Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices
However, where as the PLO was essentially a nationalistic organization seeking an independent Palestinian state, Hamas is a religious organization fundamentally opposed to the existence of Israel. And, of course, there is the corruption of men within both organizations who have a vested interest in the violence continuing.
This is one of the great gifts of the Son of Hamas. Yousef says he wrote it, in part, to help outsiders understand the intractability of the Middle East problem. Humanly speaking, there doesn't appear to be a solution. Ultimately, however we are left with hope, not in human success, but that a man like Yousef, who had great influence and was himself a wannabe terrorist, could come to love his enemy, Israel, through kindness displayed by his enemies and in spite of their cruelty at earlier times , and most importantly, by discovering the love of Christ.
Most of the book is not about his Christianity but his life as a son of Hamas and how came to, in the eyes of those people, betray the organization. His faith is important, but emerges as part of the fabric of his story. He went for years falling in love, first with Christ's teachings, and only later Christ himself.
Nevertheless, this had a fundamental affect on his life. After he started working with Shin Bet, the Israeli secret service, he would only pass on information about terrorists if they promised to arrest rather than assassinate their targets. Yousef gives many insights into the origins not only of Hamas, but of the Palestinian intifadas, the PLO he has no time for the organisation or the late Arafat, who he claims had a couple of opportunities to broker peace but had a vested interest in violence , and numerous events surrounding the last 30 years of the Palestinian story.
One man's perspective, no doubt, but a unique and valuable one. Nevertheless, I highly recommend it. I have been wanting to read this book for a while now. It was probably a year ago that I heard Yousef speak at a live gathering, and I was intrigued then. The pace of the narrative, and the matter-of-fact way it is presented, make it easy to forget that this is an autobiography. It's hard for a Westerner like myself to realize things like torture, interrogation, and bullet dodging are actually a reality for some people. The greatest thing I was able to take away from this book was a deeper under I have been wanting to read this book for a while now.
The greatest thing I was able to take away from this book was a deeper understanding of the human element of the Palestinian land crises. Furthermore, I was able to see how corruption can occur. Think about it - if a leader builds his empire on political strife and violence, how can he maintain his leadership in a time of peace, when his platform ideas and leadership skill set are now obsolete?
Would it not make sense for him to spur on toward more violence and political strife, as a means of self preservation? Furthermore, a picture was painted of the deep confusion that can occur between religious beliefs and fanaticism when political powers become involved. It should be remembered that this narrative is indeed one man's opinion and experience, therefore bias may unwittingly develop.
However, if this tale is completely true, Yousef's realm of experience includes being the son of a founder of Hamas, face to face interactions with Yasser Arafat, imprisonment and torture, working as a double agent for the Shin Bet Israeli secret security agency , and a slow, much deliberated and methodical conversion to Christianity, which ultimately leads him to flee to the U.
I would say he is somewhat of an authority on the matter. I read this book for an ecumenical book club that I belong to. It is quite interesting to discuss. I learned a lot about the difficult histories of Palestine and Israel. The part I liked best was the fact that Yousef's father was a good man, as were his Israeli contact when the author became a spy, the Christians that mentored Mosab were also good people.
So there is good in the best of us no matter what our religion may be. I look forward to hearing more from this young man. He has a fascinating story to tell.
I likes it, but I'm still a little confused. I still don't know if I really believe this man or is this just a scheme to make us believe! How do you review a book like this without going into politic? Logically it does not make any sense. The reason is an ancient hatred based on occurrences we can not understand. And then there are the Palestinians People do change sides. It happened before and it will happen in future. I do believe the writer story and his argumentation.
You would not want to publish memoirs like this unless you are suicidal.
Also I think there i How do you review a book like this without going into politic? Also I think there is a difference between a commitment to Christianity and a commitment to the person of Jesus. Christianity is but one of a handful religions, but for those who claim to encountered Jesus He becomes a real person. And how can we judge? Who is going to throw the first stone if we do not want to follow the blind stone hurling just for the sake for it.
Yousef describes his life from the days when as a boy his father was imprisoned and tortured by Israeli intelligence as they tried to get into the heart of the terror organization that was increasingly striking fear into the heart of all Israel. Yousef, the oldest son of Sheikh Hassan Yousef, one of the seven founders of Hamas, opens the story with the tale of how he was arrested for the first time and then provides the historical and religious background to help contextualize the convoluted, spinning history of the last part of the twentieth century in the Middle East.
Sheikh is presented as being a truly rare soul; a man totally dedicated to the welfare of his people through the exercise of his faith. The Sheikh came to live in the West Bank following in the footsteps of his own father who had also led his own community to serve Allah. Sheikh dedicated himself to the life of a devout Muslim, even though there was precious little support for him at first.
Yousef grew up being totally in awe of his father, wanting to be just like him. But, as he grew up in the West Bank, he also saw the draconian severity of the Israeli military suppressing his people and grew to hate them. He graduated from throwing rocks and running away as a boy to the point where he sought to attack the Jewish people, civilian or military, to harm them as his people were being harmed, that is, killed.
In the last month of his high school, just before final exams, he was captured, handcuffed, beaten and tortured as they tried to break him, to force him to become an inside source. More would truly act as a spoiler, so I will leave my narrative there as you see how he evolved in various ways. The final stage of his personal story however, is given on the cover of the book: It was the depth of corruption that he saw that was influential in his conversion and, more hopefully, to his vision for what it will take to see a lasting transformation.
Yousef, instead of cursing the darkness, has spent his life in trying to limit the death and destruction that hatred brings. He sees that what is needed is the leadership of Christ who said we must love our enemies and pray for those who despitefully use us. It is by applying this teaching, which will require great courage, that societies can be transformed. Yousef has paid a great price for this: This book was a real page-turner, almost impossible to put down. The action is always placed in historical context with the current events of that period providing the background for his role as a conspirator, as a protector of his family, trying mightily to save lives.
It is also a coming of age tale, where his worldview was altered. The respect and love he has for his father are unmistakeable, and that respect is proper. The Sheikh is a man of honor, even though I do not share his opinion on the right way to counter the oppression of his people In the midst of so much corruption and greed; so much poverty and suffering, it is inspiring to see that such men still exist. I pray for reconciliation for father and son; son and family; and mostly for all people everywhere. I finished this book in two days - Mosab's life of terrorists, political intrigue and special intelligence - is really something out of a thriller, and this memoir is written the same way a thriller novel would've been written: Son of Hamas gives you an insightful look at the inner workings of Hamas, and you can't help but wonder at the insanity hatred creates between two societies unwilling to forgive.
The only problem I have with this boo I finished this book in two days - Mosab's life of terrorists, political intrigue and special intelligence - is really something out of a thriller, and this memoir is written the same way a thriller novel would've been written: The only problem I have with this book is that I have a hard time really getting on Mosab's side.
Mosab doesn't really explain - at least not adequately to me - why he decided to work for Israeli intelligence. I couldn't shake off the feeling that he may have been suffering from Stockholm's Syndrome when he capitulated. After all, after the brutality of his prison living conditions, he was amazed that the Israeli agents treated him like a human being. He paints his Israeli intelligence colleagues in a very favourable light, which makes me a tad suspicious too.
I just can't shake off the feeling that the agents were far more interested in using him and his connections than regarding him as a friend. It doesn't help that he reveals that they pay he so well that he could afford a sports car. All this, of course, makes me question Mosab's true motivations. It is therefore inevitable that some would accuse him of being a traitor who not only betrayed his people, but his family and of being opportunistic. But perhaps Mosab isn't interested in getting us on his side. Why would a man jeapordise his life, alienate his people and family, by coming out this way?
But I agree wholeheartedly about his assessment about the peace in the Middle East. The only way it could be achieved is if they embraced Jesus' teachings on forgiveness he became a Christian later: Mosab Hassan Youssef, son of Hamas, engaged us in a story where the alleged truth is more fascinating than many fiction stories. It tells the story of a Palestinian young man who ended up working with the Shin Bet after he was detained by the Israeli authorities for buying illegal weapons.
Son of Hamas by Mosab Hassan Yousef
At first, he describes the dire state of his people and their misery in living under the occupation, from shooting kids coming back from school and caught in a curfew, to torture and imprisonment. However, I c Mosab Hassan Youssef, son of Hamas, engaged us in a story where the alleged truth is more fascinating than many fiction stories.
However, I can't help but think that he easily gave up to the shin bet after they tortured and jailed him. Moreover, watching Hamas torture its own men for unfounded claims is not a reason to work for your enemy, even if his initial motives to work for them is to destroy them. Regardless, it's a different angle to understand the palestine-israel conflict from the heart of Hamas and Israel at the same time since he covered many important events such as the second intifada and the Oslo Accords. Needless to say, the reader should be aware to take some information with a grain of salt for obvious reasons.
The author also points many times to Islam as an important factor of not reaching peace in this endless war while in contrast Christianity is according to the author a peaceful religion that heavily influenced many decisions he took as a spy. It certainly annoyed me that the author spent many pages in preaching for his faith which is not why I decided to read his book. Mosab also goes to explain the struggle to power between different fractions especially between Hamas and Fatah at the cost of the Palestinians interest accusing some high profile leaders of corruption.
All in all, whether you believe any word from the author, I think the book still holds a very entertaining story. Interesting, gripping, mind opening. As an Israeli, it was a little strange and somewhat uncomfortable to start reading a story that is clearly being told at least in the beginning from a very anti-Israeli perspective. However, my interest was held throughout the entire book, despite uncomfortable details. It was really interesting to see things from the perspective of "the other side". Despite our many differences in opinion, beliefs, religion, perspective and way of life, I came to understand t Interesting, gripping, mind opening.
Despite our many differences in opinion, beliefs, religion, perspective and way of life, I came to understand that possibly, in our core, we're not as different as we think we are. I appreciate a book that makes me think and reconsider things, a book that opens my mind to new possibilities and other sides of the truth. To be able to see and consider things beyond our narrow point of view of the world no matter how broad we think it is is one of the main things that help us grow, and something to be appreciated.
Fascinating premise, good story-telling! This is a supposedly true account of the Mosab Yousef, the son of Hamas founder who decided to become Israel agent inside Hamas.
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The decision came when he became disgusted of the killings and terror, and had doubts of his own faith. Thanks to co-author Ron Brackin, this books reads like a spy-thriller. There are edge-of-seat moments that make you unable to put it down. The only 'flaw' of this book is Mosab's 'personal' message about his new found faith Ch Fascinating premise, good story-telling!
The only 'flaw' of this book is Mosab's 'personal' message about his new found faith Christianity. Although it may be important to set the context of his changed view, it may be off putting to many readers. But if one can set this aside, this is a very recommended book about Israel-Palestine conflict, and may help add some light on the matter. At the very least, it is a fun spy book! Sometimes it's hard to believe that the author is still alive after writing such an "insider" piece on Hamas let alone, Mossad.
If you like sensational writing. The book is fast paced and read like something out of The only thing is, it's real life history corroborated by Mossad agents after the fact. Mosab's life is an incredible example of how God can change any life, any where.
Mosab's bravery sometimes seems to edge toward lunacy, but he is adamant that "the real gangster in t Sometimes it's hard to believe that the author is still alive after writing such an "insider" piece on Hamas let alone, Mossad. Mosab's bravery sometimes seems to edge toward lunacy, but he is adamant that "the real gangster in the world today is Allah. All I can say is 'bravo' to this young hero of the faith, and I hope you'll find his story as inspiring as I have. From start to the end this book reads like a Robert Ludlum best seller.
The author takes us right into the inner world of Hamas as only the son of one the movement leaders can. A disturbing view of the violence and the fear people live in it has made me appreciate more where I live. The book follows the authors life and the reasons that lead him to become a spy against his own people.
The pain, fear, doubt, heartbreak and hope is palpable to the reader. If I did not any better I would have never b From start to the end this book reads like a Robert Ludlum best seller. If I did not any better I would have never believed this book was a true story.
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I was left at the end of it with up most respect for the author and his courage to share what must be a painful story for him. Action-packed, page-turner thriller type. It's amazing that Yousef made it out of his situation alive. The book is a retelling of Yousef's life, or the details he could write about which were more than enough to keep me captivated , detailing his experience first as the son of a top Hamas leader, next as an imprisoned teenager, and finally as an operative working for the Shin Bet for Israel.
The book gives the reader a peek inside the situation for Palestinians and it's not an ex Very easy read. The book gives the reader a peek inside the situation for Palestinians and it's not an existence you would wish on anybody you are fond of. If only there were more men like Mosab Hassan Yousef. I enjoyed his writing style tremendously because it was very straight and to the point without much fluff.
It was nice to be able to be presented with the cold hard facts without having to read through pages of nonsense. I was captivated and challenged throughout the entire book because it was so enlightening to read about his conversion from Islam to Christianity and the changes that accompanied it.
This is a book that i recommend for someone who is concerned with the current events in the midd I enjoyed his writing style tremendously because it was very straight and to the point without much fluff. This is a book that i recommend for someone who is concerned with the current events in the middle east.
It is very informative about everything in the terrorist organizations and what drives them. A quick enjoyable read. Basically the life of an almost terrorist turned Christian. But this story is much more about the heart of the Issue. Jesus and Muhammad are totally opposite personalities. THanks for sharing your story with us Mosab. I enjoyed this book, not because it was particularly well-written, but because it gave me a lot to think about. His perspective is certainly unique. He has had to grapple with loving his enemies in a more literal sense than I will ever experience.
The flow of the book is a little bogged down by unfamiliar names, dates, and events, but worth the read. Great insight into some very interesting cultures. Add both to Cart Add both to List. These items are shipped from and sold by different sellers. Buy the selected items together This item: Ships from and sold by katiesbookstore. Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: Ships from and sold by Amazon. Customers who viewed this item also viewed.
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Son of Hamas
Write a customer review. Read reviews that mention middle east conflict mosab israel palestinian yousef israeli jesus god peace islam christ muslim insight truth christian hassan christianity young. There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later. A MUST read book!!! I was very fortunate to meet the guy at a lecture.
I bought few copies of the book so I can give them to people as gifts!! This man's story is nothing short of astonishing. To read how the Lord moved, in his complicated and dangerous life, to lead him to Him was thrilling to read. He was granted Political Asylum in the U. I pray this man's story would reach many, and that many hearts would be changed. Every western civilization person must read the book!!
This book filled in many gaps in my understanding of the Middle East conflict. What a tremendous amount of fortitude, grit, love, and trust Mosab displayed throughout his experiences of walking a very fine line of loyalty to family and espionage for the "enemy. I highly recommend this book. Don't know, don't care, just enjoy it! IFall of the story is true, especially the espionage ventures, it is an amazing and fascinating story.
If the espionage or any other parts are fiction, it is still a great read. I did research on the web and there is a lot of controversy, heavy on the negative side expressing doubt as to the veracity of the stories within the book. I have neither the time or money to research it further and probably would never be able to get conclusive answers since government agencies and terrorist groups are involved - both casting aspersions at each other.
That does not diminish the book which is a real page-turner - you wonder with every chapter: I have cautioned people, for years, about the inconsistencies of the Qu'ran. This book should be a must read to bring light to the horrors that are being committed by these lies. What was shocking to learn that the Palestinian Authority PA had few real followers and that many were democrats and communist. And that Hamas inhumane treatment of their own inside prisons should be a warring to anyone who believes this is right.
One of the world's biggest mass murderer is Maher Odeh.
At the end of the book, Mr. Yousef sees Odeh walking down the street in Southern California. I think some immigration reform is in need. I was moved emotionally towards Mosab as I was reading this account of terror going on in Palestinian. I had never quite understood the problems each country fazed so it makes me feel sad for the peaceful Palestinian that they HAVE to live this way day after day, because of their leaders.
I pray that the leaders will come to understand that LOVE can make the whole world go around so we can all live in peace. I have a lot of respect for Mosab and his courageous actions and the way his HANDLER came to San Diego to testify that Mosab was not a terrorist and that he would be accepted as a free man here in this wonderful country.
May he be blessed many times over and continue to live in peace. One person found this helpful. Mosab Hassan Yousef has written one of the most unique and incredible spiritual memoirs of our time. Indeed, Mossab was destined for a life of violence and bitterness when a chance encounter with a missionary led him to make a life-changing commitment to Jesus Christ.
How did he do it? There are facts and facts laid bare in this book. To be disowned by one's family means any muslim has the right to kill you on sight. A muslim, let alone a high profile muslim, does not just convert to Christianity for the fun or novelty of it. Also fascinating is his story of conversion. He was also doing intelligence work for the Israelis, all while in the process of becoming a Christian.
This decision sent shock waves through the Hamas hierarchy forcing Mosab to escape his family and seek asylum in the United States. His memoir covers his early life, his impressions of his father, his often bitter encounters with Israeli security forces, his experience in Israeli jails and as an Israeli agent working inside Hamas, and finally, his escape through Jordan to the United States.