Hayat Amamou's profound scholarly work delves into the intricate relationship between power, authority, and the relentless pursuit of legitimacy during the formative years of Islam. This book meticulously examines how the early Islamic state grappled with establishing its rightful claim to rule, exploring the theological, political, and social dimensions that shaped this critical process. Amamou sheds light on the historical anxieties and foundational challenges faced by nascent Islamic leadership, illustrating the enduring impact of these debates on subsequent Islamic thought and governance. It is an essential read for understanding the complex origins of political authority in the Islamic tradition.