History Of The Prophets And Kings Book Summary

The Muslim historian and a theologian Al-Tabari relate some contradictory accounts of the first revelation. This author in his book, History of the Prophets and Kings, talks about the revelation that was given to Prophet Muhammad. Some of these accounts are believed to have come directly from the prophet yet they are contradictory. This historian is reluctant to give the full details of the revelations that were given to Muhammad. Instead, he is concerned about the themes, symbols and the lessons that he believes are important to the people. He is a fervent believer of prophet-hood but gives only what he deems important to the Muslims . There are various sets of themes and symbols in his historical which he uses to pass the message to the people. Being a theologian, Al-Tabari tries his best to make the Muslims understand the revelation of God to Muhammad in depth according to theology. This person is not bothered by the smaller details about the …show more content…
In his explanations, he reveals that the revelation was given to Muhammad because he was the one who was anointed by God. Al-Tabari reveals several versions of this story to the readers so that they can choose which is best for them. In his history of the prophets and the kings, this person does not seem to care which account is accurate . His main concern is to make the believers aware that Muhammad is the anointed one. In one of the accounts, this author argues that he relies on rational arguments which he had learned, traditions and beliefs in Islamic norms. He, therefore, urges the readers to choose what they deem important concerning the revelation. In the arguments, Al-Tabari says that he is not concerned by the manner in which the angel revealed himself to Muhammad. He also talks about everything he writes as not being true but with the Islamic faith, it is possible to grab the