Decoding the Past - Secrets of the Koran (History Channel)

Decoding the Past - Secrets of the Koran (History Channel)

Decoding the Past - Secrets of the Koran (History Channel)
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DVD Cover Information

Brand: A and E Home Video
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language)
Format: Black & White, Color, DVD, NTSC
Picture Format: 1.33:1
Running Time: 91 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2006-07-25
Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: A&E Home Video
Product features:
  • The Koran is an ancient tome that has been followed by Muslims for thousands of years. This History Channel presentation casts some Western eyes over the book and helps viewers to decipher some of the important passages of the text contained within. The program draws on the wise words of a number of people well versed in the ways of Islam, leading to some fascinating insights on what the Koran mea

Movie Reviews of Decoding the Past - Secrets of the Koran (History Channel)

Movie Review: Introductions to the message and Messenger of Islam
Summary: 5 Stars

I'm very pleased with this DVD, which actually contains two programs: "Secrets of the Koran" and, as a bonus feature, "Muhammad" from A&E's "Biography" series. I've used excerpts from both of these programs in teaching world religions in college and high school. Both programs honor the Muslim tradition of not depicting Muhammad or members of his immediate family.

"SECRETS OF THE KORAN" (91 min.) is an excellent documentary on the history of the Koran and its interpretation. Topics include the religious and social milieu into which Muhammad was born; the life of Muhammad and the revelation of the verses of the Koran; the early Muslim community; the compilation of the Koran; the Koran's relationship to Jewish and Christian revelations; the Muslim understanding of the apocalypse and judgment; difficulties in the interpretation of the Koran; jihad; the Koran's emphasis on the value of knowledge; the golden age of Islam; the Crusades; Islamic fundamentalism; and violent vs. peaceful understandings of the message of the Koran.

"MUHAMMAD" (42 min.) isn't a biography precisely. Rather, it's a presentation of the traditional story of the life of Muhammad, with commentary by scholars who are Muslim or sympathetic to Islam (including two of the usual suspects, Karen Armstrong and John Esposito). This program does a good job of bringing the story of Muhammad to life, and because it's so concise, it may be more useful in my teaching than "The Message" (a three-hour movie about the life of Muhammad), which is also good.

Some other good videos on Islam:
- "Inside Islam" (History Channel);
- "Muslims" (Frontline);
- "Inside Mecca" (National Geographic).

Summary of Decoding the Past - Secrets of the Koran (History Channel)

The Koran is one of the most important works ever written. For almost one billion people worldwide, it is the Holy Scripture, the word of God and his prophet. For others, it is a historical artifact that has left an indelible imprint on the world. DECODING THE PAST: SECRETS OF THE KORAN probes the heart of the work that many outside Islam find mysterious. This feature-length program examines the history of the verses and their implications for modern times, as wel as the striking similarities and differences between the Koran and the Bible. Trace the influence of the Koran from the Golden Age of Islam to the modern rise of jihadism, and hear from top Islamic scholars and holy men as they share their insights into the work that lies at the foundation of one of the world?s great religions. THE HISTORY CHANNEL provides the perfect guide to understanding the fundamental work that has shaped the Muslim faith for over 1,400 years, and will long continue to influence modern history. DVD Features: "Muhammad" Episode of the Award-Winning A&E Series BIOGRAPHY; Interactive Menus; Scene Selection
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