After the Prophet

In After the Prophet, Lesley Hazleton presents a riveting narrative history that delves into one of the most significant, yet often misunderstood, events in the history of Islam: the Shia-Sunni split. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Hazleton chronicles the tumultuous events following the death of Prophet Muhammad, shedding light on the origins of a conflict that continues to influence global politics and society.

As Prophet Muhammad lay on his deathbed, the question of his succession loomed large, igniting a crisis that would forever shape the future of the Islamic world. Hazleton navigates the reader through this complex and multi-faceted history—from power struggles and political assassinations to passionate religious fervour and moments of profound human drama. The book examines the contentious relationships and dramatic confrontations between key figures such as Muhammad's controversial wife Aisha and his son-in-law Ali, as well as the broader Muslim community.

Hazleton’s narrative portrays the beauty and depth of Islamic traditions while also highlighting the intense political and personal conflicts that led to the civil war within Islam, shattering the unity that Prophet Muhammad had envisioned. By vividly illustrating these past events, After the Prophet provides readers with critical insights into the contemporary implications of the Shia-Sunni divide, offering a compelling lens through which to understand current Middle Eastern geopolitics and the persistent tension within the Muslim world.

This first-time paperback edition from Anchor Books makes Hazleton's accessible yet authoritative account available to an even wider audience. With an eloquent blend of psychological analysis, cultural context, and historical narrative, After the Prophet stands as an indispensable guide to one of the most profound divisions in religious history. Hazleton’s work not only illuminates the past but also offers essential perspectives for comprehending the present and future ramifications of the Shia-Sunni schism.