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Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (Edition, Revised, Revised) — Occult Philosophy

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Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (Edition, Revised, Revised)

Name: Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (Edition, Revised, Revised)
Price: 19.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781594771538

✍️ Lings, Martin

Reader Score

4.6

(1 review)

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A comprehensive biography of Muhammad drawn directly from eighth- and ninth-century Arabic historical sources.

This biography draws from primary Arabic accounts known as the sira to chronicle the prophet's life and the initial growth of Islam. Martin Lings translates original historical passages to present the words of contemporary witnesses. The narrative traces early Arabian context, personal milestones, spiritual revelations, and regional political shifts. Newly added sections detail the expansion of the Islamic message into Syria and neighboring territories. Organized systematically with genealogical trees, maps, and reference keys, the text presents early historical records in a straightforward prose structure.

Key Themes

Eighth-century Arabic biographies Early Islamic history Translations of contemporary witnesses

Literary Context

Rooted in eighth- and ninth-century Arabic sira biographies, this text documents early Arabian society and the origins of Islam. Written by a twentieth-century British scholar and former British Library keeper, it bridges traditional Islamic historical records with Western academic readership.

Lings, Martin

📚 all books by this author (2) →

Difficulty

●● Medium

Recommended For Fans Of

Karen Armstrong · Idries Shah · Rumi · The Quran

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Occult Philosophy

Praise for this book

“This work is widely recognized as the most readable account of the life of the Prophet to date.”

— Times of London

🏛 Inner Traditions International 📅 2006 📖 384 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781594771538

Fun Fact

Martin Lings' biography remains a cornerstone for anyone delving into the life of Prophet Muhammad. Its strengths lie in its meticulous research, direct engagement with primary sources, and its ability to weave scholarly rigor with an accessible, inspiring narrative. While those seeking a purely critical, non-devotional academic analysis might find its reverent tone distinctive, it excels as an authoritative and deeply felt portrayal. This work stands as a definitive, foundational text in the field of Islamic biography, offering both scholarly depth and spiritual resonance.

📝 Description: Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (Edition, Revised, Revised)

Martin Lings presents a detailed narrative of Muhammad's life drawn directly from early eighth- and ninth-century Arabic biographies (sira). A British scholar educated at London University and Oxford, Lings embraced Islam following his engagements with thinkers René Guénon and Frithjof Schuon. His work incorporates fresh English renderings of eyewitness accounts from those who knew the prophet and heard his speeches. Updated prior to his passing in 2005, this revised paperback version includes new content detailing Islam's expansion into Syria and neighboring lands. The Times of London recognized this text as the most accessible biography of the Prophet created so far. The volume begins with essential introductory material, including a lineage chart named Quraysh of the Hollow, an Arabian map, an Arabic pronunciation guide, and reference keys. Initial chapters explore the historical backdrop through sections like The House of God, Quraysh of the Hollow, The Need for a Prophet, and The Year of the Elephant. Lings traces key moments of the prophet's youth in chapters including Two Bereavements, Bahīrà the Monk, Questions of Marriage, and The Household. The chronicle moves forward through major spiritual events, local political developments, and community relations across chapters such as The Rebuilding of the Ka'bah, The First Revelations, 'Warn Thy Family', Quraysh Take Action, Aws and Khazraj, and Family Divisions. This volume benefits readers seeking an in-depth biographical account grounded in classical sources and translated testimonials. It is less suited for audiences desiring a brief summary or a modern critical examination of contemporary Islamic practices.

📑 What's inside

A Note on the Pronunciation of Arabic Names Map of Arabia Quraysh of the Hollow (genealogical tree) Key to References
1 The House of God
2 A Great Loss
3 Quraysh of the Hollow
4 The Recovery of a Loss
5 The Vow to Sacrifice a Son
6 The Need for a Prophet
7 The Year of the Elephant
8 The Desert
9 Two Bereavements
10 Bahīrà the Monk
11 A Pact of Chivalry
12 Questions of Marriage
13 The Household
14 The Rebuilding of the Ka'bah
15 The First Revelations
16 Worship
17 "Warn Thy Family"
18 Quraysh Take Action
19 Aws and Khazraj
20 Abū Jahl and Hamzah
21 Quraysh Make Offers and Demands
22 Leaders of Quraysh
23 Wonderment and Hope
24 Family Divisions
25 The Hour
26 Three Questions
27 Abyssinia
28 'Umar
29 The Ban and its Annulment
30 Paradise and Eternity
31 The Year of Sadness
32 "The Light of Thy Countenance"
33 After the Year of Sadness
34 Yathrib Responsive
35 Many Emigrations
36 A Conspiracy
37 The Hijrah
38 The Entry into Medina
39 Harmony and Discord
40 The New Household
41 The Threshold of War
42 The March to Badr
43 The Battle of Badr
44 The Return of the Vanquished
45 The Captives
46 Bani Qaynuqā'
47 Deaths and Marriages
48 The People of the Bench
49 Desultory Warfare
50 Preparations for Battle
51 The March to Uhud
52 The Battle of Uhud
53 Revenge
54 The Burial of the Martyrs
55 After Uhud
56 Victims of Revenge
57 Bani Nadīr
58 Peace and War
59 The Trench

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💎 Expert review

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💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

Lings’ biography stands as an authoritative testament to early Islamic history, blending scholarly rigor with a narrative that feels both intimate and grand. However, readers expecting dry, purely secular historiography or critical deconstruction may find its reverent tone overly pious. It does not suit those seeking detached academic objectivity or those uninterested in the spiritual dimensions of geopolitical expansion. While the original translations of crucial passages provide unique insight, the book’s primary strength lies in its ability to make sacred accounts accessible rather than its novelty. It is a worthy investment for the spiritually curious but may feel too devotional for strict secularists.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a profound, spiritually resonant entry point into Islam will find great value in this meticulously crafted biography. Martin Lings offers more than just historical data; he provides a window into the sacred atmosphere of early Islamic history through accessible yet scholarly prose. Those interested in the geopolitical and spiritual expansion of faith, particularly into regions like Syria, will appreciate the integration of new details from foundational Arabic sources. It is ideal for seekers who desire direct access to witness voices without wading through dense academic jargon, offering an inspiring and authoritative account that honors the author's final refinements.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

For anyone seeking a definitive, reverently composed, and meticulously sourced biography of Prophet Muhammad, this book is essential. Whether you are a student of Islamic history, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about one of humanity's most influential figures, Lings' work offers unparalleled…

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

Lings’ biography stands as an authoritative testament to early Islamic history, blending scholarly rigor with a narrative that feels both intimate and grand. However, readers expecting dry, purely secular historiography or critical deconstruction may find its reverent tone overly pious. It does not suit those seeking detached academic objectivity or those uninterested in the spiritual dimensions of geopolitical expansion. While the original translations of crucial passages provide unique insight, the book’s primary strength lies in its ability to make sacred accounts accessible rather than its novelty. It is a worthy investment for the spiritually curious but may feel too devotional for strict secularists.

❓ Frequently asked questions

This revised edition incorporates important new material detailing the expansion of Islam into regions like Syria. It also represents the final updates and refinements made by author Martin Lings before his passing in 2005, ensuring it is the most complete version available.

Martin Lings meticulously bases his account on the *sira*, which are the earliest Arabic biographies of Prophet Muhammad from the 8th and 9th centuries. The book includes original English translations of many crucial passages directly from these authoritative primary sources.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Prophet's Life & Mission

This volume provides a comprehensive and deeply researched narrative of Prophet Muhammad's journey, from his early life to the establishment of Islam. It meticulously details the key events, challenges, and revelations that shaped his mission, offering readers an intimate understanding of his character and the transformative impact of his teachings on the nascent Muslim community.

Authentic Historical Record

At its core, the book emphasizes rigorous adherence to primary sources. Lings draws extensively from the *sira*, the earliest Arabic biographies, and presents original English translations. This commitment ensures that the account is not merely interpretive but directly rooted in the testimonies and observations of those closest to the Prophet, lending unparalleled authenticity to its narrative.

Engaging Narrative Style

Beyond its scholarly foundation, the biography is crafted with a compelling narrative flair. Lings masterfully balances academic precision with an inspiring and easily comprehensible style. This approach allows the profound spiritual and historical dimensions of Muhammad's life to resonate deeply with readers, reflecting both the simplicity and the grandeur inherent in the story.

📜 Historical context

This work stands firmly within the tradition of classical Islamic scholarship dedicated to preserving the Prophet's life details. By relying on the *sira* — foundational 8th and 9th-century Arabic biographies — Lings connects directly to the earliest efforts to document Muhammad's teachings and actions. It offers a bridge between these venerable texts and a contemporary audience, enriching our understanding of early Islamic history.

📚 Glossary

Sira
Prophet Muhammad
Revelation

📔 Questions to reflect on

How does understanding the historical context of the Prophet's life, as presented in the earliest sources, deepen your appreciation of Islamic principles?
Reflect on the power of biographical narrative to convey spiritual truth and inspire faith, as exemplified by Martin Lings' approach.
Considering the detailed account of early Islamic expansion, what lessons can be drawn about faith, leadership, and societal transformation?