After the Prophet

After the Prophet

What happened immediately after the death of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and how did the early community’s decisions shape the future of Islam?

About the Book

After the Prophet: The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam by Lesley Hazleton is a vivid and accessible narrative of the dramatic events that followed the death of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in 632 CE. The book focuses on the succession crisis, the roles of Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali, and the growing tensions that eventually led to the deep division between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Hazleton brings the key personalities and emotional intensity of this formative period to life.

What You Will Discover

• The immediate succession crisis after the Prophet’s death
• The roles and decisions of the first four caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali)
• The growing tensions between different factions in the early Muslim community
• The events leading to the Battle of Karbala and the deepening Shia-Sunni divide
• The human and emotional aspects of this pivotal period in Islamic history
• How political decisions shaped the theological differences between Sunni and Shia
• A balanced and engaging narrative of one of the most important chapters in Islamic history

About the Author

Lesley Hazleton is a journalist and author known for her accessible books on religious and historical topics.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is ideal for general readers, students, and anyone seeking a clear and engaging account of the early history of Islam and the origins of the Sunni-Shia split.