How To Cite The Quran

The Quran is the holy book of Islam and is regarded as the final revelation of Allah to humanity. It is a source of guidance, wisdom, and inspiration for Muslims around the world. 

If you are a student or scholar studying Islam, it is essential to know how to cite the Quran in your work. Here are some guidelines for citing the Quran:

Use the Standard Quranic Verse Format

The Quran is traditionally divided into 114 chapters or surahs, which are further divided into verses or ayahs. When citing the Quran, it is customary to use the standard format of chapter number followed by verse number. For example, the first verse of the first chapter is cited as 1:1.

Provide the Title and Translation

In addition to citing the Quran by chapter and verse, it is also important to provide the title and translation of the Quranic text you are citing. The title of the Quran is "Al-Quran," which means "The Recitation." If you are using a translation, include the name of the translator and the edition of the translation you are using.

Use Parenthetical Citations

When citing the Quran in the body of your work, use parenthetical citations. For example: (Quran 2:255) or (Al-Baqarah 2:255). If you are using a translation, include the name of the translator in the citation. For example: (Yusuf Ali Quran 2:255) or (Pickthall Quran 2:255).

Include a Reference List

At the end of your work, include a reference list that provides full bibliographic information for all sources cited in your work. If you have cited the Quran, include the following information:

Title: Al-Quran

Chapter and Verse: 2:255

Translation: The Holy Quran: Translation and Commentary by Abdullah Yusuf Ali

Publication Information: Lahore: Shaikh Muhammad Ashraf, 1934.

Be Aware of Different Translations

There are many translations of the Quran available, and each may have slight variations in wording or interpretation. When citing the Quran, it is important to be aware of these differences and to choose the translation that best reflects the intended meaning of the text. If you are unsure which translation to use, consult with your professor or academic advisor.

Use Arabic Script for Quranic Verses

When citing Quranic verses, it is recommended to use the Arabic script in addition to the English translation. This can help to avoid any confusion or ambiguity in the meaning of the text. If you are not familiar with Arabic script, consider consulting a translation or an expert in the field for guidance.

Consider the Context of the Verse

When citing a Quranic verse, it is important to consider the context in which it appears. The Quran is a complex and nuanced text, and the meaning of a verse may be influenced by the verses that precede or follow it. By reading the Quran in its entirety, you can gain a deeper understanding of the context and meaning of each verse.

Use the Quranic Citation Style Recommended by Your Institution

Different academic institutions may have different guidelines for citing the Quran. Before submitting your work, be sure to consult the citation style recommended by your institution. This can help to ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent with the expectations of your academic community.

Also read: Guide For Beginners, How To Learn Quran Online?

Conclusion

Citing the Quran is an important part of scholarship on Islam. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and complete. Remember to use the standard Quranic verse format, provide the title and translation, use parenthetical citations, and include a reference list. With these tools, you can confidently incorporate the Quran into your work and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discussion of this important text.