Mirror of Islam

The conditions in the Arabian Peninsula were ripe for the emergence of Islam; it was as if the land were awaiting its child. The new religion spread with unexpected speed after its Prophet endured persecution and oppression. Taha Hussein delves into the stages the new faith went through from its inception until the Prophet was able to establish his state in Medina, and the Muslims enjoyed stability during his reign and the reigns of his two successors, Abu Bakr and Umar. However, matters deteriorated significantly afterward; the sedition surrounding the assassination of Uthman was like a spark that ignited widespread unrest. What distinguishes Taha Hussein is that he does not merely present events, but analyzes major occurrences, particularly seditions and revolutions, attributing to them what appear logical causes from his perspective. He attributes the Zanj Rebellion and the Qarmatian Revolt—which nearly toppled the state—to serious social and economic factors. The book is a critical analytical perspective, well worth reading and reflecting upon for its insightful opinions.