Jesus and Muhammad are two of the best known and revered figures in history; each with a billion or more global followers. Now; in this intriguing volume; F.E. Peters offers a clear and compelling analysis of the parallel lives of Jesus and Muhammad; the first such in-depth comparison in print. Like a detective; Peters compiles "dossiers" of what we do and do not know about the lives and portraits of these towering figures; drawing on the views of modern historians and the evidence of the Gospels and the Quran. With erudition and wit; the author nimbly leads the reader through drama and dogma to reveal surprising similarities between the two leaders and their messages. Each had a public career as a semi-successful preacher. Both encountered opposition that threatened their lives and those of their followers. Each left a body of teaching purported to be their very words; with an urgent imperative that all must become believers in the face of the approaching apocalypse. Both are symbols of hope on the one hand and of God's terrible judgment on the other. They are bringers of peace--and the sword. There is; however; a fundamental difference. Muslims revere Muhammad ibn Abdullah of Mecca as a mortal prophet. Although known as a prophet in his day; the Galilean Jew Jesus was and is believed by his followers to have been the promised Messiah; indeed the son of God. The Quran records revelations received by Muhammad as the messenger of God; whereas the revelations of the Gospels focus on Jesus and the events of his life and death. A lasting contribution to interfaith understanding; Jesus and Muhammad offers lucid; intelligent answers to questions that underlie some of the world's most intractable conflicts.
#40708 in Books Cunliffe Barry 2015-11-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 7.80 x 1.20 x 9.80l; 1.00 #File Name: 0199689172512 pagesBy Steppe Desert and Ocean The Birth of Eurasia
Review
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Incredibly well-written and highly recommended for all inhabitants of EarthBy Bob McIncredibly well-written and highly recommended for all inhabitants of Earth! Might actually help folks begin to think in terms of big changes over long periods rather than just making it through life one day at a time.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Reasonably well writtenBy larryThis is a survey of Eurasian history; focused on the Steppe and it's role in migration and trade. The several areas of civilization hotspots in the Middle East and China are referenced early; with the Eastern Mediterranean and India a bit later.This book attempts to cover an enormous area in space and time. Many important details are briefly referenced or omitted for expediency. As the author mentions; entire books could be written on many of his paragraphs.All in all; a reader leaves this book with a rough but reasonable understanding of Eurasian history. Many areas on the periphery such as Europe; Southern India; and most of Africa receive little or no mention - this history is directly focused on Eurasia. This book could be used as a basis of a survey course; but would need additional supporting material.The book's final chapter did seem hurried - with reference to visual media; it felt like the camera was moving too rapidly to see anything but a blurred image.13 of 15 people found the following review helpful. Compelling; Sweeping History of EurasiaBy David S. WellhauserBarry Cunliffe's By Steppe; Desert; and Ocean: The Birth of Eurasia is a brilliant; if at times politically left-of-center and dry; read.If you are looking for a sweeping read that helps explain the massive landmass between Ireland and Japan.It concludes with the 13th Century but covers all major issues up until this time.At times enlightening and frustrating [the maps are all on a north-south axis rather than an east-west axis and this seems to be make a political point rather than to be enlightening] Cunliffe's work is very useful and enjoyable.Rating 5 out of 5 stars.Highly recommended for Eurasian history buffs.
