Qaramita - Definition and Meaning§
Comprehensive Definition§
Qaramita (قرامطة) refers to the collective name of an Ismaili Shia splinter group known for their significant militant activities and the establishment of a state in the 9th century. They notably challenged the Abbasid Caliphate and led several profound incursions, including the theft of the Black Stone from the Kaaba.
Etymology§
The term “Qaramita” originates from the Arabic word “قرامطة” (qaramit at), a possible reference to the eponymous founder Hamdan Qarmat. Qarmat’s name, coupled with the suffix indicating a following or association, formed the basis of this term.
Background and Historical Facts§
- Origin: The Qaramita emerged as an extremist Ismaili Shia sect in the late 9th century, founded by Hamdan Qarmat near the city of Kufa in Iraq.
- Key Events:
- 9th century: Established a republic in eastern Arabia and clashed with Abbasid forces in Iraq and Syria.
- 906: Initially defeated by the Abbasids; effectively consolidated strength thereafter.
- 930: The infamous act of seizing the Black Stone from the Kaaba during Hajj was a significant revolt against the symbolic and religious core of Sunni Islam.
- Conflict with Abbasid Caliphate: Raided regions including western Arabia and Iraq consistently.
- 1077: The socio-political landscape led to the ultimate collapse of the Qarmati state in Bahrayn.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
- Islamic Perspective: Mainstream Sunni and Shia Muslims generally view the Qaramita negatively due to their radical actions and particular interpretation of Ismaili beliefs.
- Religious Significance: The group’s practices diverged notably from broader Islamic practices, emphasizing communal living and violent resistance to orthodox Islamic ruler-ship.
Synonyms and Antonyms§
- Synonyms: Ismaili Militants, Qarmatians
- Antonyms: Abbasids, Orthodox Muslims
Related Terms with Definitions§
- Ismaili: A branch of Shia Islam that recognizes Ismail ibn Jafar as the appointed Imam.
- Black Stone: A cornerstone of the Kaaba, highly venerated in Islamic tradition.
- Abbasid Caliphate: The third caliphate to succeed the Prophet Muhammad, ruling from 750 to 1517.
Exciting Facts§
- The theft of the Black Stone was a dramatic assertion that highlighted the Qaramita’s radical theology, which sought to critique and effectively overthrow the traditional Islamic power structures of the time.
- The Qaramita’s communal and quasi-egalitarian socio-economic system remains a point of interest for historians studying early Islamic radical movements.
Quotations from Notable Writers§
- “The Qaramita were a fiery and rebellious force in early Islamic history, challenging the socio-political order and symbolizing an audacious critique through fierce militancy.” - Fatima Mernissi
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies§
- “The Ismailis in the Middle Ages: A History of Survival, A Search for Salvation” by Shafique N. Virani
- “The Venture of Islam, Volume 2: The Expansion of Islam in the Middle Periods” by Marshall Hodgson
- “Crusade and Jihad: The Thousand-Year War Between the Muslim World and the Global North” by William R. Polk
- Books about Abbasid Caliphate for the broader context of Islamic political struggles.
Farewell§
As you explore the rich and tumultuous history of the Qaramita and their impact on Islamic history, may you appreciate the diverse and complex narratives that shape our understanding of the past.
Hassan ibn Ibrahim 2023-10-12
