam and its sacred scripture.’ -- Carl W. Ernst, Professor Emeritus and William R. Kenan, Jr., Distinguished Professor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill‘A sensitive and unusually accessible first book on the Qur’an and its function as scripture… For the reader who knows little of Islam and Muslim piety, this book opens up many facets of the special role that the Qur’an plays in Muslim life and thought.’ -- William A. Graham, Murray A. Albertson Research Professor of Middle Eastern Studies, Emeritus, and Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus, Harvard University‘…unrivalled for its ability to make the thought world and religious presuppositions of the Book accessible to the uninitiated… It meets an urgent, plangent need and does so in a clear, jargon-free and deeply learned language. There is no better introductory book on the Qur’an.’ -- Todd Lawson, Associate Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto‘This groundbreaking work goes a very long way to bridging the gap that separates the non-Islamic reader from the Qur’an; [Sells] translates and extensively annotates a careful selection of the earliest “suras” (revelations), setting them in their cultural context. Further chapters discuss sound and gender in the meaning of the Qur’an, and the book includes extraordinary field recordings of male and female Qur’anic reciters. Highly recommended.’ * Library Journal *‘The response of my students has been very positive… Listening to the [recordings] provoked all kinds of discussion about chant in different religious traditions… The transliterations are excellent; students can follow the Arabic text very easily. The Qur’an is a difficult text to teach to students who have no background. Approaching the Qur’an makes it exciting and accessible to them.’ -- Shaun Marmon, Associate Professor of Religion, Princeton University‘Flawlessly communicates the religious and literary verities of the Qur’an… Both Muslim and non-Muslim audiences, beginners as well as advanced students of Islam, will no doubt appreciate the many innovative facets of this extraordinary book. It is an indispensable aid for all students of religion and Islam.’ -- Ebrahim Moosa, Mirza Family Professor of Islamic Thought and Muslim Societies, University of Notre Dame‘Much more than a translation of the Qur’an, the work is a carefully considered introduction to a religious appreciation of the text from within a scholarly framework. By highlighting issues of the multiple levels upon which the text conveys its meaning to its readers and auditors, Sells manages to overcome the first impression that many people have of the Qur’an being a difficult book.’ -- Andrew Rippin, Professor Emeritus of Islamic History, University of Victoria‘Sells’ translations combine the highest level of accuracy with a poetic sensitivity to language that is unmatched. I would easily rank this work as the most effective, accurate, and captivating version of the Qur’an for use in academic classes. A breathtaking achievement.’ -- Omid Safi, Professor in the Department of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Duke University‘When a ranking Islamicist brings to his translation a mastery of the English language that equals that of the best poets of our day, the result is certain to be remarkable. And, as here demonstrated, it is. After Michael Sells’ breakthrough rendition of the Qur’an’s earliest chapters, the English-speaking world need never again find that holy text impenetrable.’ -- Huston Smith, author of the bestselling The World’s Religions

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Book SynopsisThe third volume in a new translation of of Sahih Muslim, the second most authentic collection of Prophetic traditions, with Imam Nawawi's commentary.

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Book SynopsisN. J. Dawood’s masterful translation in a fully revised edition, with a parallel Arabic textThe Koran is universally accepted by Muslims to be the infallible word of God as first revealed to the prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel nearly fourteen hundred years ago. Its 114 chapters recount the narratives and rules of conduct central to Islamic belief, and together they form one of the world’s most influential prophetic works and a literary masterpiece in its own right. This newly revised edition of N. J. Dawood’s classic translation also includes the original Arabic in parallel text.For more than sixty-five years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,500 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductiTrade ReviewAcross the language barrier Dawood captures the thunder and poetry of the original * The Times *

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Book SynopsisA landmark new translation of the sacred text of Islam in an elegant deluxe editionLiterally the recitation, The Qur'an is considered within the Muslim faith to be the infallible word of God. Tarif Khalidi, the foremost scholar of Islamic history and faith, provides a fresh English translation that captures the startling, exquisite poetry of one of the world's most beloved religious texts. Retaining the structure and rhythms of the original Arabic, Khalidi enlivens the ancient teachings and prophetic narratives central to the Muslim faith and solidifies The Qur'an as a work of spiritual authority and breathtaking beauty.For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide Trade Review"An eloquent and eminently readable translation . . . much closer to the way the first Muslims experienced the Qur'an." -Reza Aslan, author of Zealot " While being faithful to the original, [Khalidi] succeeds in conveying linguistic shifts, from narrative to mnemonic, sermons to parables. And there is an innovative component: it is the first translation that tries to capture both the rhythms and the structure of the Qur'an. . . . This translation manages to give a glimpse of the grandeur of the original. . . . A magnificent achievement." -Ziauddin Sardar, The Guardian (London) "What sets Khalidi apart from his predecessors is his sensitivity to the sounds and many layers of meaning of the original as well as his skill in conveying them to an anglophone audience...Khalidi's introduction and bibliographic note are marvelously succinct, explaining the textual nature and structure of the Qur'an, its place in Muslim life, and providing a very useful summary of recent research and further reading...a landmark in the history of English translations of the Qur'an." --Ziad Elmarsafy, Times Literary Supplement

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Book SynopsisStories about gendered social relations permeate the Qur''an, and nearly three hundred verses involve specific women or girls. The Qur''an features these figures in accounts of human origins, in stories of the founding and destruction of nations, in narratives of conquest, in episodes of romantic attraction, and in incidents of family devotion and strife. Overall, stories involving women and girls weave together theology and ethics to reinforce central Qur''anic ideas regarding submission to God and moral accountability.Celene Ibrahim explores the complex cast of female figures in the Qur''an, probing themes related to biological sex, female sexuality, female speech, and women in sacred history. Ibrahim considers major and minor figures referenced in the Qur''an, including those who appear in narratives of sacred history, in parables, in descriptions of the eternal abode, and in verses that allude to events contemporaneous with the advent of the Qur''an in Arabia. Ibrahim finds that the Qur''an regularly celebrates the aptitudes of women in the realms of spirituality and piety, in political maneuvering, and in safeguarding their own wellbeing; yet, women figures also occasionally falter and use their agency toward nefarious ends. Women and Gender in the Qur''an outlines how women and girls - old, young, barren, fertile, chaste, profligate, reproachable, and saintly - enter Qur''anic sacred history and advance the Qur''an''s overarching didactic aims.Trade ReviewThis very readable book is an important intervention in the field of religion and gender and will benefit a wide range of audience, within and beyond the academy. The book will appeal to outsiders to Qur'ānic studies...Those within the field of Qur'ānic studies will profit from Ibrahim's many fresh exegetical insights, and by dialogue with her work our understanding of gender in the Qu'ān will be markedly advanced. * Tareq Moqbel, Regent's Park College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Religion and Gender *...the appendices at the end of the work will be of particular interest to both scholars and students alike. Here Ibrahim collates all instances of female figures as well as female speech in the Qur'ān, which will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to any scholar working in this field. * F. Redhwan Karim, Markfield Institute of Higher Education, Reorient, Pluto Journals *Overall, this very readable book is an important intervention in the field of religion and gender and will benefit a wide range of audience, within and beyond the academy. The book will appeal to outsiders to Qur'ānic studies--for instance, the various references to Biblical literature, especially in the endnotes, will be welcomed by Biblical studies specialists. * Tareq Moqbel, Regent's Park College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Religion and Gender *Ibrahim's very fine work is an invaluable resource * John Kaltner, Horizons *essential reading * Muhammad Misbah, Women's History Review *The author manages to artfully take an issue related to gender under the subheading of her chosen areas and discuss it through the prism of modern nuanced political connotations ... The book provides excellent ideas about gender and women in the Qur'an and is a welcome contribution to the dynamic field of Qur'anic studies. * Shahrul Hussain, Ibn Rushd Centre of Excellence for Islamic Research, UK, The Muslim World Book Review *Precise and illuminating. * Leila Karami, Studi e Materiali di Storia delle Religioni *Through analysis of female representations in the Qur'an, Ibrahim earns a place alongside noteworthy scholars such as Fazlur Rahman, Ingrid Mattson, Amina Wadud, and Barbara Stowasser.... Women and Gender in the Qur'an is a valuable resource for devotional and secular readers, those interested in women in scriptures, and scholars engaged in the study of the Qur'an more generally. * Studies in Religion *Ibrahim's meticulous excavation of female figures in the Qur'an has made us all richer. Decades from now, this book will inspire scholars, feminists, Muslims, and a combination of the three. I highly and enthusiastically recommend her book to academics, researchers, Muslims, and astute readers alike. * Aayah Musa, Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion *A refreshing contribution to the growing scholarship on women and gender in qur'anic studies. * Hadia Mubarak, Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion *Celene Ibrahim's work, which surveys, documents, and critically analyzes the narratives, expositional references, and conceptual formulations of women and gender in the Qur'an, is an important and critical contribution for scholars engaged in the work of constructive Muslim theology, ethics, and qur'anic interpretation. As a work of qur'anic studies, Ibrahim has produced an invaluable reference for exploring the Qur'an's engagement with women, gender, sexuality, and family.... Ibrahim has assembled in Women and Gender in the Qur'an a handbook that not only will serve as an essential starting point for future researchers but also is itself a signif-icant articulation of Muslima hermeneutics. * Martin Nguyen, Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion *Ibrahim's work demonstrates that gender is a valuable analytical category for qur'anic studies that can deepen our understanding of qur'anic meaning, language, and chronology. * Rahel Fischbach, Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion *Well written and thoughtfully structured, the book is a valuable scholarly contribution to contemporary Muslim theological writing. * Choice *Celene Ibrahim's Women and Gender in the Qur'an is a welcome and significant contribution to the growing scholarship on women and gender in Qur'anic studies. * Hadia Mubarak, Reading Religion *Is there sex in the Quranic paradise? And who are these grammatically feminine but possibly non-gendered beings who inhabit its otherworldly realms? Do Quranic representations of women's faith, wisdom, knowledge, differ from its representation of men's? These are just some of the questions which Ibrahim explores in this book, the first comprehensive survey in English of female figures in the Quran and an important contribution to scholarship. * Leila Ahmed, Victor S. Thomas Professor of Divinity, Harvard University *Ibrahim shines new light on gender in the Qur'an with a comprehensive analysis of its narratives about women. Drawing out unexpected resonances between stories, she highlights their underlying thematic coherence. Her focus on the ethical and didactic force of the stories will be compelling both for people of faith (Muslim and otherwise) and for scholars and students seeking a holistic gender-sensitive reading of the Qur'an. * Marion Katz, Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, New York University *Women and Gender in the Quran is a fine analysis of female agency, faith, wisdom, knowledge and proximity to God in Islam. Celene Ibrahim, a major voice in conversations about Islamic leadership in the United States, argues persuasively in this book that even if women are not explicitly named as prophets, they often function to confirm God's words and promises in the Quran. This book is a must- read for anybody interested in understanding female figures in the Quran. * Ousmane Kane, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Professor of Contemporary Islamic Religion and Society, Harvard University *Celene Ibrahim's textual analysis and re-reading of sex, gender, and the female figures in the Qur'an is a timely and important contribution, which does not shy away from addressing difficult issues. It is welcome as a work of academic scholarship in the field of Qur'anic studies as well as one of Muslima theology. * Karen Bauer, author of Gender Hierarchy in the Qur'an: Medieval Interpretations, Modern Responses *Celene Ibrahim's textual study Women and Gender in the Qur'an presents a multitude of new, insightful findings resulting from her shift in perspective and methodology within the research field. Her approach to the Qur'an involves a more open perspective on the issue of women and gender in the Qur'an...Specifically, Ibrahim examines the representation of female figures in narrative text structures, like those found in stories of the biblical prophets and those involving groups of women who are explicitly mentioned in the Qur'an, such as the women of the prophetic family (ahl al-bayt). * Nimet Åeker, Humboldt-Universität, Berliner Institut für Islamische Theologie,Berlin, Germany, Die Welt des Islams *Over a billion people claim Islam as their religious tradition, yet billions more know little or nothing about it, and even less about women in Islam. This scholarly yet accessible book provides a helpful overview of gender matters with abundant resources for future study. A serious volume for enrichment and collaboration across religious traditions. * Water Women Alliance for Theology, Ethics and Religion *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments Notes on Transliteration, Translation, and Abbreviations Introduction 1. Female Sex and Sexuality 2. Procreation, Parenting, and Female Kin 3. Women Speakers and Interlocutors 4. Women Exemplars for an Emerging Polity Conclusion Appendices Notes Bibliography Indices

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Book SynopsisA compact introduction and reader's guide to the Qur'an.Trade ReviewThis will serve both as a fine teaching tool at the college or seminary level and as a useful resource for engaged nonspecialists, who will find it challenging but rewarding. -- John Jaeger, Dallas Baptist University, Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive introduction to the basic methods and current state of historical-critical Qur anic scholarship covers all of the field s major questions, giving readers the tools needed to work with and understand this vital but complex text.

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Book Synopsis The Qur''an is the inimitable and direct Word of God. It was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over twenty-three years, who faithfully transmitted it to humanity in the seventh century. Since then the text and meaning of the Qur''an has been preserved, word for word, exactly as it was fourteen hundred years ago. It is a Book of Guidance for all mankind with a central message of God''s Oneness. Yet, it has several layers of meaning and beauty that are easily lost in translation. This splendid translation, originally prepared in 1934, aimed to help readers understand the meaning of the Qur''an but also to appreciate its beauty and catch something of the grandeur of the Arabic. This is a compact and revised edition of Abdullah Yusuf Ali''s translation of The Meaning of the Holy Qur''an in modern English. It contains the complete translation of the Qur''anic text and retains essential notes of Yusuf Ali''s exhaustive commentary on the Qur''an, which enables t

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Book SynopsisThe Qur'an is regarded by Muslims as the direct word of God, timeless and unchanged. It is used not only for prayer and worship but as a path which can lead the believer to a closer understanding of the essence of their relationship with God. In this thought-provoking, considered study of the scripture of Islam, Mona Siddiqui explores the 'big themes' of prophecy, law, sin and salvation from her dual position as a believer and a scholar.

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Book SynopsisThe Koran, literally meaning ‘The Recitation’ it is the central religious text for Muslims. Muslims believe the Koran was verbally revealed by God to the Prophet Muhammad in Arabic through the angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years Muslims regard koranic revelations as the sacred word of God, intended to correct any errors in previous holy books such as the Old and New Testaments. The Koran is accepted as the foundation of Islamic law, religion, culture and politics. Some Koranic fragments have been dated as far back as the eighth, and possibly even the seventh, century. The oldest existing copy of the full text is from the ninth century. Although early variants of the Koran are known to have existed, Muslims believe that the text we have today was established shortly after the death of the Prophet by the Caliph Uthman. This superb translation by E.H.Palmer brings an appealing clarity to this ancient and revered text.

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