The Koran (Al-Qur'an)

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

2800

Title

The Koran (Al-Qur'an)

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This edition presents the Koran translated by Rev. J.M. Rodwell, featuring a chronological arrangement of chapters and an introduction by Rev. G. Margoliouth. The text explores the life of Prophet Muhammad, Islamic theology, and ethical teachings, blending poetic fervor with historical context to offer a comprehensive view of the faith's origins and impact.

Summary up to 500 words

The Koran, as presented in this translation by Rev. J.M. Rodwell with an introduction by Rev. G. Margoliouth, stands as a foundational text that transformed disparate Arabian tribes into a cohesive nation and established a vast politico-religious organization. The work is not merely a written document but a reflection of Prophet Muhammad's mind, serving simultaneously as a divine proclamation and a historical record. Originally delivered as a series of admonitions, promises, and threats to turbulent assemblies of untutored Arabs, the text was compiled into a book only after the Prophet's death. To speak of the Koran is, therefore, practically to speak of Muhammad himself, whose identity is so completely fused with the literary work that they are one. The text's power lies in its ability to create a new phase of human thought and character, yielding to hardly any other religious book in the effect it has produced on large masses of men. The introduction by Rev. G. Margoliouth provides critical analysis, noting the text's originality in blending Arabian legends with Biblical and Rabbinic traditions. While the matter is largely borrowed from Christian and Jewish traditions of the time, the manner is entirely the Prophet's own. Biblical reminiscences, Rabbinic legends, and native heathen stories pass through the Prophet's fervid mind, emerging in strange new forms tinged with poetry and enthusiasm. This unique style, distinct from other religious texts, features a tendency toward repetition and a wild, enthusiastic tone that resonates with its intended audience. Although Europeans may find the style unbalanced or fantastic, the text was considered a miracle by its followers, whose eastern temperament responded readily to its crude, strong appeal. The narrative covers a wide range of topics, including the creation of the heavens and earth, the alternation of night and day, and the signs of God's power evident in ships, rain, and winds. It addresses profound moral and ethical issues, such as the prohibition of usury, the importance of prayer and fasting, and the equitable treatment of orphans, the needy, and the wayfarer. The text details the history of the Prophet, his struggles against opposition, his flight to Medina, and the subsequent development of the Islamic community. It includes accounts of miracles attributed to Jesus, Son of Mary, such as the creation of a bird from clay and the healing of the blind and leper, highlighting the text's unique perspective on religious figures. The Koran's significance extends beyond its religious value; it was the starting-point of a new literary and philosophical movement that powerfully affected the finest minds among Jews and Christians in the Middle Ages. European scholars derived knowledge of Greek philosophy, mathematics, and astronomy from Arabic originals based on the Koran's impetus. The translation by Rev. J.M. Rodwell captures the wild charm and rhythmic flow of the original Arabic, avoiding pedantry while maintaining scholarly accuracy. Chronologically arranged, the text allows readers to trace the development of the Prophet's mind as he advanced from early inspiration to the more pragmatic roles of warrior and politician. Overall...

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2800.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg2800.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-08-14 01:21 UTC

Categories

• Religion