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TYPE
Original Research
PAGE NO.
119-122
DOI
OPEN ACCESS
SUBMITED
26 October 2024
ACCEPTED
30 December 2024
PUBLISHED
30 January 2025
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue01 2025
COPYRIGHT
© 2025 Original content from this work may be used under the terms
of the creative commons attributes 4.0 License.
Amir Temur
–
A Symbol of
Justice and Power
R. R. Nurqulova
Associate Professor at the Department of History of Uzbekistan, Faculty
of History, Jizzakh State Pedagogical University named after Abdulla
Qodiriy, Honored Educator of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Abstract:
This article explores the perception of Amir
Temur during the Soviet era, the restoration of his
historical role and significance following Uzbekistan’s
independence, and his contributions to the
establishment of a centralized state. It discusses his
governance, adherence to justice, economic and
cultural progress during his rule, as well as his
diplomatic relations with other states.
Keywords:
Soviet era, Amir Temur, centralized state,
state governance, "Power is in justice," "Temur's Code,"
historical sources, Amir Temur’s empire, international
relations, Amir Temur as the "Liberator of Europe."
Introduction:
Independence is invaluable primarily
because it restored our nation’s sacred values, rich
cultural and spiritual heritage, and, along with them,
the truth about the great historical figure, Amir Temur.
The rich historical legacy left by Amir Temur instills
boundless strength and pride in our national identity.
During the Soviet era, this great leader was portrayed
as a "conqueror and destroyer," and efforts were made
to evoke not sincere respect but rather hatred towards
him. Scholars who wrote the historical truth about Amir
Temur faced persecution and criticism.
As the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat
Mirziyoyev, stated: "If a nation and a state are not
independent, others may not only oppress their
farmers and workers but also humiliate their poets,
scholars, and statesmen at will, trampling on their
human dignity."
Indeed, during the Soviet period, our people were
subjected to numerous humiliations. Only with
independence did the image of Amir Temur become a
symbol of the Uzbek people, their pride, and honor.
First and foremost, he was a great statesman, the
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founder of a centralized state, and a ruler who based
his governance on law and justice. As a renowned
commander, he was acknowledged across the seven
climes.
It should be noted that the political struggles of his era
shaped Amir Temur’s pat
h, paving the way for the
realization of his grand objectives. His primary mission
was to liberate the homeland from the Mongols,
eliminate feudal fragmentation and internal strife, and
establish a centralized state in Mawarannahr.
However, his great mission was hindered by the
envious ruler of Balkh, Amir Husayn, who continuously
obstructed his efforts. Consequently, in the spring of
1370, Amir Temur was forced to march against him,
eventually defeating and overthrowing him.
One of Amir Temur’s remarkable
qualities was his
magnanimity. Historian Sharafuddin Ali Yazdi, in
Zafarnama, writes about an instance where Amir
Temur, addressing his commanders, stated: "I have
forgiven his blood, I have drawn a line over vengeance."
For example, when Amir Kaykhusraw demanded
revenge for his slain brother and asked Temur to hand
over Amir Husayn for justice, the great leader
responded with wisdom: "Abandon your claim; your
brother’s blood will haunt him regardless." This
exemplifies Amir Temur’s exceptional moral integr
ity.
Through his military campaigns, diplomatic prowess,
and strategic acumen, Amir Temur freed many regions
from Mongol rule, eliminated political fragmentation,
and established a centralized state governed by
intellect and legal principles. His famous words, "Nine
parts of state affairs are accomplished through counsel,
planning, and consultation, while the remaining one
part is fulfilled by the sword," illustrate his governance
philosophy. His life’s purpose was "to be a remedy for
the suffering of the nation."
Through his conquests, Amir Temur established a vast
empire. While he allocated certain lands to his sons and
grandsons,
he
never
granted
control
over
Mawarannahr, safeguarding its unity and sanctity as
the heart of his empire. This demonstrates his deep
patriotic devotion to his homeland.
Amir Temur’s internal and external policies were aimed
at elevating his state economically, politically, and
culturally. His primary goals were to ensure justice,
establish order and peace, improve citizens' welfare,
strengthen infrastructure, and develop the state.
One of Amir Temur’s greatest contributions was his
governance based on a legal framework, known as
Temur's Code, at a time when European states lacked
written constitutions. In Temur's Code, he states: "I
governed state affairs in accordance with the laws of
the empire. I maintained my rank and position in the
empire by adhering to its regulations and statutes... I
built the foundation of my empire on religion, Islam,
and legal principles."
He took a highly responsible approach to implementing
legal systems, setting a personal example of adherence
to the law. He proclaimed: "I considered impartiality
the foremost virtue. I treated everyone with equal
seriousness and fairness, distinguishing no one from
another, never placing the wealthy above the poor. I
ruled with justice and integrity, ensuring that both the
guilty and the innocent received fair treatment."
It is particularly noteworthy that Amir Temur
introduced a legal foundation that accounted for the
activities and interests of all social classes. This
approach became the guiding principle of his legal
framework.
In his administration, the grievances of ordinary citizens
were taken seriously. To address this, he established
the position of Arzbegi, responsible for reporting to him
on military and civilian complaints, as well as the state
of the nation. As Amir Temur wrote: "I ordered the
appointment of an Arzbegi to oversee the affairs of
soldiers and civilians, to bring their grievances to me,
and to report on the prosperity or decline of the
country."
One of the most remarkable aspects of Amir Temur’s
governance was the introduction of the Amir of Justice
position, a rank rarely seen in history. This role was
equivalent to that of a minister and was responsible for
resolving civil and military disputes through peaceful
and fair means.
Unlike other rulers of his time, Amir Temur appointed
two officials to oversee his activities, granting them the
authority to observe, monitor, and participate in
discussions between him and other officials.
Amir Temur’s legacy continues to inspire leadership
based on wisdom, justice, and the principles of
governance that prioritize the well-being of the nation.
His contributions laid the foundation for a powerful and
organized state, shaping the course of history.
It is evident that one of the key advantages of Amir
Temur’s governance was his strict adherence to justice
and the rule of law. During his reign, in all territories of
the empire, the principle "Strength is in justice, not
justice in strength" was upheld.
In Temur’s Code, he wrote: "I opened the doors of
justice in every country and blocked the path of
oppression and tyranny." He also strictly demanded
that his sons and grandsons adhere to the law, justice,
and truth.
Theft and robbery were rigorously eradicated in Amir
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Temur’s state. He ordered: "... let thieves and bandits
be punished according to 'Yasa,' let corrupt, immoral,
and greedy individuals be expelled from the country."
He did not tolerate officials who disobeyed the law,
abandoned justice and conscience, abused their
positions, or committed treason against the state.
Those guilty of such offenses were severely punished.
Furthermore, he paid great attention to eradicating
poverty by ensuring employment opportunities. In
Temur’s Code, he stated: "... let the beggars of each
country be given work and responsibilities so that the
custom of begging disappears." He also instructed that
"... after conquering a land, gather its beggars, provide
them with food and daily necessities, assign them a
task, and mark them to prevent further begging. If they
continue begging despite this, let them be exiled to
distant lands or sold off. Only then will beggary
disappear from the country."
During his reign, Amir Temur focused on improving the
material well-being of citizens, adhering to the belief
that "If the people are prosperous, the state will be rich
and powerful."
Every inch of land was utilized efficiently; all cultivable
areas were turned into orchards and fields. The
prominence of the Great Silk Road increased further
during his rule, leading to the expansion of domestic
and international trade, as well as the flourishing of
craftsmanship.
Amir Temur placed great emphasis on the development
of science and culture, fostering scholars, intellectuals,
and artisans. His capital, Samarkand, became one of the
most beautiful and prosperous cities in the world.
As historian Sharafuddin Ali Yazdi wrote in Zafarnama:
"... due to the rule of this religiously devoted world
conqueror, Samarkand reached such prosperity that it
surpassed even Cairo in fame, with its wealth, thriving
population, and frequent visitors from all corners of the
world."
Ibn Arabshah, in The History of Amir Temur, also
describes: "Temur built numerous gardens in
Samarkand, erecting high and fortified palaces, naming
them 'Eram Garden,' 'Adornment of the World,'
'Paradise of Bliss,' 'Garden of Winds,' and 'Superior
Paradise.'"
The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat
Mirziyoyev,
emphasizes:
"Amir
Temur
made
Samarkand the capital of his great empire, turning it
into one of the most powerful and prosperous cities in
the world."
Indeed, both the governance of Amir Temur and his
capital, Samarkand, gained worldwide fame.
Spanish ambassador Ruy González de Clavijo, who
visited Amir Temur’s empire, wrote in his Diary: "This
land is abundant in grains, fruits, poultry, and all kinds
of meat products; in short, it is a land of plenty."
The flourishing markets, affordable prices, and vast
availability of goods demonstrated the economic
prosperity of Amir Temur’s state.
By defeating Tokhtamysh Khan, Amir Temur not only
secured his own cou
ntry’s safety but also played a
significant role in Russia’s path to independence.
Furthermore, his victory over the Ottoman Sultan
Bayezid served as a crucial moment for Europe, earning
him the title of "Liberator of Europe." In appreciation,
European nations, including France, expressed
gratitude, and his golden bust was displayed in
museums in Paris.
His victories elevated both his personal reputation and
the status of his state on the world stage.
Amir Temur was a visionary leader who prioritized
international relations and cooperation for the
advancement of his empire. As a result, he established
diplomatic ties with Spain, England, France, and Italy,
contributing to the strengthening of connections
between Europe and Asia.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, through his remarkable statesmanship
and military prowess, Amir Temur brought immense
glory and power to his homeland. The towering,
unparalleled architectural masterpieces built under his
reign stand as a testament to the grandeur of his state,
continuing to astonish humanity with their majesty and
splendor.
As Ibn Arabshah noted, "Amir Temur was recognized as
the ruler of the Seven Climes, the sovereign who
governed the land and waters, the jewel among kings
and sultans."
In recent years, under the leadership of President
Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has embarked on a new
era of progress, fulfilling the dreams of Amir Temur.
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