The Qurʼanic narrative : the journey of life as told in the Qurʼan / Louay M. Safi.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Pt. I. Spirit -- 1. Origin and Purpose -- 2. Divine Presence -- 3. Prophets of Transcendence -- 4. Engaging Religiosity -- 5. Trust in God -- Pt. II. Faith -- 6. Revealed Guidance -- 7. Knowledge and Wisdom -- 8. Power of Choice -- 9. Faith and Infidelity -- 10. Calamity and Patience -- Pt. III. Inner Peace -- 11. Gratitude and Praise -- 12. Reconnecting through Prayer -- 13. Moral Discipline and Fasting -- 14. Purification through Giving -- 15. Life's Ultimate Spiritual Journey -- Pt. IV. Community Peace -- 16. Integrity -- 17. Humility and Pride -- 18. Moderation and Excess -- 19. Jihad for Peace -- 20. Shari'ah Principles -- Pt. V. Universal Peace -- 21. Recognition and Equal Dignity -- 22. Responsible Freedom -- 23. Justice Is Paramount -- 24. Faith in Interfaith -- 25. Covenants and the Social Contract -- Pt. VI. Eternal Peace -- 26. Life and Death -- 27. Salvation and Divine Judgment -- Epilogue: Readers and Travelers -- App. A. Surahs of the Qur'an -- App. B. Chronology of the Qur'anic Surahs -- App. C. Prophets and Revealed Books in the Qur'an -- App. D. Interpreting and Translating the Qur'an.

Recent arguments surrounding the meaning and message of the Qur'an often focus on whether or not it supports or exhorts violence. Such arguments, though, tend to ignore the fact that the scriptures found there speak to various aspects of life and living. The Qur'anic Narrative attempts to show that the Qur'an has an inspiring message that aims to enlighten the path of those who embrace it, guiding them through the journey of life. Exploring various themes related to everyday experiences, Safi reveals the meaning of the Qur'an with regard to issues of spirit, faith, charity, patience, fasting, salvation, pride, charity, moral discipline, and other relevant topics.