This transformation occurred amidst a broader pattern of ambitious provincial governors carving out autonomous principalities within the Abbasid Caliphate's distant regions.
Despite their nominal allegiance to the Abbasid Caliphate, dynasties like the Samanids and the Ghaznavids wielded considerable independence, controlling coinage and the khutbah (Friday sermon), signaling their authority.
[5] Beyond its historical content, Tarikh-i Bayhaqi is renowned for its rich literary style, integrating neologisms, novel word combinations and syntaxes, archaic vocabulary, and vivid imagery.
The text also weaves in Quranic verses, Hadith, Persian and Arabic poems, and employs various forms of parallelism and repetition (including vowels, words, and syntaxes).
His distinctive approach not only detailed political events but also encompassed geographical descriptions and references to Persian literature, mentioning notable writers and poets.
[9] Bayhaqi’s history is renowned for its detailed account of dramatic court intrigues and pivotal moments, such as the execution of Hasanak, a former vizier accused of colluding with the Ismaili Fatimids.
Another significant episode is the internal power struggle following the death of Mahmud of Ghazni, where Bayhaqi documents the contentious succession battle between his sons, Mas’ud and Muhammad.
Additionally, his use of rhetorical flourishes and moral commentary imbues his narrative with both literary and ethical depth, setting a benchmark for subsequent Persian historians.
Bayhaqi’s depiction of the rivalry between Mahmud’s sons, Mas’ud and Muhammad, offers insights into the challenges of succession in a medieval Islamic dynasty.
Bayhaqi’s work also stands out for its nuanced character studies, where he portrays individuals not merely as historical actors but as complex personalities, shaped by their circumstances and decisions.