The Kurds and the Emirate of Hajj (551 - 757 AH / 1156-1356 AD)

Abstract

This study aims to highlight the role of the Kurds in the management of the emirate of Hajj during the period (551 - 757 AH / 1156-1356 AD), especially in leading the Hajj convoy in the Levant, Iraq, Egypt and Yemen. The emirate of Hajj is one of the most important topics in the history of Islam and it is considered a religious obligation. Therefore, the Muslim caliphs and sultans show a big interest in the Hajj. Accordingly, they were very careful in choosing the prince of Hajj among the known figures of piety and righteousness. The Kurds had their share of those who took the emirate of Hajj convoys in the Levant, Iraq, Egypt and Yemen. They played a prominent role in that mission, and some of them did charity works, kind acts as well as spending money for the sake of Allah the Almighty. They spent large amounts of money in order to set up religious ceremonies and charity works in the two holy mosques.

The study is divided into parts. The first part shed lights on the emirate of Hajj and its development in the history of Islam briefly. The second part is devoted to the role of the Kurds in running the emirate of Hajj during the period (551-757 AH / 1156-1356 CE). This part is divided into four sections. Each section highlights the role of the Kurds in the Emirate of the Levant, Egypt, Iraq and Yemen Hajj convoys respectfully.