The Death of a Prophet

This insightful examination reveals conflicting accounts of Muhammad's death, suggesting a need for reevaluation of early Islamic history in The Death of a Prophet.

In The Death of a Prophet, Stephen J. Shoemaker delves into the conflicting narratives surrounding the conclusion of Muhammad's life, drawing from both Islamic and non-Islamic sources from the seventh and eighth centuries. He highlights a significant disparity between the oldest Islamic biography, which states that Muhammad died in Medina in 632, and earlier accounts from Jewish, Christian, and Samaritan texts that suggest he may have lived on to lead military conquests in Palestine around 634-35. This exploration marks the first comprehensive study of these divergent traditions, shedding light on a crucial aspect of Islamic history.

Shoemaker employs methodologies inspired by biblical studies to analyze these historical accounts. He posits that the reports of Muhammad's leadership during the Palestinian invasions likely reflect early Islamic traditions that were later modified in response to the evolving identity of the Islamic community. The expectation among Muhammad and his followers that the world would soon end led to a re-evaluation of their beliefs when the anticipated eschatological Hour did not materialize as expected. This shift necessitated a profound reassessment of the significance of Muhammad's teachings and the faith he established.

The scope of The Death of a Prophet extends beyond merely adjusting the timeline of Muhammad's death; it raises critical questions about the methodologies employed in studying Islamic origins. Shoemaker advocates for a more integrated approach that considers non-Islamic sources as valuable tools for reconstructing the early history of Islam, thus offering a broader understanding of its formative years.