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The Quest for the Historical Muhammad,New
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More than one hundred years ago Western scholars began to investigate the origins of Islam, using the highest standards of objective historical scholarship of the time. Their aim was to determine what could be known about Muhammad and the rise of early Islam quite apart from the pious and totally unobjective traditions preserved by the Muslim religious community. In some ways this research was inspired by a similar investigation of Christianity made famous by Albert Schweitzer's Quest of the Historical Jesus. Today although much has been learned about early Christianity, little comparable progress has been made in the field of Islamic Studies. Here objective historical research has long been severely handicapped both by the resistance of Muslim societies to Western analysis of their sacred traditions and by the apologetic approaches of many Western scholars, who have compromised their investigations for fear of offending Muslim sensibilities.It is in this context that Ibn Warraq presents this important anthology of the best studies of Muhammad and early Islam ranging from the very beginnings of Islamic Studies in the nineteenth century to contemporary research. In his selection and in an introductory essay, Warraq makes it clear that some very serious scholarly controversies lie at the heart of Islam. First, the Koran itself, the Muslim sacred scripture and the foundation of Islamic culture, is called into question as the basis for objective historical knowledge of Muhammad. Some scholars have also questioned the reliability of most of the other early Arabic documents that supposedly attest to events in the life of Muhammad and his followers. Was the Koran dictated by Muhammad at all? Was it actually compiled any earlier than a hundred years after the Prophet's death? How much of Muslim sacred tradition, in the light of objective historical analysis, must be dismissed as unreliable hearsay? Were the motives of the first Muslim conquerors during the Jihad truly religious in nature or largely mercenary? These disturbing questions, long suppressed throughout the history of Islamic scholarship, are here raised again in these erudite and thoroughly researched essays by noted scholars.
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- Q: What is the page count for 'Quest for the Historical Muhammad'? A: The book has five hundred sixty-two pages. This extensive page count allows for in-depth discussions on the origins of Islam and the historical context of Muhammad.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one point five seven inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a manageable size for reading.
- Q: What type of binding does the book have? A: The book is bound in hardcover. This durable binding ensures that the book withstands frequent handling and maintains its condition over time.
- Q: How do I approach reading 'Quest for the Historical Muhammad'? A: To read this book, simply start from the beginning and progress through the chapters. It is suitable for readers interested in historical scholarship and Islamic studies.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in Islamic studies? A: Yes, the book is suitable for beginners. It provides a comprehensive overview of the historical debates surrounding Muhammad and early Islam, making it accessible to those new to the subject.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Quest for the Historical Muhammad'? A: The author is Ibn Warraq. He is known for his critical approach to Islamic studies and for compiling significant research in this anthology.
- Q: How should I care for my copy of this book? A: To keep your book in good condition, store it upright on a shelf and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This will help prevent fading and damage.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can clean the book gently. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe any dust or smudges off the cover and pages.
- Q: Is this book considered safe for all readers? A: Yes, the book is safe for adult readers. It discusses historical perspectives on Muhammad and Islam but is intended for mature audiences due to its academic nature.
- Q: What should I do if my copy arrives damaged? A: If your copy arrives damaged, you should contact the seller's customer service for assistance. They can guide you through the return or replacement process.
- Q: Is there a return policy for this book? A: Yes, there is a return policy. Check with the seller for specific details regarding returns and any conditions that may apply.
- Q: What type of research does this book compile? A: The book compiles scholarly studies on the historical Muhammad and early Islam. It includes various perspectives and controversies surrounding these topics.
- Q: How does this book compare to other works on Muhammad? A: This book offers a unique anthology of critical essays, making it distinct from other works. It presents a range of scholarly debates and insights into Muhammad's historical context.
- Q: Who published 'Quest for the Historical Muhammad'? A: The book is published by Prometheus Books. The publisher is known for works that challenge conventional narratives in various fields.
- Q: What are the main themes discussed in the book? A: The main themes include the historical analysis of the Koran, the reliability of early documents, and the motivations behind early Islamic conquests. These themes provoke thought and discussion.