This volume offers a compact introduction and reader's guide for anyone, non-Muslim or Muslim, who wants to know how to approach, read, and understand the text of the Qur'an. Using a chronological reading of the text according to the conclusions of modern scholarship, Carl Ernst offers a non-theological approach that treats the Qur'an as a historical text that unfolded over time, in dialogue with its audience, during the career of the Prophet Muhammad. Ernst explores the history of the text and its development in the Meccan and Medinan periods; and the Qur'an's important structural features. This volume not only summarizes historical and literary issues but also engages with the religious and political context of understanding the Qur'an today.

No digital fulltext is available (although this link to Hathitrust.org allows for limited searching only). U-M and MSU both have print volumes under the call numbers above. Be sure you stop by a WSU Circ Desk and get an MLRT Form before your visit.