The Epistle of Salim Ibn Dhakwan

In the turbulent sectarian landscape of early Islam, how did an Ibadi author critique extremist views and advocate for a moderate stance on the classification and treatment of fellow Muslims?

About the Book

The Epistle of Salim Ibn Dhakwan, edited and translated by Patricia Crone and Fritz Zimmermann and published in 2005, is a significant early Islamic text. The epistle, ascribed to Salim ibn Dhakwan and written by an Ibadi author before AD 800, is a tract against “wrong” doctrines concerning the classification and treatment of opponents. It takes issue with both Kharijite extremists and Murji’ites. Long known in Ibadi circles, the text was brought to the attention of Western scholars in the early 1970s by Amr Khalifa Ennami. This edition presents the first full critical edition, translation, and detailed discussion of the epistle, shedding light on early sectarian debates and moderate Ibadi perspectives.

What You Will Discover

• The historical context and authorship of this early Ibadi epistle
• Critiques of Kharijite extremism and Murji’ite positions on dealing with opponents
• Ibadi views on the classification and proper treatment of fellow Muslims
• Early debates on issues of faith, sin, and community membership
• The moderate stance advocated by the author in contrast to radical positions
• Insights into the development of sectarian thought in the first two centuries of Islam
• The significance of the epistle for understanding early Islamic theological and political discourse

About the Author

The epistle is attributed to Salim ibn Dhakwan, an early Ibadi author. The modern edition and translation are by Patricia Crone and Fritz Zimmermann.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is suitable for students and researchers of early Islamic history, sectarian movements, Ibadi studies, and Islamic theology, as well as anyone interested in the diversity of thought in the formative period of Islam.