Abstract
A big number of Muslim subjects fell under the power of Christian Kings during successful Reconquista in the 13th-14th c. Their status, rights, duties and relations with the King were regulated primarily by the Royal Law and by the documents coming from royal authorities (privileges, edicts, decisions on private questions etc.). In their internal affairs the Saracens kept autonomy and were judged according to the Muslim law. Attitude of the Christian power to the Muslim law is a key question of studying the legal status of the Saracens and internal political situation in Aragon of the 14th c.
Analysis of the royal documents from ACA confirms that sharia did exist in the Kingdom of Aragon and had a certain place in legal system of Christian state. Kings did not interfere into details of Muslim legal proceedings. However, when necessary, they leaned on Sunnah authority because they consider Sunnah as unwritten or common law of the Saracens. Muslim law did not find any reflection in royal juridical acts. As a result Sunnah lost its sacral character and was adapted to new political conditions.
Comments
No posts found