After the Prophet

The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam

By Lesley Hazleton | Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

About the book

In this gripping narrative history, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, 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, beginning a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, political intrigue, and passionate faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in civil war, pitting its founder's controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.
   
Combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling, After the Prophet explores the volatile intersection of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide to the depth and power of the Shia–Sunni split.

Editions of After the Prophet

Hardcover
ISBN 9780385523936
Paperback
ISBN 9780385523943
EBook
ISBN 9780385532099

Read an Excerpt

In this gripping narrative history, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, 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, beginning a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, political intrigue, and passionate faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in civil war, pitting its founder's controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.
   
Combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling, After the Prophet explores the volatile intersection of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide to the depth and power of the Shia–Sunni split.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is After the Prophet about?

In this gripping narrative history, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, 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, beginning a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, political intrigue, and passionate faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in civil war, pitting its founder's controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.
   
Combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling, After the Prophet explores the volatile intersection of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide to the depth and power of the Shia–Sunni split.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in After the Prophet?

History and Archaeology > History > Middle Eastern history

Where can I read a sample of After the Prophet?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780385523936

Who is/are the Author/s of the book After the Prophet?

Lesley Hazleton

Who is the Publisher of the book After the Prophet?

Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

After the Prophet is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780385523936) and paperback(ISBN 9780385523943) and ebook(ISBN 9780385532099)

Where can I buy After the Prophet online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy After the Prophet from below

Where can I buy After the Prophet?