Comparative Analysis of Political Doctrines of Al-Mawardi and Nizam Al-Mulk
https://doi.org/10.22311/2074-1529-2025-21-1-151-170
Abstract
This article is dedicated to the analysis of the political ideas of two outstanding Islamic thinkers of the medieval period — Abu al- Hasan alMawardi and Nizam al- Mulk presented in their works: Al- Ahkam as-sultaniyya wa-l-wilayat ad-diniyya (“The Ordinances of Government and Religious Authority”) and Siyasat-nama (“The Book of Governance”). These works serve as key sources for understanding Islamic political philosophy and the principles of state governance in the medieval Islamic world. The main goal of this study is to compare the political concepts of al- Mawardi and Nizam al- Mulk, identify their similarities and diff erences, and assess their contribution to the development of political thought. The paper examines the central ideas of al- Mawardi, such as the role of the caliph, the signifi cance of shura (consultation), and the principles of just governance, as well as Nizam al- Mulk’s approach, which emphasizes the practical aspects of state administration, including the role of the vizier and the necessity of strong centralized authority. Despite their diff erences — al- Mawardi’s theoretical orientation and Nizam al- Mulk’s practical focus — both authors underscore the importance of justice, morality, and religious foundations in governance. This research is based on a comparative analysis of Al- Ahkam as-sultaniyya wa-l-wilayat ad-diniyya and Siyasat-nama, while also considering the historical context of their creation.
About the Author
F. K. Tojidinov
Moscow Islamic Institute
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Farrukhjon Kobuljon ugli TOJIDINOV, Masterʼs degree in Islamic Studies, head, Department of Continuing Education
12, Kirova Lane, Moscow, 109382
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Review
For citations:
Tojidinov F.K. Comparative Analysis of Political Doctrines of Al-Mawardi and Nizam Al-Mulk. Islam in the modern world. 2025;21(1):151-170. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.22311/2074-1529-2025-21-1-151-170
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