The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate

Hardback

Main Details

Title The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Wilferd Madelung
Physical Properties
Format:Hardback
Pages:432
Dimensions(mm): Height 235,Width 160
Category/GenreAsian and Middle Eastern history
World history - c 500 to C 1500
Islam
ISBN/Barcode 9780521561815
ClassificationsDewey:297.61
Audience
Professional & Vocational
Illustrations 2 Tables, unspecified

Publishing Details

Publisher Cambridge University Press
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publication Date 29 August 1996
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

In a convincing reinterpretation of early Islamic history, Wilferd Madelung examines the conflict that developed after the death of Muhammad for control of the Muslim community. He demonstrates how this conflict, which marked the demise of the first four caliphs, resulted in the lasting schism between Sunnite and Shi'ite Islam. In contrast to recent scholarly trends, the author takes up the Shi'i cause, arguing in defense of the succession of 'Ali. This book will make a major scholarly contribution to the debate over succession.

Reviews

'Never before have the first thirty years in the life of the Muslim community been more meaningfuly interpreted. All students of Islam will want to keep this book within arm's reach.' Choice