Product: Book ISBN-10: 0-19-537476-2 ISBN-13: 9780195374766 Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA Country: Year: January 6, 2009 Size: 15.24 x 22.86 x 2.03cm Number of pages: 256 Weight: 408gr Binding: Paperback
Product Description Named by Time magazine as one of the 100 most important innovators of the century, Tariq Ramadan is a leading Muslim scholar, with a large following especially among young European and American Muslims. Now, in his first book written for a wide audience, he offers a marvelous biography of the Prophet Muhammad, one that highlights the spiritual and ethical teachings of one of the most influential figures in human history.
Here is a fresh and perceptive look at Muhammad, capturing a life that was often eventful, gripping, and highly charged. Ramadan provides both an intimate portrait of a man who was shy, kind, but determined, as well as a dramatic chronicle of a leader who launched a great religion and inspired a vast empire. More important, Ramadan presents the main events of the Prophet's life in a way that highlights his spiritual and ethical teachings. The book underscores the significance of the Prophet's example for some of today's most controversial issues, such as the treatment of the poor, the role of women, Islamic criminal punishments, war, racism, and relations with other religions. Selecting those facts and stories from which we can draw a profound and vivid spiritual picture, the author asks how can the Prophet's life remain –- or become again –- an example, a model, and an inspiration? And how can Muslims move from formalism –- a fixation on ritual –- toward a committed spiritual and social presence?
In this thoughtful and engaging biography, Ramadan offers Muslims a new understanding of Muhammad's life and he introduces non-Muslims not just to the story of the Prophet, but to the spiritual and ethical riches of Islam.
reviews
Great Read
This book is absolutely amazing. Unlike some other books about the life of the Prophet (pbuh) which are filled with facts and read like a history book Tariq Ramadan really tried to make the personality of the Prophet (pbuh) shine. A simple a beautiful read; it does not dwell too much on deep philosophical matters (like some of Ramadan's other books) but rather remains simple and to the point. Someone who's read the biography of the Prophet (pbuh) before is unlikely to find too many new historical facts in this book but they are likely to see these facts in a whole different perspective. A must read for anyone trying to truly grasp the personality of the Prophet (pbuh).
Spiritual Journey
Having read other biographies of Muhammad's (PBUH) life, I found this one particularly thought provoking and uplifting in that it explored the spiritual and not just historical or civic context of Muhammad's experiences. This compelling combination resulted in more than an interesting read, but a spiritual journey … along side a man many consider the most influential in human history.
A MUST read for those looking for a model to follow
As Dr. Ramadan mentions, there are many books on the life of the prophet. However, what this book adds is the meaning, wisdom and lessons to be learned from the events in the life of the prophet. It is an easy to read book, easy to follow and is extremely engaging.
In a world where people are starved for a model to follow that is full of love, mercy and forgiveness, yet firm when it comes to the core message, this book presents this model clearly. The ideal character of a leader, a father, a husband, a friend is demonstrated in this book. It teaches the balance in life between work, family and spiritual demands. This book even explains to the reader the importance of taking care of your body; being an instrument on loan to us from God to us through this life. I cannot numerate the excellent moral lessons I leanred from this book.
Regardless of ones religion, this is a good book to read, understand and follow.
Insightful, devout and learned
Ramadan's scholarship, appreciation for pluralism, personal faith and passion for his Muslim heritage infuse this wonderful book. He takes us on a brief journey through the life of the prophet Muhammad and pauses to reflect on the way the Prophet used specific events to teach his contemporaries and on how those events and teachings have formed the Muslim community over the centuries.
As an American, I appreciated how the book responds to Western mis-understandings of Islam (for example, the greater jihad is the personal struggle to follow Allah; the lesser jihad is armed struggle) without being defensive. As a Christian, I appreciated »going along« with Ramadan as he reflects on his faith and makes it accessible because it comes from the heart.
Amazing!
This is an amazing book! Very well written, very touching story. Really gave me a better understanding of the Prophet Muhammad and his life. Tariq is a wonderful writer.