The Ayyubid Dynasty and State in Ibn al-Futi's (642-723 AH/1244-1323 CE) Book 'Majma' al-Adab fi Mu'jam al-Alqab

Abstract

This research aims to study the Ayyubid family and state through analyzing information contained in "Majma' al-Adab fi Mu'jam al-Alqab" by Ibn al-Fuwati (642-723 AH). The study employs a historical descriptive-analytical methodology. The research reveals that Ibn al-Fuwati's information about the Ayyubids is fragmented and lacks detail despite his temporal proximity to their era. The study traces the Kurdish origins of the Ayyubids from the Hadhbani tribe, their migration from Dvin in Azerbaijan to Tikrit then Mosul, and their alliance with the Zengids. The research highlights Asad al-Din Shirkuh's role in establishing the state in Egypt (564 AH/1168 CE), and Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi's achievements in overthrowing the Fatimids, liberating Jerusalem, and fighting the Crusaders. The study examines 23 prominent Ayyubid figures, clarifying their role in unifying Egypt, Syria, and Yemen under one banner. The state ended in Egypt with Turan Shah's assassination (648 AH/1250 CE), while its branches continued in Syria until the Mongol invasion.