Apocalyptic History of the Early Fatimid Empire

This book explores the role of apocalyptic symbolism in the formation and maintenance of a medieval Islamic empire, the Fatimids. It argues that the Fatimids' vision of their central place in an imminent utopia played a critical role in transfiguring the intellectual and political terrains of North Africa in the early tenth century. However, the realities they faced on the ground often challenged their status as the custodians of a pristine Islam at the end of time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2018
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book delves into the fascinating realm of apocalyptic symbolism and its profound impact on the formation and maintenance of a medieval Islamic empire. It explores the ways in which a medieval Islamic movement, known as the Fatimids, harnessed Quranic visions of utopia to construct one of the most remarkable and enduring empires in Islamic history.

The Fatimids' apocalyptic vision of their central place in an imminent utopia played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual and political landscapes of North Africa in the early tenth century. However, the realities they faced on the ground often challenged their status as the guardians of a pristine Islam at the end of time.

Through a detailed examination of some of the structural features of the Fatimid revolution, as well as early works of ta wil, or symbolic interpretation, Jamel Velji illustrates how the Fatimids conceived of their mission as one that would bring about an imminent utopia. He then delves into how the Fatimids reinterpreted their place in history when the expected end never materialized.

The book concludes with an extensive discussion of another apocalyptic event linked to a Fatimid lineage: the Nizari Ismaili declaration of the end of time on August 8, 1164.

Key features of the book include:

Introduces selected themes, texts, and theoretical problems in early Fatimid history and thought to those unfamiliar with Islam or the Shia tradition.

Explores the nature of apocalyptic rhetoric, what constitutes an apocalypse, and how apocalyptic prophecies can be reinterpreted.

Uses techniques from religious studies and rhetorical analysis on data from the Fatimid tradition, showcasing how Islam can contribute to broader discussions in the history of religions.

Contains extensive translations from two Fatimid texts, including: the Kitab al-Kashf (Book of the Veil), a key Fatimid work of mystical interpretation, and the Futuh al-Buldan (Treatise on the City), a treatise on the governance of the Fatimid empire.

This book offers a valuable contribution to the study of apocalyptic symbolism and its role in shaping religious and political landscapes. It sheds light on the complex interplay between religious beliefs, political power, and social change in the medieval Islamic world and provides insights into the enduring legacy of the Fatimid empire.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474432207