alMutasims

alMutasim is a term that can refer to several historical figures, primarily within Islamic history. The most prominent is Abu Ja'far Harun ibn al-Mutasim, known as al-Mutasim Billah, who was the eighth Abbasid caliph. He reigned from 833 to 842 CE. His caliphate is noted for its reliance on Turkic Mamluk soldiers, a practice that would significantly influence subsequent Abbasid politics and the military's growing power. Al-Mutasim also moved the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate from Baghdad to Samarra, a new city he founded. This relocation aimed to distance the caliphate from the populace of Baghdad and to better control his increasingly powerful Turkic guard.

Another significant figure is al-Mutasim al-Baghdadi, a scholar of Islamic jurisprudence and theology from Baghdad who lived in the 11th century. He was known for his extensive writings and his adherence to the Ash'ari school of theology. His contributions were important in the intellectual landscape of his time.

The name "al-Mutasim" itself means "one who seeks strength from God" in Arabic, reflecting a religious devotion. When encountered, the context is crucial for understanding which individual is being referenced, though typically, without further specification, it points to the Abbasid caliph al-Mutasim Billah due to his historical impact.