The Influential Thoughts on Balādhurī's Historicism in Ansāb Al-Ashrāf

Balādhurī’s Ansāb Al-Ashrāf, as one of the most prominent works of early Islamic historiography, has not been adequately considered by scholars so far. Unlike the common religious attitudes of historians in early centuries after Hijrah, Balādhurī shows little commitment to Sunnite thought. This article, examining and comparing Ansab narratives by contemporary works, tries to identify and evaluate those influential thoughts on Balādhurī's historicism. The findings show that despite of his commitment to the issue of so called “legitimacy of Caliphate” he does not accept the theory of "Justice of Companions". He even talks about some controversial subjects such as Saqifa, the assassination of ʿUthmân and the battle of Jamal in details. On the other hand, he has been influenced by his predecessor Nasab-writers in setting up his book and also has a taste of poetry and narration to the extent that Ansāb Al- Ashrāf is among the significant Arabic poetry sources. Some chapters of this book are based on Akhbārid's monographs however unlike Akhabarid there is a priority to consensual narratives rather than to Qisas (narrations). Balādhurī's relationship with Abbasid court as a "Boon-Companion" and "Scribe" and also his intention to select pro-Abbasid narratives reflects a positive image of Abbasid all over Ansab-al-Ashraf.