Lecture by Dr. Sohaib on Qur'anic Studies Library and Related Topics

Introduction

• Critique of book translation (not named) as awful and not deserving of publication.
• Introduction to the Qur'anic Studies library at Dr. Sohaib's home.
• Library is a personal and research resource, built over years, and made available for attendees, researchers, etc.
• Associated with various foundations including Bayyinah Quran Foundation, Quran.com, and others.

Building the Library

• Origin of the library started with studying abroad, particularly in Egypt.
• Exploration of bookstores around Al-Azhar, resulting in a diverse collection of books on specific topics.
• The library grew gradually, often influenced by personal experiences with each book.
• Emphasis on individual significance of each book, including personal stories behind acquisitions.
• Dr. Sohaib mentions writing notes and cross-references in the margins of his books, enhancing engagement.

Common Questions and Library Philosophy

• Common question: "Have you read all these books?" Answer is no; library also serves as a 'reference library' or 'anti-library'.
• Anti-library concept: Libraries should contain unread books, representing potential knowledge and future engagement.
• Importance of evolving relationship with books and the value in both familiar and overlooked volumes.
• Preference for physical books over PDFs due to personal engagement and retention of information.

Importance of Scholarship and Accessible Knowledge

• Importance of understanding the Qur'an deeply and the role of scholars in doing so.
• Critique of the idea that personal translations or scholarly exclusivity are two extremist views.
• Emphasis on balanced engagement: neither dismissing scholarship nor leaving everything to scholars.

Qur'anic Sciences (Ulum al-Qur'an)

• Description of Qur'anic Sciences: all fields of study related to the Qur'an.
• Notable encyclopedic work: Al-Itqan fi Ulum al-Qur'an by Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti.
• Other essential earlier works: Abu Bakr al-Anbari's 'Kitab al-Muzhir', Ibn Qutaybah's 'Ta'wil Mushkil al-Qur'an'.

Key Areas in Qur'an Studies

• Revelation: How the Qur'an was revealed and collected.
• Preservation: Preservation methods and challenges.
• Readings and Recitation: Various readings (Qira'at) and methods of recitation.
• Uncommon Vocabulary: Less-known and specialized vocabulary used in the Qur'an.
• Foreign Words: Words in the Qur'an that originated from non-Arabic languages.
• Linguistics: Analysis of language use, syntax, grammar, etc.
• Translation Techniques: Guidance on translating complex linguistic elements.

Notable Figures and Works

• Muhammad Ibn `Uthman al-Darimi: Noted for works on Qur'anic Sciences.
• Mustafa Zayd's book on Qira'at: Highly recommended for detailed understanding.
• Noted differences in editions and quality of publications; importance of choosing the right edition.
• Modern translations and scholarly work consistency, ensuring up-to-date and authenticated knowledge.

Concluding Remarks

• Commentary on the dynamic and evolving nature of Qur'anic studies.
• Encouragement for students to engage deeply and appreciate the heritage of knowledge in Qur'anic studies.
• Introduction of courses offered by Dr. Sohaib's center, including a course on Surah Yasin.

Additional Resources

• Encouragement to follow up with Bayyinah Institute and i.Reflect Academy for further learning and specialized courses.