This book studies the life, thoughts, and perception of a respected Islamic scholar of the eleventh and twelfth centuries, al-Zamakhshari. A Mutazilite, a member of the important Islamic theological school of the era, his works are respected by many sects. The author examines his work within the context of the Mutazilites and seeks to understand his place in it. The author also inquires into rumors about him and their origins. Finally, he discusses al-Zamakhshari's thoughts on prophety and the afterlife.