By Bruno Ulmer
This enlightening documentary explores the origins of the Koran, which according to Muslim tradition, has remained static and unchanged since its revelation to the prophet Mohammed between 610 and 632 CE in Mecca and Medina. However, recent discoveries of Koranic manuscripts analyzed by scientists, dating from around 680—the oldest in the world—indicate that the Koran would appear to have a more complicated history. During the first century of Islam, different concurrent versions of the holy book of Islam are believed to have existed and a number of different readings are possible due to the rudimentary nature of the writing in its early stages.
European scientists and Islamic scholars are now trying to trace the history of the Koran. From the mosque of Kairouan in Tunisia to that of the Umayyads in Damascus and Al- Azhar in Cairo , the film invites us on a fascinating journey into the heart of the origins of the book and Late Antiquity. THE KORAN: THE ORIGINS OF THE BOOK explores where Muslim tradition and scientific research converge.
Reviews
~ "Admirable…Brilliant…As much for the beauty of the images as for its care of clarity." - Telerama
~ "This intriguing documentary, arranged chronologically, melds scientific research with Muslim teachings to explore the evolution of Islam..." —Booklist
~ "Essential viewing for Islamic scholars, this is likely to also be of interest to devout Muslims. Recommended." —Video Librarian
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