Hierarchical Duality in the Khazars: Historical Origins of the Dual Kingship System

Authors : Özgür TÜRKER, İbrahim DAĞ

Pages : 44-58

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Publication Date : 2023-08-23

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This article aims to understand the nature of the dual kingship system observed in the Khazar Empire. Specifically, it emphasizes the hierarchical duality where the grand khan held sacred powers and remained veiled from the public, while the second ruler known as the Shad-bek held political, military, and economic authority. The study highlights that this system represents a hierarchical duality rather than a diarchy, as the Shad-bek effectively controlled the state’s political, military, and economic spheres despite being second in the hierarchy. Additionally, the article intends to uncover the connections between this system and Central Asian culture as well as the influence of Judaism. By exploring these aspects, the research contributes to conceptualizing the hierarchical duality in the Khazar Empire and shedding light on its links with Central Asia and the Jewish faith.
Keywords : Hazar İmparatorluğu, İkili Krallık, Hiyerarşik İkilik, Büyük Kağan, Şad Bek, Orta Asya, Yahudilik