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.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #25721 in Books
• Published on: 2004-06-04
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 384 pages

Review
“…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)

Review
“…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)

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

From the Back Cover
See what the Koran says about women, family, and law

Grasp the wisdom and power of Islam’s sacred Scripture

Want to understand the Koran? This straightforward guide explains what the Koran says, how it says it, and how believers live according to its guidance. From how the Koran was revealed to Mohammad to how the Book relates to today’s world, you’ll see how to put the Islamic faith in perspective.

The Dummies Way

• Explanations in plain English
• "Get in, get out" information
• Icons and other navigational aids
• Tear–out cheat sheet
• Top ten lists
• A dash of humor and fun

Discover:

• How Islam relates to other faiths
• What the Koran says about God, prophets, humankind, and the self
• The Koran’s teachings on morality
• Common misconceptions about the Koran

Customer Reviews

An EXCELLENT introduction to reading the Quran
I read this during lunch for about a month, and wished that my lunch hour could have been longer!
Its an excellent read and explains in simple terms some very key concepts about the Quran and a lot of misconceptions perceived by others. Additionally, it explains lots of interesting facts and ideas about Islam and the Quran that as a muslim I was not aware of.
It is written in a concise and informative manner and always keeps you in anticipation for more.
I have left it on my desk and it has been picked up and reviewed by a number of people who now say they too will purchase it.
I will now read more of the 'dummy' guides.
An EXCELLENT introduction to reading the Quran.

Enlightening
I was a bit cautious when I first approached this cos I'm quite an idiot but wasn't even sure if these "idiot" books work.

I was really suprised it was done in sections which were informative and too the point allowing me to understand what I wanted to know as well as giving me some pointers in where to find out more, since reading this, I've read a few other idiot books and they all come with the same complments, though writing styles differ obviously there are great reads!!

intresting introduction to a different way of life
i had no idea as far as islam or the way the koran is interpreted and how the information in the koran is put into practice. this book offers a new insite into a different culture and offers a viewpoint from a diferent perpective. there is too much criticism without understanding at the moment. this book provides a window into a complex and rich culture with a lot to offer. i hope other people read this in order to expand their understanding and empathy of a very peaceful way of life.