Koranen som træningsprogram: Et case study af sura 18

Abstract

The article is a case study of a single narrative in the Qur'an's sura 18. In this article, I explore and discuss the ethical dimensions of the Qur'anic world view. The article takes its point of departure in an outline of the predominant eschatological strand in the Qur'an and different Qur'anic perceptions about reward and punishment. Then, I discuss the moral implications of the idea of divinely sanctioned deeds and actions as well as the existence of a Judgment Day. In light of this discussion, and based on an analysis of sura 18, I argue that Qur'anic piety can be seen as encompassing a particular ascetic ideal. Rather than dictating a radical secession from the world in terms of ascetic denial, the ascetic ideal authorizes participation in worldly life.