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The Parables of the Qur'an
The Qur’an is the word of Allah, it is the most eloquent and best of all speech. The Qur’an uses different rhetorical devices and parables to convey its message. Allah says in the Qur’ ‘We have given every type of parable in this Qur’an so that they can understand and think’. Allah conveys to us facts, stories and examples as well as guidance and warnings throughout His book. Yasir Qadhi’s book will take 30 parables of the Qur’an and explain its context and meaning in order for us to understand, reflect and change our lives.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 17, 2022
69 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Abu Ammaar Yasir Qadhi
60 books374 followersDr. Yasir Qadhi is a prolific author and Islamic teacher who has written several books about Islam. He is a popular speaker in many Muslim circles in the United States, Canada, England and Australia. His lectures at different locations can be found on YouTube. He is one of the few people who has combined an Islamic seminary training (from Islamic University of Madinah) with Western education (from universities of Houston and Yale).
Dr. Qadhi was born in Houston, Texas, to Pakistani parents, in 1975, went to high school in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, graduating valedictorian of his class, and completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston. After working for Dow Chemical for a short stint, he decided to pursue an education in Islamic studies, and left for the Islamic University of Madinah. There, he completed a second bachelor's degree, specializing in hadith studies, and then went on to complete an M.A. in Theology. Presently, he is in the final stages of completing his Ph.D in Religious Studies from Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
He is the Dean of Academic Affairs and an Instructor in the AlMaghrib Institute. He appears on a number of Islamic satellite channels (Islam Channel in England; Al-Huda Channel in Egypt; Al-Fajr Channel in Egypt; and Peace TV in India, U.K and U.S), where he teaches theology, Seerah, Tajweed, and other topics. He gives regular sermons and lectures. He also blogs at MuslimMatters.org, where he is the group-blog's lead specialist.
Dr. Qadhi was born in Houston, Texas, to Pakistani parents, in 1975, went to high school in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, graduating valedictorian of his class, and completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston. After working for Dow Chemical for a short stint, he decided to pursue an education in Islamic studies, and left for the Islamic University of Madinah. There, he completed a second bachelor's degree, specializing in hadith studies, and then went on to complete an M.A. in Theology. Presently, he is in the final stages of completing his Ph.D in Religious Studies from Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
He is the Dean of Academic Affairs and an Instructor in the AlMaghrib Institute. He appears on a number of Islamic satellite channels (Islam Channel in England; Al-Huda Channel in Egypt; Al-Fajr Channel in Egypt; and Peace TV in India, U.K and U.S), where he teaches theology, Seerah, Tajweed, and other topics. He gives regular sermons and lectures. He also blogs at MuslimMatters.org, where he is the group-blog's lead specialist.
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April 25, 2022
“These are the parables that we cite for mankind, and it is only those who ponder and understand that benefit from the parables.” [Al-Ankabut:43]
وَتِلْكَ ٱلْأَمْثَـٰلُ نَضْرِبُهَا لِلنَّاسِ ۖ وَمَا يَعْقِلُهَآ إِلَّا ٱلْعَـٰلِمُونَ
Parables of the Qur’an is a captivating and informative work that introduces the reader to the world of Qur’anic parables and aphorisms, with a focus on symbolism as a means to facilitate the understanding of spiritual concepts. Of the twenty-eight chapters in this book, there are a few that I would like to highlight.
Unparalleled in its eloquence, the Qur’an utilises many a linguistic technique to relay historical facts, morals, and stories. Parables, or amthāl, are ubiquitous in the Qur’an, and are just one of the many literary devices used to convey ethical and moral lessons to the reader. Storytelling is a compelling medium that appeals to all individuals regardless of background, and the Qur’an employs a multitude of ways for the reader to derive benefit. Unlike the scriptures of other faiths where one story may span several volumes and fixate on minor details, the Qur’an is succinct in its storytelling, emphasising only the most salient aspects, with just enough detail to intrigue but not fatigue the reader.
Surah Kahf is a popular example of this concise storytelling. This Makkan Surah broadly narrates four historic events:
• The persecution of the people of the cave (aṣḥāb al kahf)
• The haughty man with the two gardens
• The transfer of knowledge between Musa (ع) and Khidr (ع)
• The travels of the mighty Dhul-Qarnayn
Each of these stories span a few short pages and provide clear lessons for the reader.
From the story of the aṣḥāb al kahf, we learn that worldly sacrifices, such as migration, must be made to enable us worship Allah freely and safely. Likewise, we derive from the other stories sacrificial moral lessons. Like the man with the two gardens, when praising ourselves or what we have, we must sacrifice our egos and be cognisant of our limitations as created beings—particularly when it comes to ascribing success to our own efforts, for success comes from Allah alone. Similar to Musa (ع), we must humble ourselves when gaining knowledge and have patience with that which we do not immediately understand. And finally, from the story of the righteous king Dhul-Qarnayn, we must remember that with great power comes great responsibility.
Knowing the pernickety nature of man, Allah (SWT) is direct in delivering a command in this Surah to not concern ourselves with the minutiae of these narratives:
“Some will say, “They were three, their dog was the fourth,” while others will say, “They were five, their dog was the sixth,” [only] guessing blindly. And others will say, “They were seven and their dog was the eighth.” Say, [O Prophet,] “My Lord knows best their [exact] number. Only a few people know as well.” So do not argue about them except with sure knowledge, nor consult any of those [who debate] about them.” [Kahf:22]
Staying on the topic of Surah Kahf, there are also a number of powerful parables that exist outside of the main four narratives. One such example is:
“And give them a parable of this worldly life. [It is] like the plants of the earth, thriving when sustained by the rain We send down from the sky. Then they [soon] turn into chaff scattered by the wind. And Allah is fully capable of [doing] all things.” [Kahf:45]
This symbolic parable aptly captures the transient reality of the dunya and how every created entity, including man, will eventually meet its demise after flourishing like the once picturesque, flourishing foliage.
Similar to the above, there are a number of remarkable parables discussed in this book. The last one that I would like to share is the parable on the spiritual dimensions of life and death:
“Is it [conceivable] that the one who was dead and to whom We gave life, and set for him a light with which he walks among men, [is held to] be like the one whose condition is such that he is in total darkness, never coming out of it?” [Al-An’am:122]
Without delving into the tafsir of this ayah (the conversion of Hamzah [RA]), this parable is particularly striking and symbolic, as it compares the one without the light of Allah (SWT)’s guidance—Islam and the Qur’an—to a spiritually dead person surrounded by the darkness of ignorance. The depiction of Divine guidance as a light (nūr) is a recurring motif in the Qur’an, providing the reader with an immediate visual representation of the illuminating effect of heeding the call of God.
In all, Parables of the Qur’an is a great starting point for an English-speaking audience to develop a deeper understanding of the Qur’an and how symbolism and parables are employed to facilitate the understanding of spiritual concepts.
وَتِلْكَ ٱلْأَمْثَـٰلُ نَضْرِبُهَا لِلنَّاسِ ۖ وَمَا يَعْقِلُهَآ إِلَّا ٱلْعَـٰلِمُونَ
Parables of the Qur’an is a captivating and informative work that introduces the reader to the world of Qur’anic parables and aphorisms, with a focus on symbolism as a means to facilitate the understanding of spiritual concepts. Of the twenty-eight chapters in this book, there are a few that I would like to highlight.
Unparalleled in its eloquence, the Qur’an utilises many a linguistic technique to relay historical facts, morals, and stories. Parables, or amthāl, are ubiquitous in the Qur’an, and are just one of the many literary devices used to convey ethical and moral lessons to the reader. Storytelling is a compelling medium that appeals to all individuals regardless of background, and the Qur’an employs a multitude of ways for the reader to derive benefit. Unlike the scriptures of other faiths where one story may span several volumes and fixate on minor details, the Qur’an is succinct in its storytelling, emphasising only the most salient aspects, with just enough detail to intrigue but not fatigue the reader.
Surah Kahf is a popular example of this concise storytelling. This Makkan Surah broadly narrates four historic events:
• The persecution of the people of the cave (aṣḥāb al kahf)
• The haughty man with the two gardens
• The transfer of knowledge between Musa (ع) and Khidr (ع)
• The travels of the mighty Dhul-Qarnayn
Each of these stories span a few short pages and provide clear lessons for the reader.
From the story of the aṣḥāb al kahf, we learn that worldly sacrifices, such as migration, must be made to enable us worship Allah freely and safely. Likewise, we derive from the other stories sacrificial moral lessons. Like the man with the two gardens, when praising ourselves or what we have, we must sacrifice our egos and be cognisant of our limitations as created beings—particularly when it comes to ascribing success to our own efforts, for success comes from Allah alone. Similar to Musa (ع), we must humble ourselves when gaining knowledge and have patience with that which we do not immediately understand. And finally, from the story of the righteous king Dhul-Qarnayn, we must remember that with great power comes great responsibility.
Knowing the pernickety nature of man, Allah (SWT) is direct in delivering a command in this Surah to not concern ourselves with the minutiae of these narratives:
“Some will say, “They were three, their dog was the fourth,” while others will say, “They were five, their dog was the sixth,” [only] guessing blindly. And others will say, “They were seven and their dog was the eighth.” Say, [O Prophet,] “My Lord knows best their [exact] number. Only a few people know as well.” So do not argue about them except with sure knowledge, nor consult any of those [who debate] about them.” [Kahf:22]
Staying on the topic of Surah Kahf, there are also a number of powerful parables that exist outside of the main four narratives. One such example is:
“And give them a parable of this worldly life. [It is] like the plants of the earth, thriving when sustained by the rain We send down from the sky. Then they [soon] turn into chaff scattered by the wind. And Allah is fully capable of [doing] all things.” [Kahf:45]
This symbolic parable aptly captures the transient reality of the dunya and how every created entity, including man, will eventually meet its demise after flourishing like the once picturesque, flourishing foliage.
Similar to the above, there are a number of remarkable parables discussed in this book. The last one that I would like to share is the parable on the spiritual dimensions of life and death:
“Is it [conceivable] that the one who was dead and to whom We gave life, and set for him a light with which he walks among men, [is held to] be like the one whose condition is such that he is in total darkness, never coming out of it?” [Al-An’am:122]
Without delving into the tafsir of this ayah (the conversion of Hamzah [RA]), this parable is particularly striking and symbolic, as it compares the one without the light of Allah (SWT)’s guidance—Islam and the Qur’an—to a spiritually dead person surrounded by the darkness of ignorance. The depiction of Divine guidance as a light (nūr) is a recurring motif in the Qur’an, providing the reader with an immediate visual representation of the illuminating effect of heeding the call of God.
In all, Parables of the Qur’an is a great starting point for an English-speaking audience to develop a deeper understanding of the Qur’an and how symbolism and parables are employed to facilitate the understanding of spiritual concepts.
April 17, 2022
“These are the parables we cite for mankind so that they can benefit and ponder.” - Al-Hashr, 21.
Even if its not during Ramadan, this book is one of those books you need to help you to ponder about things and to do self-reflections. 28 parables and aphorisms from the Qur’an personally chosen by the Author, explaining their context and meaning in order for us to understand, reflect and change our lives. And here’s my personal favourite:
📝 Parables : “Do not be like the woman who (foolishly) unravels her yarn after it is firmly spun.” - Al-Nahl, 92
☪️ Explanation : The metaphor is regarding doing good actions that weave a beautiful rope, and then unravelling this rope of ours with our own disobedience.
📿 Eg : We weave a beautiful rope by worshipping Allah dutifully during Ramadan and adopting a good daily routine of prayer, attending the houses of Allah, and being charitable. We have now built a solid foundation. However, if we were to go back to our old habits after Ramadan ends and abandon all the good you inculcated during the month, we have unravelled the rope with our own hands.
✍🏻 Allah is telling us to protect our investments and efforts.
🪞 Reflection : We need to ensure steadfastness upon good. We may not be able to maintain the same worship levels as Ramadan year-round, but we should certainly try to maintain an appropriate portion of it and not abandon it completely.
💭 Other than parables that makes us reflect on our ibadah during Ramadan, they are parables about the danger of hypocrisy, multiplying dividends in the hereafter, safeguarding the reward of charity, warning against consuming and benefiting from interest, the necessity of being grateful and thankful to Allah, the sublime and symbolic beauty of the verse of Light, and many more. Written in a straightforward and easy to understand manner, this book is suitable for all especially those whose been yearning to do self-reflections towards becoming a better Muslim.
Even if its not during Ramadan, this book is one of those books you need to help you to ponder about things and to do self-reflections. 28 parables and aphorisms from the Qur’an personally chosen by the Author, explaining their context and meaning in order for us to understand, reflect and change our lives. And here’s my personal favourite:
📝 Parables : “Do not be like the woman who (foolishly) unravels her yarn after it is firmly spun.” - Al-Nahl, 92
☪️ Explanation : The metaphor is regarding doing good actions that weave a beautiful rope, and then unravelling this rope of ours with our own disobedience.
📿 Eg : We weave a beautiful rope by worshipping Allah dutifully during Ramadan and adopting a good daily routine of prayer, attending the houses of Allah, and being charitable. We have now built a solid foundation. However, if we were to go back to our old habits after Ramadan ends and abandon all the good you inculcated during the month, we have unravelled the rope with our own hands.
✍🏻 Allah is telling us to protect our investments and efforts.
🪞 Reflection : We need to ensure steadfastness upon good. We may not be able to maintain the same worship levels as Ramadan year-round, but we should certainly try to maintain an appropriate portion of it and not abandon it completely.
💭 Other than parables that makes us reflect on our ibadah during Ramadan, they are parables about the danger of hypocrisy, multiplying dividends in the hereafter, safeguarding the reward of charity, warning against consuming and benefiting from interest, the necessity of being grateful and thankful to Allah, the sublime and symbolic beauty of the verse of Light, and many more. Written in a straightforward and easy to understand manner, this book is suitable for all especially those whose been yearning to do self-reflections towards becoming a better Muslim.
April 2, 2023
"He (Prophet Muhammad s.a.w) was always a brilliant star. He was pure, his genealogy is pure, and the Qur'an that he was given is pure. This compounded light now becomes the ultimate source of guidance for all of humanity, for there is no path to reach Allah s.w.t other than the path of the Prophet s.a.w." - The Parables of the Qur'an by Dr Yasir Qadhi
I have always loved the way Dr Yasir Qadhi would illustrate his teaching points in clear and concise speeches, and it is illuminating to read his interpretations of the different parables and aphorisms of the Qur'an in this book.
Divided into short chapters, this book touches on the different rhetorical devices used in the Qur'an to convey the divine messages of Allah. Filled with facts, stories, warnings and of course, guidances, the Qur'an is a multi-layered piece of literature that surpasses any other text in terms of its beauty and eloquence.
I liked how Dr Yasir Qadhi touched on the linguistics of the language of the Qur'an, particularly in the different verses that contains the parables. Providing a clear context to the revelations of the verses, he also described the semantics and pragmatics of the different parables to provide a clear explanation on the messages that are being conveyed. Best of all, this book is also filled with reminders that would definitely benefit, making it a timely and enlightening Ramadan read.
I have always loved the way Dr Yasir Qadhi would illustrate his teaching points in clear and concise speeches, and it is illuminating to read his interpretations of the different parables and aphorisms of the Qur'an in this book.
Divided into short chapters, this book touches on the different rhetorical devices used in the Qur'an to convey the divine messages of Allah. Filled with facts, stories, warnings and of course, guidances, the Qur'an is a multi-layered piece of literature that surpasses any other text in terms of its beauty and eloquence.
I liked how Dr Yasir Qadhi touched on the linguistics of the language of the Qur'an, particularly in the different verses that contains the parables. Providing a clear context to the revelations of the verses, he also described the semantics and pragmatics of the different parables to provide a clear explanation on the messages that are being conveyed. Best of all, this book is also filled with reminders that would definitely benefit, making it a timely and enlightening Ramadan read.
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September 21, 2025“Do you not see how Allah compares a good word to a good tree? Its root is firm and its branches reach the sky,
Always yielding its fruit in every season by the Will of its Lord. This is how Allah sets forth parables for the people, so perhaps they will be mindful.” (14:24-25)
‘Good word’ here can refer to the kalimah - words that are like a beautiful tree, a symbol of life, without which we could not eat, drink, breathe or live. The roots are deep, entrenching faith firmly inside our hearts. Its branches reach the heavens - just as faith in the heart exhibits itself on the outer limbs, in all actions and behaviours. The tree is evergreen and ever fruitful, always ready to be plucked from, providing whatever a person needs and desires. When you need perseverance, the tree of Faith will give it to you. When you need an increase in conviction, the tree is ready to provide it for you. When you are feeling down or lonely, the tree will lighten your spirits and give you company. Other fruits include peace, salvation and the ultimate - Paradise. These fruits are exclusively available from the tree of Faith.
This is how Allah sets forth parables for the people, so perhaps they will be mindful.
There is so much to unpack from the parables of the Quran. As an avid reader, it is easy to say that it is truly unlike any other book. It conveys powerful messages through stunning symbolism, all while being incredibly succinct. And the symbolism is often from comparisons we can make in our daily life, so that every beautiful tree must now remind me of the breathtaking physical manifestation of a ‘good word’. If only we were to pay attention.
July 5, 2025
Enjoyed some of the examples of the parables of the Quran, but I have listened and read better explanations of them. Still a good read mashallah
August 14, 2024
Beautiful and insightful read
June 24, 2023
Back in Ramadhan 1442 AH (2021), Dr Yasir Qadhi gave a series of lecture in his masjid, which was also recorded and uploaded on YouTube. This series is then adapted into this book, The Parables of the Quran.
We know that Allah presented the knowledge in the Quran through many ways - among them are direct instructions, stories, and parables (amthal). For the series (and hence this book), Sheikh Yasir chose some parables from the Quran to explain their meanings in simple language, and their implications in our daily lives. Sometimes he'd explain what certain words mean and why they are used in that ayat. The chapters are arranged according to the parables' position in the Quran.
This is one of those good books if one wants to start learning about how Allah teaches us in the Quran. The language is easy to follow, and the examples given are simple enough. My favourite chapters include The Virtues of Charity, The Necessity of Being Grateful, and The Parable of the Good Tree. Meanwhile, the chapter on Beauty of the Verse of Light reminds me of the first time I heard a lecture from Sheikh Yasir, and it definitely changed my life.
I have to say though, personally I find Sheikh Yasir's lectures more effective than his books. Although the books are well adapted from his lectures, I still think I learnt better by listening to him. But then I am an auditory learner so it makes a lot of sense.
This is definitely a book that we can get back to everytime we see a parable while reading the Quran/its translations. Of course, Sheikh Yasir couldn't possible fit in all of the parables that we can find into this book, but this is a good effort as an introduction to Quranic exegesis.
We know that Allah presented the knowledge in the Quran through many ways - among them are direct instructions, stories, and parables (amthal). For the series (and hence this book), Sheikh Yasir chose some parables from the Quran to explain their meanings in simple language, and their implications in our daily lives. Sometimes he'd explain what certain words mean and why they are used in that ayat. The chapters are arranged according to the parables' position in the Quran.
This is one of those good books if one wants to start learning about how Allah teaches us in the Quran. The language is easy to follow, and the examples given are simple enough. My favourite chapters include The Virtues of Charity, The Necessity of Being Grateful, and The Parable of the Good Tree. Meanwhile, the chapter on Beauty of the Verse of Light reminds me of the first time I heard a lecture from Sheikh Yasir, and it definitely changed my life.
I have to say though, personally I find Sheikh Yasir's lectures more effective than his books. Although the books are well adapted from his lectures, I still think I learnt better by listening to him. But then I am an auditory learner so it makes a lot of sense.
This is definitely a book that we can get back to everytime we see a parable while reading the Quran/its translations. Of course, Sheikh Yasir couldn't possible fit in all of the parables that we can find into this book, but this is a good effort as an introduction to Quranic exegesis.
March 6, 2025
Keywords: Religious Studies, Islamic Literature, Spirituality, Philosophy, Quranic Studies, Quran, Parables, Islam, Religious Guidance, Spiritual Reflection, Yasir Qadhi, Divine Wisdom, Islamic Teachings, Holy Quran, Islamic Studies
Dalam buku ini, Yasir Qadhi mengkaji 30 perumpamaan yang terkandung dalam Al-Qur’an, dengan tujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai konteks, makna, dan hikmah yang terkandung di dalamnya. The Parables of the Qur’an memaparkan bagaimana Al-Qur’an menggunakan alat retoris berupa perumpamaan untuk menyampaikan ajaran moral, spiritual, dan sosial yang relevan dengan kehidupan umat manusia. Setiap perumpamaan dianalisis secara komprehensif untuk menggali prinsip-prinsip dasar ajaran Islam yang dapat diterapkan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penulis juga menyoroti pentingnya perumpamaan sebagai sarana untuk merangsang refleksi dan introspeksi, serta mengajak pembaca untuk mengubah pola pikir dan sikap dalam menghadapi berbagai tantangan hidup. Buku ini sangat relevan bagi pembaca yang ingin memperdalam pemahaman mereka terhadap Al-Qur’an, serta memperkaya perspektif mereka tentang ajaran Islam yang lebih luas. https://blog.periplus.com/2025/03/05/...
Dalam buku ini, Yasir Qadhi mengkaji 30 perumpamaan yang terkandung dalam Al-Qur’an, dengan tujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai konteks, makna, dan hikmah yang terkandung di dalamnya. The Parables of the Qur’an memaparkan bagaimana Al-Qur’an menggunakan alat retoris berupa perumpamaan untuk menyampaikan ajaran moral, spiritual, dan sosial yang relevan dengan kehidupan umat manusia. Setiap perumpamaan dianalisis secara komprehensif untuk menggali prinsip-prinsip dasar ajaran Islam yang dapat diterapkan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penulis juga menyoroti pentingnya perumpamaan sebagai sarana untuk merangsang refleksi dan introspeksi, serta mengajak pembaca untuk mengubah pola pikir dan sikap dalam menghadapi berbagai tantangan hidup. Buku ini sangat relevan bagi pembaca yang ingin memperdalam pemahaman mereka terhadap Al-Qur’an, serta memperkaya perspektif mereka tentang ajaran Islam yang lebih luas. https://blog.periplus.com/2025/03/05/...
September 12, 2025
A relatively simple, straightforward explanation of a lot of the parables found in the Qur'an. There were many that I assumed I already understood the intent behind, but I either misunderstood or didn't appreciate enough, and ones I actually was confused about that were clarified very well.
"And Allah sets forth a parable of two men: one of them is dumb, incapable of anything. He is a burden on his master. Wherever he is sent, he brings no good. Can such a person be equal to the one who commands justice and is on the Straight Path?"
Yeah see I never realised this was not about two men, it's a comparison between pagan gods and Allah SWT... 😭
The writing in this can often reiterate the same points needlessly, I do think Dr. Yasir Qadhi is a better speaker than he is a writer, but other than that I don't have any issues.
I did learn a new favourite hadith. "He who does not thank the people is not thankful to Allah." Very thankful for the author for teaching me this 😌
Anyways I'd definitely recommend reading this, it's presented in a nice and simple format so it's not daunting to get through, and for us non Arabic speakers you especially need these external guidance to fully understand and appreciate the Quran.
"And Allah sets forth a parable of two men: one of them is dumb, incapable of anything. He is a burden on his master. Wherever he is sent, he brings no good. Can such a person be equal to the one who commands justice and is on the Straight Path?"
Yeah see I never realised this was not about two men, it's a comparison between pagan gods and Allah SWT... 😭
The writing in this can often reiterate the same points needlessly, I do think Dr. Yasir Qadhi is a better speaker than he is a writer, but other than that I don't have any issues.
I did learn a new favourite hadith. "He who does not thank the people is not thankful to Allah." Very thankful for the author for teaching me this 😌
Anyways I'd definitely recommend reading this, it's presented in a nice and simple format so it's not daunting to get through, and for us non Arabic speakers you especially need these external guidance to fully understand and appreciate the Quran.
May 10, 2024
A beautiful book explaining the parables and aphorisms in the Qur’an. We read these all the time but may not understand their in depth meaning - so this book is a must for your personal library. I know if I get stuck in understanding a parable, I can pick up this book and find the explanation. My copy of the book has chapter name errors - a few don’t match the contents page - I used a pencil to fix these, however, it would be good if books are triple checked by the publishers. The design and layout are beautiful though.
October 3, 2024
A perfect introduction to understand the parables (or I'd usually call it stories to simplify it because the word itself is unfamiliar to me) in the Qur'an. A strong proof why you should not take a verse through textual interpretation and leave behind the context that surrounds it. Connections between verses should also be noted, since some lessons are recalled over and over given its importance for us, mere human beings.
I personally find this enlightening. A book I'd go back to whenever things happen because I might remember there are similar situations in the parables I read. Must read!
I personally find this enlightening. A book I'd go back to whenever things happen because I might remember there are similar situations in the parables I read. Must read!
May 25, 2024
This is a written version for the same topic of Sh Yasir video series. Learning parables of the Qur'an is one subject that every Qur'an enthusiast should attempt, said Imam Syafi'i.
The book itself is not very long, and Sh Yasir keep it short for every chapter. I prefer to read a chapter of two everyday, so I have enough time to think, absorb and internalize the learning. Overall, a solid book to accompany your retrospective session.
The book itself is not very long, and Sh Yasir keep it short for every chapter. I prefer to read a chapter of two everyday, so I have enough time to think, absorb and internalize the learning. Overall, a solid book to accompany your retrospective session.
August 6, 2024
Unfortunately, there were quite a few typos and errors in the editing of the book. Many portions were repetitive (within the same chapter). The opening of the book explaining what parables and aphorisms are did not apply to what most of the book contained. However, the messages in the book were of course flawless. The last chapter was so important and phenomenal about asking the right people questions you may have about faith. I also loved the duas at the end of each chapter.
March 17, 2025
this was so informative Alhamdulilah
Yasir Qadhi’s work always ends up having a lot of good information, and he explains things a lot better in this book compared to his seerah book. However, you can tell he his a scholar not just through what he writes but how he writes. I had to consult the kindle dictionary multiple times which was unexpected for a book aimed at the general Muslim ummah.
Yasir Qadhi’s work always ends up having a lot of good information, and he explains things a lot better in this book compared to his seerah book. However, you can tell he his a scholar not just through what he writes but how he writes. I had to consult the kindle dictionary multiple times which was unexpected for a book aimed at the general Muslim ummah.
December 3, 2022
So well written and so enlightening, just like his lectures! Thank you!
January 19, 2023
Well written, but I feel like the prose could have used a higher level of complexity. Unclear who the target audience is.
February 16, 2024
Really concise and easy to read and understand. I learnt a lot of things that I had no previous knowledge of.
July 26, 2024
As usual, love Dr Yasir style of writing.. every verse is explained thoroughly and beautifully. May this book increase our love for knowledge and our love for the Quran.
June 21, 2025
absolutely great
November 20, 2025
“Yes I do, but just so my heart can be reassured.”
September 5, 2024
After reading Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi no harm in exploring the parables in the Qur'an: familiar metaphorical tropes (light-dark, the rootedness and growth of trees, weaving, yarn etc) but not as captivating as its judeo-christian counterparts.
'A good word [lā ilāha illa Allāh] is like a good tree whose root is firm and whose branches are high in the sky” 84 The words lā ilāha illa Allāh are like a beautiful and magnificent tree, which is universally seen as a symbol of life across societies and cultures.'
'Do not be like the woman who [foolishly] unravels her yarn after it is firmly spun” She unravels all of her spun yarn (ghazl). ‘Ghazal’ can also mean a beautiful rope, from which the English word ‘Gazelle’ originates from. This is as the gazelle is also a beautiful animal. Ghazal poetry (‘romantic’ poetry) also takes its name from the same Arabic root, as it is regarded as a beautiful form of poetry.'
'A good word [lā ilāha illa Allāh] is like a good tree whose root is firm and whose branches are high in the sky” 84 The words lā ilāha illa Allāh are like a beautiful and magnificent tree, which is universally seen as a symbol of life across societies and cultures.'
'Do not be like the woman who [foolishly] unravels her yarn after it is firmly spun” She unravels all of her spun yarn (ghazl). ‘Ghazal’ can also mean a beautiful rope, from which the English word ‘Gazelle’ originates from. This is as the gazelle is also a beautiful animal. Ghazal poetry (‘romantic’ poetry) also takes its name from the same Arabic root, as it is regarded as a beautiful form of poetry.'
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