Reflections of the role of Islam in the “Tawarikh-i guzida – Nusrat-name”

Abstract

Research objectives: Based on a medieval Turkic-language manuscript, the role of the religion of Islam in various situations related to the spread of Islam and its use to justify conquests will be demonstrated. Research materials: The London copy of the manuscript “Tavarih-i Guzida – Nusrat-name” was used. Results and novelty of the research: In this article, the reflection of the role and functions of Islam in “Tavarih-i Guzida – Nusrat-name” is considered for the first time. Islam is presented in the text from different angles: as an oppressed religion that could not make itself known in the conditions of being within the framework of a stronger religion; as a peace-loving religion that provided guarantees of peace to non-believers, etc. Later on, with the spread and growth of the influence of Islam, its role becomes that of providing a justification for military attacks and territorial seizures. Taking into account the peculiarity of the work “Tavarikh-i Guzida – Nurat-name” which rests in the fact that it was written at the behest of Muhammad Sheibani Khan, Islam is generally shown in it as an instrument for control of supreme power.