What the Qur'an Meant: And Why It Matters

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Wills (What Jesus Meant) discusses the problems caused by being ignorant about Islam, addressing this issue by focusing on the substance and character of the Qur'an. Wills writes for the general reader, showing that when interpreted in its historical context, the Qur'an is shown to be a book of peace. While Muslim extremists have used this sacred work to justify violence, the same has taken place in Christianity, as when religious leaders and others used the Bible to provide support for the Crusades. The book has two parts, with the first one addressing how secular, religious, and fear-based ignorance can be costly, particularly as shown through the U.S. government's response to 9/11 and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The second part, which comprises the majority of the text, provides an introduction to the Qur'an. Topics such as Islamic prophets, zeal (Jihad), the right path (Shari'ah), commerce, and the role or women in Islam are discussed. Wills believes that a fair reading of the Qur'an helps correct false ideas about it and about Islam in general.