Did Muṣḥaf-al-Imām Contain Seven Readings (Muslim and Non-Muslim perspective)

Abstract

Qur’ān was revealed in seven readings, facilitating ease of recitation for people according to their dialects. These readings were preserved in Muṣḥaf-al-Imām compiled during the reign of ‘Uthmān r.a. to be accessible worldwide. Scholars debate whether the Muṣḥaf al-Imām included all the seven readings or they were abandoned during ‘Uthmānic compilation. On the other hand orientalists view this flexibility as evidence that the Qur’ān has a human origin and is not a fix text. This article examines these issues to understand the scholarly perspective on the matter.