The Civilizational Interaction between the Kingdom of Al-Hīrah and the Persian Empire: An Approach in Light of Oswald Spengler’s Pseudomorphosis Theory

Abstract

This study explores the concept of "Pseudo or False Civilizational Formation" in the case of the Kingdom of Al-Ḥīrah and its relationship with the Persian Empire, drawing upon the theory formulated by the German philosopher Oswald Spengler. According to this theory, some civilizations may adopt civilized manifestations without being intrinsically consistent with. The research aims to demonstrate how Al-Ḥīrah was influenced by the Sassanid civilization without losing its authentic Arab spirit—an aspect that later facilitated its full integration into the Islamic civilization and its genuine cultural transformation therein. The study also examines key aspects of this cultural influence and analyzes their impact on the structure of the Islamic state. The research adopts a historical-analytical methodology and concludes that Al-Ḥīrah represented a unique model of an Arabic entity that was influenced by the Persian civilization without losing its identity. Rather, it became a cultural bridge that contributed to the formation of the emerging Islamic state. The findings further indicated that this trajectory of cultural integration was not exclusive to Al-Ḥīrah; the Persians themselves became actively involved in the Islamic state and played a significant role in shaping its civilization.