Shi‘ites in Aleppo during the Seljuq, Zangid and Ayyūbid Periods (479–658 AH / 1086–1260 CE)

ABSTRACT: This study aims to provide an overview of Imāmi Shi‘ism in Aleppo province beginning from the rule of the Seljuqs in 479 AH /1086 CE, followed by reign of the Zangids and following them the Ayyūbids until the ending of their rule by the Tatar invasion of Bilād al-Shām (Levant) in 658 AH /1260 CE. We will also attempt to show the nature of the relationship between Shi‘ites and Sunnis and the extent of conflict and dispute between them. The study attempts to outline the impact of the Imāmi Shi‘ites of Aleppo on public, political and scientific life, without focussing on their beliefs and the explanation of their ideas and doctrines, but merely by reference to the sources that have addressed it, and by tracking the comments and works of the most prominent Shi‘ite scholars and senior men of madhhab (doctrine) in Hadith , Fiqh (jurisprudence) and all fields of knowledge during this era.