Basic Information on the Quran

Muslims believe the Quran was revealed to Muhammad by the angel Gabriel.

Muhammad compiled the Quran in the 7th century, and the text forms the basis of Islamic teaching and faith. The word Quran is derived from the Arabic word Qara'a, which means "the reading," or "the recitation."

History

According to the e-book, "Who Wrote the Quran?" uncertainty exists regarding the author of the Quran. Many Muslims believe that Muhammad himself wrote the text. Some Muslims believe that someone else taught Muhammad the information. Others believe that the Quran is the unadulterated word of Allah and has no earthly author.

Considerations

Many stories from the Old and New Testaments are referenced in the Quran. The Islam Guide explains that Muslims respect and honor Jesus as a great messenger. They also honor and believe in Moses, Abraham, Ishmael and other Old Testament prophets. Muhammad is honored as the last of God's great prophets.

Features

The Quran consists of 114 sections known as suras. The suras are organized by the length of the chapter rather than in a chronological or thematic order. Although the text acknowledges Judeo-Christian prophets in detail, it distinguishes itself from Christianity by also recognizing exclusively Arabic prophets such as Salih and Luqman.

References

• New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia: Koran
• Memphis Dawah E-Books: Who Wrote the Quran?
• Islam Guide: A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam, Muslims and the Quran
• The Atlantic Online: "For People Who Understand"