MCQ Detailed View

The Abbasid Caliph Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh was one of the notable rulers of the Abbasid dynasty, remembered for his military campaigns and for strengthening the empire with the use of Turkish soldiers in his army. His original name was Abū Isḥāq Muḥammad ibn Hārūn al-Rashīd. He was the son of the famous Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid (r. 786–809 CE) and the brother of Caliph al-Ma’mun.

Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh became the eighth Abbasid Caliph, ruling from 833 to 842 CE. He is particularly known for establishing Samarra as a new capital city to accommodate his growing Turkish military force, which later became influential in Abbasid politics. His reign saw both military successes and challenges, including campaigns against the Byzantine Empire and uprisings within the caliphate.

The title “Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh” means “He who seeks refuge in Allah”, which was his regnal title after becoming Caliph. However, his personal/original name was Abū Isḥāq Muḥammad ibn Hārūn al-Rashīd, showing his direct lineage to one of the most famous Abbasid rulers, Harun al-Rashid.

Key Facts:

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  Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh’s original name: Abū Isḥāq Muḥammad ibn Hārūn al-Rashīd.

  
  


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  He was the eighth Abbasid Caliph (r. 833–842 CE).

  
  


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  Son of Harun al-Rashid and brother of al-Ma’mun.

  
  


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  Known for founding the city of Samarra in Iraq.

  
  


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  Famous for employing Turkish soldiers in the Abbasid army.

  
  


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  Title “Muʿtaṣim bi’llāh” means “Seeking protection in Allah”.