THE STATUS OF AMIR TEMUR: REFLECTION OF THE TITLE «SULTAN» IN VISUAL AND EPIGRAPHIC SOURCES

Abstract

This article explores the evolution of the political titles and statehood ideology of Sahibkiran Amir Temur, with a specific focus on the 1391 Karsakpay (Altyn-Shoqy) inscription. While historical tradition often emphasizes Temur's adherence to the Mongol “Yasa” and his official status as an “Amir” due to his non-Genghisid lineage, this study argues that his use of the title “Sultan” in key strategic contexts signaled a transition toward a sovereign Islamic-Turkic monarchy. By analyzing epigraphic evidence from the Karsakpay stone, numismatic data from late 14th-century coinage, and the post-mortem inscriptions at the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, the author demonstrates that Temur fundamentally perceived his authority as a “Sultanate” (Saltanat). The research further illustrates how this ideological foundation allowed his successors, such as Shahrukh Mirza and Ulugh Beg, to fully institutionalize the title of Sultan. The article concludes by advocating for the scholarly recognition of “Sultan Temur” as a legitimate historical designation reflecting his role as an independent state builder.

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