Fluid Boundaries: Christian Sacred Space and Islamic Relics in an Early Ḥadīth

Abstract This article examines a ḥadīth text that illustrates the complicated interactions between Christian and Islamic sacred spaces in early period of rule Near East. In this narrative, Prophet Muḥammad gives group Arabs instructions for how to convert church into mosque, telling them use his ablution water cleansing repurposing space Muslim worship. Contextualizing narrative terms Muslim-Christian relations, as well late antique religious texts practices, my analysis compares story with traditions regarding collection usage contact relics from holy persons places. I argue offers an example texts’ engagement with, adaptation of, literary themes ritual practices order validate claims.