Sunnis and Shi'a: A Political History

The Sunni-Shi a divide in Islam dates back to the death of Muhammad in 632, when Sunnis believed that his closest companions should succeed him, while Shi a believed that God had inspired the Prophet to appoint his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, as leader. This schism continues to divide the Islamic world today, and Laurence Louër's book explores how sectarian tensions have been inflamed or calmed depending on the political contingencies of the moment. She challenges the perception of Sunnis and Shi a as bitter enemies and demonstrates how they have coexisted peacefully at various periods throughout the history of Islam. The book also examines the diverse regional contexts of the divide and how it has shaped societies and politics in countries such as Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

When Muhammad passed away in 632 without a male heir, the Sunnis believed that the selection of a successor should be left to his closest companions. However, the Shi'a believed that God had inspired the Prophet to appoint his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, as the leader. This marked the beginning of a schism that is nearly as old as Islam itself. In her book, Sunnis and Shi'a, Laurence Louër delves into the intricate story of this ancient rivalry, taking readers from the final days of Muhammad to the political and doctrinal clashes between Sunnis and Shi'a in the present day.

Louër challenges the prevalent notion that Sunnis and Shi'a are bitter enemies who are perpetually at war with each other. She demonstrates how they have coexisted peacefully at various points throughout the history of Islam. The book traces how sectarian tensions have been inflamed or calmed depending on the political circumstances of the time. Whether it was to consolidate the rule of elites, assert clerical control over the state, or challenge the established powers, the Sunni-Shi'a divide has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the Islamic world.

Sunnis and Shi'a is a timely and thought-provoking book that provides valuable insights into the historical roots of today's conflicts. It reveals how both branches of Islam have influenced and emulated each other in unexpected ways. The book also examines the diverse regional contexts of the Sunni-Shi'a divide, exploring how it has shaped societies and politics in countries such as Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon.

In conclusion, Sunnis and Shi'a is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex history and dynamics of the Islamic world. Louër's comprehensive and accessible narrative sheds light on the historical roots of the Sunni-Shi'a divide, challenging prevailing narratives and providing a fresh perspective on the ongoing conflicts within the Islamic community.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691234502