Tariq Ibn Ziyad

Life of A Legend: History's Greatest Generals -The General That Never Lost a Battle. (Zoohra Non Fiction Series, Book 68)

By: Hicham Ibnalkadi, Mohamed Ibnalkadi

Narrated by: Benjamin Powell

Length: 2 hrs and 31 mins

Publisher's summary

This book presents a story of one of the most glorified and celebrated Islamic heroes, that is Tariq Ibn Ziyad. He fought many brave battles to spread the vision of Islam around present-day Spain and Portugal.

This book is designed as a part of the historical figures series. This book aims to impart the understanding of their lives and bravery in the minds of children. It seeks to help people reflect on their courage, abilities, strategies, and challenges they faced.

History has immortalized the legend, Tariq Ibn Ziyad, for his courageous expeditions that benefited the Islamic World to a large extent. According to some beliefs, he was a freed Berber slave. He is better known as a great Muslim general and a conqueror of Spain. He led a force of some seven thousands soldiers across the straits of Gibraltar in 711 AD.

It is said that he dreamed of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in his dream who says: “Take courage, O Tariq! And accomplish what you are destined to perform.” Then he saw the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and his companions entering Andalus. Tariq Ibn Ziyad woke up with a smile, and from that moment onwards, he hardly doubted his victory. He was full of energy and was ready to deliver the cause.

He bravely fought the battle against Visigoths and delivered one of the best speeches to his soldiers to motivate them. During the "Battle of Guadalete", Tariq said: “Oh my warriors, whither would you flee? Behind you is the sea, before you, the enemy. You have left now only the hope of your courage and your constancy”.

A retreat is easy when you have the option. So, for him, there was all or nothing. He forced his men to be steadfast during the battle and told them that winning was the only way ahead.

With the help of Goths and Jews, he succeeded in bowing down the army of Visigoths, who used to persecute Jews and Spanish Goths. He is also known to have conquered Toledo, Cordoba and eventually dominated more than two-thirds of the Iberian peninsula in a few years. According to many historical traditions, Tariq Ibn Ziyad was called back to Damascus by the Caliph where he was charged with the allegations of misappropriation of funds.

Historical sources and traditions present very contradictory records about him that often confuses the general public. It becomes dubious as how to see him in a perspective and which source narrates the authentic life events of his lifetime.

The author hopes to solve all these confusion and contradictions around this legendary figure and put his best efforts to narrate his life events in the best possible manner.

The book contains well-researched chapters arranged in chronological order. Myths and facts are distinguished in a detailed way. The author tried his best to go through all the books, and then facts were brought in this book. The goal of the author is to acquaint people with these legendary personalities and showcase their exceptional traits before the general public.

So, explore the unexplored side of Tariq bin Ziyad, an unforgettable legend.

©2024 Hicham Ibnalkadi (P)2023 Hicham Ibnalkadi