The mystery of the crucifixion : the attempt to kill Jesus in the Qur'an, the New Testament, and historical sources

Numerous books and articles have been published about the crucifixion. Western studies have focused on the Christian narratives and historical sources, but most of them have completely ignored the Qur’an, which denies that Jesus was crucified. Muslim scholars have also studied the Qur’an’s account but mostly in exegetical works that focused on the Qur’an’s version of the story, with some comparative references to the Gospel narratives but almost no consideration of historical sources. This book takes a new approach by considering the crucifixion in the Qur’an, Christian writings, and early historical sources. It discusses the serious flaws in the Gospel accounts and the unreliability of the few non-scriptural sources. The book also challenges common modern alternative readings of the history of that event. One new contribution that this study makes to the literature of the crucifixion is its new interpretation of all related Qur’anic verses. It also presents a coherent explanation of the development of the fictitious story of the crucifixion of Jesus. The theology of the cross that Paul developed is also examined. The book shows that the doctrine of the atonement conflicts with the Gospel teachings and is refuted in the Qur’an. Detailed, yet easy-to-read and highly enjoyable, this book is intended for both the general reader and the expert. This thought-provoking study is for anyone interested in the crucifixion in the Qur’an, New Testament, and historical sources. Those interested in comparative studies of the Qur’an and the Bible will find this book highly informative. No specialist knowledge is required for reading the book. Numerous books and articles have been published about the crucifixion. Western studies have focused on the Christian narratives and historical sources, but most of them have completely ignored the Qur'an, which denies that Jesus was crucified. Muslim scholars have also studied the Qur'an's account but mostly in exegetical works that focused on the Qur'an's version of the story, with some comparative references to the Gospel narratives but almost no consideration of historical sources. This book takes a new approach by considering the crucifixion in the Qur'an, Christian writings, and early historical sources. It discusses the serious flaws in the Gospel accounts and the unreliability of the few non-scriptural sources. The book also challenges common modern alternative readings of the history of that event. One new contribution that this study makes to the literature of the crucifixion is its new interpretation of all related Qur'anic verses. It also contributes a coherence explanation of the development of the fictitious story of the crucifixion of Jesus. The theology of the cross that Paul developed is also examined. The book shows that the doctrine of the atonement conflicts with the Gospel teachings and is refuted in the Qur'an. Detailed, yet easy-to-read and highly enjoyable, this book is intended for both the general reader and the expert. This thought-provoking study is for anyone interested in the crucifixion in the Qur'an, New Testament, and historical sources. Those interested in comparative studies of the Qur'an and the Bible will find this book highly informative. No specialist knowledge is required for reading the book. The Qur'anic sura (chapter) of Joseph deals almost entirely with the story of this noble Prophet, his brothers, and their father Prophet Jacob. Since the revelation of the Qur'an fourteen centuries ago, there have been numerous attempts to interpret this sura. The present study is a genuinely new look at the sura - including careful examination of the historical background of its story and detailed comparison with the corresponding Biblical narrative. While referring to interpretations from classical exegetical works, this book offers new insights into the meanings and magnificence of this Qur'anic text. The author is not only concerned with analysing the individual verses; he is equally focused on showing how various verses are interrelated, explicitly and subtly, to form a unique textual unit. He shows particular interest in unveiling subtle references and meanings that are often overlooked or missed by exegetes. Through this comprehensive study, the author elucidates why the Qur'an has always been firmly believed to be a unique book that could have only been inspired by Allah. Thorough and scholarly but easy to read, this book is intended for both the general reader and the specialist. Whether you are a scholar of Qur'anic exegesis (tafsir), have general interest in Qur'anic studies and the Qur'anic story of Prophet Joseph, or interested in comparative religion, you will find this in-depth and detailed study of the sura of Joseph informative, enlightening, and thought-provoking. No knowledge of Arabic or the Qur'an is required for reading the book. Preface History and Prophet Joseph in the Qur’an, and Qur’anic Exegesis The Beginning of the Sura of Joseph Prophet Joseph in the House of His Father Prophet Jacob Prophet Joseph on His Way to Egypt Prophet Joseph in Egypt Prophet Joseph in Prison Prophet Joseph in Power Prophet Joseph Reunites With His Brother Benjamin Prophet Joseph Reunites With His Father Prophet Jacob The Epilogue of the Sūra of Joseph Prophet Joseph in History Prophet Joseph in the Qur’an and the Old Testament Epilogue Appendix A. Transliteration Conventions Appendix B. Qur’anic Terms and Names Notes General Index Index of Qur’anic Verses The present study is a genuinely new look at the Qur'anic sura (chapter) of Joseph - including careful examination of the historical background of its story and detailed comparison with the corresponding Biblical narrative.