Conceptual Analysis, Identification, and Functional Study of Shurṭat al-Khamīs

Shurṭat al-Khamīs was a military unit composed of elite soldiers loyal to Imam Ali (AS). This force was active at the beginning of his caliphate, before Kūfa became the administrative capital, between ۳۵ and ۴۰ AH. Although several studies have examined Shurṭat al-Khamīs, further research into its concept, instances, and functions is necessary to provide a clearer, more precise understanding of the institution. The present study aims to elucidate the nature and rationale of this term's naming, aiming to offer a more accurate understanding of this institution through process tracing. Among those identified as members of Shurṭat al-Khamīs are Aṣbagh ibn Nubāta, Jābir ibn ʿAbd Allāh, and Mālik al-Ashtar. The most significant functions of this institution include: "Protecting the Imam’s life, monitoring and supervising the marketplace, supporting military operations, pursuing criminals, enforcing legal punishments, boosting morale and assisting other military units, guarding the public treasury, combating internal security threats, and maintaining order in Kūfa." An examination of hadith, exegetical, and historical sources, alongside an analysis of the semantic range of the term, reveals that Shurṭat al-Khamīs does not refer merely to a military unit. Its policing and administrative dimensions are even more prominent, as several members possessed both military and non-military roles. By combining military and administrative duties, this institution often functioned as an executive arm of the government of the Commander of the Faithful (AS), playing a significant role in managing political and social crises.

Keywords:

Shurṭa , Shurṭat al-Khamīs , Companions of Imam Ali (AS) , Police Force , Military Force