Was Mohammad a fraud?

United States
February 12, 2007 1:24pm CST
The title says it all. My answer is: I don't know. I do know a bit about Islam, having lived in Muslim countries and dated several Muslim women, as well as having read up on the subject. At one point, I was even comtemplating becoming Muslim! Since I am a person who dislikes organized religion I am happy to say I did not do it. But, I do try to keep an open mind and do not jump to conclusions regarding peoples religious beliefs. I keep several Muslim friends as well. So, the point is I recently finished a book titled, "The Truth About Mohammad - Founder of the worlds most intolerant religion." The author is a noted academic and scholar, and the picture he paints of Mohammad leaves you with the impression that he was no more than a successful cult leader. It is fascinating reading. Has anyone else read this book? What is your opinion of it and the author? Was Mohammad a fraud? Does that invalidate all his teachings? Can the same be said of Jesus? No flames please. I am just asking the question.
2 responses
mfmalives
@mfmalives (17)
• Singapore
8 Mar 07
Islam is a true religion...A muslim is not a muslim until he does what a muslim really does...confused?
Insiteful
@Insiteful (49)
• United States
8 Mar 07
Confused? No, not at all. :-) So what does a muslim really do?
livewyre
@livewyre (2450)
•
5 Mar 07
Mohammad claimed that a new scripture was revealed to him hence the Koran (various spellings I know, I am sticking with this one) If there is a claim of fraud against him, that would centre on whether this revelation was real or not. Mohammad claims to be a prophet and claims that Jesus was a lesser prophet. Jesus claimed to be one with God, so they cannot both be right, in fact if you like, one must be a 'fraud'.... I haven't read the book in question, I don't see the sense in attacking a religious leader as a fraud - it would be difficult to prove whether Mohammad had a real revelation or not. I would prefer to see a positive argument from the author as to why he believes whatever he does believe. I am sure Mohammed has some valid teachings especially as the faith based on the Old Testament just like Judaism and Christianity. There is no need to be intolerant of other faiths even if you believe you have the Truth.
Insiteful
@Insiteful (49)
• United States
5 Mar 07
Don't get me wrong: The book that I mentioned does not say Mohammad was a fraud. The author merely looks at all of Mohammad's writitngs and analyzes them against the back drop of his life and other accepted Islamic historical sources. I am not asserting that Mohammad was a fraud either. I am merely posing the question. I could have just as easily asked "Was Jesus a fraud?" But, that has been asked, and answered so many times, there is really no point in beating that horse anymore.
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