An essential introductory text for the study of the Qur'an, its content, and its place in Muslim society.

• An insightful and authoritative introduction to the book at the heart of Muslim life, written by a well-known Islamic scholar
• Examines the doctrines contained in the Qur'an, providing a comprehensive explanation of their significance to individual Muslims and the societies in which they live
• Surveys the key themes of the Qur'an, its most significant historical interpretations, and some of the most significant figures who transmitted and taught the sacred scripture over the centuries
• Considers the influence of the Qur'an on all major aspects of Muslim society, including personal relationships, popular culture, law, art and architecture, political movements, science, and literature
• Helps the reader to understand the Qur'an, while throwing a much-needed light on what it means to be a Muslim.

Ingrid Mattson is a Professor at the Macdonald Center for Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations at Hartford Seminary. She has published numerous articles on Islam and is on the editorial board of The Muslim World. She travels and lecturers widely and is President of the Islamic Society of North America.