"The Historical Dimension in the Social Advices of Muhammad ibn Makki al-‘Amili (d. 786 AH / 1384 CE)"

Abstract

Muhammad ibn Makki al-‘Amili, known as al-Shahid al-Awwal (the First Martyr), born in Jabal ‘Amil in the Levant in 734 AH / 1334 CE, is considered one of the most prominent Imami scholars of the Mamluk era. He combined deep jurisprudential insight with intellectual moderation and was distinguished by his openness to other Islamic schools of thought. He sought to strengthen the relationship between the Sunni and Shi‘i traditions.

He earned a distinguished status among scholars, but his journey ended tragically as he fell victim to conspiracies and false accusations, which led to a death sentence issued during the reign of Sultan al-Zahir Barquq in 786 AH / 1384 CE. Despite this, he left behind a vast scholarly legacy, especially in jurisprudence, with his opinions and fatwas still regarded as authoritative today. He also authored significant works in ethics, hadith, theology, and kalam.

Among his most notable contributions is a collection of advices (wasaya) addressed to his followers in Damascus. These advices varied between religious, scholarly, and social themes. This study focuses on the social advices, which reflect a deep historical and political awareness. Through them, al-Shahid al-Awwal sought to portray a realistic image of the political and social conditions of the Mamluk era and to provide a framework urging his followers to be cautious, aware, and actively engaged with unfolding events. This, in turn, aimed to protect their intellectual and social presence and ensure the continuity of Shi‘ism as a religious institution.

This research is divided into three main sections:

1. The first section explores the biography of al-Shahid al-Awwal, his scholarly status, and his relationship with the Mamluk authorities up to his martyrdom.
2. The second section examines his advices to his followers regarding their interactions with one another, analyzing their historical dimensions.
3. The third section highlights his advices concerning interactions with the broader society and analyzes the social and historical implications of such engagement.