Ash'arism in the Ayyubids period

Ayyubids, one of the most significant Islamic states, supported Ash'arism in all state organs since establishment and was influential in the expansion of Ash'arism in various lands. Although the Ayyubids played a key role in the development of Ash'arism, studies on the period are quite limited in the literature. Thus, the period was investigated in the current study. As the Ayyubids eliminated and replaced the Fatimids, a new era began for Ash'arism. Ayyubids supported Ash'arism in all state organs and accepted it as the official sect. Considered at the center of Sunnism, Ash'arism had the opportunity to reach large masses with the support of all Sunni sects of fqih. Although the contribution of the administration to the popularization of Ash'arism in Ayyubid lands was significant, the motivation of Ash'ari scholars could not be ignored. Due to the unconditional support for scientific development since foundation, the Ayyubids created a scientific and cultural oasis as several scholars moved to these lands. These scholars influenced further popularity of Ash'arism and created a scientific base by training students, authoring several works, and fought against the opponents. Furthermore, due to the interest of the Ayyubid sultans in Sufism, Ash'arism was also accepted by the mystics; thus, facilitating to the popularity of Ash'arism among the people. Thus, in the present study, the support of the Ayyubids for Sunni fqih sects within Ash'arism, the development of Ash'arism, prominent Ash'ari scholars, the relationship between Ash'arism and mysticism, and the consequent changes in the sectarian distribution in Ayyubid lands are discussed. Keywords: Ayyubids, Sects, Sufism, Sunnism, Shi'ism, Ash'arism.