Sayf ibn Umar al-Tamimi: reviver of the new Arab identity against the Iranians

Abstract

This study seeks to understand the relationship between historical sources and the identity-oriented approach of some Islamic historians. To conduct this research, the views of Sayf ibn 'Umar al-Tamimi, are examined who is one of the earliest and most referential Akhbaris and conquerors. Sayf, like some other writers, is consistent in emphasizing the role of the 'Arabs in the conquest and events of Islamic history; but he came to this conclusion with a different premise and exaggerated in this regard. This is the main question of the article: What environmental factors and social conditions led to the creation of an identity-oriented approach in Sayf, what goals did Sayf pursue in his historiography, and how did he find a way to achieve it? In this research, these questions have been answered; using a historical research method based on data description and analysis. Important variables were effective in Sayf's view; Such as: the element of 'Arab nervousness and tribal system, the positions of the Sassanids towards the 'Arabs, the Islamic conquest, the policy of the Umayyad caliphate and the role of the Iranians in the 'Abbasid caliphate. According to Sayf, the 'Arabs had a continuous history. He took advantage of the Ayyam al-'Arab , mental structures, historical facts, the surrounding society, and his ideal fantasies. According to this research, Sayf was the representative of the revival of 'Arab identity against the Iranians.