The Preaching of Islam: A History of the Propagation of the Muslim Faith

"The Preaching of Islam: A History of the Propagation of the Muslim Faith" by T. W. Arnold is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the history and methods of the missionary efforts behind the spread of Islam across various regions, detailing its development as a global religion. Arnold's analysis likely aims to present a comprehensive look at how Islam has been propagated through peaceful means rather than through coercion, emphasizing the role of early Muslim missionaries. The opening of the text introduces the concept of Islam as a missionary religion, defined in the context of its inherent duty to convert others to its tenets. It discusses the origins of this missionary zeal, tracing it from the time of Muhammad and highlighting the Qur'an's instructions to spread its message through persuasion and kindness. The author acknowledges the challenges of documenting this extensive history and expresses his hope that subsequent editions will fill in any gaps, while also encouraging scholarly critique to enhance the narrative of Islamic missions. Within these initial pages, the groundwork is laid for a detailed exploration of how Islam developed its community worldwide, illustrating both the spiritual and social dynamics involved in its propagation.