This book introduces students to the Qur'anic text by relating it to the life of Prophet Muhammad and the development of the first Muslim community in the early seventh century. An interesting and relevant approach that will help the uninitiated make sense of this extremely complex text. - Abdullah Saeed, Sultan of Oman Professor of Arab and Islamic Studies and Director of the Asia Institute, University of Melbourne, Australia Bennett seeks to elucidate, de-perplex and illuminate Muslim scripture, but also to help strangers acquire an appreciate and even love for it. He proceeds partly by highlighting some particularly powerful passages and metaphors, but also by placing the verses into their historical, cultural, religious, and political contexts. His introduction looks at the Qur'an, the Prophet, and the community. Then chapters cover the Qur'an on God, humanity, and itself; the community takes shape; and the community consolidates. A conclusion explores the Qur'an in Muslim life and practice. -Eithne O'Leyne, BOOK NEWS, Inc. This is a carefully conceived work, sensitive to Muslim perspectives on the Qur'an, although as a matter of principle Bennett always offers his independent judgment when questions of interpretation are involved. This volume can be commended especially to newcomers to the Qur'an and to those who have found it a difficult text. Summing Up Highly recommended. Academic and public libraries, lower-level undergraduates through faculty/researchers, general readers. -M. Swartz, CHOICE, September 2010