A Critical Analysis of the Views of Saha and Ibn Warraq Regarding the Authoritarianism of the Prophet Muhammad with an Emphasis on Verse 26 of Surah Al-Ahzab

Document Type : Original Article

Author

a

Abstract

In recent decades, one of the issues that critics of Islam and detractors of the Holy Prophet have used to attack his character and distort his status is the allegation of authoritarianism and violence in his actions and conduct. Understanding these doubts and responding to them with solid arguments is crucial in defending the sacred persona of the Prophet. The main issue dealt with in this article is that individuals such as Saha and Ibn Warraq have, by referencing certain historical sources and verse 26 of Surah Al-Ahzab, presented incomplete information to claim that the Prophet exhibited authoritarianism and that Islam promotes violence. This study, using a library-based and critical analytical method, describes their views, clarifies these doubts, and provides well-reasoned responses. The focus is on the Battle of Bani Qurayza, with particular emphasis on the Qur'anic teachings and historical sources. The findings indicate that numerous Qur'anic verses, hadiths, and historical and exegetical reports affirm the absence of authoritarianism and despotism in the Prophet’s conduct, particularly in his dealings with the Jews of Bani Qurayza. All claims of authoritarianism and violence in this regard are unfounded

Keywords


  1. *The Holy Qur’an

    *The Holy Bible, Old and New Testament. (n.d.). Tehran: Ilam Publications.

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Volume 5, Issue 4 - Serial Number 18
December 2024
Pages 92-132
  • Receive Date: 10 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 29 September 2024
  • Accept Date: 18 November 2024
  • Publish Date: 17 December 2024