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.

About the Author
Edinburgh University, UK

Reviews

'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

"By surveying the great variety of approaches found in these works, Whittingham demonstrates that al-Ghazali had neither a consistent hermeneutical theory nor a consistent hermeneutical practice. The great virtue of this book is that examining al-Ghazali's thought through the lens of his Qur'anic hermeneutics demonstrates the inconsistencies in his writings over a uniquely broad array of issues in an accessible way." - Ken Garden, Tufts University; Journal of the American Oriental Society, 130.1 (2010)

Book Information
ISBN 9780415663946
Author Martin Whittingham
Format Paperback
Page Count 168
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 330g