This book presents an academic introduction to the life and teachings of five Middle Eastern founders of religion -- five individuals whose systems of faith, thought, and action have won the allegiance of millions. All believed to have experienced a personal encounter with the divine - a "voice" directly from the "beyond" - to proclaim God's message to the community or people to which they belonged. All attracted followers and opponents. Similarities in their religious outlook abound; but differences between the five pervade their approach toward society and culture, with issues of law, war,...
This book presents an academic introduction to the life and teachings of five Middle Eastern founders of religion -- five individuals whose systems of...