Plants of the Qurʾān: History and Culture

This book is the first to explore and highlight the history of the plants mentioned in the Qurʾān, many of which are part of our everyday life, from pomegranates and grapes to ginger and garlic.  Author Shahina A. Ghazanfar explores the context, in which these plants are mentioned in the Qurʾān — mainly as food plants, as well as for medicinal use, use in beauty, fragrance or for shade. Shahina’s in-depth research for this book has led to new findings in our knowledge of the historical and cultural significance of these plants, their traditional and present uses, as well as detailed exploration of the context in which they are mentioned in the Qurʾān.

The main section of the book highlights thirty of the plants most prominent in the Qurʾān, with details of where the plant is mentioned, detailed etymology, cultural history, and botanical description. Each of these plants is beautifully illustrated with unique botanical paintings by artist Sue Wickison, drawn from living specimens in the wild. The authors take us on a fascinating journey through the cultural history of these important plants, brought to life with vivid and stunningly detailed botanical paintings.