The Vizierate in Ifriqiya during the Aghlabid Period (184–296 AH / 800–909 CE)

Abstract

In this study, the institution of vizierate is analyzed during the reign of Aghlabid Emirate (184-296 AH/800-909 CE) which covered the region of Ifriqiya consisting of modern Tunisia, Tripolitania (western Libya) and eastern Algeria. The importance of this research comes from its analysis of one of the least-studied aspects of the Aghlabid administration by studying the system and duties of the institution of vizierate. The objectives of the study include investigation of the criteria and methods for appointment of viziers, their relation with the emir and other governmental institutions like the judiciary and military. The other objectives include analyzing viziers’ role in the suppression of revolts against the government, protecting the emirate from any internal problems and dealing with the intellectual community. For achieving such objectives, the study is divided into five major themes as follows: (1) Criteria for selection of viziers in the Aghlabid Emirate; (2) Relation between viziers and the judiciary; (3) Viziers and the intellectual community; (4) Financial and political power of viziers; and (5) Viziers and military affairs. From the results, it is clear that the process of selecting viziers took place at different stages. In the formative stages of the emirate, appointments of viziers were mainly done on grounds of tribal allegiance, where the early Aghlabid leaders gave preference to their own kin and other allies from the same tribe, for instance, Banu Ghalbun and Banu Humayd from Tamim. However, when conflicts arose among the Aghlabids regarding succession and authority, allegiance to the reigning emir was the main factor in choosing the appointees, irrespective of their tribe. The research provides additional evidence on how viziers had significant influence not only in the appointment but also in the dismissal of judges and sometimes interfered with the judicial process. They also were active promoters of intellectual development because they helped the scholars, sponsored scholarly sessions, and encouraged education. Moreover, viziers controlled the treasury of the state, handled its revenues, distributed salaries and stipends and thus had substantial administrative powers. Furthermore, viziers were extremely important in maintaining discipline among the military forces because they kept the loyalty of the military commanders and soldiers with the help of rewards and punishment, stopped the military and popular rebellions, maintained internal order, and implemented the policy of the emir competently and skillfully. If the official orders needed some changes for their efficient execution, then the viziers made the necessary decisions while still following the goals of the ruler.