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M. A. Abdel HaleemM. A. Abdel…
The Qur'an Paperback – Illustrated, 1 July 2008
by Haleem (Translator)
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (7,168)
#1 Best Sellerin Islam Textbooks
ISBN-13: 978-0199535958 ISBN-10: 0199535957 Edition: Reissue
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'Read! Your Lord is the Most Bountiful one who taught by the pen, who taught man what he did not know.' The Qur'an, believed by Muslims to be the word of God, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad 1400 years ago. It is the supreme authority in Islam and the living source of all Islamic teaching; it is a sacred text and a book of guidance, that sets out the creed, rituals, ethics, and laws of the Islamic religion. It has been one of the most influential books in the history of literature. Recognized as the greatest literary masterpiece in Arabic, it has nevertheless remained difficult to understand in its English translations. This new translation is written in a contemporary idiom that remains faithful to the original, making it easy to read while retaining its powers of eloquence. Archaisms and cryptic language are avoided, and the Arabic meaning preserved by respecting the context of the discourse. The message of the Qur'an was directly addressed to all people regardless of class, gender, or age, and this translation is equally accessible to everyone. Find the eBook on VitalSource . Features A major new translation of the supreme authority in Islam, published at a time of intense interest in the Islamic religion and the Muslim world. The translation is accurate, easy to read and free from the archaisms, incoherence, and alien structures that mar most existing translations. Includes features such as: dialogue addressed to the Prophet is identified to avoid confusion; paragraphing and punctuation have been added to assist meaning and sentence structure; and the beginning of each verse is marked in small superscript type in order not to interrupt the flow or distract the reader. The introduction offers a brief history of the revelation and compilation of the Qur'an, its structure and stylistic features, and considers issues of interpretation in relation to militancy, intolerance, and the subjection of women. Provides notes that explain geographical, historical, and personal allusions and cross-referencing within the Qur'an. Concludes with an index that arranges Qur'anic material into topics for easy reference. ABOUT THE SERIES For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
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Review
"One of the best [translations] to have appeared in recent times."--Muslim News
"Accessible and compelling... a remarkable achievement."--New Statesman
Review
`'one of the best [translations] to have appeared in recent times'' Muslim News `'accessible and compelling...a remarkable achievement'' New Statesman
Review
'one of the best [translations] to have appeared in recent times' ― Muslim News
'accessible and compelling...a remarkable achievement' ― New Statesman
From the Publisher
M. A. S. Abdel Haleem was born in Egypt, and learned the Qur'an by heart from childhood. Educated at al-Azhar, Cairo, and Cambridge Universities, he has taught Arabic and Islamic Studies at Cambridge and London Universities since 1966, including courses in advanced translation and the Qur'an. He is now Professor of Islamic Studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He is also working on An Introduction to the Qur'an and English Translation London Qur'an Studies series.
About the Author
M. A. S. Abdel Haleem was born in Egypt, and learned the Qur'an by heart from childhood. Educated at al-Azhar, Cairo, and Cambridge Universities, he has taught Arabic and Islamic Studies at Cambridge and London Universities since 1966, including courses in advanced translation and the Qur'an. He is now Professor of Islamic Studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He is also working on An Introduction to the Qur'an and English Translation London Qur'an Studies series.
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Product details
Publisher : Oxford University Press UK
Publication date : 1 July 2008
Edition : Reissue
Language : English
Print length : 512 pages
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1,608 customer reviews
From Australia
- I recently bought The Qur'an Paperback – Illustrated from Amazon, and I’m really happy with it. The paper quality is good, and the illustrations make it more engaging and easier to understand. The text is clear and organised, which helps me focus better while reading. I also appreciate the helpful footnotes and translations that make the meaning easier for someone like me who is not fluent in Arabic. This book has helped me connect more deeply with my faith, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a thoughtful and beautifully presented version of the Quran.
- Reviewed in Australia on 7 September 2023I like the modern English language used in this translation. It's so much easier to read, rather than other translations in classical English. One improvement I would like is the surah titles to be in Arabic as well as English. Shukran Abdel Haleem. MashAllah.
- Reviewed in Australia on 28 June 2024Especially clear for non Muslims and muslims alike.
A clear overview of each chapter and God words themselves. Highly recommended. - Reviewed in Australia on 11 April 2018Fantastic translation with context and clarifications provided for each Syrah. Easy to read and understand. Really helped me reconnect with my faith.
- Reviewed in Australia on 18 October 2020Like this translation, easy to understand,
I will highly recommend it to anyone who wants to read Qur'an in English. - Reviewed in Australia on 29 October 2020Best english translation of the Holy Quran.
- Reviewed in Australia on 23 March 2024Perfect Condition, No problems
- Reviewed in Australia on 4 August 2018A translation of the Qur’an which has narrative and flow - modern day English.
- Reviewed in Australia on 29 October 2023- Extremely Fast Delivery
- Looks to be well written / translated
HOWEVER..
- i bought the hard cover copy… it does not match for the paper cover, the hard cover exterior and from the very first page the text / set up is different
- am very disappointed i bought this copy specifically on looks / being published by Oxford University Press - Reviewed in Australia on 30 March 2022A keeper <3
- Reviewed in Australia on 21 April 2021Great and simply amazing
- Reviewed in Australia on 1 July 2020Amazing book, my friend liked it
- Reviewed in Australia on 17 October 2018Compact copy of the Holy Quran. Can't wait to read it.
From other countries
- SakibReviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 February 2026
Good translation
Good english translation, easy to understand - AZZERAEReviewed in South Africa on 29 November 2025
Very Easy to Understand
I'm not Muslim, but I wanted to get a clear understanding of the contents in The Holy Qur'an. This translation is the best one I've found anywhere before. While some translations may take a more word-for-word approach, this particular one provides context and updates the holy text in understandable terms for the modern day English reader. I couldn't be happier to have found such an invaluable resource at such an affordable price. - Angel Alberto Vargas EstradaReviewed in Mexico on 15 August 2025
Bueno
Buena traducción y buena tapa, más la portada de papel venía defectuosa. - sword of religionReviewed in the United States on 28 September 2017
Wonderful modern translation.
Wonderful modern-pros translation. I use this for an easy modern-read; YusufAli for spiritual insights; Muhammad Asad for transliteration and rational and classical opinions; and the Study Quran for a compilation of thoughts and commentary.
Regarding the 2018 audio, mp3 CD version:
Great clear translation and reader; audio has introductory material, but no footnotes.
Having read the text-based book, I purchased the audio MP3 CD version. This is one of a few translations I recommend: the other is the 2015 Study Quran for its commentary; I myself am also partial to the older language of Pickthall.
Favoring this translation, I wanted to see how an audio version is rendered. I am mostly not disappointed:
It is read by an experienced reader with a British accent who also knows Arabic.
The cd is divided into 117 files, one for the introduction (same as the one that appears in the text, but without the map), a separate file for each of the surahs/chapters, a brilliance audio blurb, and a xml file listing the contents. ON the cd, the chapters are marked by number and not named; the audio calls them by their number and English name only. In total, the book is on 2 CDs with 117 files, totaling about 794 megabytes. It comes in a good cd case, like one for DVDs; both CDs are side-by-side, with the second/rightmost somewhat underneath the first.
Though I am happy with the text, the audio version sadly does not contain the footnotes found in the print edition; it would have been good to put them at the end of each file. But the footnotes are few in the original text. So, for the casual reader, perhaps little is lost. (I still wish they were included!) Each file does contain the introduction to the surah/chapter found in the print edition.
I quite like the narrator’s voice (Ayman): male, clear, skilled, well-inflected, with a British accent, and interested in reading the contents.
I recommend this audio version for anyone who wants to listen to this translation; and I recommend this translation for its clear, modern, elegantly eloquent pros.
The introduction, and its audio file, address the topics of:
The Life of Muhammad and the Historical Background,
The Revelation of the Quran
The Compilation of the Quran,
The Structure of the Quran: Suras and Ayas,
Stylistic Features,
Issues of Interpretation
A Short History of English Translations, and
This Translation.
The portions not in the audio are:
A Chronology of the Quran,
Select Bibliography, and
the Map of Arabia at the Time of the Revelation.
The Fatiha (Opening chapter) reads in the translation as follows.
1. THE OPENING
This sura is seen to be a precise table of contents of the Quranic message. It is very important in Islamic worship, being an obligatory part of the daily prayer, repeated several times during the day.
1 In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, a the Giverb of Mercy! c 2 Praise belongs to God, Lordd of the Worlds, e 3 the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy, 4 Master of the Day of Judgement. 5 It is You we worship; it is You we ask for help. 6 Guide us to the straight path: 7 the path of those You have blessed, those who incur no angerf and who have not gone astray.
The footnotes (not in the audio) are:
a Most occurrences of this term rahman in the Quran are in the context of Him being mighty and majestic as well as merciful. The addition of the word ‘Lord’ here is intended to convey this aspect of the term.
b This term rahim is an intensive form suggesting that the quality of giving mercy is inherent in God’s nature.
c This is the only instance where this formula, present at the start of every sura but one, is counted as the first numbered verse.
d The Arabic root r-b-b has connotations of caring and nurturing in addition to lordship, and this should be borne in mind wherever the term occurs and is rendered ‘lord’.
e Al- alamin in Arabic means all the worlds, of mankind, angels, animals, plants, this world, the next, and so forth.
f Note that the verb here is not attributed to God.
Salam/peace. - Cliente AmazonReviewed in Italy on 14 August 2017
Compratelo!
Il libro è molto esauriente, bello e soddisfacente. Sopratutto le note a pie di pagina e l'introduzione. Traduzione stupenda e chiara. - SihamReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 15 January 2025
I have never seen a better English translation !
If I had money I would gift it to everyone I knew! - Elizângela GarciaReviewed in Brazil on 24 July 2021
The Qur'an
Excelent, i recommend it!
- I RReviewed in Singapore on 17 June 2020
Great book with sources of information!
This is a must have English translation and explanation of Qur'an. It explains the background on specific ayah's and sura's, providing links to sources of information. Great book and must have! - Adrian MilczarekReviewed in Poland on 22 August 2025
Alhamdullilah
My first translation I read. I will try other ones next but this is a good one for a first time read if u dont know arabic - ManelReviewed in Belgium on 14 February 2026
Clear English with Meaningful Explanation
This is such a great translation, written in clear and simple English for anyone who doesn’t understand Arabic but wants to understand the Quran. I personally find it very helpful. I would definitely recommend purchasing it. I usually struggle with other translations because they translate word for word, which can feel too literal. However, this version includes explanations and also tells you where each surah was revealed, which makes it much easier to understand. When the world feels too noisy and overwhelming, the Quran brings you peace and makes it easier for you to deal with life. As you begin to understand it deeply and carry its guidance into your daily life, even the smallest moments feel lighter. Remembering God, choosing kindness, and spreading goodness in a restless age slowly transform your heart into a place of peace. So please read 🙌 - Samar ShaikhReviewed in India on 2 October 2025
Amazing translation and easy to carry
Amazing for anyone who wants to have purely english translation. - Ekrem CiftciReviewed in Germany on 6 January 2025
10/10
This book is very well-written and uses clear, understandable English. It provides valuable insights and keeps the reader engaged throughout. - Anantya PReviewed in Japan on 15 November 2024
Good price and good translation
Very recommended - KyleReviewed in the Netherlands on 18 August 2024
An excellent book that respects Islam and its holy book, the Qur’an.
This book is incredibly well written. Yet, it’s incredibly easy to understand as well. As noted in the introduction of the book, it’s the first to fully modernize the translation in such way that keeps the authenticity, and makes it readable for English speakers. There have been others, of course, as this book says, but they all still fall in the fallacy of wrongful translation due to the structure of Arabian language. It explicitly goes against that, and translates the most logical English wording. Brilliant.
Even if your English is just average, you will understand this. It’s really accessible.
A translation done right. - Client d'AmazonReviewed in France on 19 September 2017
Excellent book
Excellent translation. Easy to read. I absolutly love the intro. Its a good reminder for every muslim. And a good introduction to Islam for non muslims - SherwetReviewed in Canada on 19 February 2025
Fluent in English and intermediate level fos-ha arabic
I don’t usually write reviews, but this book is beyond worth it. There are no words to describe the excitement, thrill, and relief of finally being able to understand the Quran. The language is simple, making the learning process feel effortless.
I initially thought understanding the Quran would require a long, difficult journey, which I was fully prepared for. But after reading this, I realize it doesn’t have to be that way. This book guides you smoothly through the process, making it feel achievable.
If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate, this is absolutely worth it. - Client d'AmazonReviewed in France on 4 January 2026
Bien
Reçu en temps et en heure
- Raisul Islam RahatReviewed in Canada on 15 March 2026
The Qur’an – Printed Edition
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This printed edition of the Qur’an features clear text and a clean layout that makes it comfortable to read. The book appears well bound and durable.
The print quality is sharp and the pages are easy to turn.
It can be a meaningful addition for study, reflection, or personal reading.
Pros
✔ Clear and readable text
✔ Durable binding
✔ Well formatted layout
Cons
✖ Print size preference may vary - WynandReviewed in South Africa on 15 August 2025
To read or not to read? This one is a no brainer.
I'm not Muslim but for a non Muslim this is one of the best versions, with all its annotations and additional content to dip into. If you want to learn more about Islam or Islamic Philosophy this version is great. I would MUCH Rather recommend this over the Wordsworth edition. Just trust me it is worth adding to any philosophical bookshelf. High quality paper and everything you expect from a Oxford World Classics Edition - Vincent RossenReviewed in the Netherlands on 15 August 2025
Arrived in great condition
Book arrived in great condition, pages are a little thin though like with bibles - Mlle. anonymeReviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 March 2021
Great, accessible, easy to read translation that's well respected by spiritual and academic scholars
a must read/own for every Muslim
Also highly recommend for anyone vaguely interested in Islam. This is by far the most accessible and easy to understand translation of the Quran I have come across. Used by many mainstream and Sufi Islamic scholars today to teach a better understanding of the religion and help Muslims and others better understand the common tenets of the religion, misunderstood verses etc.
Highly recommend this for both
a) individual study and exploration, and also
b) group or individual studies on a short to medium term or long term programme with a qualified scholar at a well respected institution (to avoid misconstruing the verses, taking them out of their context and misapplying them due to a misunderstanding over the meaning of the Arabic in that historical/revelation context). For those of us who struggle to access recommendations (I know I did a few yrs ago)...some institutions that use this text are CEI, Wilaya Trust, and, I think, Oxford University itself.
However, if you are looking for a version of the text that also has the Arabic (side by side, for example) please note this does not have the original Arabic text. You'll want a separate Arabic/English Quran for that. - Amazon CustomerReviewed in Sweden on 24 January 2026
Terrible!!!
I got this book for research purposes. It’s absolutely awful! Very repetitive and full of violence and horrible teachings. Much of it is ripped off from the Torah and Bible, yet clearly states over and over that those versions are wrong and that Christian’s and Jews should be punished. I definitely understand why they hate them so much.
I haven’t been able to finish reading it. It was just really boring, repetitive and full of hate. It’s given me a much better understanding of Islam and why it isn’t compatible with the west or even with modern civilised society. - Muhammed nameerReviewed in India on 25 October 2024
Easy to read
Highly recommended to anyone (both muslims and to non muslims) who want to know about what values does islam conveys. Its better to criticise islam and its values after giving a read and understand about it. Its all upto the reader to whether to criticise or to embrace it. - Thasrif Abdul VahidReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 22 January 2025
Holy Quran
Worth the money - Toller DuftReviewed in Germany on 23 January 2024
Perfekt
Ich empfehle jedem dieses Buch, der den Quran in einfacher Umgangssprache verstehen möchte. Auch Tafsir artige und geschichtliche Hintergründe sind in dem Buch enthalten.
Klare Kaufempfehlung! - Mo22Reviewed in Germany on 1 May 2024
fantastic translation
Very easy to read, good reading flow, the format is very good and accessible. Just great and addictive! - Sajid WaniReviewed in India on 17 October 2024
Just Loved This Book Of Justice♡♡♡♡♡
Quran is love for every Muslim. The Book is written in amazing way and the way it explains aayah of Quran-e-Kareem is fascinating. I'm glad for having such Muslim Authors on the planet.
- QReviewed in Sweden on 22 March 2025
Not better than the prequels
The book quality is fine but can’t recommend the content, hard to read and not very entertaining. - MEReviewed in South Africa on 8 May 2025
Great edition
Beautiful edition, very clear. Only minor gripe is the front cover of the book is blank. But other than that, a great buy! - Lê Minh ThôngReviewed in France on 15 October 2025
Good product
Loved it - Sara AmineReviewed in the Netherlands on 10 February 2023
Literally so helpful!!
I have been reading the Quran for basically whole my life now, and it always brought me a kind of peace I’ve never been able to explain. Nor could I explain the feelings I get when listening to the words of our holy creator. But this book genuinely brought me so much closer to islam, I always wanted to actually know what Allah is telling us. And this translation of the Quran helped me so so much! May Allah swt grand the writer(s) of this book the highest rank in Jannah!! - jocyReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 6 May 2023
Good
Good - Abd-Al MajidReviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 July 2012
Super read! translated words of god excellently to English!
An excellent translation of the Quran from its original language form (Arabic) to English. The summary at the start of each surah, gives a useful overview to help put each surah into context every word is in everyday mordern English. It contains an excellent history lesson on the life of Muhammed (pbuh) and when the revelations started to appear to him. Each Sura(chapter)in the Qur'an has a short explanation of the name. Another good feature is the author makes it clear when the angel Gabriel is addressing the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) directly and I also welcomed the author's use of footnotes, which provide additional commentary on specific verses. This translation is easy to read and very easy to follow and get lost in. The result is a very readable and easy to understand complete translated version of the Quran. I would thoroughly recommend this for both Muslims and non-Muslims who want to develop their knowledge of Islam and the Quran the word of god. Thank you so much, peace to you.
Sahih Al Bukhari ( 9 vol set )
Tafsir Ibn Kathir (10 Volumes; Abridged)
The Qur'an: English translation with parallel Arabic text
Commentary on the Forty Hadith of Al-Nawawi
The Man in the Red Underpants
Understanding the Qur'an: Themes and Style
The True Message of Jesus Christ
What The Bible Says About Muhammad
The Message [DVD]
Christ In Islam - WIllReviewed in the United States on 7 July 2015
One of the best translations; hands down.
The Qur'an, believed to be the final word of God to mankind regardless of individual differences, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from 610 to 632 CE. During that 23 year period, the revelations came to him gradually through the angel Gabriel (Jibril), forming the culmination of a long series of divine messages, that started with the Prophet Adam and ended with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them both). Between the two were numerous other Prophets, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all) to name a few. Considered to be the greatest of miracles, as well as a sign of the end of times, the Qur'an is renowned for its perfection and consistency. Timeless and incorruptible, as described by God himself, it is the supreme authority in Islam and the living source of all Islamic teaching; a sacred text and book of guidance, that sets out the creed, rituals, ethics, and laws of the Islamic religion. It has been one of the most influential books in the history of literature, in conjunction with the Prophet (peace be upon him) being designated by many as the most influential person in history. Recognized as the greatest literary masterpiece in Arabic, it has nevertheless remained difficult to translate efficiently, partly due to the profound depth and precision of the Arabic language. This new translation is written in a contemporary idiom that remains faithful to the original, making it easy to read while retaining its powers of eloquence. Archaisms and cryptic language are avoided, and the Arabic meaning preserved by respecting the context of the discourse. Even though most of its linguistic miracles are lost in the translation process, the main message of the Qur'an was directly addressed to all people regardless of class, gender, or age, and this translation is equally accessible to everyone.
'Read! Your Lord is the Most Bountiful one who taught by the pen, who taught man what he did not know.' (96:3-5) - SaadReviewed in Canada on 4 March 2026
Makes the Quran accessible.
Well worth the investment. Very readable. - Carol MelloReviewed in the United States on 9 March 2015
Academic quality Qur'an translation into English with helpful short notes.
I wanted to update my review with additional information. I am adding it up front because it is easier on my kindle to update a prior review from the top.
I respect the opinion of reviewer Basil, review date May 22, 2012. I do not know Arabic and therefore cannot compare this translation to the Arabic Qur'an. His review is based on his knowledge of Arabic and nuances of meaning.
What I also want to add is an aid I located which is the list of suras in chronological order. I have switched to reading the Qur'an in chronological order because it makes more sense that way. Here is the chronological order of the suras: 96, 68, 73, 74, 1, 111, 81, 87, 92, 89, 93, 94, 103, 100, 108, 102, 107, 109, 105, 113, 114, 112, 53, 80, 97, 91, 85, 95, 106, 101, 75, 104, 77, 50, 90, 86, 54, 38, 7, 72, 36, 25, 35, 19, 20, 56, 26, 27, 28, 17, 10, 11, 12, 15, 6, 37, 31, 34, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 51, 88, 18, 16, 71, 14, 21, 23, 32, 52, 67, 69, 70, 78, 79, 82, 84, 30, 29, 83, 2, 8, 3, 33, 60, 4, 99, 57, 47, 13, 55, 76, 65, 98, 59, 24, 22, 63, 58, 49, 66, 64, 61, 62, 48, 5, 9, 110.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
This is a neutral Qur'an. Some translators of the Qur'an have agendas. This is the most agenda free English translation I could find.
This is also a complete Qur'an. Some Qur'an editions popular among Westerners are not complete. They are abridged with much of the suras removed which are less acceptable to Westerners. That is not so with this edition. All 114 suras are in this edition. None have been omitted. The suras are ordered in the traditional non-chronological order of an authentic Arabic Qur'an. However, the translator has included in italics before each sura, a short introduction which indicates where the sura would fit in the life of the prophet. He indicates whether it is a Meccan or Medinan sura. This is also important. In Islamic law, when two sura contradict each other (which mainly happen between Mecca and Medina suras) it is the later sura which is correct for Islamic law. The Medina suras supersede the Mecca suras for purposes of law rulings in Islamic courts. So when you read this Qur'an, you know which suras are the more important Medina suras. If you want to study the Qur'an but do not know Arabic, this is a proper and correct edition to use. Even though this edition may require a more careful reading than others, I recommend this edition to get both the taste of Qur'an as read by Muslims in Arabic and the actual context of the Qur'an suras as supplied by the sura intros.
In edition to reading this Qur'an you should also read a biography of the prophet's life that is based on his first biography and a copy of the most commonly used remembered sayings and actions of the prophet called hadith. The Sunnis and the Shias sects prefer different versions of hadith. If you study all three, this Qur'an, the life of the prophet, and the hadith, you will begin to understand the Islamic religion and its political nature properly. With the activities going on in both Muslim majority countries and in non-Muslim countries with sizeable enclaves of Muslim immigrants, it is important for intelligent Westerners to pursue a study of the Qur'an and the other two components that contribute to the rules and laws for both Muslims and the treatment of non-Muslims by Muslims in today's world. - SueReviewed in Canada on 24 February 2025
The Best English Translation
This is the best English translation I have yet to discover. Highly recommend this to all!
- Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United Kingdom on 14 September 2025
Great for understanding the literal meaning of the original text.
Superb read. Great for understanding the literal meaning of the original text. I will Kia hi back and reread this wonderful book. - KikiReviewed in France on 19 March 2021
Livre conforme, livraison rapide, satisfaite
Livraison très rapide, produit conforme. Un peu plus grand qu’un livre de poche. Bonne traduction - Mr. XReviewed in Germany on 15 January 2023
Very good translation
Very good and professional translation, which doesn't reflect a particular sect but translate what exactly is mentioned without adding spices and explanations which based on someone's opinion. I strongly recommend it for the new Muslims and non Arabic speakers as it shs what is really written in the Quran in easy and simple words. - SahasraReviewed in India on 14 May 2022
Easy to understand and a great experience
This is my first attempt reading Quran, and my choice to purchase of this book satisfied my intention. It is written in easy to understand english and is very authentic when i search online for the same verse. The Quran is a treasure to man kind. There is absolutely a lot to learn from it and worth reading it several times. - Sumayya FatimaReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 18 September 2022
Love this!
Super readable and look the paperback make! - ErenTReviewed in the Netherlands on 1 July 2024
Came lightly damaged, shabby quality
The book has marks all over and looks as if it has been read (paperback, new). The paper is very thin and would probably show highlighter pens to the other side, but I guess it's a sacrifice for having the book be thinner, lighter and thus more convenient. I'll write about the interpretation after having read the book - CharlieReviewed in Germany on 24 June 2025
Schön
Mein Sohn ist sehr interessiert. - Dr. Kaiser ManzoorReviewed in India on 12 July 2024
The best translation till date
This translation by M.A.S Abdul Haleem is so simple and engaging that anyone with basic English knowledge can read and understand it. After reading this translation of holy Quran, I am a changed man now. Thanks to the almighty Allah for guidance. - TxReviewed in France on 19 April 2013
The best and easiest translation I read
Unlike other translations I've tried before, this translation of the Qur'an is written in modern easy to understand English. The author, when confronted with more than one meaning of a word/phrase, explains his choice and lists the other meanings in footnotes.
I highly recommend this translation for anyone who wants to start learning about Islam. - MurtazaReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 24 June 2022
fair translation
the translation is understandable. its nice to have it
- ZahraReviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 November 2025
Excellent translation
Fantastic translation. Good explanations in notes in English. - Hena Khan-MukhtarReviewed in the United States on 6 March 2022
This translation is the reason that I was finally able to read the entire Qur’an at age 50
For years, I’ve been trying to read an English translation of the Holy Qur’an cover to cover but haven’t been able to get through any for one reason or the other. I would usually get a good rhythm going, but then something would derail me. Many times I just skipped around or only read those surahs that I had questions about.
I finally discovered this translation and it’s the first time I read the Holy Qur’an from beginning to end like a novel. I think it might have been the accessibility of the English language that was used that hooked me. Maybe I was just in the right frame of my mind at this point in my life. Perhaps it was because of the high recommendations from so many pious, learned Muslim scholars whom I trusted? Whatever it was, this version was just what I needed, and I’m thankful that I read it.
I ended up underlining and highlighting and annotating like never before. On certain evenings, it seemed like questions and issues that had come up for me that very day were addressed in that night’s reading. So many times I teared up with relief. Other times I was overcome with awe. More than a few times, I was just filled with gratitude.
The main thing that happened was that I saw clear themes emerging in God’s final message to mankind - and the most recurrent theme was one of hope and mercy. Again and again, I was reminded of God’s Mercy in His own words. The Qur’an is definitely a hopeful book. You leave it feeling hopeful.
A few other themes that emerged multiple times:
- the importance of the night prayer
- the importance of doing good deeds ALONG with worshipping Allah and the importance of worshipping your Creator ALONG with being good to His creation (you can’t have one without the other - it’s not binary)
- the importance of charity
- the importance of looking beyond the surface, reading btwn the lines, looking for signs
- the fact that there will definitely be a Day of Recompense/Judgment/Reckoning/Regret
- while we have life, there is still time to repent - it’s never too late
- no one is forcing you to believe - it’s your choice and your choice alone
- this world is so temporary
- we’re all going to die
- we’re all returning to our Lord
- we are unable to count our blessings - HiraReviewed in Canada on 14 January 2026
Easy to read translation
Amazing, easy to read translation for beginners. Brought me so much closer to my Rabb. Alhamdulillah. - CBGBReviewed in the United States on 19 July 2014
Christians should read it
I have always wanted to gain a better understanding of the middle east, an area I have long avoided because it is just too complicated. I am glad I read the Koran, and this edition is easy to understand and well researched, with reference to many previous translations. I was surprised how much of the Koran is based on the bible and could find very little animosity to 'people of the book'.
This is more of an Old Testament perspective. References to love were few, while references to the fire of hell were rampant. The Koran is surprisingly liberal toward women (altho sex with slaves is apparently ok), solicitous of orphans (Mohammed was an orphan), and accommodating about violence toward unbelievers when provoked. I see nothing that could justify terrorism against innocents, especially other Moslems.
The big question is: Is it the word of God? Some of the later chapters seem a bit self-serving, focused on personal details about the Prophet's life. It is also redundant and pretty boring. Not many parables here. Reading the Koran is a bit of a slog, but Christians and others would find surprising areas of agreement with the spirit of the book. If only we could be as peaceful and good in the real world. - sophie asgharReviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 December 2025
perfect translation
The best translation and would recommend to anyone looking for a Quran in English.
Easy to understand and read 🤩 - norton007Reviewed in France on 24 August 2025
Reçu du colis dans le temps et imparti
L'emballage carton est un peu abîmé mais le livre est en bon état ! 🙂 - naveed anjum itooReviewed in India on 13 August 2025
Get it
Excellent condition. Original Arabic text should have been included.
Still, I recommend the book - SabeelReviewed in Germany on 26 July 2024
Good translation for beginners
I really liked this as a beginner. - sharmilaReviewed in the United Arab Emirates on 7 January 2023
Easy to read english, but certain translations are not giving the right idea
Easy to read english, but certain translations are not giving the right idea - Parviz G. FradReviewed in Canada on 7 July 2024
Excellent translation of the Quran
Excellent translation by Abdol Haleem for the Quran, easy to understand and everyone must read the words of our creator (Allah).
- MuhammadReviewed in Canada on 9 January 2025
Beautiful Quran for my revert wife
I purchased this Quran for my wife, and I found it to be very easy for her to understand. The language is clear and accessible, which has greatly enhanced her reading experience. In terms of quality, it is decent overall; however, it did arrive with a few minor imperfections. Despite these flaws, I believe it serves its purpose well and has been a valuable addition to our home. I appreciate the thoughtful presentation and the effort put into making the text approachable for readers. Overall, it's a meaningful gift that has fostered a deeper connection for my wife with her faith. - ZahraReviewed in India on 24 October 2024
Good quality product
It's a really easy-to-understand translation of The Holy Quran. I really liked the few pages in the beginning that gave the brief introduction to the Qur'an, as well as a brief history, introductions to the stylistic featurs, info about the interpretation of the verses, etc. There's also a little map giving the locations (not all) mentioned in or related to the Qur'an.
The delivery was right on time. Quality of the book is good, pages were nice, but the packaging caused the book to be a tiny bit dented at the top spine...not really visible though. Just saying that the packaging could've been nicer. - Steven A. MarreroReviewed in the United States on 13 November 2009
Recommended for anyone who wants to begin to learn about the Islamic ways.
I began reading books about Islam to understand more about it but ended up getting nowhere since most books are just either bashing Islam or trying to prove an irrational point that was irrelevant to anything I was trying to discover, until a muslim friend of mine told me I should just pick up a copy of the Qur'an and most of my questions would be answered. He was absolutely right.
I was born in the United States and lived here my entire life and I don't speak or read Arabic, so finding a book with the best interpreted translation was going to be needed for a decent understanding of a book that is worshiped by almost billions of people around the world. It starts off with an introductory (which is definitely recommended if you know little about Islam)that will basically explain how the Qur'an was written as it is broken down into 114 Suras (chapters) and no real chronological order, which is very different from the Holy Bible. After the introductory and the suras begin, there are also footnotes on the bottom to help the reader understand what they mean by certain verses, which is imperative to help clear up MANY misconceptions that come upon Islam.
Coming from a Christian family, I had my doubts and fears of reading a Qu'ran but it is very welcoming for those who want to seek a different way or just want to research it; but I recommend you come to read it with an open heart to truly get a good understanding of it all. It was unbelievable how ridiculous some of the accusations against Islam came from my family's mouth when they knew absolutely nothing and it was an extremely satisfying feeling to correct them and at least acknowledge it if they don't want to believe it. In the media come many misconceptions and I believe reading this copy of the Qu'ran truly helped me clear them up and have my own understanding of everything.
While the book is full of such knowledge, it also looks more like a regular soft-covered book so reading it in public really won't seem like a big deal rather than reading a black hardcover covered in arabic clearly showing that you are reading something that is religious (I personally like it because it builds a comfort zone for someone who isn't very open about being religious)
Anyway from my own personal experience, the Qu'ran was the best book I've ever read and this version was completely welcoming and after talking to many muslim friends, I am familiar with almost any verse they pull out, proving (to me at least) that this version of the Qu'ran is translated at its highest quality and i definitely recommend it to everyone with any open heart. - Love over fearReviewed in the United Kingdom on 1 June 2015
The best translation of the Quran
This book turned my life around and gave me new found hope and faith in Islam. As a Muslim girl growing up in the UK, just a few pages of this book has taught me more than I ever learnt during all my years spent in the mosque till my teenage years. The introduction is invaluable. It explains the style of the Quran and how to understand it, which is fundamental, as since it is translated from Arabic, it is easy to misinterpret the Quran. This is due to linguistic differences. Also, it puts the Quran into context and has many references to history, and explains the meaning of certain statements at the bottom of each page. I have only read the first Sura so far, but I can honestly say that I enjoy reading it and I am captivated everytime.. I am grateful to the author... I also really like that the author has read all sources, researched well and compiled this book with very high quality. The book no doubt of excellent quality, in terms of the language and sources. Take a leap of faith and give it a chance.. This is the best translation out there. - Frau KReviewed in Germany on 24 January 2025
Empfehlung!
Englisch ist nicht meine Muttersprache, trotzdem ist es super verständlich für mich und es liest sich gut. - TahaReviewed in Canada on 7 January 2023
Very good Tasfir
This was a great explanation of the Quran in the English language. Made understanding the Quran easy.
Because this book was great, I know actually understand a lot of the Quran that I would simply memorize before.
SIDE NOTE: To any muslim converts or anyone simply trying to read or research the Quran. Please remember that translation from Arabic to english leads to some differences in understanding. This is why this is considered “Tasfir” (understanding) rather than Quran. It is not considered exact Quran but still can be used to understand the main or general ideas behind Quran. For a full 100% understanding no other language qualifies. - D.F.Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 21 September 2024
Unique style
This is very different from the usual Qur'an translations, not so much in terms of meaning, but in how it is formatted. The individual Ayat (verses) are not separated by numbers but are written as superscripts instead. The reason why the author did this is to make the text flow better. He also used different paragraphs to show when the topic within a Surah (chapter) changes. Finally, he also used language that flows better and is clearer for today's audience. I can't tell how accurate it still is, but the text does flow. As always, I suggest everyone interested in understanding the Qur'an reads several translations. This one is a good addition, perhaps a good one to start with if you have been struggling with others. - Dr. James B. EllsworthReviewed in the United States on 16 June 2018
An easy read in contemporary English, but which still accurately reflects the nuances in the original Arabic. Highly recommended
Of the eight English translations I own, Abdel Haleem's is definitely in the top two in terms of clarity & readability for the modern English audience. The language is simple and accessible, while accurately representing the nuances of the original Arabic (which is itself quite a feat); in fact, there are several instances where he makes a compelling argument that earlier translators have generally MISSED an important nuance. It is further to his credit that he scrupulously FLAGS such instances with footnotes, explaining his reasoning & noting the more typical rendering, rather than simply rendering it WITHOUT COMMENT the way he sees it in the text. He's also good about using footnotes to explicitly note alternate meanings where the original Arabic CONVEYS such a range without clear linguistic, contextual, or historical clues to allow the translator to confidently pick one.
An additional strength of this translation is that its author happens to have ALSO written a book I'd term a companion volume, Exploring the Qur'an: Context and Impact, which can serve as a powerful reference to either frame (if read before) or delve deeper into (if read after or in parallel) understanding the text. (An earlier work, Understanding the Qur'an: Themes and Style, serves essentially the same function, but is less thoroughly developed: you should buy the former if you have neither, but probably don't need to if you already have the latter.)
If I were to make one criticism, I did feel--especially in earlier surahs--that his notes sometimes needlessly softened some of the 'hard edges' of the Qur'an, in his desire to smooth over interfaith tensions, or combat the hateful narratives of Khawarij extremists and Islamophobes alike. This can range from the plausible (e.g., Qur'an 8:52, where he argues that "fighting until all worship is devoted to God alone" wasn't merely restricted to those who attacked the Muslims, which is generally accepted by scholars, but further only applied to worship IN THE KA'BA ITSELF--plausible in light of evidence like the Constitution of Medina, which allowed non-Muslims under Muslim governance to continue practicing their faiths under Muslim rule) to cases that seem a stretch (e.g., several notes suggesting that ayat condeming "those who say God has offspring" are more-or-less ONLY aimed at Meccan pagans, who believed the angels were God's daughters, when most scholars apply them both to pagans AND TO CHRISTIANS, for calling Jesus God's son). But even in such cases (1) he reserves such arguments for his notes, clearly differentiating them from the Qur'anic text, and (2) he grounds them in contextual & historical evidence: whether you BUY them or not, they're clearly not spurious.
I used this translation to read the Qur'an during Ramadan this year, and overall was extremely pleased. - salahuudin ahmadReviewed in India on 8 July 2025
Subhanallah
Enlighting narrative - WALID ABDUL HAKIMReviewed in Germany on 14 July 2024
Perfect
It is just as described and is in excellent condition and quality
- Set AReviewed in the United States on 26 September 2016
Sample verses below in the comment section, please read.
I use this book in conjunction with others translations in order to get as much as insight knowledge on the wisdom within the Quran. I am compelled to write this when I saw a review which said that God promotes hate and violent to the non believers in Quran and that God in Islam is an unjust God.
I don't think it is a hate or punishment from God, and He is doing so without reasons. Let's not be one sided as His scriptures ( e.g. Torah, Gospel, and Quran) also mention multitude of rewards for doing good. Therefore, God's punishment is a justification for the wrongdoers ( who are unjust to others) and to the non believers ( who do not believe in the (True) God), who neither ask for mercy nor mend their way while they are given the opportunity throughout their lifetime to do so. And for those who are steadfast, who are just (to others and to God, ie the faithfuls ) there are rewards for the goods that they do, and they need not to worry. And this is I believe the essence and the wisdom that are contained within the scriptures that there is a way for salvation, as also a way for damnation, but also mercy (for our wrongs) for those who seek His forgiveness.
Scriptures admonish us about our dealings, for God has prepared hell for the sinners and heaven as mercy for the faithfuls. Hence it is the one who does bad (ie who unjusts to the others) who should take precaution ( as scriptures allow victim to seek justice against the perpetrator, and with the rest unchastised (offenses) to be brought to him on the day of judgment). And it is he the one who rejects God or worship false gods who should be aware ( as unless they correct their false belief, God Himself (not men) will take an account for his behavior). Thus you can not certainly find anywhere in all these scriptures which say that God punishes a person who is just and kind to another, and more importantly he who is obedient to God's commands, and that God has commanded the prophets and His faithfuls to raise arms and put an end ( e.g. by death) to those who ( while they disbelieve Him ) do not raise arms against the believers ( i.e. they live peacefully among us) - this is simply not the message that they carry. And certainly all the prophets of God were told to invite all onto God's way in the best manner possible, and to leave those who rejected His message - unless they created oppression (unjust) against the believers. So when unavoidable happened ( bloodshed ), those ( reprisals) were done not because of their disbelief to (True) God but because they wronged the believers ( by waging war, inflicting bodily harm, initiated oppression), hence at times broke their agreed peace treaty. And on another as an example, their punishment ( i.e. whether being banished or being executed (by using their own law; Deuteronomy 20:12-14 )) was as a consequence of transgression (treachery) at war against their own community who had protected and fight for them.
Hence the assumption that scriptures incite oppression onto disbelievers who simply do not believe is simply baseless ( please look online for Constitution of Medina which guaranteed peace, freedom of religion, cooperation, equal right, cost sharing (at war), protectors of each others (at war) under one nation (among muslims, jews, and pagan tribes) in 6th century Medina, as well as sample verses from Quran I listed on the comment section). Although we all know, facts at times say otherwise, that religions ( e.g. Judaism, Christian, Islam, and between different fractions within themselves) have been used as a justification to oppress the others (i.e. oppression in the name of God). But yet the message stands, as the acts of misguided people, who use their religions to oppress the others, who use their covert as being pious (i.e. as if they follow the Word of God) hence they acted that way, should never be considered as a proof of what religion teaches, as the fruit of religion per se as nowhere in the scripture has stated them to do so. Hence these particular people, who so called themselves religious people, are indeed sinners and transgressors for going against God's command.
The way the scriptures tell us to hate is to stay away, to restrain ourselves, to have compassion for it wrongs others (affect them negatively), to have fear for it punishable ( affect us negatively), to not fall into it ( in exchange for worldly gains), to feel ashamed from doing it (as it deems immoral). And hating the "actions" of the disbelievers is never to mean to convert them or they die on your hand, as to believe without believing does not benefit no one (i.e. defeating the purpose of believing). Hence belief and conviction can not be coerced, nor has God allowed even prophets to act as such. He certainly never ordered prophets as converters but as warners and messengers. He wants us to believe in Him and His commands willingly, to believe in sincerity using our reasoning and intellect (by observing all His signs around us). And indeed believing in God and doing good is, at the least, to the benefit of ourselves.
And for those who determined to disobey God's command, (e.g. previous nations mentioned in the scriptures), who transgressed the limit set by Him ( those who had determined to never mend their way even after the His messenger came and warned them) , then it was God himself who ordered the Angels to wipe them off the earth.
One of the name of God is Al-Hakam, the Judge, thus it is in God's right to judge mankind as we are His creations, hence by His Will giving reward as justification for what we do good ( here on earth and in Heaven) and giving punishment as justification for what we do wrong ( here on earth and Hell) . You certainly can not call a judge unfair for sending criminals to prison. And as a matter of fact there must be a reason why someone is sent to prison (i.e. for being unfair to another). But don't worry, another name of God is Al-Adl, The Just. So if you have done what God has commanded then why you worry,otherwise if you don't ask for forgiveness, keep sinning, and wrong others then there will be justification for it. Hence God's punishment is not at all an oppression to the unjust.
God simply loves the the goods that we do and encourages us to do more as He's decreed Heaven as the wage for the faithfuls. He however frowns upon the the bad that we do and discourages us from doing it, as He's decreed Hell as a place for the unjust.
In essence, to fulfill the objective of our lives God needs two things established, which is a good man to man relation and a good man to his Maker relation.
God's scriptures also simply lay down the blue prints of our lives , of what He has decided (The Divine Decree and Will) for all of us (e.g. that insignificant part of our lives will be spent here on earth, and the rest ( much of it ) on the Hereafter). And it is by His Divine Decree and Will that He Himself will judge all that we do ( the good and the bad) where no one will be wronged even at the slightest, hence all will be justified. And this does not say that the wrongdoers will be freed of their chastisement in the hereafter, while here on earth never they asked for mercy nor correcting their misdeeds.
His Will also decrees us rewards for good behaviors and punishment for bad behaviors. Certainly the good and bad are not the same. It is therefore unfair to reward good works with nothing or even with punishment, and so does leaving people who are perpetually wrong others without punishment.
But the scriptures also say that if you were bad and felt you gained ( triumphant) by being so ( which was not a good sign), and then after you read God's scripture you contemplated, found wisdom in it, and thus changed. Now you indeed see yourself lose when you wrong (another and God) and you want to be the good guy. The next step would be to ask God for mercy for what you had done wrong and mend what you do, for there is forgiveness in it , as another God's name is Ar-Rahim, The Merciful. And as a matter of fact, correcting your action is indeed a sign of true repentance, for which God urges you to do for your own sake.
Another lesson drawn from scriptures is not to let any condition (trial) in our life preventing us from doing good and fair, and most importantly preventing us from obeying God's command. And if we are indeed fall into transgressions then our redemption is by quickly turning for repentance and correcting our actions ( before the door of repentance is closed. i.e. at one's death ). For fact, it is also His Will that our life is not without a test (filled with struggles to do goods and to abstain from evils ).
Quran mentions that all what we do here while living ( in open and in secret ) are recorded by God's scribes ( the Angels ). And there will be a promised day, the day of reckoning, where each of us will be shown our book of deed. So some who think that they have gotten away for being unjust here in this world, or others who keep sinning and thinking they won't have to pay for it because they never got caught will find just punishment on the day of judgment. And for Allah is Al-Basir, All-Seeing of what you do.
Quran also mentions for those who think that once they die they will turn to dust , and that's it - will find it otherwise. They will wish they are turned back to dust (not wanting to be resurrected) to avoid the day of judgment. But none shall escape the day of reckoning where our full judgments await. And miserable would be those who are unjust and act foolishly in the world. As for the faithfuls, bountiful in goodness would be their recompense.
Quran also says that men can not wish what they wish ( we can not refuse to be born, to die, refuse to be resurrected, refuse to be judged or refuse His judgment while God has said so). Our will is within ( by what is allowed by ) the Will of Creator. And certainly too it is God's Divine Decree and Will that every person's life has been prescribed to end with death; which then all of us together to be resurrected for the day of reckoning.
Now, unless you think otherwise ( that you are the master of yourself, that it is what you will and not God's will, that no judgment shall be brought to you, or that your idol gods will save you), then you certainly are given free will to think that way. And it is by His mercy that even the non believers are allowed you to earn their decreed portions (life with its ups and downs) in this world but certainly not in the Hereafter (while the non believers do not have the belief in it). God in His scriptures has made you aware that Hell will be a place for disbelievers ( and wrongdoers ) where none of the them will be able to escape and refuse their chastisement.
God certainly gives us free will, for you to believe in what you believe as I believe in what I believe. To each his own. Among men, we all should accept that we can indeed agree to disagree, and that we shall not be unfair to each other just because we believe differently. And God never asked the believers to act unjustly ( i.e. among ourselves and to the non believers).
Quran reiterates in so many ways that God's Divine Decree and Will will always prevail, and that is the belief of the faithfuls. And that is the message in God's scriptures.
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For every revelation ( or group of revelations ) in Quran there was reason behind it, (ie full history of why it descended at that certain time to prophet Muhammad (pbuh)). So definitely find out about its background to give you more accurate perspective of its meaning and justification within ( i.e. who/ what was the verse in reference to, under what conditon was it sent, and if it is appliable to other cases ).
I think what most commonly argued is about the so called sword verse where fighting (in defense) was allowed only toward the ones who raised arms against you, includes treason. And there is another about not taking the disbelievers (i.e. pagans) as your protecting friends when then enmity was high toward the believers. And another on the cutting off the hand of the thief which did not apply on petty thefts and stealing out of hunger for example, but on determined amount ( or more) on theft. And also an alternative to such punishment where it could be applied (detainment as mentioned in the story of prophet Joseph), and also forgiveness given by the victim ( with the return of stolen items, or anything agreeable) with which expiates his sin.
In all examples given above, the believers need to be cautious in punishing another believers as the judgment needs to be just, for we will be asked of why we carried such judgment on another. It also worth mentioning that the muslims laws were only to judge the muslims although judgment could be given to others who asked.
And it is important to question ourselves, Why did prophet Muhammad do such ( i.e. under what known reasons and facts, hence the judgment then)?
Below (on the comment section) are some verses with their inline commentaries (within parentheses). From those verses I listed, I picked and chose among their translations, from different sources, which explained (clarify to me) the most. I also added them to each other, and added notes to make their insight contents easier (quicker) to absorb whenever I reread them. They are primarily for my own understanding, but I hope these will help clarify those who would like to read them as well. - Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United States on 1 April 2026
Conundrum
This 2016 edition is the latest and probably the last republished with corrections translation that Mr. M.A.S. Abdel Haleem will do. Amazons discription as to the page count is incorrect although there have been many subtle changes the page count has remained the same since the last revision in 2010 and that is 464 pages. There is one very important word in this English translation that sets this particular publication apart and above all others but there is also one very important single word in this English translation that surprisingly has escaped a proper and powerful understanding and interpretation. What should I do? This mistake is not based on an opinion but is purely academic. Talk to Mr. Haleem via email or attempt communication with the Oxford machine, gee I guess I answered my own question. - Tim ChestertonReviewed in Canada on 6 July 2025
‘The Qur’an’ (translated by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem)
A review of a foreign language text like the Qur’an can focus on two things: the characteristics of the original document, and the quality of the translation. As far as the latter is concerned, i know hardly any Arabic and I’m not familiar with other translations of the Qur’an into English, so I have nothing with which to compare M.A.S. Abdel Haleem’s rendering. The only thing I can say is that it flows easily and reads well in modern English, and rarely if ever uses an archaism. In terms of modern English Bible translations I’d put it in the Common English Bible/New English Bible range (note that this is a comment on the style of English, not on whether the translation tends toward word for word or dynamic equivalence; more qualified reviewers will have to comment on that issue).
As for the Qur’an itself, I write as a Christian who began to read with little or no knowledge of what to expect. I should add, however, that I also write as a Christian who was predisposed toward liking the Qur’an. I have been enjoying my exploration of Muslim history and ideas over the past eighteen months, and have read a number of Muslim expressions of appreciation for their sacred text. I say this to indicate that I had no intention of reading it for polemical purposes (i.e. in order to refute it).
Having said that, let me offer the following observations.
First, Christian and Jewish readers will have an expectation of a narrative framework for a sacred text. This is because our own scriptures—the Tanakh and the New Testament—are set within a narrative framework. Note: I don’t just mean that they contain stories, but that they are set within the framework of a story. The Qur’an is not. It presupposes that the readers know many stories —stories from the Tanakh and the New Testament (including versions that differ considerably from those found in the Bible) and other, extra-bibilical narratives—but it rarely tells them in any detail. It alludes to them more in the style of a preacher using a sermon illustration.
This leads to my second observation: the Qur’an reads more like a collection of sermons—some long, some short, with the longer ones at the beginning of the collection and the shorter ones at the end—note that the ’suras’ are not given in chronological order of their composition. In fact, if the Bible was composed entirely of the major and minor prophets, that would be a much closer approximation to the style of the Qur’an. And just as readers of the prophets often need help with the specific historical references in the texts, so the Qur’an refers or alludes to historical and current events, but rarely tells the full story. You have to read between the lines (or, in this translation, read Mr. Haleem’s very helpful footnotes).
Third, I was surprised at the constant reference to rewards and punishments. Non-Christians who have been exposed to fundamentalist preachers often expect the Bible to be all about heaven and hell, and there are certainly references that can be read in that way, but the Bible is mild compared to the Qur’an. I have heard the American Muslim poilitical scientist Shadi Hamid criticising Christianity for its ‘inadequate incentive system’ for good behaviour, and having now read the Qur’an, I now know what he means. Descriptions of the gardens with flowing streams and other delights, coupled with threats of the burning fires of hell, take up a considerable portion of the majority of the suras in the Qur’an. This surprised me, and I must admit that after a while I found it hard to take.
I’m glad I’ve read the Qur’an, and i plan to continue to study it to gain a better understanding of it, but for now, these are the honest reflections of a non-Muslim. On the content itself, I’ll give it three stars out of five, but on the readability of Mr. Haleem’s translation, I’d give it five stars out of five. - TruthSeekerReviewed in the United States on 17 April 2011
A balanced view of the Qur'an/Islam and Bible/Judeo-Christianity is vital today
PP: The Qur'an (Koran) is understood by Muslims to be conveyed spiritually to the Prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel on behalf of Allah - i.e. directly to him and him alone by a one and only God. It was written 600 years after the life of Jesus, several hundred after the assembly of the Christian Bible, and claims to support many of the same ideals as "the people of (that) book". However, the Qur'an denies the existence of the Trinity (i.e. the singular unity of God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus). Thus, like Judaism, Islam recognizes both Mohammed and Jesus as one of many prophets. The Qur'an was reportedly gradually revealed or transmitted by Gabriel to Mohammed over two decades while he was laying the foundations for the Islamic faith and government in Mecca. He then migrated to Medina where he established what became, after just a few generations the vast Arabian or Islamic (aka Muslim) colonial Empire in Medina, Saudi Arabia.
PP: At its peak, the Arabian Empire was geographically larger than its pantheon worshipping Greek and Roman predecessors and its immediate Islamic successor, the Ottoman Empire. Its colonies spanned the Middle East, parts southern Europe and northern Africa, and huge portions of India, Asia, and Indonesia from the 600's to 1300's A.D. In sum, the Arabian or original Muslim Empire was, in its historical context, an amazingly prosperous, technologically advanced, and socially tolerant civilization. It must be recalled that political power and civil control exercised during these and prior eras were barbaric in nature.
PP: It is vital to realize that Islam, both as it is described in the Qur'an and practiced in many Muslim dominated nations, might most accurately be described as a religion that functions as a political instrument to regulate populations. That instrument is used by despots and/or clerical oligarchies to manage a centralized political economy, prescribe social customs, and dictate civil law, for which justifications are found in the Qur'an by its most "respected interpreters" and in examples reportedly provided by Mohammad while he lived and by several of his contemporary observers.
PP: The Qur'an is hard reading for those unfamiliar with Islam's historic context and traditions. Unlike the Bible, the Qur'an does not represent the accumulated writings and wisdom of hundreds of sages over thousands of years. It is the product of a single "messenger" or prophet. Regardless of how its religious dimensions are labeled or described, like early Catholicism, the modern Islamic faiths serve as vehicles for the centralized governing and civilian control. In other words, while various Muslims apply its content differently, the "separation of church and state" - of civil and religious life - is not one of its basic principles. The political, economic, social, and political are melded into a worldview in which the Islamic religion functions to some extent as a means of civic enforcement.
PP: Islam is overwhelmingly based on the personality of Mohammed as the exclusive transmitter of Allah's or God's will (i.e. versus the specific "messages from Allah" found in the Qur'an). Most of all, to some extent like most of today's Christian faiths, Islam is based on a long history of interpretations by various Muslim clerics, called Sunna (Hadith and Sira). The Qur'an itself contains a considerable quantity of repetitious confusing contradictions. For example, in one place it will praise Jesus's teachings (thus many Western philosophies and ideologies) and advocate religious toleration. But elsewhere the Qur'an, again like the teachings of many Christian denominations today, condemns Christians (thus all other religions) as misguided apostates of the only true faith (i.e. one that might most accurately be described as "Mohammedism"); as sinners destined to eternal hell.
PP: Elsewhere, the Qur'an repeatedly expresses social and religious toleration, but in even more it advocates the use of the force of civil law and warfare to establish and maintain the Islamic faith within populations and internationally. Finally, like the Old Testament, Mohammed also describes civilian punishments and social structures (esp. the differing roles of the sexes) that were common worldwide up to the era in which the Qur'an was written - practices that are still employed to some extent in many Islamic countries and advocated by most of its modern "rightwing" extremists. However, such practices were long-ago rejected by Christians, then by secular intellectuals, and now universally considered cruel and unacceptable throughout the West. The contemporary perpetuation of Islam's belief in religiously-motivated domestic and international aggression and that the Qur'an - as it has historically been and continues to contemporarily be interpreted by a hierarchy clerics to applied in every domain of human existence are central to the divisiveness and violence separating it followers from the parts of the world derived from Christianity. And those well-intentioned nonviolent Christian's evangelists who are advocating and globally propagating the idea that they possess is the only "true" religion are adding fuel to the global tensions. - BasilReviewed in the United States on 22 May 2012
Very sloppy
The first feature that Abdel Haleem speaks of when he maintains that his approach leads to "enhanced accuracy and clarity of meaning" (xxix) is "Intertextuality." As Abdel Haleem observes, quoting from Ibn Taymiyya, "What is stated in a general way in one place is explained in detail in another; what is stated briefly in one place is explained at length in another." Keeping this in mind, Abdal Haleem does at times render recurring Arabic phrases in a single manner, such as "watered by flowing streams" for "tajri' min ta'tiha' al-anh'ar", and "There are truly signs in that/this..." for "inna fi' dha'lika la-aya't" (though in one instance, (15:56)the plural for "signs" ay'at is rendered in the singular).
The translation does not however, adhere to this standard in all instances. Minor examples can be found on the level of single words. For example "rawaas" is rendered as "firm mountains" (13:3; 15:19; 21:31; 31:10), "mountains" (16:15), "immovable mountains" (27:61); "solid mountains" (47:10; 50:7). "Hasiban" is translated as "a sandstorm" (17:68), "a violent storm" (29:40), "a stone-bearing wind" (54:34), and "a whirlwind to pelt you with stones" (67:17). None of these translations are incorrect (except perhaps the overly interpretive rendering of Hasiban in 67:17), but the variety does compromise the intertextuality that Abdal Haleem aspires to convey.
This feature is more troublesome when it comes to central theological concepts such as "sirat mustaqim", "straight path." Abdal Haleem inexplicably shifts between three translations "straight path", "right path", and "right way", but more troubling is his tendency to sometimes put the term in the definite when the Arabic is in the indefinite (2:142; 3:11; 16:76; 22:70; 36:38; 37:144; 42:53; 43:43, 61, 64), a small linguistic change that can nonetheless have a deep impact on the meaning, as use of the definite article implies that there is a single "right path" or "straight path," while the indefinite, as it usually occurs in the Arabic, indicates that there are many ways in which one can be on "a straight path." Admittedly, commentators do often state that the indefinite of '"sirat mustaqim" has the connotation of the definite, but this is the realm of interpretation.
Such inconsistencies are more evident when comparing the translations of some recurring Arabic phrases. The phrase '"alimun bi-dhat al-sudur", literally, "He knows what is in breasts" (or perhaps more eloquently, "what lies within breasts") is rendered differently in each of the twelve instances where it occurs: "God knows exactly what is in everyone's heart" (3:119); "God knows your innermost thoughts very well" (3:154); "God has full knowledge of the secrets of the heart" (5:7); "He knows the secrets of the hearts" (8:43); "He knows well the innermost secrets of the heart" (11:5); "God knows all that hearts contain" (31:23)"; "He knows the thoughts contained in the heart" (35:38); "He knows well what is in the depths of [your] heart" (39:7); "He has full knowledge of what is in the heart" (42:24); "He knows what is in every heart" (57:6); "God knows very well the secrets of every heart" (64:4); "He knows the contents of every heart" (67:13).
Few theological concepts are more central to the Quran than the concept of Divine unity and the criticism of those who "attribute partners unto God." But Abdal Haleem's various translations of the phrase "ta'ala 'amma yushrikun", would not give the reader any idea that these phrases are exactly the same in Arabic: "He is far above the partner-god's they associate with Him" (10:18); "He is far above anything they join with Him" (16:1); "He is far above whatever they join with Him" (16:3); "God is far above the partners they set up alongside Him" (7:109); "He is far above any partner they claim for Him" (23:92); "God is far above the partners they put beside Him" (27:63); "may He be exalted above the partners they ascribe to Him" (28:68); "exalted be He above the partners they attribute to Him" (30:40); and "He is far above the partners the ascribe to Him" (39:67). While there are certainly shades of meaning or poetic resonances that that could explain occasional variation in the rendering of these and other phrases, the fact that no two are the same would seem to compromise the "intertextuality" that Abdal Haleem advocates as a mark of accuracy and clarity.
While the translation of the Quran into a contemporary accessible English idiom does appeal to many readers, it also seems to gloss over difficult Arabic phrases, such that at times the ease of reading stems from clarifying passages that are already somewhat obscure in the original Arabic. In this sense to translate them in a manner that makes more immediate sense to the reader is not accurate. The Quran in Arabic is not an easy read, even for many native Arab speakers. There is no reason to expect it to be easy for non-Arabs. An example of simplifying the English, but sacrificing the meaning of the Arabic can be found in 33:59, which Abdal Haleem translates, "Prophet, tell your wives, your daughters, and women believers to make their outer garments hang over them so as to be recognized and not insulted." This translation is somewhat odd in English, with the final clause reading as if it pertains to the garments rather than the women. It also glosses over a subtlety in the Arabic text when the phrase dhalika adna (lit. "that is nearer") is elided in "so as." Dhalika adna is variously rendered as "that will be better" (Pickthall), "that is more convenient" (Yusuf Ali), "so it is likelier" (Arberry), and "this will be more conducive" (Asad), but other translators. Abdal Haleem also adds a note, "The Arabic idiom adna al-jilbab means `make hang low', not `wrap around' as other translators have assumed (al-Mu'jam al-Wasit)." This is an interesting note given that the majority of other translators have in fact rendered the phrase in question in a manner that is closer to Abdal Haleem's translation: for example, "let down upon them their over-garments" (Muhammad Ali, Shakir); "draw over themselves some of their outer garments" (Asad); "cast their outer garments over their persons" (Yusuf Ali); "let down over them their outer wrappers" (Palmer). All in all, Abdal Haleem's rendering of this verse falls short of other renderings due to the misleading syntax and the elision of an important phrase (dhalika adna) and does not provide the particular improvement that the note would indicate it does.
In a few places, Abdel Haleem appears to have read particular beliefs into the text. Not surprisingly, such readings often occur in verses that touch upon issues debated within Islam today. 4:171 is rendered, "Do not speak of a Trinity." But the Arabic is "Do not say three" (la taqulu thalathah). In this sense, the translation seems to be based more upon the Islamic rejection of the Trinity, which is itself based upon 4:171, than upon the actual Arabic of the verse, which when read literally opens to other, more subtle, interpretations.
These are just a few of the errors and inconsistencies in this translation. In addition to the many errors, it should also be noted that the effort to render the Quran in a modern easy to understand English language that avoids the "archaisms" found in other translations belies the fact that the Quran is in "archaic" Arabic. No one writes in Quranic style today, and no one ever has. The Quran is arguably a genre unto itself. Even when it was first recited in public many of the Arabs of the day are reported to have acknowledged that it was of a different literary order than anything they had heard before. For all of its eloquence, the Quran is not delivered in a "simple and straightforward" (xxix) Arabic. Therefore, simple and straightforward English could actually be said to misrepresent the text. Abdal Haleem's translation is so sanitized that the fire and spirit of the original is totally lost. At times it feels like reading Shakespeare translated into contemporary English ("Where are you?" instead of "Where for art thou?" just would just would not cut it, and might even be wrong). - Jonathan S.Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 December 2015
The Way of Ascent: a comparative study
I like Haleem's translation: he has produced a thoroughly readable rendering of the Quran. The English prose is modern, flows well and has some poetic qualities as well.
My interest in reading the Quran comes as a voracious reader of spiritual works. In reading the Quran, I have completed my survey of all the world's major religious works: the Jewish testament, the Christian testaments (including some apocryphal works), the Gita and the Dhammapada.
Some of the Quran is very uplifting: the Opening which is the equivalent of the Our Father prayer and the surah called 'the Cow'. Other outstanding surahs include: Joseph, Abraham,Mary, Noah,Light, the Night, Purity of Faith, Help. The accounts of Moses, Joseph are interesting in the stories told and also when compared against the relevant books in the Bible.
Much of the Quran however is repetitious and basically consists of the necessity of following the way of God and of avoiding hell. In this aspect, I would also add that some of the Jewish scriptures are even more boring to read, especially the long lists of ancestors, which is rather like reading a telephone directory. The above surahs give the best and most interesting parts of the Quran (at least to me)
Within the framework of the Quran, some points emerge:
1) Why does God need to create an eternal Hell? What is the point of it and why does God incline some to Heaven and others to Hell? Exactly the same questions that arise from reading the Christian Bible, by the way.
2) The dietary advice given in the Quran is the best (by far) of the Abrahamic faiths: Pork may carry tapeworm, the bad effects of alcohol are well known. However, logically if we are enjoined not to eat blood, then one should not eat meat at all as meat, halaal or otherwise, will always contain some blood. In this aspect, the Hindu and Buddhist religions are perhaps clearer in the dietary guidelines.
3) Muslim scholars argue for the principle of abrogration: when there is conflict in the verses (inconsistencies are also found in Jewish and Christian scriptures). As a non-Muslim, I would argue for the principle of reverse abrogration: the earliest verses should be preferred. I call it beginners luck: the more the mind interferes with a concept, the more confusion it will produce. Also as the Muslim empire grew, increasingly revelations became more temporal and concerned with day to day concerns. Whatever approach is taken, the fact is that no indication within the Quran is given as to which surahs are the most important. This is to my mind a major weakness of the Quran as we now have a large haditha industry that is dictating to people how to think and taking the most bellicose verses as the sole authority.
4) The best scriptures get to the point and state it succinctly. The Gita is very short, but very high quality. Similarly the Dhammapada. There are some surahs that have the same quality as the Gita. But overall the Quran suffers from rather repetitious surahs.
5) Islam is the youngest major Abrahamic faith. In a sense, the Jewish faith is the grandfather, the Christian and Sabaens the sons and the Islam the grandson. A true ecumenical approach for Muslims would include reading the books of Exodus, Jonah, Job, the Gospel of Mark and Thomas and so give the Quran a more inclusive flavour.
6) The Islamic injunction to pray five times a day can be compared to the Christian advice to pray unceasingly. Islam does not underestimate the pull of the powerful currents of the world. Provided the practice is not merely mechanical, this is a good one to follow.
Islam prides itself on its concept of 'shirk'. There is only God. It is a radical vision, with which Christians are sometimes uncomfortable. So no trinity or triune God. Three points arise from this:
1) Islam does not take shirk far enough. To tie the revelation of God solely to one man (Muhammad, Christ etc) is also shirk, God does not need any exclusive approach.As the surah 'The Cow' makes clear, God has always been present and so any exclusive approach is false. To maintain that truth is only found in Islam, Hinduism, or whatever is to limit truth and is false.
2) The Gita maintains rather that God comes to you in the form that you worship and to the degree of sincerity. When you study the lives of people around the world, you will find that this is true and so truth is not the sole prerogative of one religion (much as some rabbis, preachers, imams, ayatollahs and other religiously minded salesmen would have you otherwise believe)
3) The concept of justice in the Quran is quite harsh. May I remind the Muslim readers is that it rarely seems to be applied correctly in Muslim countries. In the 'Light' surah, BOTH men and women are to be given 100 lashes for adultery. I never read of it being applied this way. Rather it is the hapless woman only that gets stoned by baying mobs! Christ's lesson on the woman caught in adultery is good to remember. In adultery, it takes two to tango. Anyhow, the man is usually the hunter. Still, I think flogging could in some cases be better than the feeble suspended sentences or prison sentences (where offenders often come out even more corrupted) applied in western countries. I do not support the practice of amputation for stealing: this seems excessive and counter productive as the offender is no longer able to earn a living. However, restitution seems a good principle. - Amzn CustomerReviewed in the United States on 17 February 2026
Beautiful
Book arrived on time in new condition. - A. A.Reviewed in the United States on 1 August 2010
Easy informative read...
This is one of the easiest to read English translation of the Koran I have read so far. One has to read it with an open mind and take out any pre-existing prejudices about the religion/Koran from your mind before you read it. Its a well established fact (at least in academic circles) that Koran lays the foundation for establishment of law, social justice, women's rights, human rights, and so on over the centuries preceding the 19th century.
To address the common misconception that the Koran is filled with hate language and so on, I would say four things about that. Firstly, according to my interpretation, it does not. The Koran and the Islamic society as a whole distinguishes between 3 types of people - Muslims, Christians/Jews, and non-believers(infidels or idol worshipers). The Koran makes it clear on that issue. When the book was revealed during the age of idol worship in Mecca, non-believers were referred to the idol worshipers and not to the Christians/Jews. In fact, a Christian king gave refuge to some early Muslims who were facing persecution by Meccan idol worshipers. It does have a few clauses here and there for bit of a harsh treatment to non-believers, but it should refer to idol-worshipers. With a turbulent past 50-100 years of history riddled with European colonialism, oil, wars, Israel/Palestine conflict, greed, terrorism and so on, the word non-believers slowly started to apply to the westerners (mostly Americans) in the minds of many Muslims. So there is no doubt the radical Muslim groups use the word infidel/non-believer to refer to Americans to help their cause.
Secondly, the Koran does not say Muslims to go kill Christians or Jews or non-believers for whatever reason unless criminal in nature. It is a book of law, order, justice, and history. Christians and Jews had been living for centuries in Muslim occupied lands (although with some reservations). According to the book, the job of Muslims is to spread the message of God. Whether others believe in it or not is between God and them. So the idea that Muslims went around telling people to convert or die in the past 1500 some years is really not accurate. There may have been couple of radical cases here and there, but for the most part the message of one God and his prophets appealed to the people.
Thirdly, the Koran does adopt a strict language compared to other scriptures. Perhaps rightfully so - as part of scare tactic. Because the idea that one needs to fear God before he/she thinks/does some wrong is also a central theme of the book. If you do not believe in hell or do not fear God's punishment, you'll do more wrong things in your life.
Forth, one has to make a distinction between religion and culture. More than half of the stuff/customs Arabs practice has nothing to do with the Koran, especially with the treatment of women. There is an entire chapter on women's (wife's) rights and obligation in the book. They do actually have more rights than what the media says or how Arabs treat their women. For instance, women are treated entirely differently in Indonesia (country with highest Muslim population) than in Arabia or Asia and so on. - BashirReviewed in the United States on 14 January 2026
Yes yes yes BUY IT !!!
It’s so easy to understand I bought 2. Inshallah this will help you. - AnitaReviewed in the United States on 13 July 2025
Engaging Translation
I found this to be a truly enjoyable as well as interesting read. The notes were easy to understand and made the text more intelligible by providing background information on both the historical context and certain aspects of some Arabic words and phrases. What I particularly enjoyed, however, was the translator’s ability to at times use an English phrase that had just a slight bit of humor or cleverness or straightforwardness to it. “What is wrong with you?” Is not a phrase I would expect in a holy book but it worked perfectly in its setting.
I’m not sure how a Muslim or person already familiar with the Qur’an would like Haleem’s work but I think it’s a very good option for a first time English speaking reader of this sacred book.
- DanielReviewed in the United States on 16 October 2025
Great English Translation!
As a new revert, I really enjoyed the clarity and smooth reading experience this translation provided. It was while I was reading this Qur’an that I crossed over from seeker to believer. This is an invaluable book that I will continue to read again and again. - Silvio RodriguezReviewed in the United States on 5 October 2025
great translation
This is the best translation I have found of the Holy Quran. Greatly recommended. Very inspiring. Read with an open heart. - WangariReviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 April 2025
Good for newbies
Language style is easier to understand. Wish there was large print and more spacing for easier reading. - micah mooreReviewed in the United States on 9 May 2025
You Will Not Find a Better English Translation.
This translation is the best for English that I’ve ever read.
No other translation have I been able to effortlessly complete Surah Baqarah in one sitting.
The flow and linguistics are immaculate and as described in the introduction.
The often archaic wording of translations that feel confusing and convoluted is all but gone.
This translation is a favor from Allah for the English reader. Alhamdulillah - Merve KaratepeReviewed in the United States on 23 October 2025
🙌🏼
🙌🏼 - Harry WebbReviewed in the United Kingdom on 1 April 2025
Informative
I am not a believer in any deity. I read this to complete the triad of the Abrahamaic faiths.
Not a particularly interesting read. Very reminiscent of the later Old Testament prophets. It is clearly a book founded in the idea of an Arab nationalism. Plagiarizing and translating many of the ideas of Leviticus and Joshua. Given that it was written 1,200 years after the Torah, I would have hoped for something more. - auilachsReviewed in the United States on 14 July 2012
Qur'an for a Western Audience
I believe every thinking/educated person should take the time to read the Qur'an - even if you are not religious. A huge portion of the world's population tries to govern their lives by the Qur'an (and derived philosophy) - those people will help shape world politics for the foreseeable future. The Qur'an can be a tough read (redundancy and obscure references), but translator MAS Abdel Haleem does a great job of making the text accessible to Western Audiences. My best advice is that you REALLY need to read all of the prefaces and footnotes if you want to learn anything, and that is where this version really shines. Some familiarity with the Old and New Testament is also mandatory. My criticism for this translation is limited to a general sense that the translator may have tried too hard to make this version "politically correct" and inoffensive. Fundamentalists from other faiths will certainly see things to disagree with. Generally, I would encourage Evangelical Christians and Orthodox Jews to be less paranoid about the text of the Qur'an - you will find a whole lot more in here that you would actually agree with than you might imagine. Demons will not invade your homes, churches, or schools if you order this book. Still, I see the Qur'an as more of a political manifesto, than a spiritual guide. I wanted to know more about the world I lived in - not because I wanted to convert. Abrahamic religious factions have been cutting each other's throats for thousands of years - perhaps it is time to try to understand each other. - kelsieReviewed in the United States on 16 August 2006
Good all around
I own multiple translations of the Qur'an, including those by N.J. Dawood, J.M. Rodwell, A. Yusuf Ali, Muhammad Asad, and Thomas Cleary. Each has its strong and weak points (for example: Dawood's is clear and readable, but heavily edited and incomplete). This translation strikes a fine balance in terms of both the translated text and the features accompanying it.
Abdel Haleem's translation is, even more than N.J. Dawood's, a preservation of the thunder and power of the original. His work is full of startling immediacy. A large reason for this effect is the language Haleem employs in his translation. Unlike other translations that seek to place the Qur'an in a King James idiom (Rodwell, Ali, Pickthall), Haleem opts for more contemporary usage and sentence structure. This means that, in some part, the poetic feel of the original Arabic is lost. However, as a useful work for study of the text, Haleem's translation is easily accessible.
He provides short introductions for each surah containing information on where that surah was revealed along with key background information on its content. Discreet notes throughout guide the reader through difficult historical allusions and religious concepts.
Haleem also provides a comprehensive introduction that covers the basics: what Islam is and what the Qur'an is, but also finds time to discuss Islamic-Christian relations in the Qur'an and the line of English translations leading up to Haleem's. The introduction also tackles contemporary issues of interpretation, such as the infamous 'Verse of the Sword,' demonstrating how these issues can be resolved in translations.
Haleem's work is a fine all-around volume, suitable for anyone approaching the Qur'an for the first time or continuing a deeper study of the book. - eyereedReviewed in the United States on 24 March 2015
and overall enjoyment of the work
Before I write my review, I first want to point out that I personally am not a religious person, and my review is coming from the perspective of someone who enjoys learning about other cultures, and overall enjoyment of the work. I am not writing this to offend anyone or attack anyone’s beliefs. The first thing I have to say about The Qur’an is it is a very tedious and repetitive read. I personally feel that a big portion of this book could be shrunk down into about 5 chapters. Believe in God, do not believe in any other Gods, follow God, or burn in Hell. That is what most of The Qur'an repeats over and over in various ways. With that said, I was actually surprised (having no prior knowledge of Islam outside of mainstream media) to find Noah, Moses, and even Jesus appearing here. But these stories will be repeated over and over, and that sums up my main issue with the work. I actually do feel that the story of Jesus makes much more sense here than it does in the New Testament of The Bible. God is God, he does not need to create himself to die for yours sins, for he tells you what not to do, and you do not do it, end of story. Why Christians do not agree with this point, I will have to find out with further reading and research elsewhere. I have to say though, that to me, Muslims make a very valid point here, for if God is all powerful, all knowing, and created everything, it does not make any sense at all for him to do anything for mankind. I also found it fascinating how much of The Qur’an is taken out of context to further extremist agendas, when its teachings are actually pretty peaceful. I did find the work a little sexist, but the same can be said for pretty much any work written from that time period. I found the later chapters, or Surahs, much more interesting to read because they leave behind the repetition from all the prior chapters. My personal favorite is “The Backbiter,” sura 104. Anyway, I give The Qur’an a 2 out of 5 star rating. I learned a decent amount, but I would never want to push through it again. I would recommend everyone, regardless of beliefs, read it at least once just to at least learn about another culture.
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Many high rated global reviews. How do you evaluate?
세진님, 공유해주신 자료를 바탕으로 <옥스퍼드 세계 고전 시리즈>의 <코란>(M.A.S. 압델 할림 번역)에 대한 평가를 정리해 보았습니다. 이 책은 아마존에서 7,168개의 글로벌 평점 중 별점 4.7점을 기록하며 '이슬람 교재' 분야 베스트셀러 1위를 차지하고 있습니다.
+2
긍정적 평가의 핵심: 현대적 가독성과 접근성
많은 독자가 이 번역본의 최대 강점으로 현대적인 언어 사용을 꼽습니다.
+1
쉬운 이해: 고어(Archaisms)나 난해한 표현을 피하고 현대 영어 구어체를 사용하여, 아랍어에 능숙하지 않은 초보자나 비무슬림도 쉽게 읽을 수 있다는 평이 압도적입니다.
+3
흐름의 개선: 절 번호를 작은 위첨자로 처리하고 문단 나누기와 문장 부호를 추가하여, 독서의 흐름이 끊기지 않고 소설처럼 읽힌다는 점이 높게 평가받습니다.
+2
유용한 부가 기능: 각 장(수라)의 서두에 제공되는 역사적 배경 설명과 지리적·역사적 참조를 돕는 각주가 내용 이해에 큰 도움이 된다는 의견이 많습니다.
+2
비판적 시각: 학술적 정밀도와 중립성 논란
높은 평점 속에서도 학술적인 관점이나 개인적인 성향에 따른 비판적 의견도 존재합니다.
+1
상호텍스트성 부족: 한 평론가는 번역자가 동일한 아랍어 구절을 문맥에 따라 다르게 번역함으로써 코란 특유의 상호텍스트성(Intertextuality)을 훼손했다고 지적합니다.
+2
과도한 현대화: 원문인 아랍어 코란은 고어체적이고 독특한 문학적 양식을 지니고 있는데, 이를 지나치게 단순한 현대 영어로 번역한 것은 원문의 힘과 정신을 잃게 만든 것이라는 비판이 있습니다.
+1
정치적 올바름 논란: 일부 독자는 번역자가 현대의 타 종교 간 갈등이나 극단주의 담론을 의식하여 '까다로운 구절'들을 지나치게 완화하거나 중립적으로 보이게끔 의도적으로 번역했다고 느끼기도 합니다.
+1
요약 및 제언
이 책은 코란을 처음 접하는 독자나 현대적인 감각으로 내용을 파악하고자 하는 분들에게 최고의 입문서로 평가받습니다. 특히 세진님처럼 다양한 국가에서 거주하며 세계 시민으로서의 정체성을 가진 분들에게는, 이슬람의 핵심 경전을 현대적이고 보편적인 시각에서 이해할 수 있는 좋은 도구가 될 것입니다. 다만, 원문의 문학적 깊이나 엄격한 학술적 대조를 중시하신다면 다른 번역본과 함께 비교하며 읽으시는 것이 더 통찰력 있는 독서가 될 것으로 보입니다.
+4
이 번역본의 특징적인 편집 방식인 위첨자 절 표시가 세진님의 독서 경험에 긍정적인 영향을 줄 것 같나요, 아니면 오히려 흐름을 방해할 것 같나요?
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The very high ratings of M.A.S. Abdel Haleem’s <The Qur’an> (Oxford World’s Classics) are understandable, but they need to be interpreted carefully.
This edition shows 4.7/5 from 7,168 global ratings, with 84% giving 5 stars . That is unusually strong for a scripture translation, and the reason is not simply “religious devotion.” It reflects a real editorial achievement.
My evaluation:
<1. Why it is so highly rated>
The strongest praise is consistent across Muslim and non-Muslim readers:
① <Readable modern English>
Unlike Yusuf Ali, Pickthall, or older “King James style” translations, Haleem avoids archaic English (“thee,” “thou,” etc.) and writes in contemporary prose.
This matters enormously because the Qur’an is already structurally difficult for English readers. Haleem makes it readable without making it childish.
Many reviewers repeatedly say:
“easy to understand,”
“modern English,”
“clear flow,”
“first time I could finish the Qur’an.”
This is probably the main reason for the high rating.
② <Contextual footnotes and introductions>
Each surah includes short introductions, and the footnotes explain historical references, Arabic nuances, and interpretive issues.
This is crucial because the Qur’an often assumes prior knowledge and moves without narrative continuity.
Without notes, many readers misunderstand the text badly.
Oxford also highlights this as a major feature: notes, cross-references, history of revelation, and interpretation issues including militancy, women, and intolerance .
③ <Good balance between academic and devotional reading>
This edition is respected both by ordinary Muslim readers and by university readers.
That balance is rare.
Some translations are too devotional.
Some are too academic and dry.
Haleem sits in the middle.
④ <Translator credibility>
Abdel Haleem memorized the Qur’an from childhood, studied at al-Azhar and Cambridge, and taught Islamic Studies in London for decades .
This gives confidence from both traditional and academic readers.
That matters.
<2. The important criticism>
However, “best” is too strong if used absolutely.
There are serious criticisms.
① <It is interpretive, not neutral>
No translation of the Qur’an is neutral.
Arabic Qur’anic language is extremely compressed and layered.
Haleem often chooses “clarity” over literal ambiguity.
That helps beginners—but it also means interpretation is already built into the English.
Some reviewers specifically criticize him for “softening” difficult verses or smoothing theological tensions.
For example:
whether anti-Christian verses refer mainly to pagans,
how warfare verses are framed,
whether “say not three” becomes “Do not speak of a Trinity.”
These are not small matters.
They shape theology.
② <Loss of Qur’anic rhetorical force>
Some Arabic specialists argue that Haleem sacrifices the fire, strangeness, and majesty of Qur’anic Arabic by making it too smooth.
One reviewer says:
“the fire and spirit of the original is totally lost.”
This criticism is serious.
The Qur’an in Arabic is not “easy prose.”
It is powerful, abrupt, and sometimes intentionally difficult.
Smooth English may improve access but reduce sacred intensity.
③ <For deep study, one translation is never enough>
Serious readers usually compare:
Haleem
Muhammad Asad
Pickthall
Study Quran
sometimes Arberry
rather than trusting one alone.
This is the better method.
<3. My honest judgment>
For a first serious reading in English:
<Yes — Haleem is one of the best starting points.>
Probably the best modern entry translation.
Especially for:
non-Muslims,
comparative religion readers,
Christians studying Islam,
general intellectual readers.
But for theological precision:
<No — it should not be your only translation.>
It should be read beside others.
I would place it like this:
<Best first reading> → Haleem
<Best classical/literal comparison> → Pickthall / Arberry
<Best philosophical commentary> → Muhammad Asad
<Best encyclopedic study> → The Study Quran
<4. My recommendation for you>
Given your style—comparative religion, Judaism–Christianity–Islam structure, philosophical reading—
I would recommend:
① Read Haleem first for flow
② Compare key disputed passages with Muhammad Asad
③ Use The Study Quran for difficult theological passages
That combination is much stronger than relying on one translation.
<Final one-line verdict> <Excellent as a doorway. Insufficient as a final authority.>
That is the fairest evaluation.
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