Watch Islam: Empire of Faith

Islam: Empire of Faith is a historical documentary film that delves into the rise and spread of Islam, one of the world's major religions. Released in 2000, the film is narrated by Academy Award-winning actor Ben Kingsley and features commentary from a range of experts, including religious scholars, historians, and Islamic leaders. The documentary opens with the life of the Prophet Muhammad, who founded Islam in the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula. We see how Muhammad's teachings and writings, compiled in the holy book of the Qur'an, became the basis for a new and powerful faith that would eventually stretch from Spain to India.

From there, the film explores how the Islamic faith grew and spread, particularly during the first few centuries after Muhammad's death. We see how Islamic empires, such as the Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties, rose to power and established vast territories that encompassed many different cultures and peoples. We also learn about the intellectual and cultural achievements of Muslim scholars, artists, and scientists during the Islamic Golden Age, including in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and architecture.

Throughout the film, we see how Islam's expansion was both peaceful and violent, as Muslim armies conquered lands and assimilated new populations. The documentary also explores the tensions and conflicts that emerged within the Islamic world, particularly between Sunni and Shia sects, and how these have shaped the history and politics of the Middle East and beyond.

One of the key themes of the film is the role of Islam as a unifying force for diverse peoples and cultures. We see how Islam provided a common language and identity for people from different regions and ethnic backgrounds, and how it facilitated trade, scholarship, and cultural exchange across vast distances. We also learn about the impact of Islam on other world religions, including Christianity and Judaism, and the ways in which it influenced Western thought and culture.

Overall, Islam: Empire of Faith is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of one of the world's most influential religions. It offers a rich and nuanced portrayal of Islam's history and impact, and sheds light on many aspects of Muslim culture and identity that are often misunderstood or overlooked. Whether one is a scholar of religion or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating topic, this documentary provides an insightful and thought-provoking look at Islam and its enduring legacy.