The Meaning of the Glorious Quran

The Meaning of the Glorious Quran is a book by Marmaduke Pickthall, first published in 1930. This landmark work is one of the earliest and most respected English renderings of the Qur’an produced by a native English speaker who had embraced Islam. Pickthall approached the task with a deep reverence for classical Islamic scholarship and a determination to offer a translation that would convey the solemnity, rhythm, and spiritual insight of the original Arabic. His background as a novelist and journalist sharpened his sense for language, helping him craft a text that has long been valued in both academic study and personal devotional reading. The translation has held a lasting place in the field of Islamic studies and comparative religion, appealing to readers searching for authoritative Qur’an translations, historical context, and clear English interpretation. Pickthall’s rendering maintains a balance between accuracy and readability, offering an accessible entry point for newcomers while remaining a trusted reference for scholars. Its influence has endured for nearly a century, making it a mainstay for those exploring sacred texts, classical commentary, and the history of English-language Qur’anic translations.