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Viewed from a strictly religious/philosophical standpoint, the Koran has to be considered a masterpiece, ranking with the Bible in terms of its influence. And if that is the only way you viewed the Koran, you would be able to appreciate it and understand it. But you might miss out on some of its poetic power.
Arthur John Arberry was the head of the Classics department at Cairo University and a professor of Arabic at Cambridge University. He also wrote numerous books on Islamic studies, particularly Islamic mysticism and poetry. The Koran Interpreted is the culmination of his work in Arabic, Islamic studies, mysticism and poetry, and the result is a translation which accurately captures both the meaning of the Koran and the rhythm and poetry that runs through it.
Long considered the definitive and most authoritative English version of the Koran, The Koran Interpreted is also resonant with the passion of a poet. Arberry has succeeded in translating the poetry of the Koran into clear and lyrical English, while still maintaining its religious meaning. English readers will come away with a truer understanding of the meaning of the Koran; lovers of poetry and language will seek the Koran as the masterpiece of Arabic poetry that it is.
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