غیر مسلموں کی سیاسی اور سماجی خدمات اور ان کے اثرات: عہد فاطمی کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ (909-1171ء)

Political and Social Contribution of Non-Muslims and Its Impacts: An Analysis of Fatimid Dynasty (909-1171 A.D.)

Abstract

This article aims to analyse the political and social services of non-Muslims during the Fatimid dynasty (909-1171 A.D.) and their impact. This era has a significant position in Muslim history regarding the development and stability in various fields including knowledge, thought, civilization and industry. The socio-political conditions of the Fatimids were so inclusive and harmonious, that not only there were opportunities of progress for the Muslims but also an encouraging environment was present for the non-Muslims as well. Although, the majority of Egypt's population was Muslim during this period, there were also Christians, Jews and the followers of other religions too. The Fatimid caliphs fully protected the rights of the followers of different religions, paid attention to the construction and repair of their places of worship and gave them freedom of expression. As a result of this practice regarding religious harmony, non-Muslims rendered valuable services in politics, finance, commerce, and academic fields. In this regard, many historians,  including Yaqub Bin Yusuf, Isa Bin Nestorius, Abu Saad al-Tustari, Fahad Bin Ibrahim, Mansha Bin Ibrahim al-Qazzaz, Abu Saad and Abu Mansoor have highlighted the contributions of the non-Muslims. However, the roles of such non-Muslim ministers and advisors have been controversial and various serious allegations have been leveled against them, which need to be investigated. In this background, analyzing the political and social services of non-Muslims and their effects in the Fatimid period is an important issue in academic circles. This research article has been presented to fulfil this academic need.