Juwayni, Abu al-Maali al-
Etymology and Translation
Arabic: الجويني، أبو المعالي
Turkish: Cüveyni, Ebu’l-Mealî
Biographical Overview
Juwayni, Abu al-Maali al- (ابو المعالي الجويني) (d. 1085) was a prominent Iranian theologian and political philosopher associated with the Ashari school of thought. He is perhaps best known as the teacher of the esteemed theologian Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (d. 1111), one of the most influential scholars in Islamic history.
Theological Contributions
As an Ashari theologian, Juwayni played a key role in developing and disseminating the tenets of Asharism, which aimed to harmonize rationalist thought with orthodox Islamic beliefs. His theological viewpoints often emphasized the compatibility of reason and revelation, which was a central theme in Asharite discourse.
Political Philosophy
Juwayni’s political philosophy placed significant emphasis on the role of the sultan or amir over that of the caliph, reflecting the political realities of his time.
The Role of the Sultan or Amir
Juwayni argued that the sultan or amir was more essential than the caliph, focusing on the practical governance and administration of the state. The duties he attributed to the amir or sultan included:
- Carrying out Jihad: Responsibility for ensuring that the Islamic realm is protected and, if necessary, expanded.
- Appointments: Tasked with appointing officials and judges to ensure proper administration and justice.
- Military Maintenance: Maintaining a standing army to safeguard the state’s security.
Administrative Structure
Juwayini also recognized the complexity of governance, advocating for the appointment of a vizier (وزير) to manage the state bureaucracy and organize the financial aspects, specifically raising revenues to fund the army.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Imam al-Haramayn: A Biographical and Intellectual Study” by John Walbridge
- “The Princeton Encyclopedia of Islamic Political Thought” edited by Gerhard Böwering, Patricia Crone, and others
- “The Cambridge Companion to Classical Islamic Theology” edited by Tim Winter
Takeaways and Conclusion
Abu al-Maali al-Juwayni remains a central figure in both Islamic theology and political philosophy. His emphasis on the necessity of the sultan’s authority and practical administration over the symbolic role of the caliph reflects a nuanced understanding of political power in medieval Islam. Juwayni’s teachings on administrative efficiency and military readiness underscore the pragmatic aspects of his political theory, which resonates with contemporary discussions on governance and statecraft.
In conclusion, Juwayni’s thought fostered significant theological and political developments within Islam, influencing generations of scholars, including his prominent student al-Ghazali. His legacy offers critical insights into the intricate relationship between religious leadership and political authority in the Islamic tradition.
