Huston Smith part 1

Huston Smith part 1

Ch. 1

How did Islam begin?

Main ideas:

·         Islam begins with God, not Muhammad

·         Arabs and Jews consider themselves descendants from Shem

·         Abraham had two sons Ishmael and Isaac

·         Ishmael was banished, created Mecca and became Muslim

·         Isaac remained in Palestine and became Jewish

Thesis: The start of Islam can be traced back through the Quran to the very beginning. Islam runs parallel with Judaism and Christianity however has key differences

Summary: Islam was created by God not Muhammad. Arabs are descendants of Shem who conquered the Middle East. Islam spread with the rise of the Arab nation.

Ch. 2

What was the impact of Muhammad?

Main Ideas:

·         Muhammad is a descendant od Ishmael in Arabia

·         He is considered “The Seal of the Prophets” for he was the last valid prophit

·         The world was very ignorant and full of jinn at the time of Muhammad

·         Muhammad’s heart was filled with the light of God even in this dark time

·         By spreading the word of God, Muhammad gained many followers

Thesis: Muhammad had a huge impact on the start of Islam. He is not the founder however Islam would not have been created if it was not for him.

Summary: The world at that time was a mess. Everyone was ignorant and sin was ramped. Muhammad came along spreading the word of God and received great affection. Muhammad gained many followers and ended up creating what is known as Islam.

Ch. 3

Was there opposition against Muhammad?

Main Ideas:

·         The people of Mecca were against Muhammad

·         Muhammad traveled from Mecca to Yathrib

·         Muhammad turned from prophesizing to administration

·         Muhammad was able to capture Mecca through battle

·         Won the war with the help of God

Thesis: Muhammad was able to flee to Yathrib and gain followers and ultimately was able to conquer Mecca although being outnumbered. He believed he was able to win because he was fighting with God on his side. ““No we are three,” Muhammad answered “for God is with us.” The Koran agrees.”

Summary: Muhammad was able to capture Mecca with the Help of God. His followers had conquered Armenia, Persia, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, north Africa, and Spain all in a brief period of time. Muhammad is considered to be the most influential human of all time.