Discussions around the Qur'an

Salaam,

If I could add one more note to this discussion. Part of the problem in these accusations lies in peoples understanding or definitions of what the Qur'an is which differes from one sect to another. Some may consider the Quran to be limited to only the written text, that which has been revealed to the Messenger (pbuh) and compiled into a book. Others may define the Quran as the written text plus its meanings. Some of its meanings are clear and apparent while others are hidden, for example when Allah (swt) reveales the verses "Alif Laam Meem" He also teaches the prophet (pbuh) what these verses mean. Those meanings are part of the Quran even though they are not written in the text of the Qur'an.

Some shia scholars including Shaikh Mufid believe that while the text of the Qur'an is complete, and there are no additional or missing verses, some of its meanings have been tampered with and altered. Specifically those verses that were revealed about Imam Ali (as) and have been explained away differently.

What is important to note is that Shaikh mufid, and saduq clearly state that they believe Qur'an to be both the text and its meanings, so when they say the Quran has been altered or tampered with, they are refering to the commentary of the Quran and not the preserved text.

I hope this clarifies the issue.

wasalaam