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The Islamic Conquest of Syria
"Glory be to Allah, the keys of Syria have been given to me," proclaimed Rasulullah ﷺ at a time when Muslims were facing complete destruction. Yet fourteen years later, Yazid ibn Abi Sufyan رضي الله عنه marched into Caesarea, the last Roman stronghold of resistance in Syria.
This book, originally titled "The Islamic Conquest of Syria", is the first complete English translation of Futuh as-Sham, the ninth century Arabic classic detailing the Muslim advance into Syria. The English reader has, for the first time, the opportunity to read about the great epic struggle of a small, ill-equipped band of Muslims that overthrew the superpower of their day. Events only briefly mentioned in other books are graphically described here, such as the battle of al-Yarmuk, which changed the course of world history. The great personalities of early Islam are brought to life in a unique way. The strategies of Khalid ibn al-Walid رضي الله عنه, the piety of Abu 'Ubaydah al-Jarrah رضي الله عنه, the bravery of Dirar al-Kindi رضي الله عنه and many more are vividly described. The text also sheds light on some lesser-known aspects of Islamic history such as the significant role of women and Roman princes who had embraced Islam.
Al-Imam al-Waqidi, the great historian, was born at the beginning of 130 Hijri in al-Madinah, where he began his studies. He migrated to 'Iraq in 180 Hijri during the reign of Mamun ar-Rashid. There Yahya al-Barmaki welcomed him due to his great learning and he was included as one of Mamun's elite. He was soon appointed as judge and held this post until his death in 207 Hijri.
This book, originally titled "The Islamic Conquest of Syria", is the first complete English translation of Futuh as-Sham, the ninth century Arabic classic detailing the Muslim advance into Syria. The English reader has, for the first time, the opportunity to read about the great epic struggle of a small, ill-equipped band of Muslims that overthrew the superpower of their day. Events only briefly mentioned in other books are graphically described here, such as the battle of al-Yarmuk, which changed the course of world history. The great personalities of early Islam are brought to life in a unique way. The strategies of Khalid ibn al-Walid رضي الله عنه, the piety of Abu 'Ubaydah al-Jarrah رضي الله عنه, the bravery of Dirar al-Kindi رضي الله عنه and many more are vividly described. The text also sheds light on some lesser-known aspects of Islamic history such as the significant role of women and Roman princes who had embraced Islam.
Al-Imam al-Waqidi, the great historian, was born at the beginning of 130 Hijri in al-Madinah, where he began his studies. He migrated to 'Iraq in 180 Hijri during the reign of Mamun ar-Rashid. There Yahya al-Barmaki welcomed him due to his great learning and he was included as one of Mamun's elite. He was soon appointed as judge and held this post until his death in 207 Hijri.
600 pages, Hardcover
First published December 6, 2000
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
September 17, 2015
An entertaining book. They tell me that it is a valuable historical source, but I'll bet historians have to work hard to extract this value. The book consists mostly of conversations which are obviously fabricated. This book was translated by a Muslim for English speaking Muslims, and as such assumes familiarity with common Arabic religious terms such as Rabb, Rasul, Jannah, etc. This could make for difficult reading for one not already fairly conversant with these terms.
January 3, 2018
Awesome books to understand the way The Sahaba dealt with the mushriks and completely trashes the philosophy of killing ANY Kafir, coined by many RW & Atheists. Good learning also on how to put your trust in Allah and work towards your goal, Allahs help is always there.
February 13, 2021
I am borderline 3/4 for review but when with 4 due to overall topic and theme. Good insight into the overall scenario of the Conquest. However I was disappointed that there was alot of information which I don't think could be historically correct such as many word for word conversations.
February 11, 2022
A book that brought me to tears on multiple occasions. Just to a get a small idea of the great sacrifices Sahaaba رضى الله عنه made for this deen, just so that it could reach us today.
Beautiful. A great way to instil love for Sahaaba رضى الله عنه in one’s heart
Beautiful. A great way to instil love for Sahaaba رضى الله عنه in one’s heart
June 24, 2018
Must read!
January 8, 2022
Great tour! Recommended.
July 13, 2013
A Phenomenal Read
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews