The Holy Qur'an in Today's English

I enjoy the works of Yahya Emerick and was overjoyed when I saw that he had prepared a new translations of the Quran. The English of the translation is, however, flat and even annoying. He has employed contractions throughout in order to reflect the aural experience of the Arabic text. But this approach has led to an English translation that sounds like poor spoken English. The manner in which words can flow together in Arabic is part of the high literary tradition, but this is not the same for English literature. One would hardly use "I've" or "I'll" in high English literature, but this is exactly what Emerick has done. The result is text that, in my humble opinion, has very much compromised the majesty of the original Arabic. For the best rendering in classical English, I recommend Arberry, [[ASIN:0684825074 The Koran Interpreted: A Translation]]. For the best translation in a more modern idiom, I recommend Qara'i, [[ASIN:1904063179 Holy Qur'an: Translated by Ali Quli Qara'i "Phrase by Phrase English Translation"]].

Despite my criticisms of the translation itself, I would recommend that one purchase this book because the notes and appendices are very useful and informative. These may actually be the best notes of any Quran translation that I have come across (yes, better than those in Asad's [[ASIN:1904510353 The Message of the Qur'an: The full account of the revealed Arabic text accompanied by parallel transliteration (English and Arabic Edition)]]. The only reason that I have not given the notes themselves five stars is that the citations are not full enough for another person to follow up on them, such that another scholar cannot necessarily find the hadith (saying of the Prophet) to which he may be referring in a specific note.

Mr. Emerick takes the time to not only translate the text into modern english but to also provide a historical background information so that the reader has a context in which to understand the revalations.

Too often the Qur'an is taken out of context and used to promote the agenda of the person quoting the information(whether it be pro or con). This book should help provide a truer understanding of the Qur'an and the context of the guidance it provided and continues to provide.

This book is so informative. I have only read 1/3 of the book. I read it every morning and evening. I start reading the book and I have to make myself put it down. The history contained in the small notes that are included on each page are helpful in understanding the setting and time periods that inspired the holy writings. There are instances where the writer gives scriptures from the Bible for the reader to cross reference with the writings of Mohammad. I am a student of the Bible. I decided to read this book for many reasons. One basic reason was to understand the Muslim beliefs. Just as the Bible causes many people to have certain belief systems, the Holy Quran has also been an instrument in shaping belief systems and ideas for many persons. This book is interesting and very well written with an abundance of information. I would recommend it to all - regardless of your religious background.

I am a follower of Jesus. I wanted to read the sacred book of Muslims. However, I cannot read Arabic, so wanted a Qur'an in English. I have read about 100 pages. The footnotes are excellent and the English translation seems like it reflects the original as well as possible.

Very nice English, easy to understand for a non Arabic English reader. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a good ENglish Quran. THank you

Gave as a gift to a friend who is not Muslim. He found it very easy to read and understand. May he gain guidance from Allah for his effort.

Very readable translation. Easy to read and with helpful commentary. This translation made reading the Quran an enjoyable experience. Great for introducing non-Muslims to the Quran in an easy to read style.

Very readable translation. Easy to read and with helpful commentary. This translation made reading the Quran an enjoyable experience. Great for introducing non-Muslims to the Quran in an easy to read style.

This version of the Quran is so easy for me to understand. With other versions I could read it fine but the comprehension was just not there. I recommend this to any growing youth of today's generation so that they can easily comprehend the Quran.

I loved everything because its very simple to understand. definitely recommend. my 12 year old daughter understands perfectly. please buy, its sooo worth the 30 bucks. and Quran doesn't need a price:)