Encyclopaedia of the Qur’an

Abstract

The Encyclopaedia of the Qur’an (hereinafter EQ) is a multi-volume collection of reference texts on the holy book of Islam that appeared in western languages from 2001 until 2006. The Qur’an (lit. “the Recitation”), which Muslims believe to be the word of God delivered to Muhammad by the angel Gabriel, is systematically analyzed by the diverse contributing writers according to its different layers. The different Qur’anic strata embrace numerous themes, among them theology, Islamic jurisprudence, Biblical narratives, primary figures in Islamic history (e.g., the Prophet’s Companions and adversaries), historical events, rituals and customs, polemics, and the Qur’an’s literary structure and literary language, which combines poetry with rhymed prose. Each level is carefully examined and explored by leading scholars of Islamic studies. Therefore, this work is highly significant for those who wish to learn about the Qur’an’s different aspects from a reliable objective source. Jane Dammen McAuliffe, the general editor, has focused on two parallel spheres: Muslim traditional scholarship and non-Muslim inquisitive research. This approach enables the potential audience to gain Qur’anic knowledge from the scholarship of pious Muslims, although the scientific character of this academic work prevails. The articles vary widely in length and discuss diverse themes. Both Muslim and non-Muslim approaches, as well as traditional Islamic and modern investigative attitudes to the holy text, are introduced. Extensive reference is made to the classical and contemporary Islamic exegetical traditions. Written in English to make the EQ ...