THE ROLE OF IBRAHIM IBN MALIK ASHTAR NAKHA"I IN THE POLITICAL EVENTS OF IRAQ (66-72 A.H.)

Abstract

This article deals with the role of Ibrahim son of Malik Ashtar Nakha"i in the political events of Iraq from 66 to 72 A.H. Despite our little knowledge of Ibrahim's life before the rise of Mukhtar (assuming the authenticity of Muhammad Hanafiyah's letter to him), his joining the Mukhtar's revolt was highly instrumental in defeating the leaders of Kufah who were opposed to Mukhtar. Also, in the Battle of Khazir, Ibrahim crushed a large Umayyad army and brought more stability to Mukhtar's rule in Kufah. Thereafter, he parted company with Mukhtar and hence the Zubayrids and Marwanids tried to win him over into their own ranks. The writer believes there were two reasons for Ibrahim's separation form Mukhtar: first, Mukhrar's innovations in religion and second, Ibrahim's struggle being based on thoughtful principles and justice - seeking and not on temperament and self - interst. In the end, because of his passion for Iraq's cause, he fough for Mus'ab ibn Zubayr against the Marwanids in 72 A.H. and was killed in battle. It should be noted that the translotor has scrutinized and critiqued several views hold by the writer on Ibrahim.