flowering of Muslim theology, The

Book Description

For those seeking to understand the profound theological foundations that shaped one of the world's great spiritual traditions, this scholarly work opens doors to the rich intellectual heritage of early Islam. Drawing from thirty-five years of dedicated research, Josef van Ess presents the first comprehensive English-language exploration of classical kalam, the sophisticated theological discourse that laid the groundwork for modern Islamic thought.

This illuminating study takes readers into the vibrant intellectual world where Muslim theology first flourished. Van Ess examines how early Islamic thinkers grappled with fundamental questions that continue to resonate today: the nature of divine vision, the relationship between faith and reason, and the delicate balance between spiritual authority and political power. Through careful analysis, he reveals how these pioneering theologians creatively adapted philosophical concepts like atomism to serve their spiritual purposes, transforming originally materialistic ideas into tools for understanding the divine.

The work offers valuable comparative insights, drawing connections between Islamic theological development and parallel traditions in Christianity and Judaism. Van Ess explores the complex dynamics of orthodoxy and heresy, showing how early Muslim communities defined authentic belief while navigating diverse interpretations of sacred texts.

More than an academic treatise, this book serves as a bridge between past and present, helping contemporary readers appreciate the sophisticated reasoning that underlies Islamic spiritual thought. Through vivid examples and accessible prose, it reveals how classical Muslim theologians addressed timeless questions about truth, knowledge, and the divine nature.