The Quran (Koran), 1st translation

The Qur'an (aka, the Koran) is the central divine text of the Islamic religion, which Muslims consider to be a verbal book of spiritual guidance. It is considered one of the greatest works in the history of literature - certainly in Arabic. This sacred text defines the creed, rituals, ethics, and laws of Islam.

Islam states that the Qur'an was revealed from Allah to the prophet Muhammad through an angel over a period of 23 years, from 610 to 632 CE, and was memorized by tens of thousands of his followers. The text features some of the Jewish and Christian scriptures, discussing and interpreting them at various lengths. For those who haven't read the Qur'an, it can be an enlightening work of religious literature, a book of spiritual guidance, or a fascinating historical document.