Publisher's Synopsis
The Sword and the Crescent: The Arab Conquest of Sind is an authoritative exploration of one of the most transformative events in early medieval history. This meticulously researched work traces the Arab invasion of Sind, led by the young general Muhammad bin Qasim, as part of the Umayyad Caliphate's broader imperial expansion. Far more than a mere military conquest, this event catalyzed profound and lasting exchanges between the Arab world and the Indian subcontinent-shaping both regions' political, religious, and cultural landscapes for centuries.
The book delves into the rich history of Sind before the invasion, under the rule of Raja Dahir, where a complex mix of Hindu, Buddhist, and local traditions flourished amidst vibrant trade networks. It then examines the geopolitical and religious motivations driving early Islamic expansion, situating the conquest of Sind within the larger context of the Umayyad Empire's strategic ambitions.
What sets this study apart is its deep focus on the cultural, intellectual, and administrative transformations that followed the conquest. Through rigorous analysis, The Sword and the Crescent offers new insights into the fusion of ideas, governance models, and religious practices that emerged in Sind, ultimately influencing both Arab and Indian civilizations. This book is an indispensable resource for scholars and students of Islamic and South Asian history.
