Islamic Studies: Prophet & Hadith

Drawing on canon studies, this book investigates the origins, development and functions of the core of the Sunni ḥadīth canon, the 'Authentic' ḥadīth collections of al-Bukhārī and Muslim, from the time of their authors to the modern period.

Contrary to popular opinion, the bulk of Islamic law does not come from the Qur’an but rather from hadith, first-hand reports of the prophet Muhammad’s words and deeds, passed from generation to generation. However, with varying accounts often only committed to paper a century after the death of Muhammad, Islamic scholars, past and present, have been faced with complex questions of historical authenticity. Informative and accessible, this wide-ranging introduction provides a detailed exploration of the collection and criticism of hadith and examines the controversy surrounding its role in modern Islam. Complete with a glossary, extensive bibliography, and helpful diagrams, Hadith is perfectly suited to students, scholars, and the general reader interested in this critical element of Islam.

"Kecia Ali delves into the many ways the Prophet's life story has been told from the earliest days of Islam to the present, by both Muslims and non-Muslims. Emphasizing the major transformations since the nineteenth century, she shows that far from being mutually opposed, these various perspectives have become increasingly interdependent." - Harvard University Press

This in-depth examination of the life, history, and influence of Muhammad as discussed by leading scholars provides a wide-ranging look at the prophet's legacy unlike any other in the field of Islamic and culture studies.• Documents Muhammad's broad impact on history, culture, and society• Shares viewpoints from more than 100 scholars in the field of Islamic studies to provide different perspectives on how Muhammad's life and beliefs have changed the course of history• Explores Muhammad's changing image—and controversies over his depiction and the communication of his ideas—in art, music, and literature• Provides an in-depth overview of Muhammad's influences on secular life and culture