The Theory of the Living Qur'an

Concepts, Forms of Acceptance, and Its Implications for Contemporary Qur'an Studies

Abstract

Purpose – The study of the Living Qur’an has expanded considerably in recent decades; however, existing scholarship remains largely descriptive and theoretically fragmented. This study aims to develop an integrative conceptual framework for Living Qur’an studies by synthesizing major theoretical perspectives into a coherent analytical model capable of explaining the dynamic interaction between the Qur’an and contemporary Muslim societies. Design/methodology/approach – This study employs a qualitative approach using a critical literature review methodology. Data were collected through a systematic review of books and peer-reviewed journal articles retrieved from Google Scholar, JSTOR, institutional repositories, and accredited academic journals. The selected literature was analyzed through thematic identification, cross-theoretical comparison, conceptual synthesis, and critical evaluation to construct an integrated theoretical framework. Findings – The study proposes an integrative definition of the Living Qur’an and develops a conceptual model that combines reception theory, social construction theory, interpretive anthropology, cultural studies, and digital religion. The findings demonstrate that the reception and actualization of the Qur’an are shaped through continuous interactions among the sacred text, religious communities, social institutions, symbolic practices, and digital media. This framework extends the scope of Living Qur’an studies beyond textual interpretation toward a more comprehensive understanding of lived religious practices in both physical and digital environments. Research implications/limitations – As a conceptual study based exclusively on literature review, the proposed framework has not been empirically validated. Future research should examine its applicability through ethnographic and digital ethnographic studies across diverse Muslim communities and digital religious contexts. Originality/value – This study contributes to contemporary Qur’anic studies by offering an integrative theoretical framework that bridges previously isolated approaches within Living Qur’an scholarship. It provides a systematic epistemological foundation for future interdisciplinary research and advances the conceptual development of Living Qur’an studies in response to contemporary social, cultural, and technological transformations.