I Cannot Write My Life: Islam, Arabic, and Slavery in Omar ibn Said's America (Islamic Civilization and Muslim Networks)

Name: I Cannot Write My Life: Islam, Arabic, and Slavery in Omar ibn Said's America (Islamic Civilization and Muslim Networks)
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Book Synopsis: Omar ibn Said (1770–1863) was a Muslim scholar from West Africa who spent more than fifty years enslaved in the North Carolina household of James Owen, brother of Governor John Owen. In 1831 Omar composed a brief autobiography, the only known narrative written in Arabic by an enslaved person in North America, and he became famous for his Arabic writings. His enslavers also provided him with an Arabic Bible and claimed Omar as a convert to Christianity, prompting wonder and speculation among amateur scholars of Islam, white slave owners, and missionaries. But these self-proclaimed experts were unable or unwilling to understand Omar's writings, and his voice was suppressed for two centuries. Mbaye Lo and Carl W. Ernst here weave fresh and accurate translations of Omar's eighteen surviving writings, for the first time identifying his quotations from Islamic theological texts, correcting many distortions, and providing the fullest possible account of his life and significance. Placing Omar at the center of a broader network of the era's literary and religious thought, Lo and Ernst restore Omar's voice, his sophisticated engagement with Islamic and Christian theologies, his Arabic skills, and his extraordinary efforts to express himself and exert agency despite his enslavement.

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Uncover the fascinating and untold story of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim scholar from West Africa who defied the odds and left behind a remarkable legacy. In "I Cannot Write My Life: Islam, Arabic, and Slavery in Omar ibn Said's America," Mbaye Lo and Carl W. Ernst bring to light Omar's extraordinary journey from enslavement to becoming an important figure in American history. This captivating book showcases Omar's rare autobiography, written in Arabic, which is the only known narrative of its kind penned by an enslaved person in North America. Get ready to be inspired by Omar's resilience and be amazed by his intellectual prowess.

What sets this book apart is its meticulous translation of Omar's writings, ensuring an accurate representation of his words. It unravels the complexity of his texts and uncovers the hidden gems within. Lo and Ernst's insightful analysis provides a deeper understanding of Omar's quotations from Islamic theological texts, debunking past misconceptions. Step into the shoes of one of history's forgotten voices and let his profound insights into Islamic and Christian theologies leave an indelible mark on your perspective.

As you embark on this enlightening journey, you'll discover the interconnectedness of Omar's thoughts with the literary and religious ideas of his time. Lo and Ernst skillfully contextualize Omar within the broader intellectual landscape, showcasing his intellectual prowess and his unwavering commitment to expression and agency amidst enslavement. Prepare to be transported to a time when faith, knowledge, and the power of the written word were avenues for resilience and liberation.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the life and significance of Omar ibn Said. Immerse yourself in his captivating narrative and gain a newfound appreciation for his remarkable contributions to Islamic and American history. Order your copy of "I Cannot Write My Life: Islam, Arabic, and Slavery in Omar ibn Said's America" today and join us in celebrating the legacy of an extraordinary individual who defied the confines of slavery. Order now.

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