Messianic Ideas and Movements in Sunni Islam

The expectation of a redeemer, known as the mahdi, is a widespread phenomenon across many civilizations. Yohanan Friedmann explores the roots of the mahdi idea in Sunni Islam and studies four major claimants who made a significant impact in the regions where they emerged. He examines their religious thought and relates it to classical Muslim ideas on the apocalypse, considering their movements and achievements, failures, and legacies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Across numerous civilizations, the anticipation of a savior is a prevalent phenomenon. Classical Islamic traditions uphold that the Mahdi, a prophesied figure, will bring about a transformative global shift by establishing Islam as the sole religion. This remarkable endeavor will be accomplished in partnership with Jesus, who will reappear as a Muslim and assume a significant role in this apocalyptic mission. While the concept of the messianic idea has primarily been associated with Shi'i Islam, its significance in the Sunni branch is equally profound. In his groundbreaking exploration, Yohanan Friedmann delves into the origins of the Mahdi in Sunni Islam, examining the lives and legacies of four prominent Mahdi claimants: Ibn Tumart, Sayyid Muhammad Jawnpuri, Muhammad Ahmad, and Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Through a comprehensive analysis of their religious beliefs and their connections to classical Muslim ideas about the apocalypse, Friedmann explores the movements of these claimants and assesses their accomplishments, failures, and enduring impacts. He also considers how they foreshadowed certain radical Islamic groups of modern times. This captivating work sheds light on the rich tapestry of religious and historical narratives, providing a deeper understanding of the Mahdi's role and its significance in the broader context of Islamic traditions.

Dimension: 234 x 153 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861543113