Are you ready to uncover the ultimate historical thriller that shaped the modern world? This book review reveals the gripping drama behind a fourteen-hundred-year-old family feud. Read on to discover how ancient passion still drives global politics today!
Random Fun Fact!
Lesley Hazleton’s career started out as a psychologist, and now her historical novel spices with an excellent psychological twist on religious clashes. Her first and entire masterwork finishes on board a water house at sea level. Her not-so-religious perspective will shed light on areas that have never seen the light of day to lifelong followers.
The Great Split Revealed
Lesley Hazleton presents an electrifying story of the one defining moment that ripped the heart out of Islam. It is a fierce, dynamic confluence of spiritual devotion and ruthless political struggle. Hazleton moves at breakneck speed, compelling the reader forward through a shocking tale of betrayal. Succession crises, and shattering ambition would leave a mark on all of human history. We revisit the moment after the death of Hazrat Muhammad PBUH, the moment the exquisite vision of unified Islamic brotherhood first frayed. What followed would be the unraveling that ultimately led to the global political rivalries that define our world today.
This book will be the authoritative, indispensable key to the centuries-long struggle of Sunni and Shia. Hence, tracing its origins in the volatile crucible of seventh-century Arabia. Using clear, concise writing that avoids boring explanations, Hazleton draws vivid portraits of individuals fighting for faith, empire, and everything in between, breathing new life into a chaotic era that resonates powerfully into the 21st century. For a lucid and utterly gripping account of this profoundly influential episode in world history, one need look no further than The Great Split.
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Power Struggles After Death
The story starts at the dark deathbed of a sick leader in the Muslim holy city of Medina. There’s an almost instantaneously arising, and for the quickly expanding and largely unfamiliar Muslims, completely bewildering, void in leadership. When Hazrat Muhammad (peace be upon him) passed away, there had been no designation of a successor to head the state he established.
At this very moment, the immediate companions of the Holy Prophet (SAWW) were already assembling behind the scenes and jockeying to assert a claim on absolute power and control.
Some advocated for Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A, the head of the old guard, while others argued for Hazrat Ali R.A based on the lineage principle; thus the community was immediately politically splintered, as the Holy Prophet (PBUH) still awaited burial. Hazleton captures these deeply passionate debates with astounding psychological insight and exquisite historical realism.
We see how early decision makers shaped fourteen centuries of human history in those chaotic first few days and how tribal alliances vied for dominance over new religious ideologies in a variety of heated stages of decision making until the elders ultimately selected Hazrat Abu Bakr R.A as the first Caliph of the world.
Humans Behind The Legends
Here, the writer portrays these notable historical personalities as real humans who have some weaknesses like any other human being. It is interesting how the author focuses on Hazrat Aisha R.A, the energetic and spirited wife of the Hazrat Muhammad PBUH, in a remarkable way. Hazrat Aisha R.A has a lot of political power, and she fights the leadership ambitions of young Hazrat Ali R.A.
Hazrat Ali R.A too portrays as a very spiritual individual who would rather be patient than achieve some fast political success. Hazleton brings these historical figures back to life by presenting their thoughts and feelings, which makes us listen to them, their fiery arguments, and the difficult situations that they find themselves in when it comes to major crises.
For instance, there is the tragic drama that emerges when former friends turn out to be political enemies. This historical book does not try to make its characters appear either heroes or villains, but rather good individuals who end up making terrible mistakes as a way of defending their common religion.
The Tragic Climax At Karbala
In the third portion of the book, there is an approach towards the bloody desert sands of Karbala, where Hazrat Imam Hussain A.S, the grandson of Hazrat Muhammad PBUH, bravely rises against the wicked ruler. He does not wish to be loyal to the tyrannical and lavish Umayyad dynastic rulers.
Thus, an army attacks Hazrat Imam Hussain A.S along with his family members, who are a small group surrounded by hot desert sand. The author narrates this last battle with great passion and brilliant description.
The tragic martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain A.S becomes a milestone for the permanent creation of distinct Shia theology.
Moreover, this tragic historical incident made the permanent separation between the two sects of Islam. In addition, the author relates this old pain to today’s battles viewed on television. The tears and blood of Karbala create a permanent emotional barrier that theology can never easily mend. This becomes the most tragic episode in the entire history of Muslims.
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Exceptional Writing Style
Firstly, Hazleton uses an active voice style that makes historical events feel fresh and new, just like today’s breaking news. Hazleton has used a simplistic language that helps ordinary people understand the complex foreign terms without difficulty. The pace is very high and goes like a thriller book, not like an academic one.
Hazleton depends on early trusted historians such as Al-Tabari to ensure that she gives accurate information. All pages give you a lot of context to avoid getting lost among all the names and events mentioned. Transition words help in moving your mind from one historical event to another effortlessly. Short sentences allow focusing on what is read without making you tired at all.
Furthermore, the author stays neutral throughout the entire writing process despite the religious sensitivity of the matter. Hazleton respects the beliefs of her subjects but investigates their political matters as well. This perfect blend creates a comfortable space for both outsiders and believers to learn about this topic.
Why Buy This Masterpiece
There is no doubt that this book must have its space among other books of every history enthusiast across the globe because of the way it destroys some common political misperceptions through factual evidence and humanity. This book will help you understand the modern Middle East much better.
Hazleton creates a connection between the past and the present world with unique skills. This book helps us understand how political agendas can influence the original message of peace. Go and purchase this book right away to join this wonderful historical ride.
Here is the link to the book if you wanna read it: After the Prophet: The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam
Affiliate disclaimer notice
This review contains affiliate links to Amazon. If you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books I truly believe add value to your life.
