Abd al-Malik b. Marwan

In the realm of religious governance, Abd al-Malik is often highlighted for his attempts to unify the Islamic community under a singular doctrinal framework. This involved promoting the Sunni orthodoxy amidst a burgeoning diversity of beliefs, including emerging Shiism. His issuance of the currency featuring Islamic inscriptions and his patronage of religious scholars served both as tools for political control and as a means of establishing legitimacy. For Shia adherents, this endeavor encapsulates an attempt to diminish the significance of the legitimate Islamic leadership figure, the Imam, thus reinforcing the notion of caliphal supremacy at odds with Shia convictions. Abd al-Malik embodied the tension between political power and religious authenticity that resonates deeply in Shia analyses.

The developments orchestrated by Abd al-Malik also included military campaigns aimed at expansion and consolidation of territory. His reign oversaw notable military actions, including the suppression of revolts and the expansion into territories beyond the Arabian Peninsula. The military expansion served to propagate Umayyad influence but simultaneously sowed seeds of dissent. Shia narratives often highlight the heartbreak of these conquests, emphasizing the struggles endured by the oppressed and marginalized communities who resisted Umayyad hegemony. This aspect of Abd al-Malik’s rule elucidates a deeper engagement with the themes of justice and oppression that are central to Shia thought.

Interestingly, Abd al-Malik’s leadership transitioned the nature of governance from tribal affiliations and familial allegiances toward a more bureaucratic and systemic structure. This transition, albeit progressive from a governance standpoint, further alienated the Shia community, which valorizes the concept of a divinely appointed leader, capable of upholding justice and morality. The bureaucratic system, while creating a semblance of order, also underscored the disconnect between the ruling class and the populace, leading to an ongoing struggle for legitimate representation within the Islamic polity.