Consolidation of Caliphal Power: Religious Symbols and Administrative Practices in Islamic Governance (7th-10th Centuries)
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Themes
Caliphal Power, Islamic Civilization, Religious Symbols, Administrative Practices, Cultural Patronage, Umayyads, Abbasids, Islamic History, Political Power, Religious Legitimacy
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Abstract
"Discover the multifaceted assertion of caliphal power between the 7th and 10th centuries, exploring how Islamic leaders legitimized authority through religious symbols, administrative practices, and cultural patronage. Learn about the historical context, key figures, and architectural marvels that defined this era, from the Dome of the Rock to the Great Mosque of Damascus. Uncover the complex interplay of politics, faith, and culture that shaped the Islamic world and left a lasting legacy."
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[...] Finally, militarily, the use of regular armies and slave-soldiers is a guarantee of power and extension of the caliphs' territory. The impact of these practices on the organization of the Islamic empire is lasting. The administrative and military measures of the Umayyads and Abbasids will be a model for other Islamic dynasties. The religious and cultural symbols of power, such as the promotion of artistic and scientific activities, penetrate the Islamic world for centuries and leave a mark on the history of Islamic civilization. [...]
[...] As such, he must ensure the application of the Sharia and defend the Muslim community against external enemies. The notion of the Prophet's succession confers on the caliph a unique spiritual authority, even if, unlike the prophet, he is not the bearer of divine revelation." The caliphal power is also materialized by the adoption of specific titles and insignia. The most emblematic is that of Amir al-Mu'minin, which literally means "commander of the believers". This title symbolizes both the religious and political power of the caliph, who becomes the guarantor of the faith and the Islamic community. [...]
[...] The transfer of the capital from Medina to Damascus marks the centralization of power in a cosmopolitan city, influenced by Byzantine and Sassanid traditions. The Umayyads extend the empire to Spain and India, strengthening their political legitimacy. However, internal tensions, particularly between Arabs and Mawali (non-Arab converts), weaken their reign, leading to their downfall in 750. (Tillier, 2014). The Abbasids, taking power in 750, strengthen the caliphate with a centralized administrative system and the transfer of the capital to Baghdad. They become not only political leaders, but also protectors of Islamic culture, making Baghdad an intellectual and cultural center. [...]
[...] This bureaucratic system makes it possible to effectively control a vast and diversified empire, drawing inspiration from the administrative practices of the ancient Byzantine and Persian empires. Cultural and scientific patronage becomes another tool for the assertion of caliphal power. Under the Abbasids, the caliphate becomes a major intellectual and cultural center, with Baghdad as its capital. The founding of the House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikma) in the 9th century, under Caliph al-Ma'mun, symbolizes the apogee of support for science and the arts (Froment, 2016). [...]
[...] The legitimate caliph asserts his authority through religious and legal practices. The recourse to the Sharia (Islamic law) becomes an essential means to affirm divine justice under caliphal rule. By positioning himself as the protector of the Sharia, the caliph shows that he governs in accordance with divine principles, which reinforces his moral authority. The support of the ulama (religious scholars) is also crucial for the legitimation of power. These scholars, in interpreting and applying Islamic law, enable the caliph to maintain a direct link with religious tradition. [...]
