Al-Ghazali and the Qur'an: One book, many meanings is the first work to focus entirely on the Qur’anic interpretation of Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali (1058–1111), a towering figure of Sunni Islam. Martin Whittingham explores both Al-Ghazali’s hermeneutical methods and his interpretations of particular Qur’anic texts, and covers Al-Ghazali’s mystical, legal and theological concerns.
The book is divided into two parts. Part I examines Al-Ghazali’s legal and Sufi theoretical discussions. Part II asks how these theories relate to his practice, analysing the only three of Al-Ghazali’s works which are centrally concerned with interpreting particular Qur’anic passages: JawƗhir al-Qur’Ɨn (The Jewels of the Qur’an), al-mustaqim (The Correct Balance) and MishkƗt al-anwƗr (The Niche for Lights).
The book sets out systematically the nature of Al-Ghazali’s dependence in Mishkat al-anwƗr on Ibn SƯnƗ (Avicenna). In addition, it illuminates the complex interactions of Al-Ghazali’s mystical, legal and theological concerns. Tables are used to make as clear as possible Al-Ghazali’s schemes of interpretation.
Providing a new point of access to the works of Al-Ghazali, this book will be welcomed by scholars and students of Islamic studies, religious studies, hermeneutics and anyone interested in how Muslims understand the Qur’an.
Martin Whittingham is currently working with Muslim-Christian Links, based in Edinburgh.
