From the Torah to the Qur'an, the New Testament to the Theravada canon, this concise introduction to scripture
in the world religions offers a thorough evaluation of the sacred word and its role in religious tradition.
In a systematic and accessible analysis of six major faiths, Harold Coward carefully explores the scriptures --
written and spoken -- of each, examining their interpretation, their role in devotion and education, and their
relationships with each other. Key areas covered include: what makes a sacred text -- what the different religions
call "scripture." the lives of the ancient scribes and the rituals governing their work. revelation,
reception and transmission of the holy word. materials and methods: from papyrus and palm leaves to printing. language,
mantra and sacred sound.
Combining an authoritative survey with a unique perspective on the transforming power of the spoken word, this
lively and engaging text is essential reading for students, academics and anyone interested in the world religions.
Table of Contents
1. Scripture In Judaism
Moses and the Written Torah
The Rabbis and the Oral Torah
Exegesis
The Study of the Torah
Torah in Relation to Other Scriptures
2. Scripture In Christianity
Jesus and the Oral Tradition
The Written New Testament
Exegesis
The New Testament in Relation to Other Scriptures
3. Scripture In Islam
Muhammad and the Revelation of the Qur'an
The Oral or Recited Text
The Written Text
Exegesis
The Qur'an in Daily Piety and Practice
The Qur'an in Relation to Other Scriptures
4. Scripture In Hinduism
Hindu Sacred Books
The Hindu View of Language
Oral Texts
Written Texts
Techniques of Exegesis
The Veda in Relation to Other Scriptures
5. Scripture In Sikhism
The Place of Scripture in the Sikh Tradition
The Experience of Scripture as Guru
Vak Lao--Taking the Advice of the Word
Changes in the Sikh Experience of Scripture from Living in Canada
6. Scripture In Buddhism
Buddha, the Founder of the Scripture
The Canon and the Monastic Communities
The Oral Texts
The Written Texts
Buddhist Exegesis
The Tripitaka in Relation to Other Scriptures
7. Scripture And The Future Of Religions
Oral and Written Scripture
The Future of Scripture
