The Koran for Dummies

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 384 pages
• Published by: For Dummies June 4, 2004
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0764555812
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0764555817
• Book Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 0.9 inches
• Weighs: 1.2 pounds

Product Review
"provides an introduction to Islam's holy book." -- Publishers Weekly, February 9, 2004

“…I was quickly humbled by this guide, which showed me how much I had misunderstood.  I would recommend this to anyone interested in Islam…”  (Catholic Herald, 26 November 2004)

The Qur'an's overall context of hostility to those who disbelieve in Mohammed's prophecy is downplayed in one forthcoming book, The Koran for Dummies by Sohaid Sultan. Under the heading "Discovering the Basic Messages of the Koran," Sultan lists as Mohammed's basic themes "The unity of God," "Worship and service to God," "Prophets to teach and guide," "Completion of past revelations," "Guidance to a spiritual path," "Movement for social change," "Accountability of deeds." All of which sounds pretty harmless—nothing about making war on unbelievers. (Publishers Weekly, May 10, 2004)

"provides an introduction to Islam's holy book." (Publishers Weekly, February 9, 2004)

Product Description
With the current turmoil in the Middle East, there is a growing interest about Islam—the world’s second largest religion and one of the fastest growing—and its holy book, the Koran (or Qur’an). Now, with this easy-to-follow, plain-English guide, you can explore the history, structure, and basic tenets of Islam’s sacred scripture.

The Koran For Dummies is for non-Muslims interested in the Koran as well as Muslims looking to deepen their understanding. Islamic scholar Sohaib Sultan provides a clear road map, revealing:

• The meaning of Koran and its basic message
• The Koran’s place in history and in Islamic spiritual life
• Explanations of its language, structure, and narrative style
• How to live by the Koran’s teachings
• The Koran’s role in key global issues, such as Jihad vs. terrorism
• Different interpretations of the Koran

No other book provides such a straightforward look at what the Koran says, how it says it, and how believers live according to its guidance. From how the Koran was received by Mohammed and how it was compiled to how it’s interpreted by Islam’s two main branches, you’ll see how to put the Islamic faith in perspective.

Plus, you’ll discover:

• What the Koran really says about women and civil law
• How Islam relates to Judaism and Christianity
• The Koran’s view of God, prophets, mankind, and the self
• How its teachings are lived and recited every day by devout Muslims
• Common misconceptions of the Koran
• How to raise a family the Koranic way

Complete with lists of important passages, Koranic terminology, famous quotes, and further reading resources, The Koran For Dummies makes it easy and enjoyable for you to grasp the teachings and significance of Islam's holy book.

Reader Reviews
This books gives an insight into the Qu'ran and the Islamic religion. It is broken into sections that explain various aspects of life using the spritual and life practice guidance of the Koran. The author repeatly explains that the laws and language of the Koran is misinterpreted yet one cannot help but feel he is rationalizing. Still, I believe we get a good sense of Islamic law and the Koran, and frankly, some of the core concepts make much sense as the true words brought forth by Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Mohammed. I have bought a translation of the Qu'ran and following the reading of Dummies, will begin to tackle it. I would suggest to readers to find other sources to compare and contrast opinions; The complexities of the Islamic tradition need to be examined through the eyes of more than one source.