Muhammad: Toward Prophecy (Part 1 of Muhammad: Five Centuries of History) 2017
Distributed by Film Ideas, 308 North Wolf Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090; 800-475-3456
Produced by Jean Labib and T. Celal
Directed by Chema Sarmiento
DVD, 52 min.
High School - General Adult
History, Islam, Muslims, Religion
Date Entered: 09/20/2017
Reviewed by Alexander Rolfe, Technical Services Librarian, George Fox University, Newberg, ORThis first of five parts provides an interesting look at Muhammad's early career. Besides the usual documentary fare of scholarly comment from university professors (which I like), this video tells us stories of the faith as Muslims themselves learn them; we hear of Muhammad's deeds from a boy reciting them to his class, and we listen to a grandmother telling stories of the prophet to young women.
The scholars discuss trade routes, Arab culture, and Muhammad's social and familial circumstances. Some animated maps and video footage from pre-oil-boom times helpfully illustrate their points. There is consideration given to the religious background and possible origin of some of Muhammad's ideas, with frequent quotes from the Koran. The quality is good and the content well-chosen.