Foreign affairs of Zirian, case study: Badis Ben Hobous

Along with weakness and decline of the Omavid Caliphate in Andalusia, this land was divided between the Arab and Barbar ruling dynasties which had feudal governments. One of the most outstanding ones of these dynasties was Zirian, a branch of Barbars from Sanhaja, who succeeded to the throne of Granadabecause of playing roles in the political conflicts of this period. Formation of Zirian government was because of the hard tensions between Arabs, especially Suliman-ul-Mustaeen with Barbars; because of this, the unsatisfied Barbars came to Zaavi Ben Ziri, founder of the Zirian dynasty and in 983 AD, they formally took control of Granada. Political turmoil and tribal and ethnic conflicts made Zaavi Ben Ziri leave Andalusia and consequently, the judge of the city appointed another person from this dynasty called Hobous Ben Maxen to kingdom. Despite this, the climax of Zirians’ rule was in the time of his son, Baadis, who with the help of his Jewish vizier, Yusuf BenNaqzala, invaded other feudal governments of Andalusia several times. Domination of Zirian over Granada, after death of Baadis and succession of his grandson, Abdullah Ben Belqein, was weakened in 1047 AD, and tempted Motamed Ben Ibad, ruler of Ashbilia to conquer this city. Therefore, Abdullah Ben Belghein had to seek help from the Christians of Qashtaale, and by paying a lot of taxes, he succeeded to keep his territory safe from the invasion of Ashbilia Muslims.