1st Edition

Al-Ghazali and the Qur'an One Book, Many Meanings

By Martin Whittingham Copyright 2007
    168 Pages
    by Routledge

    168 Pages
    by Routledge

    This book is the first of its kind to focus entirely on the Qur’anic interpretation of Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (1058-1111), a towering figure of Sunni Islam. Martin Whittingham explores both al-Ghazali’s hermeneutical methods and his interpretations of particular Quranic texts, and covers al-Ghazali’s mystical, legal and theological concerns.

    Divided into two parts:

    • part one examines al-Ghazali’s legal and Sufi theoretical discussions
    • part two asks how these theories relate to his practice, analysing the only three of al-Ghazali’s works which are centrally concerned with interpreting particular Qur’anic passages: Jawahir al-Qur’an (The Jewels of the Qur’an); Al-Qist as al-mustaqim (The Correct Balance); and Mishkat al-anwar (The Niche for Lights).

    Providing a new point of access to the works of al-Ghazali, this book will be welcomed by scholars and students of Islamic studies, religious studies, hermeneutics, and anyone interested in how Muslims understand the Qur’an.

    Part 1: Al-Ghazali’s Hermeneutical Theories  1. ‘The Activities of This World’ (I): Fays Al Al-Tafriqa Bayna’l-Islam Wa’l-Zandaqa  2. ‘The Activities of This World’ (Ii): Al Mustas Fa Min ‘Ilm Ul  3. ‘The Activities of the Hereafter’: Four Texts Showing Sufi Influence  Part 2: Al-Ghazali’s Hermeneutical Practice  4. ‘Sailing to the Midst of the Fathomless Ocean’: Jawahir Al-Qur’an  5. ‘Syllogisms as the Steps to Heaven’: Al-Qist Al-Mustaqim  6. ‘The Coherence of the Philosopher’: Mishkat Al-Anwar

     

     

     

    Biography

    Martin Whittingham

    'This is undoubtedly a well-researched book which marks a milestone in the thriving study of al-Ghazali and, more importantly, in the study of classical Muslim hermeneutics.' - SHURUQ NAGUIB, University of Lancaster, UK - Journal of Semitic Studies, vol 54, no 2, August 2009