Anthropology of the Qur’an

<p>This book presents an anthropological study of the Qur’an offering an unprecedented challenge to some of the epistemological and metaphysical assumptions of the <i>tawḥīdic</i> discourses. Combining primary textual materials and anthropological analysis this book examines transcendence as a core principle of the Qur’an uniquely signified in the divine name <i>al-Quddūs </i>(the Holy). It shows how the <i>tawḥīdic</i> representations of Allah constitute an inversion of this attribute; examines how this inversion has been conceived authorized and maintained; and demonstrates how it has affected Islamic thinking and practices especially as relates to authority. This book also explores how a return to the Qur’anic primacy of God’s otherness as <em>al-Qudd</em><em>ū</em><em>s</em> can influence Islamic thinking and practices moving forward. Therefore it will be highly useful to scholars of Islamic Studies philosophical theology Qur’anic studies political science ethics anthropology and religious studies.</p>