The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate

by Wilferd Madelung
The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate cover
Good Books rating 4.1
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 8031
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781107393578
  • Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  • Published: 1996-08-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Wilferd Madelung's comprehensive study, 'The Succession to Muhammad,' examines the tumultuous period after the Prophet's death, focusing on the struggle for leadership within the Muslim community. This conflict, which culminated in the first inter-Muslim war, marked the end of the Early Companions' reign and led to the enduring schism between Sunnite and Shi'ite Islam. Madelung challenges recent scholarly trends by highlighting Ali's early claim to legitimate succession and its support from the Shi'a, offering a fresh perspective on early Islamic history. The book has been recognized for its significant contribution to the debate over succession, earning the Best Book of the Year prize from the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1997. Madelung's meticulous research and compelling reinterpretation make this a must-read for those interested in Islamic history and the origins of its major sects.

Reviews
Barnes and Noble · 2025-12-20
excellent 4.50

The book is a very well-researched piece on the foundation of the Shi'a/Sunni schism. It is considered the best introduction to the subject matter written to date.

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the events leading to the Shi'a/Sunni schism, one of the most significant divisions in Islamic history. The author, Wilferd Madelung, provides a well-researched and detailed account of the power struggle that followed Muhammad's death. The book is praised for its thorough analysis and is considered the best introduction to the subject matter available. Readers appreciate the depth of research and the clear presentation of complex historical events. The book is highly recommended for anyone looking to understand the early days of Islam and the factors that led to the schism.

Quick quotes

    A very well researched piece on the foundation of the Shi'a/Sunni schism.

    Probably the best introduction to the subject matter written to date.

    The author presents a convincing reinterpretation of early Islamic history.

Goodreads · 2025-12-20
insightful 4.30

The book is a very interesting read concerning the early Caliphate of Islam. The author does a competent job of writing the early history.

This book offers a fascinating look into the early days of the Islamic Caliphate. The author, Wilferd Madelung, does an excellent job of presenting the complex history in an accessible manner. Readers appreciate the depth of research and the clear narrative style, which makes the book both informative and engaging. The book is highly recommended for those interested in Islamic history and the early struggles for power within the community. The detailed analysis and compelling storytelling make it a standout work in the field.

Quick quotes

    A very interesting read concerning the early Caliphate of Islam.

    Wilferd Madelung does a very competent job writing the early history.

    It has become a key work in Islamic and historical studies.

Islamistruth · 2012-08-02
critical 3.50

The book provides a detailed study of early Islamic history, focusing on the conflict over the succession to Muhammad. However, it is criticized for not giving enough weight to the Sunni version of history.

This book delves deep into the early Islamic period, particularly the power struggle that followed Muhammad's death. The author, Wilferd Madelung, presents a thorough analysis of the events leading to the Shi'a/Sunni schism. However, some readers feel that the book leans heavily towards the Shi'a perspective, neglecting the Sunni viewpoint. This one-sided approach might limit the book's appeal to those seeking a balanced historical account. Despite this, the book is praised for its detailed and insightful exploration of the subject matter, making it a valuable resource for those interested in Islamic history.

Quick quotes

    Furthermore, my biggest issue in the book is that the author rarely gives any weight to the Sunni version of history, and more importantly, he rarely gives any weight to the Sunni version of history.

    The book is a masterly detailed study of early intellectual and religious trends.

    The author presents a convincing reinterpretation of early Islamic history.

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