The lecture offers an insight into the methods and principles with which Muslim scholars have interpreted and developed the authoritative scriptures of the religion over the centuries. The lecture sheds light on the challenges and multifaceted nature of interpreting religious texts in a changing world. From classical exegesis to modern approaches to hermeneutics, an arc will be drawn that demonstrates the lively examination of scripture and context and centres on questions of authority, diversity of meaning and the role of the interpreter.