English

[PDF] Surat al-Baqara: A Structural Analysis

Indeed this sura exhibits marvelous justness of design. It is precisely and tightly arranged, as we will see, according to the principles of ring composition; even the section lengths fit perfectly in the overall scheme. Moreover, the precise structure serves as a guide, pointing to key themes in the sura . These occur, according to the logic of the pattern, at the centers of individual rings and, particularly, at the center of the whole sura . At the center of the sura , again, one finds instructions to face Mecca — this being a test of faith; identification of the Muslims as a new, middle community; and the message that all people, regardless of their qibla or spiritual orientation, should race to do good and God will bring them together.

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