Not so very long ago, in the middle of a casual chat with a long-time acquaintance in a local café, I made a comment that changed the entire direction of the conversation, “You know, just this morning I read in the Qur’ān that…”
No sooner had I finished my sentence than my conversational partner – completely side-stepping the observation I had made – quizzically asked “Why are you reading the Qur’ān?”
I was momentarily struck dumb. Why am I reading the Qur’ān? Why wouldn’t I be reading the Qur’ān? After all, I had just spent the previous year reading the entirety of the King James Version of the Bible, including its often overlooked Apocrypha; thus my now taking up the Qur’ān made perfectly logical sense to me. It continues the direct lineage of the faiths collectively known as the People of the Book, it’s the guiding scripture of over a billion of the world’s presently living inhabitants, and it’s a book I had not previously read.
However my inquirer would have none of this. That I had spent a year daily working my way through the King James Version made perfect sense and was even laudable to her, “but the Qur’ān…” She then began equivocating somewhat disconnectedly, bouncing through assorted themes that betrayed her entire understanding of the book to have come from the all-too-often sensationalistic popular American media.
“Have you ever read it for yourself?” I gently interrupted.
“Good heavens no!” she exclaimed. “Why would I?”
The conversation plays over and over in my head – especially the “why would I?” What can really be said in response to that? How can one successfully explain to another person whose entire understanding of a particular subject is not only mistaken but dangerously misguided that the opinions they hold are such – especially when their opinions seem to them to be so commonly held by so many others?
I have come to the conclusion that the best I can do is to offer my own reasons for reading the Qur’ān. As I have noted, I took up reading it following the completion of my reading of the King James Version of the Bible. In addition to my reading through the St. John’s Reading List, I like to have a religious book on my reading table at all times as I find it keeps my mind well balanced between the things of this world and “what dreams may come.”
However I have also long wanted to undertake a reading of the Qur’ān in response to some xenophobic themes I have noticed becoming increasingly common in American society; particularly anti-immigrant and anti-religious minority themes. In the case of Muslims in the U.S. – many but by no means all of whom are both immigrants as well as members of a religious minority in what is a predominantly self-described Christian country – these themes often exact an exceptionally high toll upon them.
Thus, ever the one to cling desperately – despite far too many social experiences that would seem to prove the contrary – to the guiding principle that knowledge is the best tool with which to correct the damage wrought by ignorance, I made the assumption that through reading the Qur’ān for myself, I would thus be in a better position confidently to refute misperceptions of it when I encountered them. Of course, this would depend upon one key thing being true: were the popular negative opinions I have so often heard voiced about it actually unjustified by the facts.
From everything I have read thus far – I have reached Sūrah 45 reading in reverse order from Sūrah 114 (this reverse order method of reading was recommended to me by Dr. Ingrid Mattson, who I sincerely hope will forgive me if I in any way have misunderstood her explanation and thus misrepresent it, as a good way for a first time reader to acquire a better understanding of key concepts contained in the latter portion of the book at an earlier time during the reading) – I can honestly say that I have yet to read a single thing about which I have found myself in the least troubled or that would in any way justify any of the negative commentary regarding the book that has become too easy to hear and read in the popular American (and European, for that matter) media.
What I have found in my reading is a remarkable collection of wise counsel that returns again and again to themes that I cannot believe anyone of any faith would find objectionable: encouragement to do good works, concern for the poor, devotion one’s parents, the importance of honesty, praise of humility, and most importantly, the absolute necessity of complete faith in God as all-knowing and supremely merciful. Indeed, I have found what I have read thus far in the Qur’ān to be more directly applicable to how best to live one’s life than the scriptures of the Bible upon which I myself was raised.
To be sure, I still have much to read before I will have read the entire Qur’ān. In fact, even then I will not properly have read it but only an English interpretation of it; the true Qur’ān, according to what I have elsewhere read regarding Islamic theology, being only fully intelligible when read in Arabic (a belief I very much respect having read the New Testament of the Bible both in English as well as in Greek and having seen for myself the effect of translation upon any text). However I can honestly say that I cannot recall when last I have been so wholly enthralled by any book I have previously read, either in regard to its content or how much I feel I have gained (both intellectually – acquiring a first-hand understanding of the content of the book itself – as well as spiritually) as a result.
Thus as to the question of “why would I?” I think I can now offer a number of good reasons. The acquisition of knowledge regarding any subject one does not understand, or misunderstands, is always to be desired. Knowledge can lead to wisdom, which can in turn be a very effective correction to ignorance wherever it is found – be that in one’s society or in oneself. Wisdom can also overcome fear, which both arises from and perpetuates ignorance. And finally, it is through seeking to know and understand, by at the bare minimum reading one another’s guiding scriptures, how those with whom we share this world variously interpret the reasons why we are here and what is expected of us in living our respective lives that we can better hope to do so in peace.
For those who might like to join me in reading the Qur’ān, the Council on American-Islamic Relations has a wonderful program through which a copy of the same edition I am presently reading – The Message of the Qur’ān complete with the original Arabic text as well as translated, transliterated, and annotated by Muhammad Asad – will be sent directly to you for the cost of the postage necessary to send it. For all seekers of knowledge and understanding, such a generous offer is one that it is difficult to in good conscience justify refusing.
UPDATE: Following comments from some readers indicating that they were receiving error messages when following the link to the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ “Explore the Qur’ān” webpage in order to obtain a free copy, I contacted their outreach department and spoke with a very friendly and helpful member of their staff who told me that they are experiencing problems with the site and that those who would like to receive a copy are encouraged to contact them directly via an e-mail to either info@cair.com or to Laurie Jaghlit at ljaghlit@cair.com.
Naved
February 6, 2014 @ 08:34
Thanks John for writing this post. You may also want to read the biography of the Prophet Muhammed (saws) by Martin Lings, a British Shakespearan scholar and Sufi. Great book.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 08:47
Thank you for the recommendation; I will look for a copy at the first opportunity.
Linda Hunt
February 6, 2014 @ 12:18
I went to the website you mentioned to order the free copy of the Qu’ran, but I keep getting an error message, when I click the link, is there another link you can post?
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:29
Hmmm… I just followed the link (https://www.explorethequran.com/index.php) and it took me right to the page. Perhaps they are doing a bit of work on their site – that can sometimes cause error messages for short periods of time. Please try this one I’ve posted here and let me know if it works.
servantofGod
February 6, 2014 @ 19:09
Peace be with you Mr Wise,
I’d like to share the message of the Qu’ran with you,
You can email me at,
nubiustechnologies@gmail.com
Fred Wise
February 6, 2014 @ 16:05
I’m getting the same error message, but would love to hear via e-mail when it’s up again– “The Message of the Quran” is an absolutely beautiful rendition, but textually as well as visually. I’d hate to miss the opp to obtain it as a freebie! 🙂
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 16:24
This is indeed perplexing. Perhaps if you visit CAIR’s main page (http://www.cair.com) and follow the “Explore the Qur’ān” link there under their “Our Campaigns” heading on the right hand side of the page it will allow your browser to parse the code as it needs to in order to open the site.
John E. Riutta
February 7, 2014 @ 08:48
Mr. Wise, as I noted to Ms. Hunt who is experiencing the same challenge with the website, I spoke to a representative from CAIR and they said they would be happy to arrange a copy for you if you will please contact them directly via an e-mail to either info@cair.com or to Laurie Jaghlit at ljaghlit@cair.com. I hopes this helps.
John E. Riutta
February 7, 2014 @ 08:46
Dear Ms. Hunt, I spoke to a representative from CAIR and they said they would be happy to arrange a copy for you if you will please contact them directly via an e-mail to either info@cair.com or to Laurie Jaghlit at ljaghlit@cair.com. I hopes this helps.
shadab
February 7, 2014 @ 13:02
thank you for your posting.i must say, as i understood, you have written concisely very purpose of Deen,that is,tazkiya-e-nafs(purfication of mind and thought).
servantofGod
February 6, 2014 @ 19:05
Peace be with you Linda,
If you want a Qu’ran in, I will ship one to you, at no cost to you!
🙂
people don’t realize there is actually rule(s) for handling the Qu’ran, one must be ritually pure (ie take a shower with an intention to purify yourself for God)
than they are allowed to open it and read it
Also it should be placed above all other books, and never on the floor
I am American born Muslim, my dad came from pakistan to nc state to study science in the late 70’s
I know how to recite the arabic, but like any other american, my comprehension is an english, so I do like this translation, Muhammad Asad knows the intricacies of language
I think he travelled to arabia and lived with the desert people for a long time to learn there way idioms, metaphors etc.. But he was from European Jewish family, so he had good command of english.
Please just email me (nubiustechnologies@gmail.com),
I can cover the ship cost as well
The Duaa (supplication) of Angels:
سُبْحَانَكَ لَا عِلْمَ لَنَا إِلَّا مَا عَلَّمْتَنَا إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْعَلِيمُ الْحَكِيمُ
Glory be to Thee! we have no knowledge but that which Thou hast taught us; surely Thou art the Knowing, the Wise.
(Surah Al Baqarah 2:32)
*the text is available online at
http://www.islamicity.com/quransearch/
Selin
February 7, 2014 @ 07:28
I found this other website that’s offering free translations of the Qur’an although I don’t think it’s the Asad translation that John is reading: http://www.allahsquran.com/free/
Here’s a .pdf copy of Muhammad Asad’s translation if you’re an e-book person:
http://muhammad-asad.com/
Also there are lots of Quran apps for smartphones. If you’re willing to pay a small fee($2.99?), the iQuran app is really user friendly and has several translations.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 23:18
Naved, thank you again for your recommendation of Mr. Ling’s book. I have located and placed on order a copy of it from Powell’s Books.
Aisha
February 7, 2014 @ 03:22
I agree completely about Ling’s excellent biography of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). I got my copy from Amazon.com and I treasure it 2nd only to my Quran. Thank you very much for a very compelling post. I will retweet the link I followed here, asap!
Natasha
February 7, 2014 @ 21:23
Muhammad by Karen Armstrong is also great!
John E. Riutta
February 12, 2014 @ 09:33
Thank you very much for the recommendation Natasha; that is a book I actually already have on my bookshelves but have not yet taken the time to read. I will certainly make a point to do so very soon.
Line Briand
February 6, 2014 @ 08:37
I wish there were more of you, more people who get their facts straight before they form an opinion or open their mouth. Happy trails oh marvellous traveller!
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 08:52
Thank you very much for such kind wishes. I hope your journeys are also pleasant and filled with wisdom.
Dalia Elamawy
February 6, 2014 @ 08:41
Thank you for your interesting reflections, I was linked to your blog from CAIR. I really admire your keenness to learn and get down to the truth of the matters for yourself. Most of the sensasionalists’ “evidence” from the Qur’an actually comes from the earlier surahs, which you have not reached yet in your reading. The progression of the surahs in the Qur’an is generally from long to short; so you will find that the first surah (after the opening, Al-Fatihah) is the longest. The long surahs are, generally, the ones that were revealed in Madinah, which is where the Prophet and the budding Islamic population migrated from the oppression of Makkah and established the Islamic state. So in short, these longer surahs addressed many of the issues pertinent to a new political and social situation: marriage/divorce, almsgiving, dealing with hypocrites (those who claimed to be Muslim but were secretly trying to cause discord and sabotage), and of course, war. So one must keep in mind the context and purpose of the revelation– these were a people who were prevented from practicing this religion, which taught them morality, altruism, and righteousness, and were forced to flee or face death. The Makkans simply would not leave them be. So they had no choice but to fight these aggressors. This is why you will find the tone of the verses that address the issues of war to be strong-natured. Even still, you will find that there is always emphasis on fair retaliation, and always a strong warning against transgression, even against the oppressors.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 08:50
Many thanks indeed for taking the time to provide me with such insightful advice! Indeed, historical context is of crucial importance. I will make certain to remember your words when I reach these Sūrahs.
Dalia Elamawy
February 7, 2014 @ 06:24
Absolutely! I wish you a fulfilling journey. You’ve inspired me to take up some more reading myself.
Why I’m Reading the Qur’ān | IQSoft Blog at MES College Erattupetta
February 6, 2014 @ 08:50
[…] Why I’m Reading the Qur’ān […]
Steve
February 6, 2014 @ 09:06
Wow, that’s a great way to look at it. WHY shouldn’t people read these HOLY books instead of just pushing some of them away, just because we are so much “EXTREME” the way we think is right and just ignore everything else and actually hating other’s. I have found so much similarities or maybe that’s what I look for but bottom line is if you want to coexist with other people, try to find what’s similar and not other way around.
We read so much crap but John, you have put it there so uniquely that’s it’s just so very well said. I am on it too. Thanks you!
Laila
February 6, 2014 @ 10:10
This was a very interesting reflection. I really liked your openess towards something you are not familiar with. If more people think the way you do, I am convinced that the world would be a better place to live.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:31
Thank you very much for such kind words.
Varnaud Shamsideen
February 6, 2014 @ 10:32
I was raised in a Christian/Muslim household, where my parents(Christian mother/Muslim father) encouraged my sisters and I to find our own way. I have always been taught to read as much about G-d as possible, in order to properly prepare myself for meeting Him one day, and interacting with people of different faiths today. It is refreshing to hear of your quest for knowledge. Thank You for sharing!
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:33
Thank you for sharing about your own life and faith. May we both do our best throughout life to be found worthy on that day.
D. Wayne
February 6, 2014 @ 10:36
Thanks John for such an inspiring and uplifting assessment of the Quran. I admire your open-mindedness and I hope you continue along that vein and don’t become trapped–as so many Muslims have–into the belief that the Quran can only be understood when viewed in light of the Hadith. The Quran is far too grand and timeless to be encompassed by the words of a few individuals from the past.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:35
Thank you for your advice and good wishes. I have not even begun to contemplate studying the Hadith yet. Someday I shall and I hope to find wise counselors to help me during that time as well.
Ruhullah Jannati
February 6, 2014 @ 10:39
A great companion to the Holy Qur’an would be Nahjul Balagha. This is a collection of sermons, letters, and sayings by Ali Ibn Abi Talib who was the 4th Caliph after the Prophet and the first imam for Shia Muslims. Link are here:
http://www.al-islam.org/nahjul-balagha-part-1-sermons
http://www.al-islam.org/nahjul-balagha-part-2-letters-and-sayings
It beautifully expounds on some of the issues and themes found in the Holy Qur’an.
I enjoyed reading your post. We live in an age where knowledge is abundant and accessible, yet the seekers are few. Thank you for your post.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:38
Many thanks for this very helpful advice! I shall set bookmarks to them immediately so that I have them ready to read once I have completed my initial reading.
Aadil Malik
February 6, 2014 @ 10:56
Beautifully written, Mr. Riütta. As you have so eloquently written, understanding the beliefs of those whom we share this spectacular world with is in fact our obligation as human beings. Indeed, it is our duty to correct ignorances within and beyond ourselves. It is our responsibility to coexist.
Thank you.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:43
I am most grateful indeed to you for sharing such wise words. I hope I am not incorrect in responding to them with the phrase I am only beginning to come to understand – Insha’llah.
Zeb
February 6, 2014 @ 11:10
“Have you ever read it for yourself?” I gently interrupted.
“Good heavens no!” she exclaimed. “Why would I?”
This was the most interesting bit. Happens with most of us. It is our unidirectional views of our respective religions which prevents us from exploring the uncharted waters. Or probably the lack of faith in God we so talk about.
If you truly believe in God’s existence and respect his authority over all of us, you would stride through multiple ways to find him and know him. Be it the Quran, the Bible or the Torah.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:45
Thank you very much. I am so glad to discover that there are so many with whom I share such ideas.
M&M
February 6, 2014 @ 11:51
What does Islam and Radical Islam have in common?
1. they share the same mosque.
2. they share the same Iman.
3. they share the same Quran.
4. everything is based on their religious beliefs.
5. they seek to control.
6.The people of Islam dont condemn what the people of Radical Islam do or vice versa.
7. Islam and Radical Islam are racist.
8. Islam and Radical Islam dislike Jews.
9. The Iman get richer from both Islam and Radical Islam.
10. Their mosque are used as sleeping quarters for both Islam and Radical Islam and they don’t pay any Lodging Taxes that Motel/Hotels are required to pay.
11. They share the same God, Allah.
12. Islam and Radical Islam commit 91 percent of honor killings worldwide.
13. The more Islam and Radical Islam grows, so does the display of the Swastika and in Hate Material.
14. Islam and Radical Islam love Allah and there is no room for the love of their spouse, children, family members or friends.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:54
Such words are indeed painful to read, but we should not hide from them as it is important to know they exist in the world. I have (with great hesitation) allowed their appearing here among all the wise and generous ones left by so many others in hope that by the former being allowed to associate with the latter that they might someday come to discover how much in error they were.
It is for just such sentiments as are expressed in these fourteen sentences that I was originally moved to begin reading the Qur’ān and I very much hope that others might be as equally troubled by them as I was and will do likewise as a result.
jan
February 7, 2014 @ 02:17
Oh M and M. U seem to have much hate inside of u. I will pray for ur mind to relax and be open to goodness and love. Sincerely., from a muslim
jan
February 7, 2014 @ 02:20
Oh jay..I will pray for u too.
Dalia Elamawy
February 7, 2014 @ 06:36
M&M:
I cannot even begin to dissect the fallacies of your post, but I feel the need to point out that speaking in absolutes is the tell-tale sign of an argument which was given no thought or reason. Perhaps it is easier for you to categorically dismiss and generalize something that you are not willing to understand, but you may find that letting your guard down and thinking properly will do you some good. Your fourteen bullet points that are mere conjectures of your mind do not harm or affect tens of hundreds of years of the Islamic legacy, but rather only stifle your own intellectual growth.
Jay Shawn
February 6, 2014 @ 11:51
John, I have a sincere question. Why didn’t you read the Quran in its bounded order? You don’t think Dr.Mattson, who btw is a converted, or “reverted” Muslim (as the Muslims arrogantly say it), had an ulterior motive behind her suggestion? I’m a former Muslim and throughout my years as one, it was obligatory for me, as it was for the rest of my peers, to invite non-believers into the faith by whatever means necessary. In other words, it was my duty to “sell” Islam to people like you. It seems to me that Dr.Mattson is subtly doing the same thing.
You can laud the Quran all you like, but it may be helpful to your now new Muslim audience, thanks to CAIR and other web outlets hotlinking this blog, to encourage them to read the Bible. It seems that Muslims have a widespread misunderstanding of the good book from what the Quran says about it and what their spiritual guides tell them about it. When the Muslim’s source of knowledge of Judeo-Christian beliefs and their respective books comes from the mouths of Muslims, can you expect them to be entirely honest? I challenge you to look up every modern and influential “scholar” and propagator of Islam to test their honesty when it comes to speaking on behalf of Christianity.
When you say things like:
“Indeed, I have found what I have read thus far in the Qur’ān to be more directly applicable to how best to live one’s life than the scriptures of the Bible upon which I myself was raised,” this not only strokes the Muslim’s confirmation bias, but deters them from reading the “corrupt” bible in the first place. When world famous Muslim apologist, Ahmed Deedat, calls the bible a “scud missile,” with his words and methods still being used in muslim circles to “invite” Christians into Islam today, do you think it helps or hinders relations? When the vast number of Muslims, who btw live among fellow Muslims in Muslim majority lands, don’t have the access, opportunities, or freedoms of westerners get their knowledge of the bible and Christian beliefs from the mouths of Muslims do you think it helps or hinders relations? Modern apologist and “revert,” Yusuf Estes, has encouraged Muslims in a conference that “there is no need to read the bible.” For everything that Muslims accuse the west and Christians of, they have to look no further than their own backyard to find the same.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:11
I will be honest; I know nothing of apologists or ulterior motives. I am a life-long seeker after knowledge and read as much as I can of the great books of the world in hope of finding it. I first learned of Dr. Mattson through the ecumenical radio program Speaking of Faith. I found her words expressed there in an interview with Krista Tippett to be both interesting and inspiring. Upon looking further into her background, I discovered that she is a highly respected scholar with a doctorate in Islamic Studies from the University of Chicago and the former president of the Islamic Society of North America – all things that indicate to me that she is someone whose advice should be deemed worthy of being respected. I remain grateful to her for her helpful advice and plan to read the new edition of her book “The Story of the Qur’an: Its History and Place in Muslim Life” in the very near future.
Yes, I know there are Muslim leaders who say and do things that are equally as troubling and divisive as those said and done by some leaders within the Christian community; both of which I also acknowledge to be widely diverse among themselves in their respective theologies, dogmas, and practices. However my purpose here is not to refute each one of such people – be they Muslim, Christian, Jew, Hindu, or otherwise – but merely to share what I have discovered from my own reading in hope that I will as a result attract others who may be doing something similar who care to engage with me in conversation.
Jay Shawn
February 6, 2014 @ 16:09
Thank you for the reply John. Put yourself as a person with no knowledge of the Abrahamic prophets and traditions and the bible, and read the Quran in the order that it is currently compiled and memorized. Read it as a lay person. Not every person has a scholar by his/her side to guide them like you do. You will see exactly what is problematic about this book and why many throughout the world can easily “misunderstand” it and refuse to question it. There can never be such a thing as a Quran-only Muslim as the book is very insufficient and ambiguous on its own and lacks the context of revelations and the complete stories of the prophets it desperately needs. Without the tafsirs, hadeeths, and a scholar to guide you, interpretation becomes a monumental effort.
Understanding the Bible, in my opinion, is imperative to not only test the validity of the claims the Quran makes, but to appreciate the Quran for what it is. In fact, ex-Christians with basic knowledge of the Bible, the prophets, and Jesus, IMO, make BETTER Muslims as they possess some of the knowledge that Muslim guides traditionally possess. It would be beneficial for the Muslim to read the Bible to be better Muslims, again, IMO. However, as much as I am inspired by Muslim culture and spirituality, I remain an ex-Muslim because I couldn’t come to terms with its claims or their prophet.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 17:06
Your words indeed inspire me to think deeply upon the subject and to try to place myself in a position other than that from which I have come to it. Indeed, knowing only the book of one faith would certainly limit anyone’s understanding of not only that faith but of all the others in the world. Just as I know many fellow Christians who have only ever read the Bible, so I have no reason to doubt that there are likewise many Muslims who have only read the Qur’ān. It is my sincere hope that like both you and I that all these groups of people will someday explore the holy books of faiths other than the one of their birth – not that they might be converted from one to the other but that they may have as much wisdom available to them as can be amassed in one lifetime.
For myself, I too have difficulties with the faith into which I was born – particularly the assertion of the divinity of Jesus and in the idea of original sin. This became even more challenging when I studied early Christian literature at university and learned from the writings of some early Christians that these ideas were not universally held throughout the Christian diaspora. Such struggles have pushed me ever deeper into my study of Christianity, seeking out and reading as much as I can about it.
Of all the things I have read thus far in the Qur’ān, the passages that address the life and teaching of Jesus have been among the most interesting. Aside from a few Roman pagan letters, all of the ancient literature I have read about him was written by those who proclaimed themselves to have been followers of his teachings. To read about him in a source not written by a follower of him but nevertheless respectful of him has greatly enlarged the manner in which I can thus contemplate his life and teachings myself.
As a boy I was taught that I could never doubt anything about what I was taught in church. It made me confused, then resentful, then finally all but apostate. It was only by discovering that far greater minds than I shall ever be able to claim did themselves greatly doubt aspects of their own faith that I finally found myself able to both embrace the faith of my own family while at the same time discovering how much there was to admire about and learn from other faiths as well.
I was also taught to try to convert anyone not of my faith to it. I have long since rejected this instruction as I find it, quite frankly, impolite. I also find it contradicts one of the most beautiful lines in the Gospel of Luke: “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” (Luke 6:31 – King James Version) I would heartily resent someone trying to convert me to another faith and I would never try to do it to another person. I do, however, very much welcome people of all faiths sharing with me the things they find in them that inspire them and that help to guide their own lives. Perhaps all this effort put into converting one another is something that both Christians and Muslims will one day both put aside (curiously, I have never heard of anyone from the Jewish faith proselytizing) in the hope of better relationships with and understanding of one another.
I am indeed happy you replied with additional comments. I have truly found them valuable and respect the deeply held beliefs they contain. From what I read in them, it seems as though you have found a new spiritual path to walk that much better suits you than the one into which you were born – and that is something for which I am truly glad for you. I hope to always remain open to new ideas and sincerely posed challenges to anything I write and I hope you will continue to exchange your thoughts with me in this spirit.
Jay Shawn
February 7, 2014 @ 08:49
Thank you for your gracious response. Make sure to put translations side by side: Yusuf Ali, Pickthall, Shakir, etc. with Asad’s (western convert).
Shabeeh Hashmi
February 8, 2014 @ 03:35
Dear John, You have the true yearning in your heart for learning which is a blessing, few people have it. May I take this opportunity to explain a few things about the Quraan Kareem as I have understood them?
First of all : The Quran Kareem is like no other book, it does not like a story book or a novel have a beginning, a middle and an end. It is Divine Speech which has bee scribed, so you will see change of topics as various issues were dealt as they came up. The beauty of this is that the reader never gets tired from the monotony which would happen with other books. The Quraan Kareem when recited as an act of worship should start from the beginning and carried on until the end. But when researching or looking up a specific topic one can pick up the reading from wherever one wants. The Quran Kareem has layers of insight and knowledge, there are moments when one reads an ayat and suddenly realises that this is a continuation of a topic one was pondering over a while ago.
Saeed
February 6, 2014 @ 11:52
I am inspired by your quest. Could it be that all knowledge is a pointer and all pointers are aligned to the same Sea?
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 14:30
Very poetically said indeed!
Michelle Grant
February 6, 2014 @ 13:01
Asalamu alaikum, John. You have described your reasons and experience very well. I wish more people would take your attitude. As a convert to Islam, I also have tried to read the literature of other major religions. And you are correct: they all advise leading a fair, just, honest and compassionate life. If more people took the time to understand each other in this way, we would end wars, in sha Allah!
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:59
Indeed, may it be the will of God that it be so.
Nervana Mohamed
February 6, 2014 @ 14:48
So happy to see such a wonderful person who explain his decision to discover God’s message to humankind by reading His Books to know the common & eternal message, which for me. To worship the Creator, the Merciful by obeying His messengers to do good, to be away from evil & to ask forgiveness for any mistakes.
I am also amazed by the wonderful comments! No use of bad words or so…
Thanks you so much, John, for giving me the opportunity to read such nice experience of yours. Wishing you all the best & for everyone.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:17
Your words have brought such a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart! I wish you all the best as well.
jan
February 7, 2014 @ 02:24
Thank u John.
Jay Shawn
February 6, 2014 @ 14:49
Don’t be a fool, John.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:13
I try to make every effort each day not to be.
Selin
February 7, 2014 @ 07:38
Only a fool mocks the quest for knowledge. Brush up on your debating etiquette – the loser always resorts to name-calling.
Muhammad Khan
February 6, 2014 @ 14:54
John ,This is well written.I came to your blog from reading CAIR’s e-mail that I get daily.
Yes you are right,we should constantly read about each other and if we do,we may and should reason but based on knowledge and with polite worlds then surely,the world could become more tolerant place.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:15
With God’s will may it indeed become so.
RJess
February 6, 2014 @ 15:03
Being a Muslim I have taken for granted the Quran which sits on my shelf (hardly used to for comprehending the words of God but read as ritualistic). I am inspired by your blog. Thank you!!
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 15:14
I am indeed humbled that my words should serve as inspiration. Thank you for such kindness.
Gayle Gililland
February 6, 2014 @ 16:10
Bravo John, I so respect your decision to read the Qur’an. After the attacks on the twin towers I started to think what Islam was all about. I had been in acouple of Muslim countries during my time in the military but never knew what Islam taught. No clue what so ever. But being stationed in the middle east and seeing that Muslims were nice people I didn’t see automatically that Islam could be a bad religion. I started getting information on the internet about Islam and then went to a local mosque in my area for more information. They gave me a copy of the Qur’an in english and more little leftlets to read on Islam. The more I read, the more I kept wanting to learn more. I was raised in a Christian family but was pretty ignorant about the Bible, mostly the O.T. I decided to read it so I could see what message was given to the Jews. I was really surprised how often G-d told the Jews to not to take other gods as He was a jealous G-d. Warned them of worshipping Idols. After reading the Qur’an and basic beliefs of Islam, I became Muslim. In the Qur’an it says if someone kills without reason another person, it is as though all mankind has been killed. Islam is not about killing others that don’t believe the same as Muslims do. There’s good and bad in all types of people and religions. And killing just didn’t start when Islam came into the world. Man has hated one another and killed since man has been on earth. Thank you for speaking about your experience. You’ll have to tell everyone what you thought about the Qur’an when you’re finished. I’m not a great writer and hope you understood me. 🙂
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 17:12
Thank you very much for your comment. How could anyone fail to understand such heartfelt honest words as you have written here? I sincerely commend your seeking after a better understanding of different faiths and scriptures. I hope that you too will continue to share with others the discoveries you have made.
Zohra Lasania
February 6, 2014 @ 16:32
There’s a hadith (sayings of the Prophet pbuh) that says: A seeker of knowledge is superior to a devout worshiper.
You’re on the right path. And among the right people like Dr. Ingrid Mattson. And never be daunted by naysayers.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 17:16
Thank you very much. With such good wishes as yours I do not see how I could ever be daunted.
Hussam
February 6, 2014 @ 17:02
John, I enjoyed reading your post. I am a Muslim who, many years ago, decided to also read the whole Bible. I enjoyed the experience and it made me fully appreciate how many of my Christian friends and relatives lived their faith. Mutual respect and appreciation is what we need most in our present time. Thank you for sharing.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 17:15
Your words have indeed made my day! Thank you so much for taking the time to write them.
servantofGod
February 6, 2014 @ 20:19
Peace be with you Woody,
When you really love God, you don’t have time to hate anyone
God is explaining that the some of the bad jewish people he is angry with, because they rebelled against his laws, and corrupted it [knowingly]
Don’t you know about the Golden Cow? Moses taught the Children of Israel to worship the Holy One, he left and came back and they had already made a idol/statue of gold…
This means they became materialistic, worldly, rejecting the spiritual. Who was it that conspired to have Jesus Son of Mary killed? And why? Because he challenged their corrupt worldly rule
But alas God is Just,
He tells us that there have been righteous Jews as well,
7:159 (Asad) AND AMONG the folk of moses there have been people who would guide [others] in the way of the truth and act justly in its light
Lets look a little more into this
5:44 (Asad) Verily, it is We who bestowed from on high the Torah, wherein there was guidance and light. On `its strength did the prophets, who had surrendered themselves unto God, deliver judgment unto those who followed the jewish faith; and so did the [early] men of God and the rabbis, inasmuch as some of God’s writ had been entrusted to their care; and they [all] bore witness to its truth. Therefore, [O children of Israel,] hold not men in awe, but stand in awe of Me; and do not barter away My messages for a trifling gain: for they who do not judge in accordance with what God has bestowed from on high are, indeed, deniers of the truth!
2:62 (Asad) VERILY, those who have attained to faith [in this divine writ], as well as those who follow the jewish faith, and the Christians, and the Sabians -all who believe in God and the Last Day and do righteous deeds-shall have their reward with their Sustainer; and no fear need they have, and neither shall they grieve.
2:113 Furthermore, the jews assert, “The Christians have no valid ground for their beliefs,” while the Christians assert, “The jews have no valid ground for their beliefs” – and both quote the divine writ! Even thus, like unto what they say, have [always] spoken those who were devoid of knowledge;” but it is God who will judge between them on Resurrection Day with regard to all on which they were wont to differ.
// God will judge all the people, to see how they lived
2:120 (Asad) For, never will the jews be pleased with thee. nor yet the Christians, unless thou follow their own creeds. Say: “Behold, God’s guidance is the only true guidance.” And, indeed, if thou shouldst follow their errant views after all the knowledge that has come unto thee. thou wouldst have none to protect thee from God, and none to bring thee succour. –
2:135 (Asad) AND THEY say, “Be jews” – or, “Christians” – “and you shall be on the right path.” Say: “Nay, but [ours is] the creed of Abraham, who turned away from all that is false, and was not of those who ascribe divinity to aught beside God.”
// We follow true monotheism, and surrender unto God!
“Do you argue with us about God? But He is our Sustainer as well as your Sustainer – and unto us shall be accounted our deeds, and unto you, your deeds; and it- is unto Him alone that we devote ourselves.
Do you claim that Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and their descendants were `jews’ or `Christians’?” Say: “Do you know more than God does? And who could be more wicked than he who suppresses a testimony given to him by God? Yet God is not unmindful of what you do. (2:139-140)
3:84 (Asad) Say: “We believe in God, and in that which has been bestowed from on high upon us, and that which has been bestowed upon Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and their descendants, and that which has been vouchsafed by their Sustainer unto Moses and Jesus and all the [other] prophets: we make no distinction between any of them. And unto Him do we surrender ourselves.”
// Prayer of Moses in Qu’ran
قَالَ رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِي صَدْرِي (20:25)
Qala rabbi ishrah lee sadree
20:25 (Asad) Said [moses]: “O my Sustainer! Open up my heart [to Thy light],
وَيَسِّرْ لِي أَمْرِي (20:26)
Wayassir lee amree
20:26 (Asad) and make my task easy for me,
وَاحْلُلْ عُقْدَةً مِّن لِّسَانِي (20:27)
Waohlul AAuqdatan min lisanee
20:27 (Asad) and loosen the knot from my tongue
يَفْقَهُوا قَوْلِي (20:28)
Yafqahoo qawlee
so that they might fully understand my speech,
Ameen
Woody Pfister
February 6, 2014 @ 18:14
You’re reading the Qur’an to better understand the hatred Muslims have for Jews?
Qur’an 2:61″Humiliation and wretchedness were stamped on the Jews and they were visited with Allah’s wrath.”
Qur’an 4:44″Have you not considered those to whom a portion of the Book has been given? They traffic in error and desire that you should go astray. But Allah has full knowledge of your enemies. Of the Jews there are those who displace words from their (right) places, saying, ‘We hear and we disobey’ with a twist of their tongues they slander Faith…. Allah has cursed them for disbelief.”
Qur’an 4:47″O you People of the Book to whom the Scripture has been given, believe in what We have (now) revealed, confirming and verifying what was possessed by you, before We destroy your faces beyond all recognition, turning you on your backs, and curse you as We cursed the Sabbath-breakers, for the decision of Allah Must be executed.”
Qur’an 4:160″For the iniquity of the Jews We made unlawful for them certain (foods) in that they hindered many from Allah’s Way, that they took usury, though they were forbidden, and that they devoured men’s wealth on false pretenses, We have prepared for those among them who reject [Islamic] Faith a painful doom.”
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 18:52
A very helpful comment previously posted here by Ms. Elamawy made reference to the fact that some of the Sūrahs published near the front of the Qur’ān contain passages that require a bit of historical context to understand properly. Having studied the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), which itself contains some very difficult and on their surface startlingly harsh passages, I can very well respect this. Unfortunately, I cannot properly reply to this specific question and the citations you have provided at this time as I haven’t reached these Sūrahs yet, therefor I haven’t read them in Mr. Asad’s translation nor have I read the footnotes that accompany them. However I promise that I will post a more informed reply once I have done both of these.
servantofGod
February 6, 2014 @ 20:59
Let’s look at the verses you reference,
2:61 (Asad) And [remember] when you said: “O Moses, indeed we cannot endure but one kind of food; pray, then, to thy Sustainer that He bring forth for us aught of what grows from the earth – of its herbs, its cucumbers, its garlic, its lentils, its onions.” Said [Moses]: “Would you take a lesser thing in exchange for what is [so much] better? [46] Go back in shame to Egypt , and then you can have what you are asking for!” [47] And so, ignominy and humiliation overshadowed them, and they earned the burden of God’s condemnation: all this, because they persisted in denying the truth of God’s messages and in slaying the prophets against all right: all this, because they rebelled [against God], and persisted in transgressing the bounds of what is right.
Note 46 (Quran Ref: 2:61 )
i.e., “Would you exchange your freedom for the paltry comforts which you enjoyed in your Egyptian captivity?” In the course of their wanderings in the desert of Sinai, many Jews looked back with longing to the comparative security of their life in Egypt, as has been explicitly stated in the Bible (Numbers xi), and is, moreover, evident from Moses’ allusion to it in the next sentence of the above Qur’anic passage.(Quran Ref: 2:61 )
Note 47 (Quran Ref: 2:61 )
The verb habata means, literally, “he went down a declivity”; it is also used figuratively in the sense of falling from dignity and becoming mean and abject (cf. Lane VIII, 2876). Since the bitter exclamation of Moses cannot be taken literally, both of the above meanings of the verb may be combined in this context and agreeably translated as “go back in shame to Egypt “.(Quran Ref: 2:61 )
As for 4:44
4:44 (Asad) ART THOU NOT aware of those who, having been granted their share of the divine writ, now barter it away for error, and want you [too] to lose your way?
Personal experience: I had a professor of philosophy, Dr Falkenstein… he was teaching people there is no god, he was spreading atheism! And the poor students who don’t have true knowledge, guess what happens to them?
4:47 – refers to the Sabath Breakers, this is further explained in these verses
7:163 (Asad) And ask them about that town which stood by the sea: how its people would profane the Sabbath whenever their fish came to them, breaking the water’s surface, on a day on which they ought to have kept Sabbath -because they would not come to them on other than Sabbath-days! [129] Thus did We try them by means of their [own] iniquitous doings.
And whenever some people [130] among them asked [those who tried to restrain the Sabbath-breakers], “Why do you preach to people whom God is about to destroy or [at least] to chastise with suffering severe?” -the pious ones [131] would answer, “In order to be free from blame before your Sustainer, and that these [transgressors, too,] might become conscious of Him.”
And thereupon, when those [sinners] had forgotten all that they had been told to take to. heart, We saved those who had tried to prevent the doing of evil, [132] and overwhelmed those who had been bent on evildoing with dreadful suffering for all their iniquity;
and then, when they disdainfully persisted in doing what they had been forbidden to do, We said unto them: “Be as apes despicable!” [133]
Note 133 (Quran Ref: 7:166 )
According to Zamakhshari and Razi, the expression “We said unto them” is here synonymous with “We decreed with’ regard to them” – God’s “saying” being in this case a metonym for a manifestation of His will. As for the substance of God’s decree, “Be as apes despicable”, the famous tabi’i Mujahid explain it thus: “[Only] their hearts were transformed, that is, they were not [really] transformed into apes: this is but a metaphor (mathal) coined by God with regard to them, similar to the metaphor of `the ass carrying books’ [62:5]” (Tabari, in his commentary on 2:65; also Manar I, 343; VI, 448; and IX, 379). A similar explanation is given by Raghib. It should be borne in mind that the expression “like an ape” is often used in classical Arabic to describe a person who is unable to restrain his gross appetites or passions.(Quran Ref: 7:166 )
Let’s use your the exact translation you use
Qur’an 4:160″For the iniquity of the Jews We made unlawful for them certain (foods) in that they hindered many from Allah’s Way, that they took usury, though they were forbidden, and that they devoured men’s wealth on false pretenses, We have prepared for those among them who reject [Islamic] Faith a painful doom.”
Jew’s have comparatively stricter dietary laws than even Muslim,
The usury…. that is taking any interest on the loan, again corrupted the Biblical teaching
Look at this
Exodus 22:25 – If thou lend money to [any of] my people [that is] poor by thee, thou shalt not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury.
// BIBLE BAN’S INTEREST BEARING LOANS
// some shiesty rabbi’s modified God’s law to their benefit….
Deuteronomy 23:19
You shall not charge interest to your countrymen: interest on money, food, or anything that may be loaned at interest. 20″You may charge interest to a foreigner, but to your countrymen you shall not charge interest
Compare that corrupt’d morals to this,
“Those who swallow down usury cannot arise except as one whom Satan has prostrated by (his) touch does rise. That is because they say, trading is only like usury; and Allah has allowed trading and forbidden usury. To whomsoever then the admonition has come from his Lord, then he desists, he shall have what has already passed, and his affair is in the hands of Allah; and whoever returns (to it) – These are the inmates of the fire; they shall abide in it.” (Surah al-Baqarah 2:275)
There is a traditional saying that goes like this,
Those who hoarded the gold on the earth (cough cough Fed reserve, IMF ), God will melt all that gold and pour it on them when they are in hell
And say, “This is what you hoarded!”
Anyways, I bet you didn’t know that we love Jesus the Son of Mary, and believe whole heartedly he is the Messiah, and await his return [some traditions state the he will return in Damascus, the sad thing is the prophecy states ‘when Damascus is in ruins’]
Now look at modern day, even 10 years ago this didn’t make ‘sense’, but don’t worry
we know of those “By way of deception thou shall do war” [israeli],
True believers know,
“God is enough for us; and how excellent a guardian is He!”
By way of Light and Truth we shall be victorious!
🙂
Nurhayati M Noor
February 6, 2014 @ 21:50
Thank you Mr Riutta for highlighting the fact that the Qur’an contains so many good things. I, too, am a Muslim who very often take it for granted.
Islam is not just a religion, it is a way of life. Islam is perfect. It is us, Muslims, who are not.
John E. Riutta
February 6, 2014 @ 22:46
Thank you very much for sharing this; such humility betokens great wisdom. From what I have learned thus far from my reading, it seems that it is expected of us all that we should engage with all our strength in the struggle to continually improve ourselves. Although we shall never be truly able to achieve perfection on our own, God knows all that we have done and have tried to do, and it is in His infinite mercy that we must trust both now and in the Last Day.
Yosra
February 7, 2014 @ 02:29
Asalamu Alaykom John,
Wonderful. I am so pleased with your attitude and approach with The Quran. I too read it with my all-inquiring mind because it meant so much to so many people (including a man I loved). Why not understand the spiritual foundation of a billion people? Why not see if I understood them better after I read their religious text?
You are reading Muhammad Asad’s translation and I agree that it is the best available. I started off with Ahmed Ali which was also very good. May God reward them for their efforts. Muhammad Asad’s has the translation, the original Arabic, the transliteration (the way the Arabic sounds would be said using English letters) and the tafsir. That tafsir is akin to footnotes and it is very useful to understanding the layers of meaning.
I read Quran only after getting centered. I read in quiet. I read only until I felt full. If something really hit me hard, I would put the book down and digest. If I found something meaningful, I would copy it down and carry it with me. Most of the time, the message of The Quran felt very affirming to what I already felt was true. You have found those universal themes as well.
I had wanted to read the entire Bible but stopped. I did realize, at the time, that not being able to read the book I was supposed to follow somewhat disqualified me. I don’t feel that with the Quran. I have been memorizing it little by little and each verse I learn is a small victory. In the worst of times, I have those verses to show me how to survive the temporary and cling to what’s good and true. I did read the Quran from Surah 1 to 114 but my memorizing is from the short surahs in the back (and might never move much beyond where you are now). Ingrid Mattson is someone whose opinion I respect and you can take her counsel with confidence.
Reading The Quran in 2002 didn’t make me a Muslim. I already was Muslim (though my Christian parents didn’t raise me as such). Reading The Quran can not make someone Muslim and no one needs to fear a conversion against their will. Only if you want to come to Islam will it happen. Yes, it is possible to read the Muslim’s holy book and go to church on Sunday—-or temple on Friday. Hey, you can even read The Quran and stay in bed on the weekends and not attend ANYTHING.
Lastly, there is one problem with reading The Quran and you already found out. We live in a world which adores black-and-white thinking. If you show any kind of shift to “the other side” then the mainstream eight balls you. You might be all into kumbaya with your thinking, but there are many in the world who will not continue with you if anything regarding Islam is part of your life. I’ve lost many people in my life and thank God for their leaving. I may not have as many people liking me as I once did but I like me more than ever. Alhumdulillah for self-knowledge and self-acceptance.
I wish you all kinds of goodness in your literary pursuits. Feel free to stop by my blog and read my perspective as an American-Muslim teacher living in Egypt since 2009.
May God make it easy on you.
Malikha Abdullahwali
February 7, 2014 @ 09:32
Dear John:
Reading your narrative was the most exhilarating event I have participated in outside of my personal life’s journey. Your honesty and sincerity were inspiring and quite refreshing. Clearly the lack of knowledge has caused us to stray away from the path of pursuing knowledge; which brings me to one of the most important duaas or supplication ever made by Prophet Muahmmad (Peace be upon Him) where he said: Rabbi Zidni ilm(My Lord, increase me in knowledge…Surah Taha(20):114. Thank you for sharing and may your journey continue towards Him…ameen.
farhat
February 7, 2014 @ 10:14
you might enjoy karen armstrong’s book Mahammad
shadab
February 7, 2014 @ 13:17
once i have listened ‘Sermon on the Mount’ in a lecture by Pakistani Muslim Scholar Javed Ahmad Ghamidi. Believe me I can’t express my feeling having listened such beautiful preaching of Jesus(pbuh).i felt like spiritually elevated.the Interesting thing is that i am not a christian but a Muslim.
Mohammed Qudah
February 7, 2014 @ 13:17
Assalaamu alaykum John,
Actually, I myself envy you for having such kindness and openmindedness to keep that balance in responding to those openminded people and those who breathe and live on hatred.
I am sure that you are on the right path seeking knowledge and the truth.
I feel sorry for those who keep attacking others without having enough knowledge to judge others’ believs and values.!!!
When you finish reading the Holy Quran, you will see what Islam says about Abraham, Mossa, Jesus and Mary peace be upon them all and other prophets.
I wish you a fruitful journey.
Mona
February 7, 2014 @ 19:38
Assalamu Alaikum, Mr. Riutta (Peace Be Upon You),
What a wonderful essay! Thank you for sharing the Beauty of the Qu’ran with your readers. And thank you to your ever-so-kind readers for their lovely comments.
I must agree with many of the comments I have read. I, too, have taken my Qu’ran too much for granted. InshaAllah (God willing), I will begin to read, again, my Qu’ran with new eyes, and a different approach.
I have always wanted to read the Bible and the Torah. Hopefully, after I Reread my Qu’ran, with a fresh set of eyes (yours!), I can find a good translation of the Bible and the Torah.
Thank you, again.
Salam (Peace)!
Wan R
February 7, 2014 @ 20:09
Your heart is so beautifully kind it moved me beyond words. If any of the prophets are alive today I am assured that you will be one that reflects their spirit of kindness and righteousness. I am a born Muslim yet still trying to make myself worthy of that blessing. Giving a name to one’s faith does not make one right if one does not strive to embody the message and become the living example of the said faith. My best prayers for your sincere quest for knowledge, you are already a blessed one. I hope you find your answer guided by the One God. Those who seek will eventually be lead to one truth, but those who deny will keep denying it. May we be among those who will not be led astray. Ameen.
Michele Lynn
February 8, 2014 @ 03:51
Thanks John for your article. I have come across a blogspot
which several of my friends and I believe to be a
brilliant interpretation! Please check out
Iqra The Challenge.
The writer is clearly doing their research!
Minha
February 8, 2014 @ 22:37
Dear John,
Thank you for your article. I enjoyed reading it and sharing it with friends. Your reflections of reading to gain knowledge and wisdom and correcting ignorance remind me of what my aunt taught me – that the greatest sin is ignorance for it leads to many problems – she is Hindu and I am Muslim. She has brightened my life with the wisdom of the ancients and I love her dearly. Your desire to seek knowledge no matter where it comes from reminds me of the Muslim emperor Akbar who did the same. There is a beautiful quote from the movie “Jodhaa Akbar” of him conversing with his Din-i-Illahi – group who advised him on the virtues of all religions – one said, “When the angels were asked, ‘What is heaven?’ They replied, ‘where there is love in one’s heart, there is heaven.'” Then they were asked, ‘What is hell?’ They replied, ‘a heart that has no love is hell.'” As you know with translations, it is much more beautiful in Urdu/Hindusthani. I highly recommend this Bollywood film. Also, while Martin Lings’ book on Muhammad is excellent, I enjoyed In the Footsteps of the Prophet by Tariq Ramadan, much less esoteric and easy to read. I also had the chance to get his autograph and found him very humble – a great quality, much like all the prophets. Demi, the author/illustrator has written some lovely children’s books on religious leaders – I love the one she has written on Muhammad and others. And, given your interest in reading for knowledge and wisdom, I highly recommend the Buddhist books at http://www.tharpa.com/us/#.Uvcgkv16clI – I love the Story of Buddha and hope to read more. Like the country we live in, from many places, we can discover that we are all one human family.
Best wishes and please write again when you have completed the Qur’an. I would love to learn from you.
Thanks and Peace be with you, Minha
Maria Nunes
February 12, 2014 @ 08:56
Maybe when you get the chance, I know you are kept very busy singing the praises of Ingrid Mattson and her books, which includes the Koran-her-style, you should visit this website
http://www.answeringmuslims.com/
and give a listen to someone who is able to explain whatever it is you are brainwashed with, with the truth behind whatever it is you are reading.
Just keeping your head inside books without raising your eyes to what’s happening around us because of the writings in the Koran, makes you a very dumb person. That’s my personal opinion of you and of course you can dismiss me as a bigot and hater. That’s your opinion and your right.
John E. Riutta
February 12, 2014 @ 09:32
Dear Ms.Nunes, it would be most inconsiderate of me indeed not to visit the website you have gone to the trouble of bringing to my attention. In fact, I have already just made a visit to it and read a bit about the organization that produces it – a 501(c)(3) by the name of Acts 17 Apologetics (for those reading this who are not familiar with the Greek (New) Testament of the Bible, this is in reference to the Book of the Acts of the Apostles recounting the time Paul spent in Athens primarily arguing refutations of the teachings and practices of the Stoic and Epicurean philosophers). Mr. Wood, who seems to be the primary author of the site, certainly has strongly held opinions about his subject indeed. I can only hope that he himself has read the Qur’ān in its entirety so that his observations are founded on knowledge rather than supposition.
As for myself, I can by no means claim to be a doctoral candidate such as Mr. Wood does of himself. I am merely a humble seeker after knowledge and make every effort to read as much as I can of the writings of wise and learned people in pursuit of this. It was for this reason that I read the King James Version of the Bible, the plays of Aeschylus, the poems of Homer, and presently am working my way through the Histories of Herodotus. When moved to do so, I reflect upon what I have read here on this, my personal, website, and hope others who would like to share their own discoveries and reflections will take the trouble to communicate with me – as you have done and for which I thank you.
Colin Turner
February 18, 2014 @ 14:40
A most enlightening and encouraging post, John. I’ve lost count of the times that I’ve come across denunciations of the Quran by people who’ve never seen a copy, let alone open the pages and actually read it! I teach Islamic Studies and one of the first things I ask my students to do is to acquaint themselves with the book ‘from within’, rather than via the medium of tabloid newspaper articles, debates on Internet fora, and the soundbites of the book’s detractors. Their reaction, much like yours, is usually one of pleasant surprise. Kudos to you for doing this, and for writing about it as though reading the Quran to better one’s understanding of it were an everyday, rational undertaking. Which, of course, it is. If only more people would do what you are doing…