In 'Islam and its Past,' Carol Bakhos delves into the complex interplay between the pre-Islamic Arabian milieu, known as Jahiliyya, and the broader context of Late Antiquity, illuminating their profound influence on the formative years of Islam. This scholarly work meticulously examines how historical, cultural, and religious currents of the ancient world shaped the early Muslim community and the emergence of the Quran. Bakhos challenges conventional narratives, offering a fresh perspective on the intellectual and social landscapes from which Islam arose, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the foundational period of Islamic history and its relationship with earlier traditions.