Karamiyya and the Political and Social Developments in Neyshabur in the Middle Ages

Document Type : جغرافیای تاریخی خراسان بزرگ

Abstract

Karamiyya is one of the theological divisions of the Sunni religion founded by Abu Abdullah Muhammad abn Karam Sajjastani during the rule of the Taherians in Khorasan which gained great influence in Neyshabur. Karamiyya was not just a theological sect, but its teachings depicted a religious and jurisprudential school that presented its followers with a particular style and politics of social life and related issues. Also being pioneer inthe creation of a sanctuary as a place for the teaching of Islamic sciences and mystical conduct in Neyshabur and the Islamic world was also an important factor in influencing social change. This research seeks to explore the emergence and empowerment of Naymabur in the city of Neyshabur using library resources and descriptive-analytical methods. It also seeks to explore their beliefs and roles in political, social and security developments in the city. The main question of this research revolves around the factors led to the actions of Karamians resulting in various changes in the social, political and security layers of Neyshabur during the historical period? The findings of the study show that the pretense of asceticism and piety, the gradual closeness to certain powers of the time, the supremacy of the presidency, the overthrow, the sectarian wars, and the inquisition were some of the tools that the Karamians used to achieve their goals aiming at the benefited the city of Neyshabur and thereby influencing the political, social and security situation of the city.
Keywords: Karamiyya, abn Karam, Abubakr abn Mohammshad, Neyshabur, Taherians, Samanites, Ghaznavids.