Did Muslim rulers write books?

What is it about?

The article gives a first overview over the many kinds of works that the Shiʿi Imams are said to have authored, and explores the purpose and context of these ascriptions. Why was it important that a certain book was written by an Imam? What is astonishing is the breath of material ascribed to the Imams: we find commentaries on the Quran, poetry, and works on medicine, law and alchemy, even advice on sexual conduct. Over all, the article suggest that the ascription of the works to the Shiʿi Imams may tell us more about community formation and the development of scholarship in Islam than about actual authorship.

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Photo by Eliott Van Buggenhout on Unsplash

Photo by Eliott Van Buggenhout on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The Imams were the ultimate religious authorities of the nascent Shiʿi tradition. They were also descendants of the Prophet Muhammad, who came to be venerated by all of the Muslim community. Some of the works associated with the Imams are known only by title, perhaps they never existed. Their importance seems to be precisely their association with the Imams-- why did this association matter, does it reflect broader religious or political discussions, and perhaps allow for certain materials to be included and communal boundaries to be overcome?

Perspectives