Yazīd (يزيد)
Definition
Yazīd (يزيد) b. Muʿāwiyah was the second Caliph of the Umayyad dynasty, ruling from A.D. 679 to A.D. 683 (A.H. 60–64). He is most notably remembered for his controversial reign and his opposition to al-Ḥusain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
Etymology
The name Yazīd (يزيد) is derived from the Arabic root “زاد” (zād), meaning “to increase.” In this context, Yazīd can be loosely translated as “one who increases or adds.”
Arabic Translation
يزيد
Turkish Translation
Yezid
Historical Background
Yazīd ascended to the caliphate following the death of his father, Muʿāwiyah I, the founder of the Umayyad dynasty. His rule is often viewed with significant controversy, particularly because of his role in the events leading to the tragedy of Karbala, where al-Ḥusain ibn ʿAlī, along with his family and supporters, were martyred.
Significance in Islam
Opposition to al-Ḥusain
Yazīd is a contentious figure because he opposed al-Ḥusain, the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. The conflict culminated in the Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram in the year 61 A.H. (October 10, 680 C.E.), making Yazīd a polarizing figure, particularly among Shia Muslims who see him as a tyrant and wrongdoer.
Political Influence
Despite the controversy, Yazīd’s reign marked an important phase in stabilizing the Umayyad Caliphate, further asserting their dominance across the Islamic empire.
Suggested Books for Further Study
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“The History of the Saracens” by Simon Ockley
- Ockley’s classical work offers a thorough account of early Islamic history, including Yazīd’s reign.
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“History of Islam” by Akbar S. Ahmed
- Provides a balanced perspective on key figures in early Islamic history including Yazīd.
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“The Martyrs of Karbala” by Kamran Scot Aghaie
- Focuses on the socio-political and religious implications of the Karbala event, providing a deeper insight into Yazīd’s role.
Takeaways
- Historical Impact: Yazīd’s tenure as Caliph is pivotal in early Islamic history. His leadership style and decisions have had lasting effects on Islamic political history.
- Controversy: His opposition to al-Ḥusain makes him a divisive figure, especially between Sunni and Shia interpretations of history.
- Legacy: Yazīd remains a subject of considerable debate and reflection within Islamic scholarship, literature, and religious discourse.
Conclusion
Yazīd ibn Muʿāwiyah’s reign was marked by significant political maneuvers and controversial decisions that have deeply influenced Islamic history. His opposition to al-Ḥusain during the Battle of Karbala stands out as a crucial event, shaping the religious and cultural landscape of the Muslim world.
For a well-rounded understanding, it is essential to explore various historical texts and scholarly interpretations of his reign and actions.
By examining the life and legacy of Yazīd, one gains a complex yet essential insight into the early caliphal period of Islamic history.
