Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes

The Hijra, as detailed in Destiny Disrupted, marked a transformative moment in the life of Mohammed and the foundation of Islam. This migration from Mecca to Medina was not merely a physical relocation but a strategic retreat that catalyzed the development of a new socio-political entity—the Muslim Umma. This event symbolized the transition of a loose group of followers into a structured community under Mohammed’s leadership, with implications for social structure, political organization, and legal frameworks. The Hijra not only began the Islamic calendar but also epitomized the concept of turning away from old ties and forming a new collective identity based on shared faith and purpose.

Jihad in Destiny Disrupted is multifaceted, referring to the concept of striving or struggling in the way of God. This can encompass a broad spectrum of actions, from personal, spiritual struggles against one’s own sins to collective efforts to uphold and defend the Islamic community. Ansary examines jihad not only as a physical endeavor in military campaigns but also as a moral and spiritual duty. Ansary portrays it as a dynamic concept that has shaped Islamic social and political policies, playing a crucial role in the expansion of Islam as well as in the internal reform and spiritual purification of Muslim societies.