The Koran (Qur’an) Books

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 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 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 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 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 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 SynopsisA commentary on Surah Yasin, written in English complete with diagrams and illustrations.

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Book SynopsisConsidered in Islam to be the infallible word of God, The Qur''an was revealed to the prophet Muhammad by the archangel Gabriel in a series of divine revelations over many years after his first vision in the cave. In 114 chapters, or surahs, it provides the rules of conduct that remain fundamental to Muslims today - most importantly the key Islamic values of prayer, fasting, pilgrimage and absolute faith in God, with profound spiritual guidance on matters of kinship, marriage and family, crime and punishment, rituals, food, warfare and charity. Through its pages, a fascinating picture emerges of life in seventh-century Arabia, and from it we can learn much about how people felt about their relationship with God and their belief in the afterlife, as well as attitudes to loyalty, friendship, race, forgiveness and the natural world. It also tells of events and people familiar to Christian and Jewish readers, fellow ''People of the Book'' whose stories are recorded in the Gos

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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 SynopsisFew books have had a more profound impact on human history than the Qur'an. It shapes the beliefs, lives and behaviour of over 1.5 billion Muslims, who regard it as the Word of God, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Speaking directly to Muslims, it has been the basic source of law, morality and politics for over 1,400 years. Almost everything that happens in a Muslim society is a direct or indirect product of what the Qur'an says. But what does the Qur'an really say? How should it be read and interpreted? What is the significance of its teachings, if any, for the 21st century? In this enlightening and highly readable book, Ziauddin Sardar, one of the foremost Muslim intellectuals of our time, offers a refreshingly new interpretation of the Qur'an. Emphasising plurality and inclusiveness, Sardar demonstrates the importance of reading the verses of the Qur'an in the context in which they were revealed, and highlights the relevance of its teachings for today. Sardar reads the Qur'an from several perspectives.He begins with the traditional, verse-by-verse interpretations and subsequently shows how the multilayered verses and stories of the Sacred Text are open to a number of different and more enlightening interpretations. He also reads the Quran thematically, exploring its basic concepts and themes, painting a dynamic picture of the kind of society that the Qur'an aims to create. Also scrutinised is what the Qur'an says about such contemporary topics as power and politics, the rights of women, suicide, domestic violence, sex, homosexuality, the veil, freedom of expression and evolution. Throughout, Sardar uses several different methods, from traditional exegesis to hermeneutics, critical theory and cultural analysis to draw fresh and contemporary lessons from the Sacred Text. He shows what the Qur'an means to individuals like himself, why its interpretation has been so controversial throughout history, and how translations can be used to promote misunderstanding as well as enlightenment. Argumentative and lively, Reading the Qur'an is an insightful guide to understanding the Sacred Text of Muslims in these conflict-ridden and distressing times.Whatever one believes or does not believe, the central importance of the Qur'an in today's globalised world cannot be ignored.Trade Review'This book performs the essential democratic function of suggesting that the Qur'an can and indeed ought to be read intelligently by the lay Muslims and non-Muslims alike, and effectively debunks the myth that the sacred book of Islam is only accessible through the medium of Arabic ... Not only does Reading the Qur'an make many timely and necessary points; it is also highly readable ... It is punctuated by beautiful metaphors ... and witty, sometimes even risque comments.' * The Times Literary Supplement *' Divine revelation demands that "we constantly think outside the box of our earthly concerns by keeping in mind the intersection of time and timelessness". Writing as "Every Muslim" with a deep love of a text he learned at his mother's knee, Sardar rises to this challenge, wrestling with problematic passages that would seem to run counter to his generally progressive and enlightened outlook.' * Malise Ruthven, The Guardian *'Ziauddin Sardar is justly renowned for his forensic intelligence and capacious insight into myriad issues. He is at once a peace-maker and a bridge-builder. Reading the Qur'an projects the scriptural basis for his ceaseless activities as the leading public intellectual among British Muslims - This bold mandate compels Sardar to look at all the issues that concern Muslims and non-Muslims alike in contemporary Islam - not only sex and the Shari'ah, but also homosexuality, the veil, freedom of religion, and even suicide. If one could pick just one book to connect the Muslim past with its complex present and future potential, Reading the Qur'an would be that book.' * Professor Bruce Lawrence, Duke University 'This lucid, scholarly and exciting book could not be more timely *'It takes the reader on a spiritual and intellectual journey that is essential for Muslim and non-Muslim alike and addresses some of the most pressing needs of our time.' * Karen Armstrong, author of, inter alia, A History of God and Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"The Study Quran could not be more timely. This painstaking work will do much to enlighten and inform the reading strategies of all who seek to understand the Holy Writ of Islam, especially as it relates to the beliefs and practices of Muslims." -- Sherman A. Jackson, King Faisal Chair of Islamic Thought and Practice, The University of Southern California "A huge and significant scholarly undertaking, a major service to Islamic studies. This work solves the perennial problem of how to introduce students to the Quranic text, offering what is perhaps the closest one can get to an ecumenical exegesis of the Quran." -- Jonathan Brown, Associate Director, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim Christian Understanding at Georgetown University "Even the non-Arabist will gain an impression of the way specific verses have been understood. By giving attention to a wide range of commentators the editors capture the diversity and depth of the exegetical ideas that have been brought to the Quran-- a useful resource." -- Peter Adamson, Professor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat in Munich and at King's College London "A truly magisterial and the most comprehensive study of the Quran to date. Highly recommended as an unparalleled reference work for engaging the Quran in its many different aspects." -- Asma Afsaruddin, Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at Indiana University Bloomington "A monument of religious literature in its own right, The Study Quran presents the sacred text in a meticulous new English rendering. One of this ambitious project's greatest strengths is the breadth and variety of exegetical sources and methods that inform the commentary throughout --most impressive." -- John Renard, Professor of Medieval Islam at Saint Louis University "A stupendous achievement. An indispensable handbook. The Study Quran contains everything readers will need. The translation is lucid and eloquent; the extensive commentaries offer continuous insight; the various essays cover virtually every aspect of the Quran. I cannot praise their collective work enough!" -- Eric Ormsby, Formerly Professor of Islamic Philosophy and Theology at McGill University's Institute of Islamic Studies "A major milestone for the study of the Qur'an. Elegantly written, the project is ambitious yet amply fulfills its promise. Invaluable for anyone interested in understanding the Qur'an and essential reading for students of the Qur'an at all levels." -- Dr. Michael Sells, Barrows Professor of the History and Literature of Islam, University of Chicago "This scholarly yet accessible work speaks directly to the tensions and misunderstandings of our gravely polarized world. It should be on the shelves of libraries and universities throughout the English-speaking world." -- Karen Armstrong, author of Fields of Blood "The contributors guide the reader through the intricacies of the sacred text in a way that lays bare the superficiality, selectivity and inaccuracy of some modern interpretations of the Quran at a time when this is sorely needed." -- Karen Armstrong, author of Fields of Blood "This impressive tome-the fruit of a patient collective venture-offers an extraordinary panoptic survey of the history of tafsir: some forty traditional commentaries-ancient and modern, Sunni and Shi'i-have been summoned here... Special mention is due to the translators of the Qur'an for their often remarkable achievement." -- Dr. Michel Chodkiewicz, author of Seal of the Saints and An Ocean Without Shore "A stunningly successful collaboration of scholars who have produced a modern masterpiece of clarity and eloquence. Never before in one place has so much Qur'anic scholarship been made accessible to the intelligent general reader." -- Ingrid Mattson, London and Windsor Community Chair in Islamic Studies at Huron University College, University of Western Ontario "An extraordinary scholarly achievement, The Study Quran brings the text to life, gently guiding readers into the exciting interpretive worlds of Muslims in all of their rich diversity." -- Zareena A Grewal, PhD, professor of Religious Studies at Yale University "The Study Quran is a well-guided tour. The work of the editors is uniformly meticulous, comprehensive, and erudite. Whether the reader is a novice to the Quranic text, longtime student, or scholar, they will find much to reflect upon in this extraordinarily valuable resource." -- Kristin Zahra Sands, Harlequin Adair Dammann Chair in Islamic Studies, Sarah Lawrence College "The Study Quran represents a breakthrough for bringing the message of the Quran to the English-speaking world. The translation itself is beautiful, but the commentary truly makes this an indispensable resource for anyone -- whether Muslim or non-Muslim -- who wishes to appreciate the Quran's message." -- Mohammad Fadel, Associate Professor of Law, University of Toronto Faculty of Law "The Study Quran is a fascinating and pioneering academic achievement. With analytical depth and clarity, it offers to both specialist and general readers, Muslim and non-Muslim, uniquely learned insights into the reception and interpretation of Islam's sacred scripture within the various Muslim intellectual and spiritual traditions." -- Sebastian Gunther, Professor and Chair of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Gottingen, Germany "This new English translation conveys the music and meaning of the Arabic. That it is accompanied by a learned commentary distilled from the highly varied classical, modern and contemporary exegetical traditions provides unparalleled access to a uniquely influential yet understudied scripture sacred to one out of four human beings." -- Todd Lawson, Professor of Islamic Thought, University of Toronto "A magnificent scholarly achievement, The Study Quran offers an eminently readable, thought-provoking and nuanced understanding of Islam's sacred text that will help both Muslims and non-Muslims appreciate the richness and diversity of understandings of the Quran throughout the ages." -- Shafique N. Virani, Distinguished Professor of Islamic Studies, University of Toronto "The monumental The Study Quran is a truly indispensable reference. As with every sacred scripture, the meanings of the Quran are mediated by a range of interpretive traditions which have long been accessible only to Muslim scholars. Now a team of editors have provided an impressively accessible synthesis." -- James W. Morris, Dept. of Theology and Islamic Civilization and Societies Program, Boston College "An invaluable resource that the general reader and students of Islamic disciplines will benefit from. The wealth of detailed information it contains makes The Study Quran a valuable text in understanding the centrality of the Quran and its role in shaping the spiritual and mundane lives of Muslims." -- Liyakat Takim, Sharjah Chair in Global Islam, McMaster University "The publication of The Study Quran is a joyous occasion for all scripture lovers: a new English translation that celebrates the dignity and formality of sacred discourse, running commentary, and, as a very special signature, compelling and deeply instructive essays by fifteen of today's leading scholars on Islam." -- Peter Ochs, Bronfman Professor of Modern Judaic Studies, University of Virginia "A monumental milestone in the study of the Quran in western academia and a veritable touchstone of authenticity for all who are asking: what does the Quran actually say? With clarity and comprehensiveness, the editors and translators of this magnificent volume have helped distinguish the true spirit of Islamic faith." -- Reza Shah-Kazemi, The Institute of Ismaili Studies "The Study Quran is a treasure trove of insights and information. There is nothing quite like it in English: a single volume comprising an accessible translation, a survey of classical commentaries, essays by prominent scholars, informative appendices, and multiple maps. Indeed a massive, unprecedented undertaking." -- Mohammad Hassan Khalil, Associate Professor of Islamic Studies and Director of the Muslim Studies Program, Michigan State University "The Study Quran is a unique work. It provides a clear, readable translation of the Quran and detailed explanations of Quranic ideas and concepts. Its accessibility is likely to gain a large readership. An indispensable Quranic studies resource for scholar and student." -- Mustansir Mir, Youngstown State University "A work of extraordinary significance, The Study Quran makes accessible in English Islam's sacred scripture along with an array of material necessary to appreciate the nuances of the text. An invaluable and much needed resource for understanding the Quran. A monumental accomplishment." -- Ali Asani, Professor of Indo-Muslim and Islamic Religion and Cultures and Director of the Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Islamic Studies Program, Harvard University "Never before has the depth of Quranic exegesis been available in a single volume. We can think of few tasks more urgent in the global climate than discovering the universal character of this misunderstood text. We owe the editors our profound gratitude." -- Dr. Waleed El-Ansary, University Chair of Islamic Studies at Xavier University "Seyyed Hossein Nasr has assembled a magnificent team of younger scholars, not only competent in Quranic studies but suffused with Muslim faith as well, to open its reaches in the world today. A prodigious effort of scholarship in the service of faith. " -- David Burrell, Theodore Hesburgh C.S.C. Professor Emeritus in Philosophy and Theology, University of Notre Dame "The Study Quran will remain for many decades to come the key reference work in English for students of Islamic Studies and scholars of religion alike, as well as ordinary readers interested in the spiritual content, historical context and literary monument of the revelation of Islam." -- Dr. Leonard Lewisohn, Senior Lecturer in Persian, University of Exeter, U.K. "The Study Quran is a milestone in Islamic studies. It will become the standard reference for anyone interested in traditional Muslim interpretation of the Quran." -- Carl W. Ernst, William R. Kenan, Jr., Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill "This is perhaps the most important work done on the Islamic faith in the English language to date. We owe a great debt to Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, one of the intellectual giants of our time, and his team for bringing this labor of love to fruition." -- Hamza Yusuf, Co-Founder of Zaytuna College "The Study Quran will be an essential book for every English speaking student of Islam and every Muslim (and every Sufi) for generations to come. It answers every question about the meaning of Quranic verses that the vast majority of readers of the Quran will have." -- Dr. Alan Godlas, Associate Professor , Department of Religion, University of Georgia "An important event in the history of Quranic studies. It will make available the Quranic text along with a clearly written commentary, thus it's much more important than another translation. An extremely useful work, particularly since it will allow readers who are not Arabists to engage easily with the Quran." -- Devin Stewart, Associate Professor at Emory University "Many English translations of the Quran have been ill-suited to foiling extremist ideology or introducing Americans to Islam. Ten years in the making, The Study Quran is an effort to change that." -- Daniel Burke, CNN "The publication of The Study Quran is a landmark. It contains an original translation of the Quran [and] an extensive scholarly apparatus, pointing readers to the ways that Quranic verses have been interpreted, especially during the first several centuries after the life of the Prophet Muhammad." -- Patheos blog "Some of us-particularly those of us who have no particular expertise regarding Islam-should seize the opportunity just now made available to us, The Study Quran. Many have already noted that in a time when ignorance is rampant and violent, this can be a book of great value." -- America magazine "New Study Quran seeks to increase understanding." -- Amanpour, CNN "The Study Quran... will fuel a new understanding of Islam for anyone with a desire to grow beyond their own private religious paradigm." -- Clarion Journal of Spirituality and Justice "The Study Quran, joins the groaning shelves of 'study Bibles' as a resource for Muslims-and for Christians who want to learn more about this closely related sister faith." -- ReadTheSpirit.com "The Study Quran from HarperOne is a historic and ground-breaking work produced by a distinguished team of Islamic Studies scholars." -- Maxwell Institute podcast "What distinguishes The Study Quran is not merely its collective authorship but the scope and scale of its ambition." -- The Muslim World "Happily, the publication of this excellent new Study Quran ... holds out the prospect of a better-informed body of Muslims, Christians and others able to discuss with clarity and precision what Islam is really all about." -- The Tablet "The Study Quran puts this great religious work in historical perspective. It is causing a stir and maybe something of a revolution [and] pissing off the Saudis. This interpretation would seem to challenge extremists and seeks to remedy the previous absence of solid historical discourse." -- The Daily Beast "A stimulating, intelligent volume. This project will appeal not only to Muslim students but also to non-Muslims eager to advance their knowledge and comprehension of the Islamic faith. A refreshingly contemporary interpretation that ... fills a sorely felt gap." -- Abdullah Drury, Islam and Christian Muslim Relations Journal "Much-needed. English-speakers can now gain ready access to authoritative scholarship representing the grand tradition of this massive religion." -- GetReligion.org "A compendious new version...this edition succeeds in presenting eh Qur'an to a general reader in the English-speaking world." -- Quest journal "This Quran is impressive, timely, and necessary, especially for Western audiences debating the nature of Islam in light of attacks made by Islamist groups throughout the Middle East and the West, and increasingly heated presidential campaign debates regarding Muslims in the United States." -- The Diplomat "Nasr and his team have done the English-speaking world an enormous favor with their erudite and profound translation and commentary on the Qur'an combined with essays by some of the most learned scholars on the Qur'an-a timely contribution in a world that has become infected by Islamophobia and intolerance." -- Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl, UCLA School of Law, and author of The Great Theft

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Book SynopsisSurah Yusuf, a chapter of the Qur'an (Koran), was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad at a critical juncture of his life. This was the time when he had gone through ten to eleven years of ridicule and rejection in Makkah, a time when he lost his wife and partner, Khadija, a time when he lost his dear uncle Abu Talib. Allah revealed this precious surah to strengthen the Prophet Muhammad’s heart. To remind him that he lives in the footsteps of the great prophets of the past and that Allah’s help and support is there. This surah is full of meaningful messages of patience, reliance on Allah and how to overcome hardship and betrayal. It was also educational, teaching the Prophet Muhammad the answers to queries that were posed to him by the local Jews and Muslims. Finally this surah was a timely morale booster for the Prophet and his companions in a time of need. Yasir Qadhi has clearly divided the surah into related themes, as per the revelations, so that the reader can easily understand and grasp the great wealth of knowledge relayed through this surah to all.

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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 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 SynopsisWhat is so unique about Islam's scripture, the Quran? Who wrote it, and when? Can we trust its statements to be from Muhammad? Why was it written in Arabic? Does it command Muslims to fight Christians? These are a few of the thirty questions answered in this clear and concise guide to the history and contents of the Quran. Ayman Ibrahim grew up in the Muslim world and has spent many years teaching various courses on Islam. Using a question-and-answer format, Ibrahim covers critical questions about the most sacred book for Muslims. He examines Muslim and non-Muslim views concerning the Quran, shows how the Quran is used in contemporary expressions of Islam, answers many of the key questions non-Muslims have about the Quran and Islam, and reveals the importance of understanding the Quran for Christian-Muslim and Jewish-Muslim interfaith relations. This introductory guide is written for anyone with little to no knowledge of Islam who wants to learn about Muslims, their beliefs, and their scripture.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: My Earliest Encounters with the QuranPart 1: The History of the Text of the Quran1. What Is the Quran?2. What Does "Quran" Mean?3. Are There Other Scriptures in Islam?4. What Do Muslims Believe about the Quran?5. Who Is Muhammad, the Recipient and Proclaimer of the Quran?6. Did Muhammad Really Exist?7. When and Where Did Muhammad Receive the Quran?8. What Is the Most Important Feature of the Language of the Quran?9. Why and How Was the Quran Compiled?10. Did Uthman Burn False and Forged Qurans?11. What Do Shiite Muslims Believe about the Collection of the Quran?12. Do Sunnis and Shiites Have the Same Quran Today?13. What Do We Know about the 1924 Royal Cairo Edition of the Quran?14. Are There Any Other Qurans?15. Are All Arabic Versions of the Quran the Same?Part 2: Content, Features, and Themes of the Quran16. How Should I Begin Reading the Quran?17. What Are the Recurring Features at the Beginning of All Suras?18. What Is Abrogation in the Quran?19. What Are the Satanic Verses in the Quran?20. What Is the Most Important Concept for Muslims in the Quran?21. Are Jews and Christians Infidels?22. Does the Quran Really Say the Bible Is Corrupt?23. Who Is Jesus in the Quran?24. Who Are the Prophets in the Quran?25. Did Muhammad Perform Miracles?26. What Does the Quran Say about Jihad and Fighting?27. How Do Muslims Treat the Quran's Verses on Violence Today?28. Who Are "the People of the Quran"?29. What Do Today's Non-MuslimScholars Say about the Quran?30. Concluding Question: How Does This All Fit Together?GlossaryIndex

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Book SynopsisWritten in prose but with a verse-like flavor, this book is a collection of maxims by Bediuzzaman Said Nursi. Very concisely articulated, these maxims expound on the key discussions of the Risale-I Nur collection; thus it is considered in a sense an index to the collection, which was written years later than this book.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"The Study Quran could not be more timely. This painstaking work will do much to enlighten and inform the reading strategies of all who seek to understand the Holy Writ of Islam, especially as it relates to the beliefs and practices of Muslims." -- Sherman A. Jackson, King Faisal Chair of Islamic Thought and Practice, The University of Southern California "A huge and significant scholarly undertaking, a major service to Islamic studies. This work solves the perennial problem of how to introduce students to the Quranic text, offering what is perhaps the closest one can get to an ecumenical exegesis of the Quran." -- Jonathan Brown, Associate Director, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim Christian Understanding at Georgetown University "Even the non-Arabist will gain an impression of the way specific verses have been understood. By giving attention to a wide range of commentators the editors capture the diversity and depth of the exegetical ideas that have been brought to the Quran-- a useful resource." -- Peter Adamson, Professor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat in Munich and at King's College London "A truly magisterial and the most comprehensive study of the Quran to date. Highly recommended as an unparalleled reference work for engaging the Quran in its many different aspects." -- Asma Afsaruddin, Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at Indiana University Bloomington "A monument of religious literature in its own right, The Study Quran presents the sacred text in a meticulous new English rendering. One of this ambitious project's greatest strengths is the breadth and variety of exegetical sources and methods that inform the commentary throughout --most impressive." -- John Renard, Professor of Medieval Islam at Saint Louis University "A stupendous achievement. An indispensable handbook. The Study Quran contains everything readers will need. The translation is lucid and eloquent; the extensive commentaries offer continuous insight; the various essays cover virtually every aspect of the Quran. I cannot praise their collective work enough!" -- Eric Ormsby, Formerly Professor of Islamic Philosophy and Theology at McGill University's Institute of Islamic Studies "A major milestone for the study of the Qur'an. Elegantly written, the project is ambitious yet amply fulfills its promise. Invaluable for anyone interested in understanding the Qur'an and essential reading for students of the Qur'an at all levels." -- Dr. Michael Sells, Barrows Professor of the History and Literature of Islam, University of Chicago "This scholarly yet accessible work speaks directly to the tensions and misunderstandings of our gravely polarized world. It should be on the shelves of libraries and universities throughout the English-speaking world." -- Karen Armstrong, author of Fields of Blood "The contributors guide the reader through the intricacies of the sacred text in a way that lays bare the superficiality, selectivity and inaccuracy of some modern interpretations of the Quran at a time when this is sorely needed." -- Karen Armstrong, author of Fields of Blood "This impressive tome-the fruit of a patient collective venture-offers an extraordinary panoptic survey of the history of tafsir: some forty traditional commentaries-ancient and modern, Sunni and Shi'i-have been summoned here... Special mention is due to the translators of the Qur'an for their often remarkable achievement." -- Dr. Michel Chodkiewicz, author of Seal of the Saints and An Ocean Without Shore "A stunningly successful collaboration of scholars who have produced a modern masterpiece of clarity and eloquence. Never before in one place has so much Qur'anic scholarship been made accessible to the intelligent general reader." -- Ingrid Mattson, London and Windsor Community Chair in Islamic Studies at Huron University College, University of Western Ontario "An extraordinary scholarly achievement, The Study Quran brings the text to life, gently guiding readers into the exciting interpretive worlds of Muslims in all of their rich diversity." -- Zareena A Grewal, PhD, professor of Religious Studies at Yale University "The Study Quran is a well-guided tour. The work of the editors is uniformly meticulous, comprehensive, and erudite. Whether the reader is a novice to the Quranic text, longtime student, or scholar, they will find much to reflect upon in this extraordinarily valuable resource." -- Kristin Zahra Sands, Harlequin Adair Dammann Chair in Islamic Studies, Sarah Lawrence College "The Study Quran represents a breakthrough for bringing the message of the Quran to the English-speaking world. The translation itself is beautiful, but the commentary truly makes this an indispensable resource for anyone -- whether Muslim or non-Muslim -- who wishes to appreciate the Quran's message." -- Mohammad Fadel, Associate Professor of Law, University of Toronto Faculty of Law "The Study Quran is a fascinating and pioneering academic achievement. With analytical depth and clarity, it offers to both specialist and general readers, Muslim and non-Muslim, uniquely learned insights into the reception and interpretation of Islam's sacred scripture within the various Muslim intellectual and spiritual traditions." -- Sebastian Gunther, Professor and Chair of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Gottingen, Germany "This new English translation conveys the music and meaning of the Arabic. That it is accompanied by a learned commentary distilled from the highly varied classical, modern and contemporary exegetical traditions provides unparalleled access to a uniquely influential yet understudied scripture sacred to one out of four human beings." -- Todd Lawson, Professor of Islamic Thought, University of Toronto "A magnificent scholarly achievement, The Study Quran offers an eminently readable, thought-provoking and nuanced understanding of Islam's sacred text that will help both Muslims and non-Muslims appreciate the richness and diversity of understandings of the Quran throughout the ages." -- Shafique N. Virani, Distinguished Professor of Islamic Studies, University of Toronto "The monumental The Study Quran is a truly indispensable reference. As with every sacred scripture, the meanings of the Quran are mediated by a range of interpretive traditions which have long been accessible only to Muslim scholars. Now a team of editors have provided an impressively accessible synthesis." -- James W. Morris, Dept. of Theology and Islamic Civilization and Societies Program, Boston College "An invaluable resource that the general reader and students of Islamic disciplines will benefit from. The wealth of detailed information it contains makes The Study Quran a valuable text in understanding the centrality of the Quran and its role in shaping the spiritual and mundane lives of Muslims." -- Liyakat Takim, Sharjah Chair in Global Islam, McMaster University "The publication of The Study Quran is a joyous occasion for all scripture lovers: a new English translation that celebrates the dignity and formality of sacred discourse, running commentary, and, as a very special signature, compelling and deeply instructive essays by fifteen of today's leading scholars on Islam." -- Peter Ochs, Bronfman Professor of Modern Judaic Studies, University of Virginia "A monumental milestone in the study of the Quran in western academia and a veritable touchstone of authenticity for all who are asking: what does the Quran actually say? With clarity and comprehensiveness, the editors and translators of this magnificent volume have helped distinguish the true spirit of Islamic faith." -- Reza Shah-Kazemi, The Institute of Ismaili Studies "The Study Quran is a treasure trove of insights and information. There is nothing quite like it in English: a single volume comprising an accessible translation, a survey of classical commentaries, essays by prominent scholars, informative appendices, and multiple maps. Indeed a massive, unprecedented undertaking." -- Mohammad Hassan Khalil, Associate Professor of Islamic Studies and Director of the Muslim Studies Program, Michigan State University "The Study Quran is a unique work. It provides a clear, readable translation of the Quran and detailed explanations of Quranic ideas and concepts. Its accessibility is likely to gain a large readership. An indispensable Quranic studies resource for scholar and student." -- Mustansir Mir, Youngstown State University "A work of extraordinary significance, The Study Quran makes accessible in English Islam's sacred scripture along with an array of material necessary to appreciate the nuances of the text. An invaluable and much needed resource for understanding the Quran. A monumental accomplishment." -- Ali Asani, Professor of Indo-Muslim and Islamic Religion and Cultures and Director of the Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Islamic Studies Program, Harvard University "Never before has the depth of Quranic exegesis been available in a single volume. We can think of few tasks more urgent in the global climate than discovering the universal character of this misunderstood text. We owe the editors our profound gratitude." -- Dr. Waleed El-Ansary, University Chair of Islamic Studies at Xavier University "Seyyed Hossein Nasr has assembled a magnificent team of younger scholars, not only competent in Quranic studies but suffused with Muslim faith as well, to open its reaches in the world today. A prodigious effort of scholarship in the service of faith. " -- David Burrell, Theodore Hesburgh C.S.C. Professor Emeritus in Philosophy and Theology, University of Notre Dame "The Study Quran will remain for many decades to come the key reference work in English for students of Islamic Studies and scholars of religion alike, as well as ordinary readers interested in the spiritual content, historical context and literary monument of the revelation of Islam." -- Dr. Leonard Lewisohn, Senior Lecturer in Persian, University of Exeter, U.K. "The Study Quran is a milestone in Islamic studies. It will become the standard reference for anyone interested in traditional Muslim interpretation of the Quran." -- Carl W. Ernst, William R. Kenan, Jr., Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill "This is perhaps the most important work done on the Islamic faith in the English language to date. We owe a great debt to Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, one of the intellectual giants of our time, and his team for bringing this labor of love to fruition." -- Hamza Yusuf, Co-Founder of Zaytuna College "The Study Quran will be an essential book for every English speaking student of Islam and every Muslim (and every Sufi) for generations to come. It answers every question about the meaning of Quranic verses that the vast majority of readers of the Quran will have." -- Dr. Alan Godlas, Associate Professor , Department of Religion, University of Georgia "An important event in the history of Quranic studies. It will make available the Quranic text along with a clearly written commentary, thus it's much more important than another translation. An extremely useful work, particularly since it will allow readers who are not Arabists to engage easily with the Quran." -- Devin Stewart, Associate Professor at Emory University "Many English translations of the Quran have been ill-suited to foiling extremist ideology or introducing Americans to Islam. Ten years in the making, The Study Quran is an effort to change that." -- Daniel Burke, CNN "The publication of The Study Quran is a landmark. It contains an original translation of the Quran [and] an extensive scholarly apparatus, pointing readers to the ways that Quranic verses have been interpreted, especially during the first several centuries after the life of the Prophet Muhammad." -- Patheos blog "Some of us-particularly those of us who have no particular expertise regarding Islam-should seize the opportunity just now made available to us, The Study Quran. Many have already noted that in a time when ignorance is rampant and violent, this can be a book of great value." -- America magazine "New Study Quran seeks to increase understanding." -- Amanpour, CNN "The Study Quran... will fuel a new understanding of Islam for anyone with a desire to grow beyond their own private religious paradigm." -- Clarion Journal of Spirituality and Justice "The Study Quran, joins the groaning shelves of 'study Bibles' as a resource for Muslims-and for Christians who want to learn more about this closely related sister faith." -- ReadTheSpirit.com "The Study Quran from HarperOne is a historic and ground-breaking work produced by a distinguished team of Islamic Studies scholars." -- Maxwell Institute podcast "What distinguishes The Study Quran is not merely its collective authorship but the scope and scale of its ambition." -- The Muslim World "Happily, the publication of this excellent new Study Quran ... holds out the prospect of a better-informed body of Muslims, Christians and others able to discuss with clarity and precision what Islam is really all about." -- The Tablet "The Study Quran puts this great religious work in historical perspective. It is causing a stir and maybe something of a revolution [and] pissing off the Saudis. This interpretation would seem to challenge extremists and seeks to remedy the previous absence of solid historical discourse." -- The Daily Beast "A stimulating, intelligent volume. This project will appeal not only to Muslim students but also to non-Muslims eager to advance their knowledge and comprehension of the Islamic faith. A refreshingly contemporary interpretation that ... fills a sorely felt gap." -- Abdullah Drury, Islam and Christian Muslim Relations Journal "Much-needed. English-speakers can now gain ready access to authoritative scholarship representing the grand tradition of this massive religion." -- GetReligion.org "A compendious new version...this edition succeeds in presenting eh Qur'an to a general reader in the English-speaking world." -- Quest journal "This Quran is impressive, timely, and necessary, especially for Western audiences debating the nature of Islam in light of attacks made by Islamist groups throughout the Middle East and the West, and increasingly heated presidential campaign debates regarding Muslims in the United States." -- The Diplomat "Nasr and his team have done the English-speaking world an enormous favor with their erudite and profound translation and commentary on the Qur'an combined with essays by some of the most learned scholars on the Qur'an-a timely contribution in a world that has become infected by Islamophobia and intolerance." -- Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl, UCLA School of Law, and author of The Great Theft

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Book SynopsisThe first volume of a world-renowned scholar’s long-awaited Qur’an commentary, now available in EnglishTrade Review"Angelika Neuwirth has established herself as one of the world’s foremost authorities on the study of the Qur’an. The publication of The Qur’an: Text and Commentary presents an extraordinary opportunity for English-speaking audiences to benefit from her scholarship. Neuwirth strives to read the Qur’an as a late antique text, and prioritizes the orality of the text. All serious students of scholarship on the Qur’an would do well to engage Neuwirth’s work here, and Yale University Press is to be congratulated in bringing this English translation to light."—Omid Safi, Duke University“Neuwirth's work on interpreting the Quran has had a strong impact far outside the world of Islamicists and Arabists, as well as outside of academia. Her understanding of the holy book of Islam as not only a late antique but also a ‘European’ text is an exciting and thought-provoking new way of approaching it.”—Anders Winroth, University of Oslo“Neuwirth is a paradigm-changer in the field of late antique and early Islamic studies—a philologist in the best possible sense. Her holistic understanding of the Qur’an as both written text and oral performance has placed her at the forefront of what is most exciting in the now rejuvenated multi-disciplinary field of Quranic studies.”—Elizabeth Key Fowden, University of Cambridge“Neuwirth’s chronological Qur’an commentary, complete with Arabic text and translation, has soon emerged as a standard work in the field. Neuwirth focuses on a detailed literary and structural analysis, and she reveals the manifold textual connections to the monotheist tradition of the Eastern Mediterranean. This is a work of great erudition by a leading scholar in Qur’anic studies.”—Frank Griffel, Yale University“This work is a meticulous exposition of early Meccan suras as ‘transcripts of a proclamation.’ Neuwirth's learned and always supple analysis of textures, rhythm, sounds, and significations illuminates each sura's poetic discourse. Simply put, no-one has contributed more to our understanding of Meccan suras than Angelika Neuwirth.”—Shawkat Toorawa, Yale University

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Book SynopsisThe fourth volume in a new translation of Sahih Muslim, the second most authentic collection of Prophetic traditions, with Imam Nawawi's commentary. Imam Nawawi's commentary on Sahih Muslim is one of the most highly regarded works in Islamic thought and literature. Accepted by every sunni school of thought, and foundational in the Shaafi school, this text, available for the first time in English, is famed throughout the Muslim world. After the Qur'an, the prophetic traditions are the most recognised source of wisdom in Islam. Amongst the collected Hadith, Sahih Muslim is second only to the the collection of Imam Bukhari. With a commentary by Imam Nawawi, whose other works are amongst the most widely-read books on Islam, and translated by Adil Salahi, a modern scholar of great acclaim, this immense work, finally available to English readers, is an essential addition to every Muslim library, and for anybody with an interest in Islamic thought.

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Book SynopsisThe book includes selections from the Risale-i Nur on the unity and existence of God as evidenced by the universe. Selected treatises show Bediuzzaman''s effective use of the Book of Universe to provide evidences pointing to one and imnipresent God.

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Book SynopsisThe first book to examine the controversial Qur’anic phrase which divides Christianity and Islam. According to the majority of modern Muslims and Christians, the Qur’an denies the crucifixion of Jesus, and with it, one of the most sacred beliefs of Christianity. However, it is only mentioned in one verse – "They did not kill him and they did not crucify him, rather, it only appeared so to them" – and contrary to popular belief, its translation has been the subject of fierce debate among muslims for centuries. This the first book devoted to the issue, delving deeply into largely ignored Arabic sources, which suggest the the origins of the conventional translation may lie within the Christian Church. Arranged along historical lines, and covering various Muslim schools of thought, from Sunni to Sufi, The Crucifixion and the Qur’an unravels the crucial dispute that separates the World’s two principal faiths.

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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 SynopsisThis book is a selection of forty beautiful Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari. The Hadith are accompanied with an easy to follow explanation accessible to readership of all levels and all age ranges. The aim of this book is to give the reader a flavour of Hadith literature within Sahih al-Bukhari.  The themes of the Hadith will reflect the unique Hadith collection in Sahih al-Bukhari. The idea is to present a selection of Hadith showing various aspects of the Islamic teachings. The Hadith will mainly reflect themes regarding manners and etiquettes, character of a Muslim, exhortations and admonitions, remembrance of Allah, knowledge and action and beliefs. The goal is to select Hadith with the view to build character,Table of ContentsIntroduction Hadith 1 The Fundamentals of Islam 1 Hadith 2 Modesty is a Part of Faith 4 Hadith 3 The Best of Deeds 6 Hadith 4 Beware of the Signs of a Hypocrite 8 Hadith 5 Avoiding Urine and Gossiping 11 Hadith 6 Food at the Time of Prayer 14 Hadith 7 Follow the Imam 16 Hadith 8 Being Respectful of the Dead 18 Hadith 9 Having Good Friends 20 Hadith 10 Marriage and What to Do if you Cannot Get Married 23 Hadith 11 Everyone Needs Good Neighbours 25 Hadith 12 Everyone Must Observe their Responsibility 28 Hadith 13 Having Gender Boundaries 31 Hadith 14 The Importance of Brotherhood 33 Hadith 15 The Importance of Manners and Character 36 Hadith 16 The Most Beloved to the Prophet Muhammad 38 غ Hadith 17 The Virtues of Teaching Qur’an 41 Hadith 18 The Etiquettes of Eating 43 Hadith 19 Character of a Muslim 45 Hadith 20 Loving the Messenger of Allah 48 Hadith 21 The Virtue of Knowledge and Scholars 51 Hadith 22 Beware of Making Up Things about the Prophet 54 Hadith 23 The Importance of Monotheism 57 Hadith 24 Being Considerate 60 Hadith 25 Honesty in Buying and Selling 62 Hadith 26 The Virtues of Surah al-Baqarah 64 Hadith 27 Atonement for Believers 67 Hadith 28 Always have a Good Opinion of your Muslim Brother 69 Hadith 29 Keeping Sins a Secret 71 Hadith 30 Making Up with the Person you have Fallen Out With 74 Hadith 31 Attaining Islamic Knowledge 76 Hadith 32 Maintaining Balance in Worshipping Allah 78 Hadith 33 Paying off your Debts 81 Hadith 34 The Reward of Illness and Journey 83 Hadith 35 You will be with Those Whom you Love 85 Hadith 36 The Three Qualities of Faith 88 Hadith 37 Reliance on Allah 91 Hadith 38 Striving to be Self-sufficient 94 Hadith 39 If the Prophet غ Did It, It’s Good Enough for Me 96 Hadith 40 The Reward of Spending Money on Family 98

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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 SynopsisAn expressive and moving new translation of the Qur'an, written in simple and straightforward form for the 21st century reader.

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Book SynopsisA collection of 40 Hadith (sayings) of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) focusing on the notion of social justice in Islam.

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Book SynopsisThis book explores the story of the Israelites'' worship of the Golden Calf in its Jewish, Christian, and Muslim contexts, from ancient Israel to the emergence of Islam. It focuses in particular on the Qur''an''s presentation of the narrative and its background in Jewish and Christian retellings of the episode from Late Antiquity. Across the centuries, the interpretation of the Calf episode underwent major changes reflecting the varying cultural, religious, and ideological contexts in which various communities used the story to legitimate their own tradition, challenge the claims of others, and delineate the boundaries between self and other. The book contributes to the ongoing reevaluation of the relationship between Bible and Qur''an, arguing for the necessity of understanding the Qur''an and Islamic interpretations of the history and narratives of ancient Israel as part of the broader biblical tradition. The Calf narrative in the Qur''an, central to the qur''anic conception of the legacy of Israel and the status of the Jews of its own time, reflects a profound engagement with the biblical account in Exodus, as well as being informed by exegetical and parascriptural traditions in circulation in the Qur''an''s milieu in Late Antiquity. The book also addresses the issue of Western approaches to the Qur''an, arguing that the historical reliance of scholars and translators on classical Muslim exegesis of scripture has led to misleading conclusions about the meaning of qur''anic episodes.Trade ReviewPregill's work is an important contribution, both as a model for exploring scriptural intertextuality and as a prolegomenon to a similarly detailed study of the Calf story in Islamic, Christian, and Jewish (and perhaps also modern secular) traditions after the Qur'an. This volume will be of as much interest to biblical scholars and historians of religion as to scholars of the Qur'an. * Franz Volker Greifenhagen, professor of religious studies at Luther College, University of Regina, Canada, Reading Religion *...excellent study * Stephen J. Shoemaker, University of Oregon, Church History *This fascinating and brilliant study traces the use and transformation of the episode of the Golden Calf (Exod. 32.1-35) in Judaism, Christianity and the Qur'an...This is an incredibly rich study that will set new standards for the exploration of biblical themes in the Qur'an. * Anslem C. Hagedorn, Journal for the Study of the Old Testament *Pregill's work provides an outstanding example of the uses to which comparison can be put when done seriously and on a small scale. While based on careful scholarship and responsible philological practice, his comfort with the material and the novelty of the analysis leads him to venture forth and make much bolder claims about the nature of the Hebrew Bible and the Quran. The result is a textually rich and theoretically sophisticated work that, while closely focused on one base text, subsequently broaches much larger issues that deal with textuality, politics, and the nature of scholarship. * 2021 AAR Book Awards *This monograph is one of the most comprehensive works to investigate the interpretation of the Golden Calf narrative, as it includes the full spectrum of Jewish, Christian and Muslim reception history. * Abdulla Galadari, Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations *Table of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgements Note on Style 1: Introduction: Method and Context in the Study of Bible and Qur'an Part I: Foundations 2: Biblical Beginnings: The Calf of Sinai, the Calves of Jeroboam, and the Invention of Idolatry 3: Early Jewish Interpretation: An Opportunity for Repentance, a Pretext for Polemic Part II: Jews, Christians, and the Contested Legacy of Israel 4: A Hard Yoke upon Their Neck: Patristic Polemic and Amoraic Apologetic 5: The Syrian-Palestinian Milieu in Late Antiquity: The Contested Legacy of Aaron and the Priesthood Part III: The Qur'anic Calf Episode 6: The Qur'anic Calf Episode between Orientalism and Islamic Tradition 7: A Living Calf at Sinai? Reevaluating the Qur'anic Calf Episode 8: Rescripting Sinai: The Qur'an in the History of Interpretation of the Calf Episode 9: Conclusion Bibliography

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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 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 SynopsisAysha Hidayatullah presents the first comprehensive analysis of contemporary feminist interpretations of the Quran. Synthesizing prominent feminist readings of the Quran in the United States since the late twentieth century, she provides an essential introduction to this nascent field of Qur''anic scholarship and engages in a deep investigationas well as a radical critiqueof its methods and approaches. With a particular focus on feminist impasses in the Quranic text, she argues that many feminist interpretations rely on claims about feminist justice that are not fully supported by the text, and she proposes a major revision to their exegetical foundations. A provocative work of Muslim feminist theology, Feminist Edges of the Quran is a vital intervention in urgent conversations about women and the Quran.Trade Reviewforays into scriptural interpretation, analyzes and critiques their assumptions and methods, and proposes strategies for moving past the aporias generated by existing exegetical approaches. Combining historical explication, lucid analysis, and theologically constructive critique, Feminist Edges of the Quran is a landmark contribution to scholarship and a must-read for anyone interested in gender, authority, and Islam. * Kecia Ali, author of Sexual Ethics and Islam *This book is a comprehensive introduction to the American Islamic feminist debate. * Dorieke Molenaar, Sehepunkte *Table of ContentsPreface ; Acknowledgements ; Introduction ; Part I: Historical Emergence of Feminist Qur'anic Interpretation ; Chapter 1: History of Tafsir ; Chapter 2: The Frames of Feminism ; Chapter 3: Relationships to Co-Religionists and the State ; Part II: Three Interpretive Methods of Feminist Qur'anic Interpretation ; Chapter 4: Historical Contextualization Method ; Chapter 5: Intra-Textual Method ; Chapter 6: The Tawhidic Paradigm ; Part III: Critiques of Feminist Qur'anic Interpretation ; Chapter 7: Initial Conclusions ; Chapter 8: A Critical Reassessment ; Chapter 9: Confronting Feminist Edges ; Appendix of Qur'anic Verses ; Notes ; Bibliography

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Book SynopsisShari?a Scripts is a work of historical anthropology focused on Yemen in the early twentieth century. Brinkley Messick uses the writings of the Yemeni past to offer a comprehensive view of the shari?a as a localized and lived phenomenon in a groundbreaking examination of the interpretative range and insights offered by the anthropologist as reader.Trade ReviewThis book explores debates within an Islamic legal tradition about the status of writing and thus of recorded truth. This is an impressive piece of work that draws upon the author's four decades of thought and reading. No one else can move among these Yemeni texts with such assurance, and classic works such as those of Kitab al-Azhar, Sharh al-Azhar and Sayl al-Jarrar are read more closely than any Western academic has attempted previously. ?A formative and distinguished book. -- Paul Dresch, St John's College, OxfordTable of ContentsMap of Western YemenIntroductionPart I. Library1. Books2. Pre-text: Five Sciences3. Commentaries: “Write It Down”4. Opinions5. “Practice with Writing”Part II. Archive6. Intermission7. Judgments8. Minutes9. Moral Stipulations10. ContractsPostscriptNotesManuscripts and Archival MaterialsBibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisSharīʿa Scripts is a work of historical anthropology focused on Yemen in the early twentieth century. Brinkley Messick uses the writings of the Yemeni past to offer a comprehensive view of the sharīʿa as a localized and lived phenomenon in a groundbreaking examination of the interpretative range and insights offered by the anthropologist as reader.Trade ReviewA detailed study of the production, transmission, and transformation of scriptural judicial knowledge among Yemeni scholars, judges, and other legal figures. -- Maurits S., Berger Leiden University * Journal of the American Oriental Society *Skillfully recovers the practice of Shari'a law in the highlands of prerevolutionary Yemen. * Choice *Turns on its head a long history of assumptions regarding categories that have largely remained unquestioned. * Reading Religion *A complex and sophisticated book, one that provides important insights into Islamic jurisprudence and legal practice and forces the reader to think carefully about how these might (or should) be understood and explored. * Islamic Law and Society *In this monumental work, Brinkley Messick presents a richly detailed explication of a ground-breaking approach to the study of the textual traditions of shari'a, combining nuanced ethnography of locally contextualized practices of writingand reading with a sharp critical engagement with the work of philologists and historians of Islamic law and society. * Journal of Islamic Studies *This book is an outstanding achievement that takes the historical and anthropological dimensions of shar¯ıʻa practice seriously * Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute *Sharīʿa Scripts explores debates within an Islamic legal tradition about the status of writing and thus of recorded truth. This is an impressive piece of work that draws upon the author’s four decades of thought and reading. No one else can move among these Yemeni texts with such assurance, and classic works such as Kitāb al-azhār, Sharḥ al-azhār, and Sayl al-jarrār are read more closely than any Western academic has attempted previously. A formative and distinguished book. -- Paul Dresch, St John's College, OxfordMulticentury approaches of the sharīʿa have regrettably transformed law into a banal history of ideas without much connection to practice. Messick’s Sharīʿa Scripts instead takes the sharīʿa right from the economy of the local, that of central Yemen, and places research at a micro level. Historical anthropology makes possible the tracing of genealogical lines of power relations, and the depiction of narratives and discourses in relation to local practices. This book, which takes the logic of texts and their practices to new heights, stands out as a masterful contribution to sharīʿa studies worldwide. -- Zouhair Ghazzal, Loyola University, ChicagoWhat would be an anthropology of an Islamic juridical tradition? Anthropology aims to describe the whole as lived. Hence the ambition is larger than the historical genealogies or analytical interpretation of textual scholarship. This book examines both the structure of the jurisprudential ‘library,’ using the techniques of textual scholarship, and the ‘archive’ of day-to-day documentation of life in law, situating documents in the practices of writing and orality. Such an undertaking is virtually unique: the late survival of scriptural practice, the living interface of Zaydī and Shāfiʿī traditions, and the political centrality of Islamic jurisprudence made never-colonized highland Yemen of the mid-twentieth century a unique site for such an anthropology. The result is a mature work that quietly destroys clichés ever reproduced not only by journalism (and political revivalist movements) but also by textual scholarship. There cannot be another like it. -- Martha Mundy, London School of EconomicsSharīʿa Scripts is a work of tremendous erudition and imagination that provides a veritable roadmap for a new anthropology of Islamic law. It is bound to become required reading for scholars, students and the general public interested in understanding the inner workings of legal praxis in an authentic Muslim society. * Cahiers de'etudes africaines *Table of ContentsMap of Western YemenIntroductionPart I. Library1. Books2. Pre-text: Five Sciences3. Commentaries: “Write It Down”4. Opinions5. “Practice with Writing”Part II. Archive6. Intermission7. Judgments8. Minutes9. Moral Stipulations10. ContractsPostscriptNotesManuscripts and Archival MaterialsBibliographyIndex

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