wh_2.11

Title: The Prophet Muhammad and the Basics of the Islamic Faith

Introduction

• Presentation by Adam Jortner

• Date: Feb. 11, 2025

• Note: Content may be derived from Dr. W.M. Malczycki.

Jewish Texts

• Midrash: Commentaries on the Torah, dating back to around 300 BCE.

• Talmud: Commentaries on the Midrash, from approximately 600 CE to present.

• Distinction between "oral Torah" and "written Torah."

Rabbinic Judaism

• Incorporates both community and religion aspects.

• Key concepts:

  • Mitzvot: Good deeds.

  • Tikkun Olam: Collaboration between humans and God to repair the world.

• Quote by Gamaliel:

  • The study of the Torah is equivalent to all other religious behaviors.

  • Mercy on others reflects God's mercy towards individuals.

Historical Context (300-500 CE) in Europe

• Transition in Christianity's relationship with Judaism post-Temple destruction (70 CE).

• Period of turmoil: 3rd century crises leading to Diocletian's reign (284 CE) and subsequent Edicts.

• Development of the modern canon (367 CE).

• Cessation of non-Christian worship (407 CE).

• Increased fears of conversion tactics.

• Societal collapse exemplified by the Huns sacking Rome (410 CE).

Notes on Arabic Transliteration

• Arabic uses a distinct alphabet differing from Latin scripts.

• Variability in the transliteration of Arabic names (e.g., Muhammad, Mohammed, Mohamed).

• Shortened forms of "ibn" or "bin" (e.g.,

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