The Stolen Dream : A Biography of Sayed Musa al-Sadr

by Javad Shomali, Zahraa El-Kabengi

Very few individuals have changed the course of their country’s history. Fewer still have done so with love and wisdom, rather than violence and anger. Sayed Musa al-Sadr, a scholar, social reformer, and political leader devoted his life to being a voice for the voiceless and marginalised of all faiths and backgrounds in Lebanon. As the country struggled with occupation and civil war, his message of unity, service, and respect for human dignity struck a chord with the masses.

Sayed Musa was more than just a leader; he became a spiritual symbol that transcended religious divides. To Muslims, he became revered as Imam Musa al-Sadr. To Christians, he was hailed as the ‘embodiment of the spirit of Jesus’. Even the secular left respected his advocacy for justice and human freedom. The sheer magnitude of his influence was such that a Christian compatriot once ‘Lebanon’s history could be divided into before Sayed Musa and after Sayed Musa.’

Sayed Musa is still a hugely popular figure in Lebanon. His legacy lives on through the various schools, charities, and institutes that he established. Most of all, he lives on in the hearts of the millions he helped, directly and indirectly, in a life of selfless service. The Stolen Dreamnarrates the gripping story of his extraordinary journey, from the seminaries of Qom and Najaf to his mysterious disappearance in Libya at the peak of his influence.

Genres: Islam

269 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2023

Reviews

[Teacher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This biography of Sayed Musa Sadr is the evident product of documentary research and the recollections of dozens of those who knew him. It fills a void in the topic, and contrasts with prior English language books on Sadr in its authentic source material and sympathetic narrative.

I was a little disappointed in the paucity of analysis on the alluded to stolen dream, however, the book succeeds in conveying the gist of Sadr's forward thinking and charisma. It focuses upon his personality and affability, and depicts the strides he made in interfaith relations, and consequently in the perception of others towards (Shia) Islam and Muslims. The book is accessible for 5th grade through adult readers.

[Reza M · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's evident the authors did a lot of research in writing this book - there are hundreds of references to other sources for things like historical facts and anecdotes about Sayed Musa. Sayed Musa's ideas and ideals clearly shine through, and the historical context is adequate. I appreciated the various stories from Sayed Musa's personal life that helped humanize him, as his tireless work in the community truly makes him seem like a superhero come to life. The prose is easy to understand - perhaps slightly too simple for my enjoyment. If you've read other works from Javad Shomali the writing style will be familiar to you.

[Καιρὸς · Rating 5 out of 5]

“As a candle that consumes itself to fill the room with light, there exist noble men who yield their lives to illuminate the grand narrative of our history.” Sayed Musa al-Sadr

Imam Musa Al Sadr was one of Lebanons greatest sons despite not even being born there. The Shiites of the South would not even be a fraction of who or where they are now without him. When he disappeared apart of Lebanon disappeared with him.

[Muhamed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book beautifully captures the extraordinary life of one of the world most interesting leaders, Imam Musa Sadr. Highly recommend

[Fatima Abou-Abdallah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sayyid Mūsā is baba's hero. He often makes the remark of “هادا الغلي” in reference to him so, naturally, I refer to him as the G.O.A.T. Growing up, my siblings and I were [and continue to be] witness to chit-chats and stories pertaining to his influence, his reform, and his charisma that revitalised a whole region. We are always reminded he was the hope that moved a marginalised and timid group of people.
 
Sayyid Mūsā was and remains in my line of vision. We had one specific portrait of him hung up that towered our childhood home — now, my bookmarks and screen savers are images of this great character. I enjoy the constant reminder that no entity other than Allāh (س) can rectify a community. I want to be reminded that only with perseverance, intellectual dialogue, and God-conscious on my side, am I able to witness and bear fruit to honest and genuine change. I like the idea of Sayyid Mūsā's decisiveness, confidence, and courage being my daily reminders as I open up my current read or reach for my phone.
 
To think of what could have occurred had he remained with us. They knew very well of his capabilities as he personified what it is to be a true ʿĀmilī. I adore and am forever grateful for this man for being a source of inspiration, resilience, and strength for baba — and ultimately for all of us.