Description
Book SynopsisThe Qur''anic verses 18:60-82 in Surat al-Kahf present the story of Khi?r and Moses as a lesson on the modalities of being and of knowing. Traditionally, the story is seen from a variety of vantage points which include historical, textual, literary, and allegorical, each of which is framed differently depending upon the religio-cultural context. This book, in addition to examining the theological sources, traces the story's mythical, mystical, and popular interpretations engendered by the Qur''anic story. The author argues that the story's major contribution is its ability to communicate the importance of cultivating humility - a fundamental goal for any person of faith. Despite his importance in the Qur'an, Moses is not the main hero in this story; instead, he is being used to point to an even higher truth pertaining to the spiritual dimensions of faith. This book suggests that Khi?r's Qur''anic story symbolizes these truths by providing a perspective on the tension between materia
Trade Review
Omar offers a fresh and insightful narrative of a timeless, ubiquitous, protean, and always engaging figure in Islamicate literature and lore. He draws on a wide range of sources, from exegesis of the Qur’an’s Sura of the Cave (18) to mystical texts elaborating on Al-Khidr’s unique spiritual credentials. Omar emphasizes throughout Al-Khidr’s role as an inter-religious cross-cultural symbol of mediation and liberation from stereotypes—an “initiator” who continually surprises with manifestations of his stature and versatility as a paradigmatic sage and mentor.
-- John Renard, Saint Louis University
Table of ContentsIntroduction
Chapter 1: The Origins and Meanings of the Khiḍr Story
Chapter 2: Khiḍr in Muslim Sources and Traditions of Piety
Chapter 3: Khiḍr in Sufism
Chapter 4: Khiḍr in Folklore
Chapter 5: Khiḍr in Muḥammad Iqbāl’s Poetry
Conclusion
Works Cited
Index
