It is generally supposed that Mohammed could neither read nor write, and this appears to have been the opinion of Alvar;[1] but the same witness acknowledges that the Koran was composed in such eloquent and beautiful language that even Christians could not help reading and admiring it.[2]
On the important question of Mohammed's position with regard to Christianity, Eulogius[3] at least formed a correct judgment. Mohammed, he tells us "blasphemously taught that Christ was the Word of God,[4] and His Spirit;[5] a great prophet,[6] endowed with much power from God;[7] like Adam in His creation,[8] but not equal to God (the Creator);[9] and that by reason of His blameless[10] life, being filled with the Holy Spirit,[11] He showed marvellous signs and wonders through the power of God,[12] not working by His own Godhead, but as a righteous Man, and an obedient servant,[13] obtaining much power and might from the Almighty God through prayer."
[1] Alvar, "Ind. Lum.," sec. 26.
[2] Ibid., sec. 29. This is more than can be said at the present day.
[3] Eul., "Lib. Apol.," sec. 19.
[4] Koran, ch. iii. 40.
[5] Koran, ch. ii. 81, "strengthened with Holy Spirit."
[6] Kor., c. iii. 59.
[7] Kor., c. iii. 45.
[8] Kor., c. iii. 50.