Meeting the ever increasing interest in Islam and Sufism, this book is the first comprehensive study of Sufi Qur'anic commentaries and includes translations of many writings previously unavailable in English. It examines the shared hermeneutical assumptions of Sufi writers and the diversity in style of Sufi commentaries. Some of the assumptions analyzed are:

* the Qur'an is a multi-layered and ambiguous text open to endless interpretation

* the knowledge of deeper meanings of the Qur'an is attainable by means other than transmitted interpretations and rational thought

* the self is dynamic, moving through states and stations which result in different interpretations at different times.

The styles of Sufi commentaries are explored, which range from philosophical musings to popular preaching to literary narrative and poetry. Other commentaries from the classical period are also investigated to provide context in understanding Sufi approaches and exegetical styles.

About the Author
Sarah Lawrence College, USA

Reviews

'This book will serve as an excellent introduction to this genre ... the author deserves congratulations on her great effort.' - The Muslim World Book Review

Kristin Zahra Sands' Sufi Commentaries on the Qur'an in Classical Islam is certainly one of these meaningful studies. On account of its clarity, exemplary textual fidelity and sound translations from the Arabic and Persian, this monograph will serve as an effective basis for further inquiries into Sufi Qur'anic exegesis. It is, therefore, a welcome contribution to the growing literature on Islamic mysticism.

- Mohammed Rustom, University of Toronto

'This book will serve as an excellent introduction to this genre ... the author deserves congratulations on her great effort.' - The Muslim World Book Review

Kristin Zahra Sands' Sufi Commentaries on the Qur'an in Classical Islam is certainly one of these meaningful studies. On account of its clarity, exemplary textual fidelity and sound translations from the Arabic and Persian, this monograph will serve as an effective basis for further inquiries into Sufi Qur'anic exegesis. It is, therefore, a welcome contribution to the growing literature on Islamic mysticism.

- Mohammed Rustom, University of Toronto

'Teachers of Islamic studies in theWest will surely welcome the publication of this valuable introduction to the principles and the practice of Sufi commentary on the Qur8:n. The book is well structured, written with clarity and simplicity, and the examples of exegesis presented are illustrative and illuminating. It renders this complex subject accessible to non-specialists and students of Islamic studies, while also providing some interesting insights for those who are already acquainted to some degree with Sufi exegesis' - Reza Shah-Kazemi, Institute of Ismaili Studies, London, Journal of Islamic Studies 2009

Book Information
ISBN 9780415483148
Author Kristin Sands
Format Paperback
Page Count 208
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 380g