The Bible and the Qur'an: A Comparative Study

Publisher's Summary

What would you like to know about the Qur'an and its relationship to the Bible?

Written in beautifully poetic and rhythmic language, the Qur'an comprises 114 suras ("chapters"). To Christians, its structure can at first seem unusual, and indeed, the Qur'an differs from our scriptures in fundamental ways. As you study the Qur'an, you will gain a deep appreciation for its striking differences from the Bible and the importance of this religious text revered by one-point-seven billion Muslims around the world.

In this superb course, you will receive a general introduction to the Qur'an, paying particular attention to its relationship with the Bible. Prof. Gabriel Reynolds, a scholar of Islamic studies at Notre Dame, guides you through the beautiful language, fascinating history, and varied interpretations of the Qur'an. By embarking on this exploration, you will more deeply understand Islam and its conversation with Christianity.

The first part introduces you to the life of Muhammad, the literary qualities of the Qur'an, and its historical context. After looking closely at the themes of the Qur'an, you will explore its portrayals of Jesus and other biblical figures, as well as how Christianity has interacted with it throughout history. Then, you will look at academic controversies and traditional Islamic teachings on the Qur'an. Finally, you will examine how Muslims approach the Qur'an in the modern world.

Begin this essential learning journey today.

©2015 Now You Know Media Inc. (P)2015 Now You Know Media Inc.

Draws a lot of fine lines in calm, scholarly voice

As a professor, I really enjoy listening to another (delivered live especially) who is not only well informed, but impassioned with the subject. Many questions are answered here. Have there been different versions of the Quran? To what specific time and place do we trace the one regarded as authoritative across the Muslim world? (That's a surprise -- identified as rather startlingly recent, in the 1920s, and a compilation arrived at by a committee in Cairo?) What is the Quran's view of the physical nature and arrangement of God, of paradise, of the universe? What does the Quran actually say about thinking of God as a father, of Jesus as God's son, or otherwise? About the trinity? This professor if I heard correctly, is associated with Notre Dame University and this audio source, presumably with the Catholic Church? But whatever the correct background is, for everyone, I would be reassuring that the approach is overall the finest serious, mature, disciplined scholarship. This professor is a speaker and scholar of Arabic,and all the source material. This is not a polemic designed to rile up the masses -- it is dispassionately (and passionately, but in a scholarly way) surveying what the respective sources actually say. I daresay there is plenty here the street-level Jihadist probably has little inkling of. I also appreciate a professor so well versed in the subject and in speaking that the flow of talk is clear as a bell and without the "uh," "ahh" fumbling stuff I find so distracting. The delivery is letter-perfect, essentially error-free, and conducive to learning. This won't be the only source I'll hear, but it is the best I have heard so far.

11 of 12 people found this review helpful

Highly Recommended!

I am a Christian who wanted to read and understand the Qur'an. Professor Gabriel S. Reynolds lecture and ability to explain the Surah's in a way that makes it clearer is a must read. He gives you explanations on the meaning of specific scriptures that need further explanation. I have read the Qur'an and will now read it again with his factual interpretation as a guide. I want to thank Professor Reynolds for his hard work and sharing his knowledge with all. I wish you peace!

4 of 5 people found this review helpful

Quran? Where is the Bible part

I bought this book thinking, I will hear both sides of the story. There was not any passages or chapters from either the old or new testament of Bible. To me, it was in-depth one sided, analysis of Quran. I won't say right or wrong....I have to say, I'm little disappointed but appreciate author's research command on arabic language is worth praising.

I am a born Muslim, who is progressive and open minded. All religions have same value in my eyes. They were the path of light in the tunnel of darkness for the people and time they were preached but now human mind and societies have progressed much farther. We need to find spirituality and love within and around us....we need to live in peace.

Insightful and enjoyable

Reynolds does an excellent job at presenting the most topical issues with knowledge and understanding and wit. You can learn about the traditional interpretations as well as the modern controversies surrounding topics such as women's rights, different religions, comparisons with the Bible, war and peace.
Very much worth listening to.