The judiciary in Egypt and the Levant during the Tulunid era (254-292 AH / 868-905 AD)

Abstract

This study examines the judicial system and its administration in Egypt and the Levant during the Tulunid era. It focuses on the extent of the judiciary's independence from the ruling political authority and its impact on the state's stability. The Tulunids initially maintained symbolic allegiance to the Caliphate by appointing some judges but later made direct appointments to bolster their legitimacy. Tulunid rulers exerted significant influence over the judiciary through the appointment system, often undermining its independence and using it as a tool to serve political agendas. The judicial system featured an integrated administrative structure and diverse schools of thought among judges, reflecting the state's openness and the multi-cultural society. The Tulunid judicial experience established a model of semi-independent judicial administration that later influenced Arab-Islamic states in Egypt. The study concludes that the relationship between the judiciary and political authority during the Tulunid era was complex, blending the Caliphate's religious symbolism with independent political reality. Rulers' efforts to utilize the judiciary to strengthen their influence negatively impacted its independence.