One of the most influential books in the history of literature, recognized as the greatest literary masterpiece in Arabic, the Qur'an is the supreme authority and living source of all Islamic teaching, the sacred text that sets out the creed, rituals, ethics, and laws of Islam. Yet despite the growing interest in Islamic teachings and culture, there has never been a truly satisfactory English translation of the Qur'an, until now.
This superb new translation of the Qur'an is written in contemporary language that remains faithful to the meaning and spirit of the original, making the text crystal clear while retaining all of this great work's eloquence. The translation is accurate and completely free from the archaisms, incoherence, and alien structures that mar existing translations. Thus, for the first time, English-speaking readers will have a text of the Qur'an which is easy to use and comprehensible. Furthermore, Haleem includes notes that explain geographical, historical, and personal allusions as well as an index in which Qur'anic material is arranged into topics for easy reference. His introduction traces the history of the Qur'an, examines its structure and stylistic features, and considers issues related to militancy, intolerance, and the subjection of women.
Clearly written and filled with helpful information and guidance, this brilliant translation of the Qur'an is the best available introduction to the faith of Moslems around the world.
"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. This turns the Qur'an into a book which allows English-speakers to peer further into the heart of Islam, from its basic precepts on, say, fasting, to its view of the after-life. This is crucial, not just for the growing majority of Muslims who do not speak Arabic as a first language, but for non-Muslims who are curious about this controversial religion.... Given the tension between Islam and the West, that is a blessing."--The Economist
Muhammad Abdel Haleem was born in Egypt, and learned the
Qur'an by heart from childhood. He is Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He is the Editor of the
Journal of Qur'anic Studies.
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Distributor: Oxford University Press USA
Publication Date: 07-28-2005
Pages: 502
Measurements: 5.000in X 7.700in X 0.800in X 0.756lb
