The Bible is perhaps one of the most sparingly read books amongst common Muslims. This is because Muslim scholars have generally adopted a very averse attitude towards it. This aversion is mostly based on some narratives attributed to Prophet Muḥammad (sws). However, none of these narratives are sound.

It cannot be denied that adulterations and interpolations have crept into the Bible, and part of it may also have been lost. However, it is still a treasure trove of wisdom and philosophy. Muslims are therefore urged to read the Bible and, in the light of the Quran, benefit from its wisdom and guidance.

In the anthology before you, I have tried to compile Biblical verses which mostly relate to moral advancement and personality development, and which are in conformity with the Quran. Amongst the books of the Old Testament, I have confined myself to the Pentateuch (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy), the Psalms and the Proverbs. The selections from the New Testament are from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.