The Qur'an (text only) Reissue edition by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem

by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem

The Qur'an (Oxford World's Classics) [Paperback] M. A. S. Abdel Haleem (Translator)

Genres: Islam, Religion

Paperback

Published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Serena Rahhal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely my favourite plain-English translation that I've read so far. It's always interesting for me to see what theme different translators zero in on; for Abdel-Haleem, I think it is tawhid (monotheism). You can tell he's a more philosophically-minded translator and his rendering of the sections about the Islamic concept of God and the monotheist "argument" are very clear and easy to follow.

This is a well-researched translation that is clearly informed by other popular translations. It borrowed several concepts from the Muhammad Asad translation, my personal favourite, which obviously I was pleased to see. I thought it did an interesting job in dialoguing with those texts to provide an accessible and clear translation. The language is sometimes very beautiful as well, although Abdel-Haleem prioritized clarity over lyricism.

My biggest criticism of this translation is that it comes across as somewhat sexist. The passages about women were, in my opinion, very bluntly interpreted without providing much context. It had me raising my eyebrows in ways that other translations I've read didn't.

With that caveat, this is a translation I would recommend.

[OZGE · Rating 5 out of 5]

i haven’t finished it but ITS LITERALLY THE QURAN so it’s OBVIOUSLY the best book to read
and it really calms u after a hectic day so that’s nice too

[Nemo Oblomov · Rating 2 out of 5]

How to rate the Qu’ran haha, I mean it feels wrong just to write haha after the title. I’m interested in ideas and books that people live and die for, so I figured I had to read this at some point. Felt easier than I thought it would be, not only because it is very repetitive. Partly because I’ve read the bible several times and thought it would be a similar challenge.
I’d say it’s good to have read the bible first, I think Muhammad would agree. But yeah very repetitive and not as filled with metaphors and stories and interesting revelations as the bible, not to just be comparing them… and not to shorten the perfect and eternal word of God as spoken to Muhammad but basically : do good and go to heaven or do bad and go to hell.
And then some specific rules about house holding. I’m sure the book was good for many reasons when it came out and helped grow a successful movement, i would’ve joined back then, maybe not now. And maybe I’m not really welcome now either, the book suggests it’s for the Arab people, and Arabic speaking people now might even suggest that me reading the book in English discounts me as a reader of the Quran.

[vina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Abdel Haleem’s translation of the Qur’an has been an eye-opening experience for me. It offers a clarity and flow that feels both respectful of the original text and deeply accessible to modern readers. What I appreciate most is how it brings fresh perspective to verses I thought I already knew. The language feels natural yet elegant, making it easier to reflect on the meaning rather than getting lost in complex phrasing. Through this translation, I’ve been able to engage with the Qur’an on a deeper level, noticing subtleties and themes that hadn’t stood out to me before.

Overall, it’s not just a translation, but an invitation to truly understand and think critically about the message of the Qur’an. I’ve learned so much and feel grateful for the new insights this translation has opened up for me. Highly recommended for anyone looking to read the Qur’an in English. Whether you’re revisiting familiar passages or exploring them for the first time.

[Cem Vural · Rating 2 out of 5]

The translation is good and clear, but why does he have to be so apologetic in all his notes. I'd suggest reading a version with notes of a secular perspective instead of this one. He tries too hard at times, also uses as source theological material which has no historical merit.
Those familiar with the Bible would recognize inconsistencies, but Abdel Haleem deliberately tries to cover up those issues by either not commenting or miscommenting on them.
He tries to convince the reader (or sometimes takes for granted that the reader agrees) that the literature at hand is the word of God.
I would appreciate some academic honesty, but it is hard to find when dealing with Islamic literature.
Still, it is worth a read if you are already familiar with Abrahamic religions, and have a critical eye.

[Tim Hayman · Rating 4 out of 5]

One should read this to know what the scripture says. Having familiarity with the Old Testament is helpful, as together the books paint a picture of the most common religions on the planet. Beyond that, one should read this to find what speaks to the reader.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for Honors class.

[Evita C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great English translation! Easy to read.

[Noor Jehan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time completing the whole Qur’an in English. It’s an easily digestible translation, although it would have been nice to get a few more interpretations and context to some verses

[Daniel Regan]

Fun to read and learn more about one of the most influential religions on the planet