background and 18 so mimately connected with it that if it is isolated from it, it8 contents are liable to become unintelligible.

4. The meanings of the Text have been divided into coherent paragraphs.

5. Wherever there is no equivalent of an Arabic word in English, it has either been explained by a phrase or retained in the original.

6. A glossary of un-translated Arabic words and a key to the correct pronunciation of Arabic names and words have been added.

In this connection i is necessary to add a word of caution, There is a general tendency to regard the English translation of the Hoty Qur'an as The Qur'an. I[t is obviously a misnomer. No translation, however good it may be, can ever take the place of the original Qur'an, which is ils Arabic Text; for it is impossible to reproduce its matchless, enchanting and grand style, its highly emotive and fiery language and its forceful rhetori¢. Therefore one . must turn to the original Arabic Text for fuller appreciation and understanding. Only then wili the reader himself experience how irresistibly he is heing moved to ecstasy and his heart melted and stirred to noble action “fhe Meaning Of the Qur'an” merely attempts to help the reader to understand and appreciate the Arabic Text of the original Qur’an and is not an substitute for it. 1 pray to Allah to help and guide nie in the achievement of this object. N_#.---dt is intended to publish “The Meaning OF the Qur'an” in - suitable instalments. The present work is the first of the series. Suggestions for improvement will be welcomed.

Muhammad Akbar

Muradpur, Sialkot

West Pakistan