Al Andalus (Islamic Spain)(Part 10)

LESSONS FROM AL ANDALUS :

 We have briefly described about the Muslim rule in Andalus and the Golden Age. We must analyse the secrets behind Muslim success and reasons behind their fall. In last we will discuss some of the key points about it, if we apply those we will be successful today also. 

1. BE BRAVE AND HAVE FAITH IN ALMIGHTY :- 

At the very first we learned how TAARIQ BIN ZIYAD and his small army landed on Gibraltar and determined to win or die. How the great commander addressed his men "O PEOPLE WHERE IS ESCAPE?, OCEAN IS BEHIND YOU, ENEMY IS IN FRONT OF YOU" and with faith in Almighty they won against a huge army. We Muslims are no doubt good in numbers today but we hardly have that courage and faith to face the enemy or challenges. If we learn from TAARIQ Bin Ziyad the lesson of bravery and faith we will able to defeat all the hurdles. 

And please do not mix bravery with the power because we have seen in the Battle of Iqab how Arabs got defeated hence they were good in numbers but they believed that who will defeat such a huge army rather they have believed in Almighty. And this ego resulted in the destruction of Muslim rule in Andalus. 

2. KNOWLEDGE IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS :- 

It is the very important lesson to learn from Andlusian Civilization, as soon as Arabs entered Spain they started establishing schools, colleges, Universities, research centers, libraries etc to spread the knowledge among their people. And the freedom of thought is given to such a great extent that the rare works of Aristotle were translated in Arabic and then to latin which reached to rest of Europe via Andalus. 

The period of dark ages in Europe ;and the Golden Age in Andalus are opposite to each other in the same time sphere. They are highly advanced in science and technology and their research is based on experiments. There were numerous inventions discovered in Andalus which helped them to reach new heights. Jamiya Cordoba and the Library of Hakam II were the finest examples of their love towards seeking knowledge. 

But on the other hand if we look towards current scenarios we Muslims are not just declined the level of seeking knowledge. We have even illiteracy in a large number, we hadn't invented any thing from centuries, we had become just consumers, whatever other countries through on us we will accept. The very precious gift of Almighty to Muslims contries today is Petrol and Oil but we are not in a condition to use it in right manner it is the western science which discovered it and are using it for their industries and we are just getting some pennies as rent enough. If we could have realised the importance of petrol and oil that without it whole world will stuck we may reached some other zenith today. We must and should ensure maximum literacy with quality education and must encourage research in science and technology to regain our golden past. 

3. UNITY IS STRENGTH :-

No doubt about it, like in any time we say Unity is Strength. Arabs got numerous victories in Andalus and France when they fought against their enemies courageously and took control of the new lands with their united powers. 

The conflict of Arab and Berber, Syrian and Yemeni, etc are the root causes for the downfall of Muslim Andalus. Whenever Muslims fight each other they destroy themselves and strengthen the others to have control over them. And in Andalus sometimes Muslims asked Christians to help against other Muslims. So when Muslims forget the very basic concept of "UMMAH" and "BROTHERHOOD". The entire Muslims community people are like brothers and sisters and if we really want to be successful we have to realise it. For the sake of name, money, lands, authority, power etc if we indulged infighting what is happening today we will definitely weaken ourselves and strengthen the others against us and it will cost us more than we cant imagine. 

4. PEACE AND CO-EXISTANCE :- 

Andalus was majorly home for three Abrahamic faiths Muslims, Christians and Jews. Though Muslim armies were fighting against Christians on the borders and on the new campaigns specially towards North that is in France. But within Andalus we saw a different picture the people in Andalus were free to practice their religion of choice. And by paying a small amount of tax they are given right and security of their life and property. Everyone live together with peace and harmony. Scholars of different faiths sit together and discuss on different aspects, issues etc. There was no inequality on the basis of religion. This was the very distinct feature of Andlusian civilization because at the time of religious hatreds Andalus maintains its co-existence. 

We should learn from this and must respect each other's faiths we cannot practice other faiths but we have no rights to disrespect one's faith, if we really adopt it we will see a world without religious hate and violence. Peace will only be possible when we develop the feeling of respect towards others. 

5. STRUGGLE AND RESISTANCE :- 

The way Abdur Rehman bin Muawiya established Ummayad Dynasty is a great example of hardest struggle. By escaping alone to safe his own life by crossing forests, deserts and oceans alone. Reaching Andalus and taking control over was not a easy task. And in the same way how his successors especially Abdur Rehman III Bin Muhammad re united the kingdom and defeated enemies and declared his Caliphate was also a lesson to learn. At the later How Yusuf bin Tashfeen regain the lost Andalus was a great achievement. If we summarize the successful rulers of Andalus and the their common unique feature is "STRUGGLE AND RESISTANCE" the one who sit idle was cursed and the one who accepted oppression was defeated. 

And in the last period what Muhammad bin Yusuf "Al Ahmar" did was also a great example of Struggle. And after him what Nasrids did for two and half centuries was the real period of Struggle and Resistance which they managed to do successfully. 

So with this we must learn that we cannot give up against hard times and challenges we have to struggle to get what we deserves best. And if someone oppressed us we have to show a great resistance so that we or our next generation could succeed one day or other. If we say no nothing will save us, now there is no way to get out of it, this and that, then u will be defeated by yourself.

 "BEING MUSLIM WE CANNOT LOOSE HOPE, JUST BELIEVE IN ALMIGHTY AND DO YOUR BEST" 

We had lost Andalus but if we cannot learn from those achievements and mistakes we will certainly loose what we have so don't repeat mistakes and start achieving new heights from learning the past. 

      History is nothing but rise and fall of civilization.

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain)(Part 9)

FALL OF Al ANDALUS :

After the decline of Al mohads Christian kings seems an ideal time to capture Andalus. Specially Castilians and Aragonese surged forward. The very famous movement called "Re conquista" or Recapture had began. After the defeat in Crusades of Al Quds the European knights began their new crusades to recapture the Andalus from Muslims and huge number of Soldiers were arrived in Northern Spain.
On the other hands a new era of Independent small states had started in Andalus and it was divided into many small states which fell down one after the other on the hands of Christian forces.

FALL OF CORDOBA (1236 AD)
Ferdinand III captured many Andlusian cities between 1229-30 e.g. Merida, Badajoz, Valencia etc. In 1236 AD Ferdinand reached Cordaba, although the attack was unplanned and caught Ferdinand off guard, he rushed to Cordoba and celebrated the city's fall with a symbolic Te Deum of victory by converting The Great Mosque of Cordaba into a Christian Church. The fall of Cordoba was of deep significance and marked the fall of Muslim rule forever. Muslims never recaptured Cordoba and left it on the mercy of Crusaders. The center for knowledge and science, art and architecture, peace and co existence has now become hell for Muslims and Jews and they were forced to expel from their own lands.

Once Cordaba was fell soon the other states or cities fell down one by one. In 1236 Jaen, in 1248 Seville on the hands of Ferdinand III.
Jaime I (1213-1276 AD) King of Aragon took Tortosa, Mallorca, Ibiza and Valencia.
In 1261 Murcia fell in the hands of Alfanso X etc. 

THE LAST MUSLIM DYNASTY
NASRID OF GARNADA
(1237-1492 AD)
At the very crucial time when almost all of Andalus was fell to the Christian wave, a light of hope remained in the southern Andalus. As the Christian conquest demanded a purification of Spain by either converting Muslims and jews into Christianity or to kill or live as a Mujedar. Most of the People migrate to the Grenada the last Muslim stronghold in Andalus.

1. Muhammad bin Yusuf bin Nasr
"Al Ahmar" (1232-1273 AD)
He was the founder of Nasrid Kingdom in Southern Andalus. He was born in 1195 AD in Jaen. The slogan of the Nasrid was "Wa la Ghalib illa Allah" means "There is no conquerer but Allah" with such an enthusiastic slogan he gathered all the Braveheart men and stands strong against the Christian floods over Andalus. He had also signed a treaty with Ferdinand which benefited him to establish a strong kingdom, which last long for more than two and a half century in Andalus. He died in the year 1273 AD. His immediate successor was his son Mohammed II.

AL HAMRA PALACE:
Mohammed I bin Yusuf was known as Al Ahmar because of his red hair. He laid the foundation of Al Hamra palace or Red Palace in his capital city Grenada. Which is a symbol of Muslim architecture in Andalus and remained till date. It is the master piece of Islamic architecture which can only be seen and praised and very hard to describe here in words.

Era of Resistance and Survival :
After the establishment of Nasrid Dynasty in Grenada, it has to struggle a lot for its existence. By paying heavy tributes to the Christian King, Grenada succeeded to withstand and to resist against the Christian tide until the end of the 15th Century. They were always been outnumbered against Christians but resisted and some time collaborated.
Nasrids hold their possession because they had good diplomatic relationships with the Marinids of Africa who emerged as the rulers after Al mohads. They usually supported their Muslim friends in Andalus. Sometimes Nasrids tried hard to regain the lost Prosperity of Arabs in Andalus. But unfortunately they did not succeed and remained in Grenada with its provinces of Almirya and Malaga.
It was the Golden Age for Muslims in Grenada they left Cordaba, Toledo and Seville but Flourished in Grenada, continued their contributions to spread the knowledge and science, art and architecture, lived with examples of co existence between Muslims and Jews. Prominent Scholars like Maimonides belongs to this era.

FALL OF GARNADA :
(1492 AD)
Fall of Constantinople in 1453 AD on the hands of Ottoman Turks sparked a feeling of revenge in Christian world. In the year 1467 King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castile married which resulted in the unification of both powers. They determined to take Grenada from Nasrids and asked Pope to declare their struggle as Holy war or Crusade. They had began their preparation for a final war.
In the fall of 1482 the war started. Christian forces were strong enough whereas Muslims were weakened because of mismanagement and revolts specially in such a crucial time, Prince Muhammad revolted against his father the King of Gernada which collapsed all hopes, he was supported by Ferdinand.
Anyhow Nasrid soldiers fought bravely to protect their land, life and property but couldn't succeed.
When the rebellion prince came to the power Ferdinand asked him to surrender the city as he had captured all the provinces earlier. This shocked Abu Muhammad Abdullah who thought that Ferdinand was his ally. Finally this coward man forced to sign a treaty in November 1491. This peace treaty guarantees the protection of Life, property and religious practices of Muslims in Gernada.

ON 22nd JANUARY 1492 ABU ABDULLAH MUHAMMAD HIMSELF  HANDED OVER THE KEYS OF AL HAMRA TO FERDINAND AND ISABELLA AND LEFT THE GREAT ANDLUSIAN LEGACY ON THE MERCY OF CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS.

As soon as they entered and captured Grenada they broke the treaty and crossed all the limits of cruelty and expelled Muslims from Andalus, invaded their Mosques, Houses, palaces. The only choice is to accept Christianity or Die.

THE GREAT MUSLIM CIVILIZATION IN ANDALUS WAS GONE AND NEVER REGAINED. 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain)(Part 8)

TAIFA OR INDEPENDENT KINGDOMS

(1031-1086 AD) 

After the end of Ummayad Caliphate numerous Amirs, military commanders emerged and where ever they got chance to control declared their independence and started their ruling. Some of the notable are below. 

AUTONOMOUS STATES:

A. Bani Hamood at Malaga

(1035-1058 AD )

B. Bani Idrees at Garnada 

(1018-1090 AD)

C. Bani Ibaad at Seville 

(1023-1083 AD)

D. Bani Zun Noon at Toledo

(till 1085 AD) 

E. Rulers of Saragosa 

(till 1118 AD). Etc 

Hence Andalus was divided into various small states. Usually these states were busy in fighting each other to gain more power and territories. Sometimes Muslim rulers seek assistance from Christian rulers against other Muslim ruler. Christians benefitted from this infighting and marched towards Muslim lands and start capturing it. 

Fall of Toledo : (1085 AD) 

As a result of these conflicts among Muslim states Alfanso IV came forward and attacked over Toledo one of the key state. After a series of wars he succeeded and captured Toledo. This was the first greatest loss of Muslims in Spain. 

Battle of Zallaqa: (1086 AD) 

With the fall of Toledo in the hands of Alfanso IV, he continued his expedition in South of Andalus. To stop Alfanso few Taifa rulers notably Al Mutamid of Garnada asked help from YUSUF BIN TASHFEEN a great military commander and newly emerged Moravid ruler of Africa who recently established himself and became the ruler of Morocco. He was very brave and enthusiastic against rivals of Islam. He responded positively and accepted Andlusian requests. 

Yusuf bin Tashfeen landed in Andalus with his Army. Local Andlusian army was with him. And they reached to battleground of ZALLAQA in the province of Badajoz. Alfanso IV asked help from his Christian friends and gathered a huge army more than Muslims and reached to the ZALLAQA. A Historical battle was fought there, both sides are determined to be victorious. But Alfanso IV was defeated and escaped. This led to the impulse of Muslim rule for next 3 centuries in Andalus. Yusuf Bin Tashfeen came out victorious and thanked Almighty Allah and returned to Africa. 

ALMORAVID ERA : REUNIFICATION 

(1086-1147 AD) 

1. YUSUF BIN TASHFEEN

 (1086-1106 AD) 

After the great assistance by ALMORAVIDS, Andlusian rulers again fell into conflicts. Andlusian people were fed-up with the infightings of Muslim rulers and invasions of Christian rulers. So a group of Highly intellectuals decided to handover Andalus to Yusuf bin Tashfeen for its long-term stability. With this offer a delegation of High ranked scholars and sufis reached Morocco and asked him to take control over Andalus by overthrowing the Taifa rulers. 

Yusuf bin Tashfeen was also well aware about the situation in Andalus he had also planned to conquer Andalus and made it a province of his African Dynasty. And this request did it all for him. Yusuf bin Tashfeen decided to reunite Andalus and marched towards Andalus. 

In 1090 AD he announced a new military campaign against Alfanso of Toledo and Andlusian promised him to help, but no one comes forward. This trigger his anger and he attacked on Garnada and defeated Abdullah for collaboration with Christians and captured it. After this he appointed his best Generals like Sayr bin Abi Bakr, Abu Bakr almirya, Jaroor Al hashmi, Abdullah bin Alhaj, etc. to conquer all the Taifa states. Within a short period of time these great generals defeated almost all Taifas and conquered it. Saragosa, Cordaba, Seville, Murcia, Badajoz, Malaga, one by one fell on the hands of AL MORAVIDS. Yusuf bin Tashfeen appointed his men as the Governors of different provinces and ruled Andalus from Morocco as a province of his Dynasty. In 1106 he died in Morocco and his son Ali came to power and ascended the throne. 

Fall of Saragosa : (1118 AD) 

Though Yusuf's successor reunite Andalus and got new victories and managed to slow down Christian invasions till 1118 AD but soon they got help from France and surrounded Saragosa and captured it. After Toledo this was second biggest loss for Muslims in Andalus. 

Ali bin Yusuf does what he can to maintain the unity of Andalus and protect it from foreign invasion, and was majorly busy in Africa and died in the year 1143. Until this Andalus was united, then his son Tashfeen ascended the throne. He has to tackle the challenges of Al Mohads under the leadership of Abu Abdullah who revolted against AL MORAVIDS, his whole reign was spent in fighting against Almohads. Then the last ruler was Ibrahim bin Tashfeen who killed by Abdul Momin successor of Abu Abdullah in the year 1147. With this AL MORAVIDS era came to an end. 

AL MOHADS ERA :

(1147-1233 AD) 

In the year 1147 Abdul Momin ascended the throne in Morocco as the first ruler of Al mohads. After Moravid declined Andalus was again came under the Taifa rulers, but Abdul Momin was well aware of the importance of Andalus, he send his best Generals to take control over Andalus and soon they captured Cordaba and took control over Andalus. They protected Andalus for another century. Abdul Momin visited Andalus twice and appointed his men for the administration and returned to Africa and died in the year 1163. 

Then his son Yusuf ruled over his legacy between 1163-1184 AD. Then his son Yaqub ascended the throne and his period witnessed many clashes with Portugal and Northern Christian kingdoms. In 1195 AD he got a significant victory against the coalition of Castilian, Aragonian and Portuguese forces under the leadership of Alfanso VIII who sieged Seville with his huge army but defeated badly. In 1199 AD Yaqoob bin Yusuf "Al Mansoor bil Allah" died in Morocco. Abu Abdullah bin Yaqoob succeeded his father, he gathered a huge army and landed into Andalus. 

BATTLE OF IQAB(Punishment) OR 

LAS NAVAS de Tolosa (Spanish) 

(17-July-1212 AD) 

In 1212 AD a historical battle took place called "Battle of Iqab(punishment)". By seeing a huge army of 6 lakhs, Abu Abdullah was over confident and avoided military tactics which resulted in a huge defeat, just few thousand soldiers came out alive. This was the turning point for Muslims in Andalus. It marked a decline in the Al mohads. Soon the era of Al mohads came to an end because there was no capable ruler who may unite its territories and rule. Hardly they ruled till 1269 AD.

To be continued... 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain)(Part 7)

UMMAYAD CALIPHATE OF CORDOBA

(929-1031 AD)

1. Ameer ul Momineen ABDUR REHMAN III BIN MUHAMMAD 

(912-961 AD)

Abdur Rahman III ascended the throne at a very crucial time when Andalus lost its unity. At a very mature age he came to power and his superiority was accepted by Ummayads. Firstly he ordered all Amirs who proclaimed their kingship to surrender and accept his superiority, and cleverly defeated his rivals by showing justice and mercy over non Muslims. However in a very short time he united Andalus under his rule.

After taking control over Al Andalus he focused on African territories of Fatimids and conquered most of the area even till Mediterranean sea. After conquering south, he focused on Northern states and launched organized military campaigns against Galicia, Banbolona, Leon etc. In a series of hard fights he defeated the alliance of his enemies. In 929 AD After all these Victories he proclaimed himself as Caliph by breaking superiority of Abbasid caliphate and called as AMEER UL MOMINEEN And Took the title of AL NAASIR UL DEEN UL ALLAH. 

His period was a time of high prosperity and seen as Golden Age of Al Andalus. His superiority accepted by Super powers of Europe Including Constantine of Constantinople, German, French and other rulers send their Ambassadors with huge gifts and extended their hand of Friendship to the new Caliph in Andalus. Cordaba was the highly developed city of that time in Europe with its well organized Agricultural system and Economic development. His period was famous for the co-operation among Muslims, Christians and Jews, they shared Abrahamic traditions and followed their own traditions freely. Students from across the globe reached Andalus to seek education in the universities of Andalus, its large libraries having valuable works on every branch of knowledge was famous for its uniqueness. 

He built a palace called Madinatuz Zahra, it was not a palace but a small city with numerous small buildings and beautiful parks having 15000 doors of entrance.It was the pride of Andalus at that time. He took personal interest to built it and he wanted to present the greatness of his Caliphate through Madinatuz Zahra. 

After successfully ruling Andalus for almost 50 years, at the age of 73 he died in the year 961 AD and left a unified Andalus for his successors. 

2. HAKAM II BIN ABDUR REHMAN III 

(961-976 AD) 

Hakam ascended the throne after death of his father. He continued the progress and development of his state, and led his army to new Victories specially in Africa. His tenure marked a peak of Andalus in every aspect strong, rich and safe state. He established good relations with his neighbor Christian rulers and they were frequent guests of Caliph in Cordaba. 

He was fond of knowledge, he invited great scholars to his court like Abu Ali Baghdadi, Sifr ul Baghdadi, Ismail bin Abdur Rahman etc. He himself was a master of Literature and Philosophy, his library was the largest library in the world he spent huge money and collected books of different authors from across the globe, at his time one can easily find any book in Andalus. Approximately there were 4 lakh books available in his library he also initiated publishing books in Andalus on every subject and branch of knowledge. He was very pious person. He spent his last days in divine service and died in the year 976 AD. 

3. HISHAM II BIN HAKAM II

(961-1012 AD) 

Caliph Hakam nominated his minor son Hisham as his legal heir for the throne and Caliphate of Andalus. As per the will of Late Caliph, Hisham ascended the throne at the age of 11 ONLY. It was a weird decision but it happened. A person called Mohammed bin Abi Amir (Al Mansoor) made regent of the minor Caliph, and he was the person who knowingly or unknowingly destroyed the Ummayad system in Andalus. He took control over all the affairs of the Caliphate and even he got his command on the Andlusian royal army. He made Caliph Hisham an internee in the Palace and run the whole State on his name. 

Though he took control over the state illegally but he does whatever he can to spread the Caliphate. By seeing a minor on the throne of Cordoba neighbor kingdoms attacked on Andalus, Al Manoor came out with the Royal army and fought courageously against the enemies and defeated them. Then he marched towards their lands and successfully conquered key cities like Leon, Gyan, Albira, Basca, Todmir, and Valencia etc. He also got conquests in Africa. It was the time of Al Mansoor when Andalus reached its Zenith and expanded its ever larger territories. He earned huge wealth from the newly conquered territories specially after the victory of Santiago. By seeing all these great victories no one opposed him. It is said that he fought more than 50 battles and became victorious.

Like other rulers during his period there was also a development of literature and science. He was exceptionally talented commander and very able politician, but he has no relevant strategy, instead of all such glorious victories he creates conditions for immediate collapse of the state after his death in the year 1002 AD. 

After his death his son Abdul Malik became Prime Minister and as usual Caliph gave all control to him he followed his father's path and invade Galicia. Soon he died and his brother Abdur Rahman came to power. 

Fall of Ummayad Caliphate :

Whatever Al Mansoor did, but he presented himself as royal slave working under the Caliph. But Abdur Rahman bin Al Mansoor declared himself as Caliph and dethroned Caliph Hisham openly. Which sparked a revolt against him. When he was out of Cordoba for military campaigns, different Arab Amirs took control over Cordaba and made Mohammed bin Hisham a descent of Abdur Rahman III as Caliph. 

After him there were numerous caliphs and rulers who ruled Andalus. Some were Ummayads and some non Umayyads. In between there were various civil wars between Ummayads, Berbers and Arabs which led to the collapse of Ummayad Caliphate in Spain. And as a result new Taifa(independent) kingdoms emerged. And Spain broke into different Small kingdoms led by various Arab and Berber Amirs.

And the amirs declared their independence, a great Islamic civilization came into end due to lack of weak central power. It give a lesson that don't hand over all power to one post or position, we read how much Tariq taken pain to won this place, now this is how downfall started.... 

To be continued... 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain)(Part 6)

Independent Emirates of Umayyads In Cordoba (756-929 AD)

1. AMIR ABDUR REHMAN BIN MUAWIYA 

 "AD DAAKHIL" (756-787 AD)

In 750 AD Ummayads of Damascus were defeated by Abbasids of Baghdad which resulted for the end of Ummayad Caliphate. Abbasids wanted to kill every Ummayad who may proclaim Caliphate. As a result almost every person belongs to Ummayad Royal family sentenced to death and killed. However few of them managed to escape and save their lives, amongst them Abdur Rehman son of Caliph Muaviya who was killed by Abbasids, successfully escaped from Damascus.

Abdur Rahman knew that there were still huge number of people in Andalus who were loyal to Ummayads. So he migrated towards Andalus with lot of difficulties and hurdles he lonely reached Africa and then to Andalus.

In May 756 AD Abdur Rahman defeated Yusuf al Fehri the last governor of Andalus and proclaimed himself as the Amir of Andalus and laid the foundation of newly Ummayad Dynasty in Andalus which last long for centuries and brings a Golden age of Islamic civilization. Andlusian people were fed up with ongoing civil war and accepted Abdur Rehman as their new ruler. To establish a new order he has to face a lot of revolts from inside and attacks from outside but he was courageous enough to successfully defeat every one and came out victorious. 

He was very pious and adjudicator, he himself led the Friday prayer and addressed Friday Sermons. In 786 AD He build a great mosque in Cordaba which became the symbol of Islamic civilization for centuries. 

2. HISHAM BIN ABDUR REHMAN 

(787-796 AD) 

After the death of Abdur Rehman I his second son Abul Waleed Hisham ascended the throne. He was very intellectual mind from his childhood and was keenly interested in learning of literature like history, etc. That's why his father choosed him instead of his big brother Sulaiman. Because of this he has to face very first war with his brothers only. 

He launched military campaigns against his neighbour kingdoms and successfully recaptured Saragosa, Narbone and Gerinda. He also invaded Gelicia. His reign was a nightmare for his rival kingdoms. 

Though his duration was for short period of time but marks a great importance. He encouraged literature, art and architecture, poetry, science etc. He was very much influenced by the Great Imam of Islamic Jurisprudence Imam Malik. Scholars said he was like great Caliph Umar Bin Abdul Aziz. His administration was based on the true principles of Quran and Sunnah which was the unique feature of his tenure. 

He died in the year 796 AD. 

3. HAKAM BIN HISHAM 

(796-821 AD) 

Hakam ascended the throne at a very young age, though his brothers was not revolted against him but his uncle came out against him the same fellow Sulaiman and Abdullah bin Abdur Rehman I, who were revolted against his father Hisham. Anyhow like his father he defeated them. Many other Amirs also revolted against him and he has to fight with his own people. 

For His French and Christian neighbour kingdom it was a great opportunity to launch a new attack. While he was busy in fighting against rebels. French Captured Barcelona and Christians captured Girinda. This was a great loss for his kingdom. He launched a new expedition under the command of his great commander Abdul Karim bin Mughiz who fought courageously and recaptured the lost territories. 

Hakam was not pious like his father he has indulged in many bad practices which sparked a great wave against him. Cordaba was the center of Sufi Saints and Scholars. They seem to be very angry on their rake ruler. They try to explain him but he refused every good suggestion and disrespected the scholars. Due to this his own people stood up against him and his rule, which resulted in huge resistance and protests in Cordaba and all of Al Andalus. To curb the revolts he blindly ordered a massacre of all who stood against him as a result there was a carnage over scholars and common people. To protect himself from rebellions he gathered a self body guard unit which is appointed at the door of his palace for 24X7. 

By facing all such revolts he died in the year 821 AD. 

4. ABDUR REHMAN II BIN HAKAM

(821-852 AD) 

Abdur Rahman II was born in 792 AD at Toledo. At the age of 31 he ascended the throne after his father Hakam's Death. His reign was seen as a time of progress and prosperity of Umayyads in Andalus. He defeated his rivals who entered his territory like armies of Galicia, Castile and France. 

At the time of Abdur Rahman II different emperors including the Roman Emperor of Constantinople send their ambassadors to Andalus and raised their wish to establish friendship with Ummayads of Andalus. Few wanted to use Umayyad power against Abbasids but Abdur Rehman refused them and maintained good relationships with the great empires of his time. 

During his reign some pirates attacked on costs of Andalus and invaded some coastal parts. Soon Abdur Rehman kicked them out and he feel the necessity of a strong navy. He established industries to build war ships and strengthen the naval power which became world's strongest navy in upcoming years. He was fond of Music, during his period Music was on its zenith in Andalus he invited many famous musicians to his court. Famous musician Ali bin Naqi came to Andalus leaving Abbasids during his time. 

He died in the year 852 AD. 

6. MOHAMMED BIN ABDUR REHMAN II

(852-886 AD) 

He ascended the throne after his father Abdur Rehman II, like his father he was interested in warfare. He made Musa bin Musa as his military commander and send him to conquer Castile, also send a battalion towards Barcelona. In between King of Galicia attacked on Andalus, Amir Muhammad himself led his army and came out to fight against this enemy. He was a military genius, he send a small unit ahead of his army, and left main army in forest, when enemies pushed them back and start chasing he ordered main army to attack from other three sides. Huge number of soldiers of Galicia killed and made prisoners. 

Like his father he was also very brave, and fond of knowledge. He respected scholars, his court was full of men of art and literature like Abdur Rehman Qartabi. He died in the year 886.

7. MUNZIR BIN MUHAMMAD 

(886-889 AD)

After Muhammad his son Munzir Ascended the throne. He was a brave person and died in the battle field in the year 889 AD. Very little is known about his short reign of 3 years. 

8. ABDULLAH BIN MUHAMMAD 

(889-912 AD) 

After the death of Munzir his brother Abdullah ascended the throne. He was an incapable ruler who was not able to control such a vast empire. During his time many Amirs of different provinces revolted and declared themselves as King. Neighbor kingdom usually attacked Andalus and invade its properties. Many key ministers left Capital city and migrate to their fields and declared their autonomy. Abdullah was king for the sake of name only, no one obeys him and everyone is working according to their wish and will. It is not far away that this great Empire founded by Abdur Rehman The Great will fell down, Abdullah died in 912 AD and his Grandson Abdur Rahman III ascended the throne and regain the lost prosperity of this Great Empire of Al Andalus.

To be continued..... 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) (Part 5)

DEPENDENT EMIRATES UNDER UMAYYAD CALIPHATE OF DAMASCUS

(713-756 AD)

Meanwhile Musa bin Nusair was leaving for  French campaigns he appointed his son Abdul Aziz as the Governor of Al Andalus. He was the first Governor, but unfortunately Musa was called to Damascus and expelled by Caliph. After Musa took control over Spain and named it as "Al Andalus" his son managed it.

Then Nearly 20 governors were took the positions and run the administration during 713-756 AD. Some of them were choosen by the Andalusian and some of them were send from Damascus, few were appointed by the army at the battle field after death of a Governor in the battle field.

It was a founding reign of Al Andalus as well as a period of new Victories  and a period of historic civil wars. Firstly Abdul Aziz Bin Musa made Seville as the capital but after him  Ayyub bin Habib Lakhmi made Cordoba as the capital of Al Andalus which remains a capital for centuries.

During the Caliphate of Great Caliph Umar bin Abdul Aziz, Amir Samah bin Malik appointed as the Governor, and he started state developmental works in Andalus, be build various bridges, strengthen the city walls, adopted various administrative reforms and also continued military campaigns towards France. During a battle he got martyrdom and  Abdur Rahman Al Ghafaqi choosen as Amir.

Battle of TOURS: (732 AD)

After Defeat at the hands of French new Governors continued their struggle towards France and successfully captured Septimania. During the time of Amir Abdur Rahman Al Ghafaqi, a decisive war took place. Amir decided to capture whole of France, and firstly recaptured Arl then Defeated Count of Acviten, he was successful in capturing Bordeaux which was a very rich city, he also invaded the provinces of Poiters.

By seeing all these Arab advancement in France, Count of Acviten asked his arch rival Charles Martel to assist him in stopping Arab invasion. Charles Martel was a frankish ruler and Founder of Carolingian Dynasty and a champion of Christianity in west. He was the illegitimate son of Pepin Mayor of Austrasia. 

Charles gathered all the European including German, French  and Bergan warriors at his side and stand against the Arab Armies. Abdur Rahman crossed Pyrenees and landed at Tours with his Army. A Historical battle was fought and unfortunately Abdur Rahman got Martyrdom during the war and Arab armies were dismantled and pushed back, a huge number of soldiers got killed. Historians see it as a Historical Turning point because if Abdur Rahman got victory here then Arabs will enter Europe and the World history may written in a complete different way. 

CIVIL WAR IN AL ANDALUS :

In early 740s Al Andalus was broken from inside, the local Berbers who were the champions for the Spanish victories seems to be neglected by the Arab rulers. There was a inferiority feelings among Berbers that their rulers did not treat them equal to the Arabs. And to some extent Arab forget the true teachings of The Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings upon him) that Islam never discriminate on the ground of Race or Colour, and the superiority lies with piety. Arabs gradually understand that they are superior to the Berbers. 

This led to a long Civil war and bloodshed in Andalus every now and then Arabs and Berbers indulged in infighting among each other and all the new campaigns, development, progress got held and everything developed by the early rulers got ruined in this bloody Civil War. By seeing this neighbor Christian rulers expanded their rule. Charles Martel come forward and  captured Lugdunum, Province, Avennis, Narbone, Languedoc, Agde etc. 

Not just Arab and Berber were infighting but also Syrian and African, Syrian and Yemeni Arabs were also indulged in horrible infightings. There were many subgroup among Arabs and Berbers and everywhere was a civil war on its heat. This led to a tribal war among African tribals living in Andalus. 

Hence till Abdur Rahman bin Muawiya (Ad Daakhil) reached Andalus this civil war continues and Andalus was on fire for at least 15 years.

To be continued..... 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) (Part 4)

MOOSA BIN NUSAIR

(712-714 AD)

Moosa bin Nusair was born in 640 AD in Syria. Caliph Abdul Malik Bin Marwan appointed him as the Governor of Africa. And he was responsible for the large area of expansion in Morocco and the Iberian Peninsula under Umayyad rule.

Before his arrival in the Spain His Deputy TAARIQ bin Ziyad conquered Toledo the capital of Visigoths, Mughiz al Rumi conquered Cordoba and others captured the major cities and castles in Spain.

In middle 712 AD Musa Bin Nusair with 18000 troops landed at the Iberian Peninsula to join the conquests. Count Julian advised him to march towards the remaining cities of Spain. Firstly he conquered Seduna and Carmona then he focused on Seville, which is captured after a long siege. After that he conquered Merida. 

After the victory of Merida Musa Bin Nusair turned his way to Toledo where TAARIQ bin Ziyad welcomed him. Both the great generals meet each other. Now TAARIQ bin Ziyad is under the command of Musa bin Nusair and he was appointed as the commander in chief of the combined army. 

Musa bin Nusair was determined to open roadway towards Damascus the capital of Umayyads via Eastern Constantinople and to connect Spain with Damascus. To attained such an ambitious dream he rearranged his army and moved forward. 

With great determination and hard fights Musa bin Nusair conquered Saragosa, Barcelona, Portugal, Lyon and Narbone at the South of France. With this Muslim armies entered France which alarmed the French rulers and they gathered under the command of Pepin of Herstal. A large army was organized to stop the Muslim invasion at Arbone. At the other hand Muslim armies were almost 1000 miles away from their centre Cordaba and fighting in a hostile land. In this siege they were defeated and pushed back. This was the last point of Muslim army's extension at that time in Northern Spain and Southern France.

Meanwhile Musa bin Nusair asked permission from Caliph Walid bin Abdul Malik to go further and defined his ambitions about connecting Al Andalus to Damascus. But the defeat at Arbone marked a stop and Caliph send Mughiz Al Rumi (Conqueror of Cordaba, who returned to Damascus after winning Cordoba) to stop Musa bin Nusair and called him with TAARIQ bin Ziyad to Damascus as early as possible. 

Mughiz al Rumi reached to Musa Bin Nusair and asked him to go to Damascus. Then to follow the command of Caliph he ordered his armies to go back. Then Musa bin Nusair and TAARIQ bin Ziyad returned to Damascus and NEVER CAME BACK TO AL ANDALUS. 

Caliph Walid bin Abdul Malik welcomed both the great victorious generals at the Damascus the capital city of Umayyad Caliphate. Unfortunately soon Caliph died and his brother Sulaiman bin Abdul Malik made Caliph and he deposed both Musa bin Nusair and TAARIQ bin Ziyad and expelled them due to some personal clashes. Then the history is silent about the last days of these great leaders. But in the History of Muslim world they will be remembered as the greatest generals. 

To be continued... 

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) (Part 3)

TAARIQ IBN ZIYAD "THE CONQUEROR" (711-712 AD) 

TAARIQ was a berber of Africa and a freed "SLAVE" of Amir Musa bin Nusair. He was serving under his military, and became the Governor of Tangier. He was the right arm of Musa. When Musa got the permission of military expedition over Spain he appointed his bravest and trusted commander Taariq over the Berber army and send to Spain.

In 711 AD Taariq landed on a Mountain which later became famous as "Jabal al Taariq" now called as Gibraltar. They landed from merchant vessels so nobody had any doubts about them and it was Count Julian who showed the way and escorted them to the new lands.

There is a famous story about Taariq during this journey that he had a dream in which he saw Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings upon him) with his companions encouraging Taariq to conquer Spain and guiding him. This was enough morale booster for him and his small army towards the new Victories.

Another story is that Before Muslim Conquest King Roderick who ascended the throne illegally as he dethroned the Visigoth Ruler, violated the the Royal custom. There is a  sacred ark in a holy  shrine of Toledo which belongs to King Solomon the shrine was closed. Every new king has to visit the shrine and add a lock. But Roderick was not a royal member he has the curiosity to know what is inside the shrine or temple. He ordered to open the door, priests and others refused and warned not to open but he opened it. He find the ark which is having few pictures of people whome they had not seen yet. They are shown as men carrying bows on their shoulders and turbans on their heads, they were exactly like Arabs of that time. He also find a writing on a wooden base as "IF THIS TEMPLE BE OPENED AND THESE PICTURES TAKEN OUT, THEN AL ANDALUS WILL BE INVADED BY THE PEOPLE SHOWN IN THE PICTURES AND CONQUERED BY THEM!".

At the very beginning TAARIQ marched his men and conquered Aljuciras after a small battle. He also captured Catajena and Tarifa. He also defeated Theodomir who is the governor of this region. After this defeat he wrote to his king that a strange army arrived at our lands we don't know where they had came from and I am unable to defeat them I request help from You. Roderick was shocked by such a news and reached to Theodomir with his brave horse riders. He has to confront the armies of Mughis al Rumi who was the champion of African conquest. After a harsh battle Roderick was defeated by Mughis.

BATTLE OF GUADALETE :
(711 AD)
By successfully capturing Al Juciras and Sidona Taariq arrived at valley of Lakuh on the ground of GUADALETE with his Braveheart men approximately 12000 in numbers. After defeated by Mughiz, Roderick roam around Spain and encouraged his people to fight against the Arabs for the sake of their lands. Number of soldiers joined him and reached at GUADALETE, and all the armies of different provinces joined too, they were approximately 100000 in Numbers!!! All most ten times more than Arabs.

Though the Spanish army was over numbered but they were not enthusiastic due to the oppression of Roderick. Specially the Royal men and sons of Visigoth Ruler. They secretly joined hands with Taariq. There was a rumor in Spanish army that Roderick is not a descendants of Visigoth and he wrongly ascended the throne which makes the army disturbed from within. The spies of Roderick informed him that these people are exactly like those who were shown in the pictures of that Ark in the temple of Toledo, and "THESE PEOPLE HAVE BURNED THEIR SHIPS AND ARE DETERMINED TO EITHER BE VICTORIOUS OVER US OR DIE", Roderick was demoralized after listening this.

Here Arabs were in a state of tension by seeing such a biggest army. But Taariq manages to encourage his men. He addresses his men as follows :
"O ARABS! WHERE IS ESCAPE? OCEAN IS BEHIND YOU, AND ENEMY IS IN FRONT OF YOU"!!!!!!!........................
With this encouraging address Arabs were determined to be victorious or die.
A historical battle was started and both armies fought courageously but the armies of right and left side which is under the command of Sons of Visigoth left Roderick in mid of war and joined Arabs. This was a decisive moment. Anyhow Roderick did not left his Men and stand in the middle and try everything to defeat the Arabs.

Now TAARIQ decided to march directly towards Roderick and gone exactly in the heart of enemy, his men followed him. Soon they reached to Roderick by seeing them Roderick managed to escaped arabs followed him but did not find his traces, some sources states that he fell in a sea and died. This was the final step the Guadalete was won by Arabs and the victory of whole Spain followed this victory TAARIQ was the Winner.

Then TAARIQ marched towards other provinces like Almadovar, Carmaona, Ecija etc was fell down on the hands of  TAARIQ.
To be continued....

Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) (Part 2)

Spain located on the south west side of Europe, Atlantic Ocean separates Spain and Africa, Mediterranean sea is at the east and Pyrenees at North which separates Spain from France.

Spain marks the first Muslim foot on to Europe. It has a long history different people ruled over Spain, at the time of Muslim invasion Spain was ruled by Visigoths. King Roderick ascended the Throne wrongly and an unfortunate incident took place that he disrespected Florinda the daughter of a noble Royal member Count Julian Governor of Ceuta. It was a tradition that Royal members send their children to the capital for their education.

This incident marks the rebellion against King Roderick. Julian was a merchant too he had good relations with African Muslims, he approached them and encouraged TAARIQ IBN ZIYAD to March his military over Spain and he assured full support of locals and nobles! At that time people were oppressed by the authorities specifically Jews living as a Minority in Christian ruled Spain suffered a lot even a decree was issued to expel Jewish community from Spain. To safeguard themselves this minority community also supported Muslim armies.

After analyzing all these factors Tariq  wrote to MUSA IBN NUSAYR the then Governor of Africa under Umayyad Caliphate of Damascus. Musa directly approached to Julian and listened him, Musa was wise enough, he asked Julian to invade first, he accepted and attempted. When Musa was satisfied he wrote to Caliph WALID IBN ABDUL MALIK and asked his permission to launch a military campaign but he refused for a large military expedition and allowed just small ones.

With the help of Julian and others Muslim Armies began their preparation. And an army of nearly 7000-12000 strong Barber men gathered and boarded on 4 merchant vessels of Julian under the Command of The Great Muslim General TAARIQ IBN ZIYAD who later known as The Conqueror of Al Andalus.

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To be continued....

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Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) (A hidden chapter of History) (711 AD - 1492 AD) (Part 1)

Do we know that centuries ago there was a Islamic state in Spain! Which was strong, enlightened, richest enough compare to any other state or civilization of the world at that time. An Islamic commander called "TAARIQ BIN ZIYAD" landed there with his Braveheart men and conquered the Spain by defeating a much larger and hostile army.

Unfortunately many of us know not....

Let's turn the pages of history and know about a glorious civilization which framed the modern world and provides base for European Renaissance. We will briefly describe about their rulers, conquests, development, art and architecture etc.

Below is the list of the rulers who ruled Spain between 711 AD - 1492 AD

I. Early invasion and Dependent Emirates :
1. Taariq bin Ziyad The Conqueror (711-712 AD)
2. Moosa bin Nusair
(712-714 AD)
3. The Dependent Emirates of Umayyad Caliphate of Damascus in Spain.
(713-756 AD)

II. Independent Emirates :
1. Abdur Rahman bin Muawiya Ad Dakhil
(Founder of new Umayyad kingdom in Spain) (756-787 AD)
2. Hisham bin Abdur Rahman
(787-796 AD)
3. Hakam bin Hisham
(796-821 AD)
4. Abdur Rahman II bin Hakam
(821-852 AD)
5. Sultan Mohammed bin Abdur Rahman
(852-886 AD)
6. Sultan Munzir bin Muhammad
(886-889 AD)
7. Sultan Abdullah bin Muhammad
(889-912 AD)

III. The Umayyad Caliphs :
8. Amirul Momineen Abdur Rahman III bin Muhammad (Founder of Umayyad Caliphate of Spain in 929 AD)
(912-961 AD)
9. Al Hakam II bin Abdur Rahman
(961-976 AD)
10. Hisham II bin Al Hakam
(961-1009 AD & 1010-1012AD)
11. Muhammad bin Hisham bin Abdul Jabbar bin Abdur Rahman III
(1009-1010 AD)
12. Sulaiman bin Hakam
(1012-1016AD)

13. Ali bin Hamood (Non Umayyad)
(1016-1017 AD)
14. Al Qaasim bin Hamood
(1017-1019 AD)
15. Yahya bin Ali Bin Hamood
(1019-1023 AD)

16. Abdur Rahman IV bin Hisham (Umayyad)
(1023 AD)
17. Mohammed III bin Abdur Rahman bin Abdullah
(1023 AD)
18. Hisham bin Mohammed
(1029-1031 AD)
Note : No Caliph selected between 1024-1029 AD due to civil war.!

IV. AUTONOMOUS STATES:
A. Bani Hamood at Malqa
(1035-1058 AD )
B. Bani Idrees at Garnada
(1018-1090 AD)
C. Bani Ibaad at Ishbiliya
(1023-1083 AD)
D. Bani Zun Noon at Toletla
(till 1085 AD)
E. Rulers of Sarqasta
(till 1118 AD).

F. Al Murabteen  (West Africa and Spain)
1. YUSUF BIN TASHFEEN
(1086-1106 AD)
2. Ali bin Yusuf
(1106-1143 AD)
3.Tashfeen bin Ali
(1143-1145 AD)
4. Ibrahim bin Tashfeen
(1145-1147 AD)

G. Al Muwahhideen
1. Abdul Momin
(1147-1163 AD)
2. Abu Yaqoob Yusuf I bin Abdul Momin
(1163- 1184 AD)
3. Abu Yusuf Almansoor bil Allah bin Yusuf I
(1184-1199 AD)
4. Abu Abdullah Mohammed bin Al Mansoor
(1199-1219 AD)
5. Abu Yaqoob bin Mohammed
(1219-1223 AD)
6. Abdul Wahid bin Yusuf I bin Abdul Momin
(1223-1224 AD)
Others (1224-1233 AD).

H. Bani Nasr:
(The Era of 9 Mohammeds)
(1231-1445 AD)

V. DECLINE :
(1445-1492 AD)

Fall of Gernada:-
12 Rabi ul Awwal 898 AH
22 January 1492 AD.

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What to write???????

Spain conquered by TAARIQ IBN ZIYAD An empire last long for approximately 800 years fell down. Yes it happened. We will briefly explain how...? So that we should not repeat those mistakes now and protect our present for our future through our past.
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To be continued....