Religious Authority and the Administration of Islamic Law in Bani Nasr Andalusia

Abstract

Andalusia was one of the centers of Islamic civilization, reaching the peak of its glory in the fields of law, science, and culture. However, during the Bani Nasr Dynasty (1232–1492 CE), Islamic law faced various challenges due to political pressure from Christian kingdoms, internal government conflicts, and social changes that occurred near the end of Islamic rule in the Iberian Peninsula. This study aims to examine the development of Islamic law during the Bani Nasr era, focusing on its development, implementation, and the factors influencing the continuity of the Islamic legal system until the fall of Granada in 1492 CE. This study uses a qualitative research method with a historical approach. Data were obtained through library research from primary and secondary sources, including books, scholarly articles, historical documents, and various references relevant to the history of Islamic law in Andalusia. Furthermore, the data were analyzed using descriptive-analytical analysis methods, namely by describing historical facts related to the development of Islamic law during the Bani Nasr era and analyzing the relationship between political, social, and religious dynamics and the implementation of Islamic law. The research findings show that the Nasr dynasty successfully maintained Islamic law for more than two centuries despite strong political pressure from Christian kingdoms. The Maliki school remained the primary foundation for legal and judicial practice, while Islamic scholars played a crucial role in maintaining the legitimacy of Islamic law amidst the socio-political changes that occurred. However, the gradual weakening of political and military power diminished the effectiveness of Islamic law implementation, ultimately ending with the fall of Granada in 1492 CE.