Al-Caadil Abu Bakr
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
36 languages
Al-Caadil Sayf-ud-Din Abu Bakr ibn Ayyub was an Ayyubid military commander who became the overall sultan of the Ayyubid dynasty around 1200 until his death in 1218. He was the brother of Saladin and spent a long period serving as administrator and military commander of provinces under his brother's rule, particularly Egypt and parts of the Jazira (northern Mesopotamia).
European historians of the Crusades referred to him as 'Saphadin', derived from his epithet Sayf-ud-Din. He was known for diplomatic maneuvering and commercial treaties with the Crusader kingdoms along the Levantine coast, which he pursued instead of constant warfare.
During Saladin's Rule
While Saladin held power, Al-Caadil carried out both administrative and military duties. He governed Egypt in different periods and took part in tax collection and military preparation. During the Third Crusade, he was among the first to engage with the English side, and it is said that diplomatic proposals were floated for a marriage between Al-Caadil and Richard Lionheart's sister—a plan that came to nothing.
The Struggle for Power after 1193
When Saladin died in 1193, his realm was divided among his sons: al-Afdal, al-Asis, and al-Zahir, who ruled Damascus, Cairo, and Aleppo respectively. Through their conflicts, Al-Caadil gradually increased his power, consistently allying with the stronger side. Eventually he took control of Egypt and Damascus and was recognized as supreme sultan under whom the Ayyubid amirs served.
His Governance Policy
His rule was based on distributing the realm among his children and relatives, with each receiving a province but remaining under central authority. He also promoted commercial stability with Italian cities such as Venice and Pisa to keep Egyptian ports functioning. In financial and building matters, he strengthened the fortifications of Cairo and Damascus during his time.
His Death and Legacy
Al-Caadil died in 1218 while the forces of the Fifth Crusade were besieging the city of Damietta on the Egyptian coast. His son al-Kamil succeeded to the rule of Egypt, while al-Muazzam took over Damascus. The system of dynastic division that he established continued for several generations, though it also created lasting tensions among the amirs.