The evolution of systems of government between the Caliphate and monarchy in Islamic history

Abstract

This research examines the evolution of governance systems in Islamic history by studying the gradual transformation of the Islamic state from its inception to later periods. The political system shifted from the caliphate model based on consultation (shura) and allegiance (bay'ah) during the Rashidun Caliphate to the hereditary monarchy model, which solidified during the Umayyad and Abbasid eras. This complex historical phenomenon is analyzed by tracing the development of political and administrative institutions and examining the various factors that contributed to this transformation. The foundational model of the caliphate during the era of the four Rashidun Caliphs is analyzed, highlighting the principles manifested in their rulings. The research then traces the fundamental shift during the Umayyad era, when the caliphate transformed into a hereditary monarchy under the Sufyanid and Marwanid dynasties. This transformation reached its zenith in the Abbasid era with the founding of Baghdad, the Round City, the introduction of the vizierate system, the emergence of religious titles for the caliphs, and the influence of Persian traditions on the Abbasid court, culminating in the dominance of Turkish elements within the state. The research also explores the parallel development of Islamic political thought, analyzing the positions of Sunni scholars, the trends of the Kharijites and Shi'ites, Ibn Khaldun's theories on social cohesion (asabiyya), and the attempts of other thinkers. Modern scholars seek to understand and apply this phenomenon in the context of contemporary challenges.