Brief Summary
This video analyses an inscription that some claim refers to Muhammad and his wives, arguing it's likely a forgery or from a later period (post-820 AD). The analysis considers the inscription's physical condition, the historical context of how Muhammad was viewed, and comparisons with other inscriptions.
- The inscription is on a weathered rock, unlike other early inscriptions on smooth surfaces, raising suspicion.
- Early interpretations of "Muhammad" may refer to Jesus, based on contemporary texts and inscriptions.
- The inscription's content and the circumstances of its discovery raise concerns about its authenticity.
Introduction
The video addresses requests to discuss the "Muhammad and his wives" inscription. The initial impression is one of suspicion due to the poor condition of the rock used for the inscription. The presenter notes that a smoother rock would be expected for such an inscription, even considering the passage of time. The weathered appearance makes it seem conveniently aged, unlike other clear inscriptions on smooth rock.
Initial Assessment and Expert Opinion
The presenter discusses the dating of the inscription. Ilka Lindstead suggested it could be from the 7th or 8th century based on palaeography, but this method isn't definitive. The lack of a specific date and the possibility of forgery are significant concerns. Inscriptions can be altered or destroyed, so an open mind is necessary.
Background and Discovery of the Inscription
The inscription has been reported as an early reference to Muhammad and his wives. The text, as transcribed by Saudi archaeologist Muhammad El Ma Maktawi, asks for God to forgive Muhammad the prophet, join him with his wives, and forgive male and female believers. While "Muhammad" is assumed to refer to the Islamic prophet, the inscription otherwise aligns with the Islamic narrative.
Concerns About the Discoverer
The presenter expresses suspicion about Muhammad Al Maktawi, the archaeologist who transcribed the inscription. Al Maktawi has discovered over 3,000 early Islamic inscriptions and linked many to historical sources, which seems too convenient. He has also been rewarded for handing in early Islamic inscriptions, creating a potential incentive for forgery.
Dating the Inscription: Early 7th Century
Considering a period from the early 7th century to the 680s, it's unlikely the inscription dates to this time. During this period, Christians viewed "MMED" (a variant spelling of Muhammad) as Jesus, as evidenced by coins. Therefore, the inscription likely originates from a later period.
Dating the Inscription: 690-715 AD
An inscription from 691 AD, previously interpreted as referring to the death of Muhammad, actually speaks of a future apocalyptic figure. The word "calamity" in that inscription refers to the day of judgment, not a past event. In this context, "Mmed" likely refers to the return of Jesus. Thus, the "Muhammad and his wives" inscription doesn't fit this period, as people still largely believed "Mmed" was Jesus.
Dating the Inscription: 705-715 AD
A bilingual papyrus from 705-715 AD refers to "Makmed" as "compassionate and philanthropic" in the Greek text. This is significant because the Bible describes Jesus as philanthropic (Titus 3:4). Therefore, the inscription can be inferred to refer to Jesus. The papyrus also uses "Mmed" as "apostle of God", which aligns with the biblical idea of Jesus being sent by God. This suggests the "Muhammad and his wives" inscription is from a later period.
Dating the Inscription: Early 9th Century
Considering the period from 715 to 820 AD, the presenter compares the inscription to one from 815 AD. The 815 AD inscription is on a clean piece of stone, unlike the "Muhammad and his wives" inscription. The poor choice of rock for the latter raises questions about its authenticity.
Comparison with an 815 AD Inscription
The 815 AD inscription from Jordan uses "MMED" in conjunction with "the first and the last," an idea associated with Jesus. The inscription also implies Jesus as the intercessor. Biblical references support the idea that "Mmed" refers to Jesus. The phrase "first and last" is found in Revelation 1:17-18, further linking it to Jesus.
Conclusion
The presenter concludes that, if the "Muhammad and his wives" inscription isn't a forgery, it likely dates from after 820 AD, possibly the mid-to-late 9th century onwards. However, the presenter's instinct is that it's a forgery due to its convenient nature. There's a concern that a date might be added to the inscription later to legitimise it. The presenter believes the inscription is not from the 7th or 8th century, but from post-820 AD at the earliest.
