CHAPTER I
THE MECCAN PERIOD
The first revelation—Indifference of the Quraish—The political
factor—Persecution of the Muslims—Denunciation of opponents—Theory of
inspiration—Absence of Miracles—Scepticism of the Quraish—Joys of
Paradise—Influence of Khadijah—Description of Hell—The Prophet as
Warner—Emigration to Abyssinia—al-Lat and al-'Uzza—Idolatry reproved—Hostility
of the Quraish—Opposition to former Prophets—Reproof of the Quraish—Claim to
inspiration—Denial of forgery—Uniqueness of the Qur'an—Jews, Christians and
Sabians—Relation to Judaism—Tales of the Ancients—Visit to Ta'if—Visitors from
Madina—The men of Madina—First pledge of 'Aqaba—The Mi'raj—Second pledge of
Aqaba—Departure to Madina—The prospect in Medina |