The Islamic Conquest of Syria (Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and parts of Iraq and Turkey) – Futuh as-Sham

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 which then included present day Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and parts of Iraq and Turkey.

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.