Muhammad Probably Never Existed: Theologian

Islamic scholar's theory enrages Muslims
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 15, 2008 8:45 AM CST
Muhammad Probably Never Existed: Theologian
Hundreds of thousands of Muslims circle the Kaaba inside the Grand Mosque during the last week of Ramadan in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2008.   (AP Photo)

An Islamic professor's belief that Muhammad probably never existed has Muslim groups seething, the Wall Street Journal reports. The German convert to Islam says he cast a critical eye over historical records and found little to indicate the prophet was a real person. Muhammad’s name didn't appear on coins until 60 years after Islam emerged, he notes.

Many Islamic scholars doubt the accuracy of accounts of Muhammad's life but most agree he existed. The professor, who insists he is still a Muslim, has his doubts about the Koran as well. "God doesn't write books," he said. Munster University has rejected calls to strip the scholar of his professorship but he is no longer being allowed to teach Islam to aspiring educators.
(More Islam stories.)

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