Description
Book SynopsisThis cool, clear-sighted comparative study has no theological axe to grind. It offers a trusty thematic guide to the figureheads of three of the largest religions in the world. * The comparative approach is descriptive and even-handed, highlighting both similarities and differences across a range of major areas.
Table of ContentsPreface ix
Notes xiv
Maps xv
1 Sources 1
The Delay in Writing 1
Gospel Portraits 6
Qur’an, Sira and Hadith 11
Observations 16
2 Context 23
The Ganges Plain 23
Roman Palestine 28
Arabia Deserta 34
Observations 37
3 Early Years 44
Heir to the Throne 44
Son of the Carpenter 49
Orphan and Merchant 54
Observations 58
4 Turning Point 65
The Four Sights 65
Waters of the Jordan 71
Night of Power 75
Observations 80
5 Message 88
Four Noble Truths 88
Kingdom of God 94
The Straight Path 100
Observations 106
6 Miracles 114
Iddhi 114
The Finger of God 118
One or Many? 122
Observations 127
7 Followers 134
The Third Jewel 134
The Twelve Disciples 141
Companions 147
Observations 154
8 Women 163
The Renunciation 163
Eunuch for the Kingdom 168
Mothers of the Faithful 174
Observations 179
9 Politics 185
The Enemy Within 185
Messiah 191
Ruler of Arabia 196
Observations 204
10 Death 212
The Blacksmith’s Meal 212
Cross and Tomb 218
In ‘A’isha’s arms 226
Observations 230
Conclusion 238
Further Reading 245
References 251
Index 255
