"Sardar unravels the meaning and significance of Mecca. Tracing its history from its origins as a barren valley in the desert to its evolution as a trading town and sudden emergence as the religious center of a world empire, Sardar examines the religious struggles and rebellions in Mecca that have significantly shaped Muslim culture ... [in a] blend of history, reportage, and memoir"--Amazon.com.

The lure of Mecca -- The Valley of Weeping -- "I love thee more than the entire world" -- Rebellion at God's earthly throne -- Sharifs, sultans, and sectarians -- Love and fratricide in the Holy City -- The caravans of precious gifts -- The Wahhabi threat -- Camels, Indians, and feudal queens -- Western visitors, Arab garb -- Mecca under the Saudis -- The reconfigured utopia.