Emamat Pajouhi

Emamat Pajouhi

The Role of the "Banu Amir bin Lu'ay" in the Formation and Consolidation of the Succession of the Early Caliphs Based on Ancient Texts of Both Sects

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Level 4 Shia Studies Scholar, Member of the Comparative History Research Group, Specialized Center of Ahlul Bayt (AS).
10.22034/jep.2023.213712
Abstract
After the passing of the Messenger of God (peace be upon him), the first model of selecting a caliph emerged without reliance on divine text. The proponents of this theory faced numerous challenges and oppositions, and to establish it, they required the economic, military, political, and cultural power of the Quraysh, one branch of which was "Banu Amir bin Lu'ay." This paper, relying on ancient historical and hadith sources from both Shia and Sunni perspectives and utilizing a descriptive-analytical method, aims to elucidate the dimensions of influence of this branch of Quraysh in the formation and consolidation of the succession of the early caliphs. The research findings indicate that this branch, due to their living conditions in the deserts, possessed a high spirit of warfare and military capability. Their large population and kinship ties with the tribes of Taym, Adi, and Banu Umayyah provided a suitable background for their military and political engagement. Their economic, scientific, and cultural conditions were not such that they could play significant roles in these areas. They were primarily powerful soldiers and military commanders who indirectly contributed to the economic aspects of the rule of the early caliphs. Although the deaths of many from Banu Amir in the 18th year of Hijra reduced their prominent presence during the time of Uthman ibn Affan and Muawiyah, the presence of powerful military figures during this period filled this gap, and their political presence was revived; however, this time they opposed the ruling faction and significantly assisted Muawiyah in political and military dimensions. 
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