Huston Smith Reading (pgs 231-242)

Koran is maybe the most recited, and read book in the world. Muslims tend to read the Koran literally. The Koran came to Muhammad in small segments. Muhammad had no control over the flow of revelation. It is not just the message and language of the Koran that make it powerful, but the sound, the rhythm. The Koran is directly doctrinal and indirectly historical. It proclaims the unity, omnipotence, and mercy of God- and humans total dependency on Him. In the Koran God speaks in first person.

Basic theological concepts of Islam are virtually the same as Judaism and Christianity.

God is immaterial and invisible.

God inspires fear, an appropriate emotion for something so great.

Islam means Peace.

The world was created because of Allah's will, and it is good. Because of this the material world must likewise be good.

People do forget their divine nature, and must repeatedly be reminded so they can correct their mistake.

Humans have two obligations. Gratitude, and surrender.

When people die they must first deal with the Judgement, Allah decides where to send you. He looks at all of your transgressions, and the things you did well. To heaven or hell.

Koran is a book that emphasizes deed over idea.