Reasons Why Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur is Considered the True Founder of the Abbasid State
Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur is regarded as the true founder of the Abbasid state for several compelling reasons:
Political Stability
Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur ascended to the caliphate following Abu Al-Abbas Al-Saffah in 136 AH, becoming the second caliph of the Abbasid dynasty. His leadership played a pivotal role in establishing the foundations of the state, ensuring its stability, and maintaining political order.
Economic Prosperity
He personally oversaw the economic growth of the Abbasid state, fostering trade and developing various sectors to secure financial well-being.
Scientific Advancement
Al-Mansur was a scholar and a patron of knowledge, leading to significant advancements in science and education during the Abbasid era.
Establishment of Baghdad
During Al-Mansur’s reign, the city of Baghdad was constructed, and he took a direct role in its planning and development, marking it as the capital of the Abbasid caliphate.
Characteristics of Caliph Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur
Caliph Al-Mansur is regarded as one of the most notable Muslim leaders in Arab history, securing a significant place due to his role as the true founder of the Abbasid state. His personal attributes were instrumental in this respect, summarized in the following qualities:
Strength and Justice
Al-Mansur was known for his strength and decisiveness in governance, important qualities for any ruler. He was also dedicated to justice and equality among his subjects.
Intelligence and Wit
His keen intelligence and quick thinking helped navigate the state through challenging political situations. A notable instance was his speech following the execution of Abu Muslim Al-Khorasani, an ally of the Abbasid revolution, whose ambition led to his demise. Al-Mansur adeptly addressed Abu Muslim’s followers, calming their unrest with his astute political skills.
Appreciation for Knowledge
Al-Mansur had a profound love for knowledge and supported the advancement of arts and sciences in the state. He generously rewarded scholars and writers, fostering an environment where knowledge thrived. Furthermore, he introduced translation initiatives that elevated the Abbasid state as a beacon of learning, attracting scholars and intellectuals from across the globe.
He also established one of the largest libraries of his time within his palace, housing approximately 400,000 significant works.
Piety
Al-Mansur was a devout and God-fearing ruler, who upheld the limits set by God and implemented them dutifully.
These collective attributes contributed to the stability and prosperity of the Abbasid state, both scientifically and economically, transforming Baghdad into one of the world’s largest and most renowned cities, drawing people from all over to benefit from its knowledge and economic richness.
The Construction of the Abbasid State Under Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur
Baghdad was constructed over four years, from 145 AH to 149 AH, and selecting it as the capital of the Abbasid caliphate played a significant role in solidifying the state’s foundations. The strategic location of Baghdad reflects the intelligence and foresight of Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur, possessing political, economic, and scientific advantages. He ensured that its construction met the grandeur expected of an imperial capital.
Additionally, Al-Mansur ordered the establishment of the city of Al-Ruṣāfa on the western bank of the Tigris River, appointing his heir, Al-Mahdi, to reside there and oversee its affairs. Remarkably, despite his focus on state-building, he remained acutely aware of the prevailing threats and seeds of rebellion around him, successfully quelling any unrest before it could take root.