Oxford World's Classics - The Qur'an

The Qur’an is the central religious text of Islam, regarded by Muslims as the literal word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years. It serves as a spiritual, legal, and moral guide for more than a billion Muslims worldwide.

This edition, translated by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem, a renowned scholar of Islamic studies, offers a highly readable and accessible English translation, aimed at preserving the clarity and rhythm of the original Arabic while making its complex ideas approachable to modern readers. The translator's introduction and detailed notes provide valuable context for readers of all backgrounds.

Main Themes of the Qur’an

• Monotheism and Divine Unity: Emphasizing the oneness of God and His attributes.
• Prophethood and Revelation: Narratives of earlier prophets and the final message delivered to Muhammad.
• Moral and Ethical Guidance: Teachings on justice, compassion, charity, and personal conduct.
• Human Responsibility and Free Will: Encouraging accountability, repentance, and righteousness.
• Life, Death, and the Afterlife: Concepts of resurrection, judgment, and the eternal destiny of souls.

Why read this translation

• Clarity and Elegance: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem’s translation is known for its modern prose and faithful rendering of meaning.
• Contextual Insights: Includes helpful footnotes and an informative introduction to assist readers unfamiliar with Islamic theology or history.
• Bridges Understanding: Offers a gateway for interfaith dialogue and deeper appreciation of Islamic civilization and its sacred texts.
• Academic Credibility: Published by Oxford University Press and widely used in university courses.

This translation of The Qur’an by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem stands as a significant work for anyone seeking to understand Islam through its primary source. Whether for personal study, academic inquiry, or interreligious engagement, it provides a respectful and thoughtful entry into one of the world’s most influential religious texts.