A Ray of the Qurn: Selected Essays of Sayyed Mahmoud Taleghani, Volume IV

The main theme of A Ray of the Qurn is reflected in the authors unique and all-encompassing approach of using root definitions of key Quranic terms as the basis for his illumination of the Qurn. Talghanis method mirrors his thesis that drawing on the light of the Qurn along with authentic prophetic tradition, sound theological argument, and a grasp of ethics, science, and human history reveals the observable interconnectedness in nature that exists on an individual and societal level and is constantly evolving as unified creation of one Creator. The relationship of humanity to the rest of creation as discussed in A Ray of the Qurn elicits individual and societal human responsibility to know, care for, preserve, and promote both human society and all of nature in a just, fair, and morally balanced manner. Taleghani holds that the creator of the physical world and its human inhabitants lovingly and justly offers a blueprint and manual for action, and central to that is the Qurn. Nonetheless, according to Taleghanis own humble estimation, his work should not be described as an interpretation, explanation or explication but an effort to allow glimpses of divine guidance to shine on minds and hearts. A Ray of the Qurn will shift the academic discourse around studies of Islam and the Qurn, including within Islamic institutions. It offers a compelling and unique approach to theology, comparative religious studies, ethics, environmental studies, and Arabic studies.