This book presents an anthropological study of the Qur-an, offering an unprecedented challenge to some of the epistemological and metaphysical assumptions of the taw?idic discourses. Combining primary textual materials and anthropological analysis, this book examines transcendence as a core principle of the Qur-an, uniquely signified in the divine name al-Quddus (the Holy). It shows how the taw?idic representations of Allah constitute an inversion of this attribute; examines how this inversion has been conceived, authorized, and maintained; and demonstrates how it has affected Islamic thinking and practices, especially as relates to authority. This book also explores how a return to the Qur-anic primacy of God-s otherness as al-Quddus can influence Islamic thinking and practices moving forward. Therefore, it will be highly useful to scholars of Islamic Studies, philosophical theology, Qur-anic studies, political science, ethics, anthro
