Prolegomena to the Qur'an

The title is a book in the Quranic field by Al-Sayyid Abu al-Qasim al-Musawi al-Khu'I, translated by Abdulaziz A. Sachedina and published by Oxford University Press. The following is a report of the book.[1]

Overview

• An important work by one of the most respected Shi'i scholars of this century is now available in English

Description

Al-Khu'i (1899-1992) was one of the most respected Shi'i scholars of this century. This book, published in Arabic in 1974, presents al-Khu'is ideas on the interpretation of the Qur'an. In it, al-Khu'i treats many critical and controversial topics associated with the collection and canonization of the text, including the possible alterations to the Qur'an introduced by succeeding generations of reciters. Throughout, he stresses the importance of understanding the historical setting in which the Qur'an was revealed in order to apply its provisions appropriately in contemporary Muslim society.

Author Information

Al-Sayyid Abu al-Qasim al-Musawi al-Khu'i Translated by Abdulaziz A. Sachedina, Department of Religious Studies, University of Virginia, Charlottesville

Reviews and Awards

This is an impressive writing on the Qur'an and its translation, which is clear and rigorous, makes it accessible, often for the first time, to students, teachers of religious studies and all who are interested in Islam. - Discourse, no 12, July 2001

A competent translator, Sachedina annotates the text where necessary ... Overall, the Prolegomena is a very important book, and a highly valuable addition to the body of literature about the Qur'an - Mustansir Mir, Journal of Islam Studies 10:3 (1999)

Notes