Origins and Early Development in Shi'a Islam (Arab Background Series) by S. Husain M. Jafri

by S.H.M. Jafri

Backed with thorough and original research, this book is a study of Shi‘a Islam based mainly on the oldest historical sources, rather than on heresiographical works, thus filling a serious gap in the field of academic study. Here, the author has reconstructed and presented the development of an Islamic ideal in the form of Shi‘ that of a particular vision of religious leadership which derives its authority directly from the person of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and which, therefore, enjoys divine sanction in deciding all cases of conscience. Presented here is a rare confluence of traditional and critical scholarship, leading to the emergence of a most authoritative and comprehensive account of a crucial development in the formative period of Islamic history. This is both a theological and sociological study. The chapters on the abdication of Imam Hasan (RA) and the social structure of the city of Kufa, present new material and interpretation. In a nutshell, his talent encompass[es] a complete grasp of the subject, a flawless writing style and a method of presentation meeting Western standards of dispassionate inquiry…should be considered the best book on the subject… The Pakistan Times …[This] is without doubt a very precious and welcome addition to the literature of Sh‘ia Islam…The theme of this book is immense. The secular historian will find here a reservoir of accurate facts which may help to correct the inaccuracies and distortions which mar even learned works of intensive research. Islamic Studies The fact that the study has drawn heavily on historical sources of both Shi‘a and Sunni persuasions, as opposed to merely heresiographical writings, gives credence to the work and brings to light some findings hitherto obscure to scholars…The book is not merely a history of Shi‘a Islam, but also a source of researched and analytical information on a variety of historical topics… The Muslim World

Genres: Islam, Religion, Nonfiction, History

Hardcover

First published April 4, 2000

Reviews

[أسامة بوجبارة · Rating 5 out of 5]

الكتاب عميق جدا وثري جدا وقرأت نسخته المترجمة بالعربية.

[Oleleho · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the books that changed my life dramatically.

[Aqeel Haider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Work by S.H.M Jafri.

[Arbaz Fahad · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Origins and Early Development of Shia Islam" by Husain Muhammad Jafri is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical emergence and evolution of Shia Islam.

Jafri's work delves into the formative years of Islam, tracing the schism between Sunni and Shia communities back to the aftermath of Prophet Muhammad's demise. Jafri contends that there are three main events which serve as a critical point for the Shias. First was the election of Abu Bakr as caliph, when the right choice should've been Ali ibn Abi Talib, who was divinely ordained for the post. Second was the martyrdom of Hussain bin Ali at Karbala, and third was the occultation of the Twelfth Imam - Muhammad Al Mahdi.

The intrinsic point of contention between the Sunnis and Shias is the criteria through which leadership of the community is bestowed upon an individual. Sunnis believe that the criteria should be : astuteness in political affairs and administration and ability to rule the subjects effectively. Shia religio political theory revolves around the concept of "Wilaya" which means that God has bestowed upon the family of the Prophet special honour and qualities, thereby making them the ideal rulers, and that through their presence on earth His grace is disseminated. The other two terms of doctrinal importance are wisaya - trusteeship or custodianship, and warith - heir and legatee. The chosen Imam is divinely inspired and possessor of a special sum of knowledge of religion, which can only be passed on before his death to the following Imam. In this way the Imam of the time becomes the exclusively authoritative source of knowledge in religious matters, and thus without his guidance no one can keep to the right path. This special knowledge includes both the external ( zahir ) and the esoteric ( batin ) meanings of the Qur'an.

In conclusion, "The Origins and Early Development of Shia Islam" stands as a magnum opus in the field of Islamic studies. Jafri's meticulous research, balanced perspective, and clear exposition make this book an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a profound understanding of the formative years of Shia Islam

[Syed Bukhari · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good reference to all the traditions that shaped the shia-sunni ideologies.

[Hamza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book helped me clarify a lot of misconceptions about Shia