Kāmilīyah (كاملية) in Islamic History
Introduction
The Kāmilīyah (كاملية) refers to a distinct sect within Shīʿah Islam that emerged in the early Islamic period. This sect was founded by Abū ʾl-Kāmil, who held controversial views about the early Companions of the Prophet Muḥammad and their decisions regarding the caliphate.
Etymology
- Arabic: كاملية (Kāmilīyah)
- Turkish: Kāmiliye
The term “Kāmilīyah” derives from the name “Abū ʾl-Kāmil,” the founder of the sect. The root word “كامل” (kāmil) in Arabic means “complete” or “perfect,” though the name in this context is specific to the founder.
Beliefs and Controversies
Abū ʾl-Kāmil, the founder of the Kāmilīyah, propagated a unique set of beliefs:
- Infidelity of the Companions: He declared that the Companions of the Prophet, or Aṣāḥīb (أصحاب), were infidels because they allegedly rejected the house of ʿAlī in the formation of the caliphate.
- View on Caliph ʿAlī: Abū ʾl-Kāmil controversially considered even Caliph ʿAlī an infidel. This was based on the belief that ʿAlī did not assert his rightful claim to leadership immediately following the death of the Prophet Muḥammad.
Historical Context
The Kāmilīyah sect emerged during a time of significant political and theological upheaval within the early Muslim community. Following the death of the Prophet Muḥammad, debates and conflicts arose regarding the rightful succession of leadership. Abū ʾl-Kāmil’s views were part of the broader Shīʿah perspective, which generally supported ʿAlī and his descendants as the legitimate leaders of the Muslim community.
Primary Source
- Kitābu ʾt-Taʿrīfāt: This historical text provides essential information about the beliefs and statements of Abū ʾl-Kāmil and serves as a primary reference for understanding the Kāmilīyah sect.
Further Reading
For those interested in a deeper understanding of the Kāmilīyah and early Shīʿah sects, the following books are recommended:
- “Shi’ism in Islamic History” by Sayyid Hossein Nasr
- “The Origins and Development of Shiʿa Islam” by S. H. Jafri
- “Islamic Sects and Politics in the Middle East” by David H. Shinn
- “A History of Islamic Societies” by Ira M. Lapidus
Key Takeaways
- The Kāmilīyah was a unique and controversial sect within Shīʿah Islam, emphasizing the alleged infidelity of the Prophet’s Companions.
- Abū ʾl-Kāmil’s radical views highlight the diversity and complexity of early Islamic thought and sectarianism.
- The Kāmilīyah sect serves as an example of the intense political and theological disputes that shaped early Islamic history.
Conclusion
Understanding the Kāmilīyah sect provides valuable insights into early Islamic sectarianism and the diverse perspectives that emerged during this formative period. This historical context is crucial for comprehending the complexities of Islamic theology and the dynamics of early Muslim community structures.
