The Qur’an | A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem

The Qur’an — A Timeless Guide for Every Generation

In a world filled with noise and uncertainty, The Qur’an remains what it has always been — a source of clarity, stillness, and profound direction. This widely respected English translation invites readers to sit with the message of Islam in a way that feels honest, accessible, and deeply human. As the foundational Islamic scripture, it speaks to faith, moral character, and our shared journey toward accountability in the hereafter. Whether you come to it for the first time or return to it after years, its guidance meets you exactly where you are.

What Makes The Qur’an | A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem Unique

• Translated by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem, one of the most respected contemporary scholars of Qur’anic studies
• Written in clear, flowing modern English — no archaic phrasing, no unnecessary distance between you and the meaning
• Organized in connected paragraphs that allow ideas and themes to breathe and build naturally
• Includes thoughtful explanatory notes drawn from classical Tafsir tradition
• Grounded in the richness of Classical Arabic, faithfully rendered as a careful Arabic to English translation
• Published by Oxford University Press — a mark of rigorous scholarly integrity

Key Themes and Knowledge Within The Qur’an | A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem

At the heart of this translation lies the central message of Tawhid — the oneness of Allah — alongside the concepts of Risalah (prophethood) and Wahy (divine revelation). Page after page, readers encounter powerful reflections on moral responsibility, justice, and the reality of the life to come. The wisdom of both Makki and Madani revelations unfolds here, rooted in Islamic theology and illuminated by the spiritual values of Taqwa and Dhikr — the very qualities that shape a life lived with intention and awareness.

Author’s Scholarly Authority

M. A. S. Abdel Haleem brings a rare combination of depth and clarity to this work. Trained at both Al-Azhar — the heart of classical Islamic learning — and Cambridge, he bridges two worlds with remarkable grace. His translation is faithful to traditional scholarship while remaining genuinely readable for a modern audience. You are not just reading a translated text; you are benefiting from decades of careful, devoted engagement with the Qur’anic message.

Who Should Read This Book

• Readers who have long wanted a Qur’an translation they can actually sit with and understand
• Students building their foundation in Islamic guidance and core teachings
• Non-Arabic speakers who want to engage with the message directly and meaningfully
• Beginners looking for a translation that reads naturally without feeling like a textbook
• Anyone — Muslim or not — drawn to questions of faith, ethics, and what it means to live a purposeful life

Practical Benefits for the Reader

• Develop a genuine, personal connection with the message of The Qur’an
• Understand foundational concepts — Surah, Ayah, and more — with ease and confidence
• Pause, reflect, and return: this is a book built for contemplation, not just information
• Keep it close as a trusted companion for daily reading, quiet mornings, or moments of spiritual need
• Strengthen your awareness of faith, accountability, and the qualities that shape true character

Edition and Publication Quality

This edition, published by Oxford University Press, is available in both hardcover (ISBN: 9780192805485) and paperback (ISBN: 9780199535958). With 512 pages of carefully considered content, it is built for the long term — for a shelf within reach, for a desk used often, for a household where this book will matter. A worthy addition to any personal library or academic collection.

Continue Your Spiritual Journey

If this translation stirs something in you — a desire to go deeper, to understand more of what it truly means to believe — you may find Staggering Imaan a meaningful next step. It is a complementary read focused on reflection, inner renewal, and the strengthening of Imaan from the inside out.

A Verse to Reflect Upon

“And We have certainly made the Qur’an easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?” (Qur’an 54:17)

“A Book whereof the Verses are explained in detail – a Qur’ân in Arabic for people who know.” (Quran 41:3)

“The revelation of this Book (the Qur’ân) is from Allâh, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” (Quran 39:1)

Tâ-Sîn. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’ân, and none but Allâh (Alone) knows their meanings]. These are the Verses of the Qur’an, and (it is) a Book (that makes things) clear: (Quran 27:1)

“And thus We have sent down the Book (i.e. this Qur’an) to you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), and those whom We gave the Scripture [the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) aforetime] believe therein as also do some of these (who are present with you now like ‘Abdullâh bin Salâm)¹ and none but the disbelievers reject Our Ayât [(proofs, signs, verses, lessons, etc.,) and deny Our Oneness of Lordship and Our Oneness of worship and Our Oneness of Our Names and Qualities: i.e. Islâmic Monotheism].” (Quran 29:47)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a word-for-word translation?

No — and that is intentional. This translation prioritises conveying meaning faithfully in clear, natural English, rather than a rigid literal rendering that can sometimes obscure understanding.

Is The Qur’an | A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. It is widely appreciated precisely because it reads so naturally. If you are coming to the Qur’an for the first time, this is an excellent place to begin.

Does The Qur’an | A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem include commentary?

It includes concise explanatory notes informed by classical scholarship. It is not a full Tafsir, but the notes offer genuine context and are well-suited for independent study and reflection.

Is Arabic text included?

This edition is focused on the English translation and does not include the full Arabic text alongside it.

Can non-Muslims read this book?

Yes, warmly and without reservation. This translation is a clear and respectful entry point for anyone who wishes to understand what the Qur’an actually says — its message, its values, and its enduring relevance.