The Prophet’s Heir is the biography of an exalted companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his cousin, friend, confidant and son-in-law Ali ibn Abi Talib. Hassan Abbas has written an excellent biography of Ali in the English language that covers all aspects of Ali’s life; this was published by Yale University Press. This work brings to light the history of early Islam especially after the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that gives a broader context of Ali’s life.
The first section of the book deals with Ali’s unique bond with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and their relationship before public revelation of divine message, the second part deals with their relationship after public announcement of divine message and the last part deals with Ali’s life after the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as well as the trials and tribulations of his descendants after Ali’s death. Hassan’s work is first in-depth work on Ali’s life in English language. He has used primary sources of early Islam across the sectarian divide as well as secondary works in Arabic, Persian and English language. He has also incorporated folk lore and oral traditions about Ali prevalent across Muslim world. The myth in the eyes of one person is a miracle of another. In many traditional early Sunni Muslim historical accounts, Ali is constrained to a short period of internal strife after the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). On the other hand, many Shia historical accounts are essentially devotional in their tones. Hassan does an admirable job of bridging this sectarian divide and presenting Ali as he was; an exceptional individual of his times who left an indelible mark on Muslim history. Ali’s sterling qualities of bravery, justice, equality, and wisdom are detailed in the book that provides a true portrait of Ali.
Ali is revered by the Shia’s and although the Sunnis have great respect for him but in view of the painful and violent history of early Islam, they tend not to talk too much about Ali. Hassan’s work is admirable for bringing the life of Ali in its true perspective and elevating him above the sectarian divide.
