Prophecy and Power: Violence and Islam II

Adonis is a Syrian-born Arab poet and a fierce critic of violence and despotism in the Islamic world. He explores the nature of political power in Islam by focusing on the figure of the prophet Mohammed as both a political and a mythical leader. He discusses the Quranic intervention in establishing the prophets power and the historical developments before and after his death, which established the power of the Caliph or the leader as absolute. The authors conclude with a call for secularism in the Arab world and a passionate plea for the separation of religion from the political, legal, and social spheres fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 21 May 2021
Publisher: Polity Press

Syrian-born Adonis, widely acclaimed as the preeminent Arab poet of our time, is not only a celebrated wordsmith but also a fierce advocate against violence and despotism in the Islamic world. In his profound work, he delves into the intricate nature of political power within the Islamic context, centering his exploration on the enigmatic figure of the prophet Mohammed. Through a captivating dialogue with Houria Abdelouahed, Adonis examines the Quranic intervention that shaped the prophet's power, particularly when interpreted based on faith rather than rationality. The authors engage in a thoughtful discussion about the historical developments preceding and following the prophet's demise, which ultimately solidified the absolute authority of the Caliph or leader.

The second part of the book takes a deeper dive into the profound consequences of these historical developments in the Arab and Islamic world today. It sheds light on the ongoing dominance of a 'tyrannical understanding of power, which continues to exert a profound influence. The authors conclude their insightful analysis with a fervent call for secularism in the Arab world, emphasizing the urgent need to separate religion from the realms of politics, law, and society. This plea resonates as a powerful testament to the pursuit of a more inclusive and democratic society, where individuals can freely express their beliefs and pursue their aspirations without fear of oppression or discrimination.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 137 x 215 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509542154