This cool, clear-sighted comparative study has no theological axe to grind. It offers a trusty thematic guide to the figureheads of three of the largest religions in the world. The comparative approach is descriptive and even-handed, highlighting both similarities and differences across a range of major areas. The thematic chapters cover: early life, followers, the core message, political attitudes, relations with women, and death. The engaging writing and descriptive approach make this an ideal text for students, instructors and general readers.

This cool, clear-sighted comparative study has no theological axe to grind. It offers a trusty thematic guide to the figureheads of three of the largest religions in the world.* The comparative approach is descriptive and even-handed, highlighting both similarities and differences across a range of major areas.* The thematic chapters cover: early life, followers, the core message, political attitudes, relations with women, and death.* The engaging writing and descriptive approach make this an ideal text for students, instructors and general readers.

Preface ixNotes xivMaps xv1 Sources 1The Delay in Writing 1Gospel Portraits 6Qur'an, Sira and Hadith 11Observations 162 Context 23The Ganges Plain 23Roman Palestine 28Arabia Deserta 34Observations 373 Early Years 44Heir to the Throne 44Son of the Carpenter 49Orphan and Merchant 54Observations 584 Turning Point 65The Four Sights 65Waters of the Jordan 71Night of Power 75Observations 805 Message 88Four Noble Truths 88Kingdom of God 94The Straight Path 100Observations 1066 Miracles 114Iddhi 114The Finger of God 118One or Many? 122Observations 1277 Followers 134The Third Jewel 134The Twelve Disciples 141Companions 147Observations 1548 Women 163The Renunciation 163Eunuch for the Kingdom 168Mothers of the Faithful 174Observations 1799 Politics 185The Enemy Within 185Messiah 191Ruler of Arabia 196Observations 20410 Death 212The Blacksmith's Meal 212Cross and Tomb 218In 'A'isha's arms 226Observations 230Conclusion 238Further Reading 245References 251Index 255