At the Heart of the Islamic tradition lies the Qur’an – law-maker, moral code, and the word of God, speaking directly to Muslims for over one thousand years.

In this elegant and objective guide, acclaimed Muslim scholar Farid Esack leads the reader through the Qur’an, outlining the key themes, explaining its historical and cultural context, and examining the complexities and controversies surrounding these areas. Drawing on both contemporary and ancient sources, this erudite study also outlines the structure, language, and literary aspects of the Qur’an, in addition to surveying the various trends in Qur’anic scholarship over the centuries. Other areas covered include:

• the Qur’an as evocative oral experience;

• understanding and interpreting the Qur’an;

• the major themes of the Qur’an, including such issues as truth, justice, and gender relation.

An authoritative blend of fact, theory, and critical enquiry, this introductory text offers both a concise guide to the Islamic holy book and an engaging insight into its central role within the daily lives of Muslims across the world.