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Appreciating the Qur'an

A Christian Guide to Reading and Hearing Islam's Sacred Text

Appreciating the Qur'an cover

Appreciating the Qur'an

A Christian Guide to Reading and Hearing Islam's Sacred Text

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Pre-order. Available 12 Nov 2026
$28.79 RRP $35.99 Website price saving $7.20 (20%)

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Description

How should people of other faiths approach Islam's sacred text? For many, it remains unfamiliar, filtered through soundbites, polemics, or narrow assumptions. David Grafton offers a fresh method for engaging with the text Muslims regard as divine revelation. His “appreciative reading” approach encourages readers to encounter the scripture of Islam on its own terms, listen carefully to its message, and use that engagement as an opportunity for deeper self-reflection.


Grafton begins with a survey of how the text has been read by outsiders throughout history, noting how inherited assumptions often limit understanding or lead to misinterpretation. He then introduces readers to its distinctive structure and arrangement, so unlike the narrative arc of the Bible, and explores the beauty and complexity of its Arabic style-features that resist perfect translation yet are central to Muslim devotion.


Through close readings of key passages, including the opening prayer, the Garden narrative, and depictions of Jesus ('Isa), Grafton demonstrates how these selections can challenge stereotypes, expand theological horizons, and invite honest dialogue. Along the way, he highlights the parallels between translation issues in Islam's scripture and those in the Bible, underscoring the value of thoughtful interpretation.


With clarity, humility, and a deep respect for both traditions, Grafton provides scholars, clergy, students, and interested readers with the tools to engage Islam's revelation in a way that fosters understanding rather than division. Complete with a glossary of Arabic terms and recommended resources from Muslim scholars, this book is an indispensable guide for anyone committed to building bridges across religious boundaries.

Accessibility Information

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Table of Contents

1: Introduction: Reading the Qur'an Appreciatively
2: How Have Christians Read the Qur'an?
3: Listening to the Muslim experience of the Qur'an
4: Appreciating the structure of the Qur'an
5: Appreciating the linguistic aspects of the Qur'an
6: Appreciating the theological messages of the Qur'an
7: Appreciating the Qur'anic challenges to Christian worldviews
8: Conclusion: Reading and hearing with appreciation

Product details

Published 12 Nov 2026
Format Ebook (Epub & Mobi)
Edition 1st
Pages 256
ISBN 9780567727824
Imprint T&T Clark
Illustrations 15 bw illus
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

David D. Grafton

David D. Grafton is professor of Islamic studies a…

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