Understanding the Koran: A Quick Christian Guide to the Muslim Holy Book

I bought this book in view of the latest global events involving radical Muslim groups. My intention was to try to understand why there is so much hatred, bloodshed and radical views that some claim are due to the Koran. I am the type of person that does not make an opinion unless I have some type of knowledge on the subject, nor do I like to take someone’s word because it is the way things are. I did learn a lot reading this book, especially about the interrelationship that happened between Mohammed and the Jewish and Christian population at the time. What happened? What went wrong? They seem to be good neighbors at the time. My humble opinion lies in the interpretation of the scriptures. There are non-aggressive pacifist Muslims that interpreted the Koran in a way and there are the radicals who read it in a different way. A similar situation happened with the Catholic Church in the middle ages. The inquisition is known to all of us, but human kind learned from these events. My only hope is that this radicalism does not take 700 years to realize that there are other ways to spread the word.

All Christians should read this book and then they will know why isis kills Christians on sight.

For all who are interested in a balanced, introductory study of issues related to the Quran and the claims of Islam, this is the book for you. Written by one of Muslim background, who grew up in the Middle East, but who subsequently earned a Ph.D. in New Testament studies at a highly acclaimed British university, this book brings a much needed perspective to the often murky debates between Muslims and Christians.Contrary to the statement in another review, the name "Mateen Elass" clearly indicates a Muslim family origin, as any who know Arabic and Islam will quickly attest.Though written particularly for Christians to help them understand the role and meaning of the Quran for Muslims (in comparison with the role and meaning of the Bible for Christians), this book is also being read with profit by Muslims. I personally know two Muslims who have read this book and subsequently become Christians, after being encouraged to think through the evidences presented.I would encourage all readers to consider objectively the material presented by the author, rather than be swayed in advance by any particular party line. Those who do will come away impressed by the irenic but bold, well-defended positions offered by an individual with much experience and expertise to back up his perspectives.

I found this to be an excellent introduction to Islam and the Koran. The author was raised as a Muslim and converted to Christianity. He seems very well-versed in the Koran and Islamic thinking, but does not gloss over the contradictions either within the Koran or between it and the Bible, and his Biblical thinking (to this non-expert but reasonably well-versed Christian) is sound. He explains the basis for militant Islam, but also contrasts it to the devout Allah-seeking Muslim faithfully following the Koran as a means to attain mercy.I read the Kindle version, but at 192 pages in hardcover copy, it is filled with information without being a heavy read. It is informative without being offensive to Muslims as he supports all of his statements with citations from the Koran and from the Bible. I highly recommend it.

I recently have gone from not really knowing any Muslims, to be very close with about thirty Muslim women through work. Wanting to understand them better, I read Elass’ book. I knew absolutely nothing about this Islamic faith and this was a very good introduction! It’s so helpful to read not just something about Islam, but something that compares and contrast with Christianity so that loving conversations can happen. The language in his book is easy to understand and retain. I found it an enjoyable read that I will pass on to family and friends!

This is a 100% MUST reading for any Christian or Muslim desiring to truly understand the differences and likenesses of our religious beliefs which have many parallels including both believing that Jesus was a prophet of God! It is so well-written and understandable, that it provides undeniable truth to understanding what being a Muslim entails and why they are so devout in their belief system. It explains why the Koran is held in such high esteem since they believe it contains words directly from God (Allah) to his prophet written in God's language. It also reinforces what we already know about the Bible and would serve an an EXCELLENT reference for MUSLIMS desiring to understand what Christians believe.

I am very disappointed. Although this book contains much useful information, I must respectfully disagree with reviewers who found it even-handed. The tone is not overtly hostile to Islam, but the content consists of a lengthy argument as to why Christianity is the true religion and, as the author says, "the Muslim view of God is defective -- not completely wrong but ignorant of some of the deepest truths concerning the nature and work of God and therefore unable to lead Muslims into the presence of the God of love, who rescues sinners through Christ." (p.91) I suppose people find it balanced that he does not condemn Muslims to damnation outright: "I believe . . . Muslims fall into the category of those worshipping the true God in ignorance rather than those pursuing a false god." (Id.) This argumentative approach is unfortunate, because the author obviously knows a tremendous amount about the subject. But in the course of his detailed comparison of Christian and Muslim scripture he actually winds up telling us very little about what Muslims really believe.

I am so glad I found this book. I appreciate the knowledge of this man. I am glad that he has been a believer of both religions in his life. This really helped me to understand The history and teachings have a religion that I can only say I know anything about because of what I hear on the news or read from Muslim friends posts on Facebook. I appreciate the fact that he showed both comparisons and contrasts between the Koran and the Bible. It gives me a lot to think about the next time the subject comes up in a conversation.

Easy to read and gives a great insight into the Koran in a respective manner.A very useful guide for any Christian trying to understand Islam.

On time as described, very pleased!