Mihna
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: Mihna (المحنة)
- Turkish: Mihna
Definition
The Mihna, often referred to as the Mihna Inquisition, was a program instituted by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mamun (reigned 813-833) to enforce the doctrine that the Qur’an was created rather than uncreated or eternal. This theological position was primarily influenced by the rationalist Mutazili school of theology. The principal targets of the Mihna were the traditionists (ashab al-hadith), most notably Ahmad ibn Hanbal (d. 855), who staunchly supported the belief in the uncreated nature of the Qur’an.
Historical Context
Following the onset of the Mihna in 833, it aimed to mandate conformity among Islamic scholars and much of the religious community. The inquisition utilized various means, including imprisonment, torture, and public trials, to enforce al-Mamun’s theological views.
Although al-Mamun passed away shortly after initiating the Mihna, the inquisition was continued by his successors, al-Mu’tasim (r. 833–842) and al-Wathiq (r. 842–847), though not always with consistent fervor. This state-imposed religious test fundamentally aimed to purge dissenting thoughts and establish theological orthodoxy anchored in rationalist interpretations.
Key Figures
- Caliph al-Mamun: Architect of the Mihna, advocate for the Mutazilite philosophy.
- Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A famed traditionist (hadith scholar) who resisted the Mihna, symbolizing the opposition to state-enforced theological doctrine.
Theological Implications
The enforcement of the Mihna highlighted a crucial theological divide within early Islamic scholarship:
- Mutazilite Theology (Rationalism): Advocated for the created nature of the Qur’an, emphasizing human free will and rationalist principles.
- Traditionalism: Represented by scholars like Ahmad ibn Hanbal, who maintained that the Qur’an was uncreated and criticized rationalist approaches that seemed to undermine divine attributes and intervention.
Aftermath
The Mihna eventually waned in power and influence, primarily due to persistent resistance from scholars and the general populace. With the rise of Caliph al-Mutawakkil (r. 847–861), the policy was officially terminated. Al-Mutawakkil’s caliphate marked a return to traditional orthodox views, effectively ending the forced endorsement of Mutazilite theology.
Further Reading
- Watt, W. Montgomery. “Islamic Philosophy and Theology: An Extended Survey.” 1985.
- Madelung, Wilferd. “The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate.” 1997.
- Cooperson, Michael. “Classical Arabic Biography: The Heirs of the Prophets in the Age of al-Ma’mun.” 2000.
Takeaways
- The Mihna represented a significant historical clash between state power and religious scholarship within Islamic history.
- It underscored the delicate and often contentious relationship between political rulers and theologians, shaping Islamic thought and practices.
- The event highlights the broader themes of theological debates on rationalism versus traditionalism within Islam.
Conclusion
The Mihna served as a defining episode in Islamic intellectual history, reflecting the power dynamics and theological disputes that have continued to shape Islamic societies. Its legacy prompts ongoing reflection on the separation of religious doctrine and political influence and the importance of protecting scholarly discourse within any religious tradition.
