Muhammad III of Shirvan facts for kids

Muhammad III was a powerful ruler known as the Shirvanshah. He ruled the region of Shirvan from 981 to 991. He was the son of Ahmad, who ruled before him. Muhammad III took over as Shirvanshah after his father's reign ended in 981.

Key Events During His Reign

Muhammad III was a very active ruler. He worked to expand his territory and keep control of his lands. His time as Shirvanshah saw several important events and battles.

Expanding His Territory

In 981 or 982, Muhammad III captured the town of Qabala. He took it from its ruler, Abd al-Barr ibn Anbasa. Soon after, in 982, he gained control of Barda'a. He appointed Musa ibn Ali to manage Barda'a for him. In 983, Muhammad III ordered a protective wall to be built around the town of Shabaran. This helped to keep the town safe.

The Conflict in al-Bab

Around 989 or 990, a new leader named Muhammad al-Tuzi arrived in the town of al-Bab. He was a preacher from Gilan and became very popular. Al-Tuzi quickly took control of al-Bab. This made the town's original ruler, Maymun, very unhappy.

Al-Tuzi's supporters then surrounded Maymun's castle. Maymun was forced to leave al-Bab and fled to Tabarsaran in 990 or 991. After this, al-Tuzi invited Muhammad III to take over al-Bab. Muhammad III went to the town and managed its affairs for a few months.

However, things took a turn. One of Maymun's loyal soldiers, named Balid, attacked Muhammad III. Muhammad III was badly hurt in a fight. His own men had to take him back to Shirvan. After this, Maymun was able to take back control of al-Bab.

The End of His Rule

Muhammad III died in November 991. After his death, his brother, Yazid II, became the new Shirvanshah.

Coinage and Culture

During Muhammad III's rule, special coins were made in Barda'a. These coins had the words "ibn as-Sallar" carved on them. This showed that Muhammad III wanted people to know he was a true heir to the ancient Persian kings. The word "Sallar" comes from "sardar," which was a military title used in the old Sasanian Empire. This connection showed his pride in his heritage.

Sources

• Madelung, Wilferd (1975). [Muhammad III of Shirvan at Google Books "Minor dynasties of northern Iran"]. The Cambridge History of Iran, Volume 4: From the Arab Invasion to the Saljuqs. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. pp. 198–250. ISBN 0-521-20093-8. Muhammad III of Shirvan at Google Books.