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After the Prophet
256 pages, 2010
In this heart-pounding narrative, Lesley Hazleton chronicles the story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam. It is a rift that dominates the news now more than ever.
Even as Muhammad lay dying, the battle over who would take control of the new Islamic nation had begun. They were fighting over power, land, money—and their faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in a civil war, pitting its controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.
In 'After the Prophet', Lesley Hazleton explores the origins of the Sunni-Shia split in Islam. She takes us back to the time of Prophet Muhammad's death and the subsequent power struggle. This book is a great resource if you want to dig deeper into the historical events that shaped the Islamic world.
Hazleton uses storytelling to bring historical events to life. She doesn't just present facts, but weaves them into a narrative that's engaging and easy to follow. If you're a fan of history told in a compelling way, you should definitely check out this book.
The book also sheds light on the role of women in early Islam. Hazleton explores the life of Aisha, Prophet Muhammad's youngest wife, and Fatima, his daughter. Their stories provide a fascinating look into the lives of women during this time.
Hazleton shows how political power struggles can have far-reaching consequences. The conflict that arose after Prophet Muhammad's death not only led to the Sunni-Shia split, but also continues to influence the Middle East today. This book will help you understand the complex dynamics of political power and its impact on society.
In 'After the Prophet', Hazleton emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context. She believes that to truly understand the present, we need to look into the past. This book encourages readers to research and explore history in order to gain a deeper understanding of the world today.
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Hazleton's book is a gripping narrative that brings to life the epic history of the early Islamic period. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the origins and evolution of the Islamic faith.
Reza Aslan - Religious Scholar, AuthorLesley Hazleton's 'After the Prophet' is a compelling and enlightening exploration of the intricate interplay of faith and politics in the early days of Islam.
Karen Armstrong - Religious Historian, AuthorHazleton's 'After the Prophet' is a masterful and accessible account of the Shia-Sunni split. It's a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the deep historical roots of sectarian tensions in the Middle East.
Juan Cole - Historian, BloggerLesley Hazleton's 'After the Prophet' is a riveting, insightful chronicle of the political and religious power struggles after the death of Muhammad. It's a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Islamic history.
Tamim Ansary - Author, LecturerHazleton's 'After the Prophet' is a beautifully written, deeply empathetic account of a pivotal moment in Islamic history. It's a book that should be read by anyone seeking to understand the human drama at the heart of religious conflict.
G. Willow Wilson - Comic Writer, Novelist