Definition

Proper noun The sacred scripture of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the verbatim word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years, beginning in 610 CE. It is the foundational religious text for Islamic faith, law, and practice.

Usage

The term "al-Qur'an" is used to refer specifically to the holy book of Islam. It is often preceded by the definite article "the". * Muslims recite passages from the al-Qur'an during their daily prayers. * The teachings of al-Qur'an guide the lives of believers. * Scholars study the historical context of the revelations in the Qur'an.

Advanced Usage

• The Holy Qur'an: A common honorific form used to show reverence.
• Qur'anic (adjective): Pertaining to or derived from the Qur'an.
  • She studies Qur'anic Arabic and its interpretations.

Variants and Related Words

• Quran, Koran: Common alternative transliterations of the Arabic name into the English alphabet. "Al-Qur'an" is a transliteration that includes the definite article "al-".
• Recitation, Revelation: Core concepts associated with the Qur'an, as it is meant to be recited and is considered a revealed text.

Synonyms

• Islamic Scripture
• The Book (a term often used within the text and by Muslims)
• The Revelation

Notes on Meaning

While "al-Qur'an" is the primary name, it is frequently referred to in English simply as "the Quran" or "the Koran". It is distinct from other Islamic texts such as the Hadith (records of the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad).

Noun

1. the sacred writings of Islam revealed by God to the prophet Muhammad during his life at Mecca and Medina