Buddha, Jesus and Muhammad A Comparative Study [Hardcover]

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 ix

Notes xiv

Maps xv

1 Sources 1

The Delay in Writing 1

Gospel Portraits 6

Qur’an, Sira and Hadith 11

Observations 16

2 Context 23

The Ganges Plain 23

Roman Palestine 28

Arabia Deserta 34

Observations 37

3 Early Years 44

Heir to the Throne 44

Son of the Carpenter 49

Orphan and Merchant 54

Observations 58

4 Turning Point 65

The Four Sights 65

Waters of the Jordan 71

Night of Power 75

Observations 80

5 Message 88

Four Noble Truths 88

Kingdom of God 94

The Straight Path 100

Observations 106

6 Miracles 114

Iddhi 114

The Finger of God 118

One or Many? 122l³ƒ