Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
The Guardian of Al-Andalus (Spain): Sultan Yusuf ibn Tashfin [MABH] (Part 18)
The Personality of Yusuf ibn Tashfin; Rationality, Religiosity, and Immunity from Emotion
Yusuf ibn Tashfin was a military, wise, and prudent figure, not someone who was influenced by emotional feelings. If he had any influence, that influence undoubtedly came from the teachings of Sheikh Abdullah ibn Yasin. The same Sheikh who sowed the seeds of love for jihad, asceticism, and sincerity in the hearts of the Al-Murabitin and called them to be constantly ready to sacrifice themselves in the way of Allah.
Zainab’s Fame; A Legacy from Before Yusuf
Zainab’s fame probably stems from her social status and former beauty in the pre-Murabitin era, when political chaos raged in the Maghreb regions and influential women like Zainab could play influential roles. The continuity of this fame in historical sources does not necessarily mean the continuation of the same influence in the era of Yusuf. Rather, it is a reflection of the narrative constructions of historians.
Beyond Defense: Complete Rejection of the Narration of Zaynab and Abu Bakr’s Meeting
But beyond this defense of Yusuf ibn Tashfin and his sincerity, and beyond the emphasis on his brotherly relationship with Abu Bakr ibn Umar, one can doubt the authenticity of the basis of this narration at all. Because Zaynab died in 464 AH,[1] while Abu Bakr ibn Umar returned from the desert in 465 AH;[2] therefore, the Narration of their meeting and Zaynab’s influence on him is practically impossible and baseless.
The Muhammadian Strategy; Beyond Carnal Desires
A study of such narrations shows that Islamic leaders such as Yusuf and Abu Bakr were bearers of the Muhammadian banner. A banner that is carried only by those whose hearts are cleansed of greed, whose intentions are pure, and whose souls are free from worldly interests. They are so immersed in honesty, asceticism, and brotherhood that neither the appearance of beautiful women like Zaynab nor the temptation of power can divert them from the path of sincerity and brotherhood.
Handing over power with dignity: The historic meeting between Abu Bakr ibn Umar and Yusuf ibn Tashfin
The meeting between Abu Bakr ibn Umar and Yusuf ibn Tashfin was a completely natural, fraternal meeting, and a bright spot in the history of the Al-Murabitin state. This meeting paints a beautiful picture of the high level of morality and commitment among this people; people who were committed to respecting rights, being faithful to their covenants and meeting goodness with goodness.
When Yusuf ibn Tashfin informed of Abu Bakr ibn Umar’s return from the Great Desert to the Maghreb, he came out of Morocco with his army and between Aghamat and Morocco, welcomed him with full respect and in the form of a magnificent military parade that was a sign of the discipline and power of the Al-Murabitin army. This scene was so impressive that it gave Abu Bakr ibn Umar hope for a bright future for the Al-Murabitin call and their state.
Fahas Al-Burnos; The Place of Covenant and Brotherhood
When the two leaders met, Yusuf dismounted and sat next to Abu Bakr on the Burnos (couch) that had been spread out for them. This place later became known as Fahas Al-Burnos. During this meeting, Abu Bakr spoke about the interests of the Muslims, the state of the Islamic nation, and future duties. Then he said to Yusuf:
“O Yusuf! You are my brother and my cousin. I do not see anyone more worthy than you to govern the West. I have no need of the West, and I have come only to entrust matters to you. Now I will abdicate and appoint you to the governorship. Be steadfast in this matter, for you are worthy of it.”
Yusuf replied: “I thank you and promise that I will not make any decision without consulting you, and I will not hide anything from you, Allah willing.”
Public Pledge of allegiance for the Unity and Stability of the State
Then Abu Bakr gathered the tribal elders, the nobles of the state, the commanders, the secretaries, the witnesses and the people and officially abdicated in favor of Yusuf ibn Tashfin. Yusuf respectfully sent him off. Abu Bakr returned to Aghamat and Yusuf went to Morocco, the city that was the center of his rule.
A symbolic gift; confirmation of Yusuf’s position
After establishing the governorship, Yusuf ibn Tashfin prepared a caravan of gifts and special facilities for Abu Bakr ibn Umar; an act that was a sign of his deep love, respect and gratitude towards the man who had entrusted him with the governorship with such magnanimity. Abu Bakr, along with all his children, brothers and relatives, chose Yusuf and placed his complete trust on him; and Yusuf also proved himself worthy of this position.
Continues…
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References:
1.Ibn Abi Zaarh, Rawzat al-Qirtas, p. 86.
2. Al-Salawi, Al-Istiqsā, p. 24.
