Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet

It's been awhile since I read this book, but I must say that it is clear and concise, and informative. I think everyone should read this book, maybe George Bush should be sent a copy (does he read?) It's imperative to have understanding about the Story of Mohammed, after all, we know he existed, we have no proof that Christ did. It is simply amazing what Mohammed managed to do to create stability where there was the possibility for factions by the score to develop. Bad enough we must deal with two factions at this time, (and Karen explains where this originated) But we have Mohammed to thank for the fact there are 'only' two. It could be worse! I was glad to see, too, that Karen put the connection together in this book about the Ismael the first son of Abraham, (with the maid servant of Sarah) and Mohammed connection . I was sure there was a connection. It's in this book! Insight, and education, makes such a huge difference in our perspectives. Karen is a prolific writer who began this writing early in life for reasons explained in The Spiral Staircase. Another great book that helps us to understand the part the brain plays in spirituality. Go on to read, The Brain That Changes Itself. ( not an Armstrong book)

This book is written with utmost relevance to contemporary issues in the world, especially the issue of Islamophobia in the west. Book is written mainly in historical perspective and Ms Karen has done a great job in providing the political, social understanding that was prevalent at that time. It will never be justified if someone presents life of Muhammad(pbuh) without highlighting the whole revolution that He came forth with. That is the best part of this book, Ms Karen has presented that revolutionary Muhammad(pbuh). However, there are certain factual mistakes in the book(I read paper back 2001 edition). On page 114, Ms Karen has put forward translation of Quran Chapter 7, verses 9 to 15 which describes the conversation of satan and God and then at the end Ms Karen has written "The Quran doesn't see this as the primal, absolute sin but indicates instead that Satan will be forgiven on the last day". However, actual words are "Satan said, give me respite(time) till the day(Day of judgement) they(Adam Eve and their progeny) are raised up". Similarly there are mistakes on pages 131 and 200, which have changed the narrative some how about the things that she wants to make us understand there. Overall best book, to get insights into the life of a person, who has changed history and is changing it still.

As an atheist bought up as an anglican I was very much in the dark about Islam generally, though I do have some muslim friends. I found this book generally informative about Islam and the prophet. The book takes a while to get into Muhammad's life, the second chapter starts with the prophet's first vision, but then doesn't mention anything about the prophet's life after that, this occurs several times in the first few chapters. So prepare yourself for a lot of background and a lot of Islamic theology/philosophy at the start. Having said that the beginning of the book lays some very important groundwork for understanding what Muhammad was trying (and succeeding) to acheive, which is essential for the newcommer to the subject. I read this book as I wanted to find out about the Caliphate and thought it would be good background reading, which it was, but now I'll probably read more of Karen Armstrong's other books as well. She's such an informative writer, knows her subject inside out and is totally non-judgemental, leaving the reader to draw his or her own conclusions. If you buy this book you won't be disappointed.

Un excellent livre qui raconte la vraie vie du prophète Mohamed, réfutant tous les mensonges de certains orientalistes mal intentionnés et haineux de l'Islam. La personne la plus influente de l'histoire de l'humanité selon le Panthéon du MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) et Michael H. Hart, astrophysicien et essayiste américain. Merci, Karen, pour ce véritable travail de recherche historique.

Karen Armstrong focused on her positive thinking whilst she wrote the book. Perhaps the angel intervened. I sensed divine sincerity and admired its endurance. You’re blessed Karen, envy you, hope you can maintain it... ps: the divine truth was at its best what was revealed to Muhammad...so reviving Buddha, is not an improvement, it's backward...only for collection, but not for practical use....