The Children of Abraham

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F.E. Peters, a leading scholar in the comparative study of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, revisits his groundbreaking work after twenty-five years, rethinking and rewriting it for a new generation. His exploration of these three faiths, initiated in the 1970s, predates the contemporary trend of examining Islam alongside Judaism and Christianity. In this updated edition, Peters clearly outlines the similarities and differences among these religious siblings, maintaining the remarkable objectivity characteristic of his scholarship. He traces the evolution of the three faiths from the sixth century B.C., when Jews returned to Palestine from Babylonian exile, through the Middle Ages when they began to take their current forms. Notably, he highlights that all three groups, referred to by Muslims as People of the Book, share significant commonalities, particularly the worship of a God who intervenes in history for His people. The text is direct and accessible, featuring thorough discussions of each religion. Updated footnotes offer expert insights into the complex issues woven throughout this compelling and timely edition, enhancing the reader's understanding of these interconnected traditions.