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A Prophet Has Appeared

The Rise of Islam through Christian and Jewish Eyes, A Sourcebook

Stephen J Shoemaker author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:University of California Press

Published:11th May '21

Should be back in stock very soon

A Prophet Has Appeared cover

This collection offers a fresh perspective on early Islamic history, featuring non-Islamic sources that complement traditional narratives found in A Prophet Has Appeared.

Early Islam has emerged as a vibrant area of historical study, prompting scholars to reassess traditional narratives surrounding Islamic origins. In A Prophet Has Appeared, this innovative approach is brought into educational settings. The collection offers students and scholars a curated selection of non-Islamic sources that illuminate the early years of Islam, providing context and alternative perspectives on its rise. These materials can be studied independently or in conjunction with the Qur'an and later Islamic texts, fostering a deeper understanding of the era.

This volume features newly translated works from twenty different authors, originally composed in languages such as Greek, Latin, Syriac, Georgian, Armenian, Hebrew, and Arabic. The geographic scope of these sources ranges from England to Egypt and Iran, showcasing the diverse influences that shaped early Islamic history. A Prophet Has Appeared serves as an essential resource for both classroom settings and personal libraries, equipping readers with the necessary tools to engage with this emerging field of Islamic studies.

By applying historical-critical analysis, the book elevates these valuable non-Islamic sources to a level of significance comparable to later Islamic narratives about Muhammad and the establishment of his religious movement. This collection not only enriches the academic discourse but also invites readers to explore the complexities of early Islamic history through a broader lens.

"A marvel of concision and originality; best of all, it is readily accessible to the general reader. . . . A Prophet Has Appeared is one of the most readable and exciting books in Islamic history."

* Middle East Quarterly *
"Indeed, Shoemaker provides one of the most cohesive alternative visions to the emergence of Islam. A Prophet Has Appeared is a pivotal piece of this vision." * Reading Religion *

"This sourcebook is a valuable contribution to reliable historical data concerning theologically based approaches to the rise of Islam."

* CHOICE *
"This is an excellent book and essential reading for anyone interested in the history of Islam during its formative period." * Journal of Near Eastern Studi

ISBN: 9780520299610

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 23mm

Weight: 408g

320 pages