Inquiring of Joseph: Getting to Know a Biblical Character through the Qur'an : Book Review

"Inquiring of Joseph: Getting to Know a Biblical Character through the Quran and Islamic Tradition" by John Kaltner takes a unique approach to exploring the figure of Joseph. The author combines insights from the Quran and Islamic traditions to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of Joseph's life and his significance within the Islamic faith. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in interfaith studies and seeking a deeper appreciation for Joseph's story.

Kaltner begins by comparing Joseph's narrative as presented in the Quran to its biblical counterpart, highlighting both the similarities and differences. Through careful analysis, he uncovers the specific themes and theological implications within the Quranic version of the story, shedding new light on Joseph's character and his role in Islamic theology.

Throughout the book, Kaltner explores the various motifs and symbols associated with Joseph in Islamic tradition. He delves into the deeper meaning behind Joseph's dreams, his position as a ruler, and the significance of the coat of many colors. By unraveling these symbols, Kaltner offers readers a more nuanced understanding of Joseph's story that goes beyond surface-level interpretations.

One of the book's strengths is Kaltner's ability to present complex theological concepts in an accessible manner. His writing style is engaging and easy to follow, catering to both scholars and general readers alike. Additionally, Kaltner prompts readers to reflect on the universal themes presented in Joseph's story, such as forgiveness, redemption, and resilience.

Overall, "Inquiring of Joseph" contributes significantly to interfaith dialogue and understanding. John Kaltner's extensive research and insightful analysis provide readers with a fresh perspective on the figure of Joseph in Islam. By exploring key themes and symbols, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of Joseph's significance within the Islamic tradition. Whether readers are new to interfaith dialogue or well-versed in religious studies, Kaltner's work provides an enlightening and thought-provoking read.

What are readers saying?

John Kaltner’s book, "Inquiring of Joseph: Getting to Know a Biblical Character Through the Quran," has garnered a mixed response from readers. The book takes a fresh approach to exploring the character of Joseph as depicted in the Quran, providing readers with a new perspective on this biblical figure.

Many reviewers appreciated the book's unique angle, praising Kaltner's thorough research and insightful interpretations of the Quran's portrayal of Joseph. The comparisons made between the biblical and Quranic accounts were found to be intriguing, shedding light on various aspects of Joseph's life and personality. Readers felt that Kaltner's analysis deepened their understanding of this significant figure in religious history.

However, there were some reviewers who expressed disappointment with the book's execution. They felt that Kaltner's writing style was overly academic, making it less accessible to general readers. Additionally, some readers commented on the lack of a coherent structure, which made it challenging to follow the author's arguments.

Several reviewers emphasized the scholarly nature of the book, suggesting that it would be most suitable for those studying theology or with a strong interest in comparative religion. They appreciated the extensive references and citations provided, as they found them helpful for further study.

Another point of contention was the brevity of the book, with some readers feeling that it left them wanting more. They wished that Kaltner had delved deeper into the subject matter, offering additional insights and analysis.

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