Emamat Pajouhi

Emamat Pajouhi

The Role of Banu Zuhra b. Kilab in the Formation and Consolidation of Early Caliphal Succession

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Ibrahim rezae kaliri
Senior-level instructor at the Qom Seminary and researcher
10.22034/jep.2026.549131.1686
Abstract
After the Prophet's (P.B.U.H.) death, the first succession based on election rather than religious designation emerged, but faced serious opposition and required diverse Qurashi economic, political, military, and cultural support. Banu Zuhra b. Kilab, an influential Qurashi clan, played a notable role in its formation and consolidation. Using a descriptive-analytical approach and Sunni and Shi'i historical and hadith sources, this study examines the clan's political, military, economic, and cultural contribution to the early caliphates. Despite their small number, Banu Zuhra significantly influenced these developments. Under Abu Bakr, figures such as Abd al-Rahman b. Awf and Sa'd b. Abi Waqqas used their influence at the Saqifa to help consolidate his legitimacy. Under Umar, the clan reached the height of its power and became prominent in military command, conquests, and administration of the diwan and public treasury. Under Uthman, its privileged position in the six-member council and Abd al-Rahman's decisive role in Uthman's selection marked a turning point in its political influence, although members later joined his opponents. During Imam Ali's (A.S.) caliphate the clan divided, with some supporting and others opposing him. This comparison shows Banu Zuhra's central role in legitimization and early Islamic political change.
Keywords
Banu Zuhra b. Kilab
early caliphs
Quraysh
Abd al-Rahman b. Awf
Sa'd b. Abi Waqqas
Subjects