The Role of the Al-Buwayhids’ Tolerance (Tasāhul) and Forbearance (Tasāmuḥ) in Islamic Culture and Civilization

Abstract

The Al-Buwayhids (Āl Būya), who ruled vast areas of Iran and Iraq from the early fourth to the end of the fifth century Hijri (322–447 AH), played a critical role in the flourishing of Islamic culture and civilization. This study aims to investigate the role of the Buwayhid dynasty’s tolerance (tasāhul) and forbearance (tasāmuḥ) in the development and prosperity of Islamic culture and civilization. Employing a descriptive-analytical approach and utilizing library resources, the research seeks to answer the fundamental question of how Buwayhid tolerance and forbearance contributed to Islamic cultural and civilizational advancement. Findings indicate that the Buwayhid rulers, through religious and political tolerance, establishment of numerous scientific and cultural centers, and creation of an open intellectual environment, facilitated the emergence of diverse scholarly ideas. This, in turn, led to dynamism, vitality, and the growth of Islamic culture and civilization during that era.