THE OFFICE OF THE ḤIJĀBAH (CHAMBERLAIN) IN BAGHDAD DURING THE SELJUK PERIOD (447–590 AH / 1055–1193 CE)

Abstract

This study examines one of the most significant administrative offices in the Abbasid Caliphate during the Seljuk period—the office of the ḥijābah (Chamberlain). During this time, the position rose in prominence to the extent that the ḥājib (Chamberlain) became the caliph’s adviser in all major affairs. Moreover, the number of ḥujjāb within the Abbasid state increased in accordance with the various places in which they served and the domains over which they exercised supervision.

In this study, we shed light on those ḥujjāb whose duties were directly connected to the caliphal palace, such as the ḥājib (Chamberlain) al-ḥujjāb and the ḥujjāb al-abwāb, who were responsible for the gates of the caliphal residence. These officials played an important and influential role in the course of political, administrative, and security affairs in Iraq during the Seljuk period.

The Abbasid caliph found in some of those who assumed this office the ability to bear the responsibility entrusted to them—namely, overseeing the protection of the gates of the caliphal palace and regulating those who entered through them. This competence was a factor in their appointment to the office and in the length of their tenure. As for the causes of dismissal from the position, there were numerous reasons. Among them was the appointment of unqualified individuals due to competition for the office, which led to disruptions in state affairs. Some resorted to bribery and the extortion of people; in other cases, dismissal was motivated by promotion to a higher office, or by inclination toward a particular sect. Thus, the reasons for appointment and dismissal in the office of the ḥijābah (Chamberlain) during this period were manifold and varied.