Exploring the Qur'an

Exploring the Qur’an: Context and Impact is a highly perceptive, technical study of the Qur’anic text that seeks to exonerate the Qur’an from claims of extremism, intolerance, or incoherence [...] an invaluable contribution to the field of Qur’anic studies as well as a beneficial resource for any person seeking to understand the Qur’an. -- American Journal of Islam and Society This is a learned yet accessible work born of deep erudition and familiarity not only with the complexities of the Arabic language but also with the underlying spirit of Islamic thought and tradition. At a time when Muslims are assailed from within and without by zealots intent on denigrating their faith, Professor Haleem’s book provides thoughtful and incisive counter-arguments to their heated rhetoric. The reader cannot help but be impressed by the author’s careful and insightful engagement with some of the most important Qur’anic verses that are being deliberately misconstrued today, by extremists from both Muslim and non-Muslim backgrounds. Exploring the Qur’an is a compelling study that will be of great interest to specialists and non-specialists alike. -- Asma Afsaruddin, Professor of Islamic Studies, Indiana University, Bloomington Exploring the Qur’an: Context and Impact combines a judicious critique of aspects of Western Qur’an studies – and aspects too of the Qur’anic exegetical tradition – with an acutely perceptive and detailed analysis of the language and thought of the Qur’an. It conclusively establishes that all attempts to interpret the Qur’an without a thorough familiarity with its nuanced Arabic text will remain inadequate. Muhammad Abdel Haleem’s important and ground-breaking book makes a singular contribution to Qur’anic studies. -- Mustansir Mir, University Professor of Islamic Studies, Youngstown State University Muhammad Abdel Haleem is one of the foremost Arabists and scholars of the Qur’an today. His translation of the Islamic sacred scripture is widely known and appreciated, as are his other scholarly works. The present volume, again dealing with the Qur’an, is a major addition to his corpus and to literature in the field in general. This new book reflects mastery of the material as well as deep faith in the sacred nature of the Qur’an itself. Exploring the Qur’an makes a very substantial and a very important contribution to Qur’anic studies in the English language. -- Seyyed Hossein Nasr, University Professor of Islamic Studies, The George Washington University