After the Prophet: The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam Audiobook (Free)

Within this gripping narrative background, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic tale at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, a rift that dominates the news headlines now more than ever.

Even while Muhammad lay dying, the battle more than who would manage the brand new Islamic nation had begun, sparking a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, politics 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 study with compelling storytelling, Following the Prophet explores the volatile intersection of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide towards the depth and power from the Shia-Sunni split.