From Vision to Stewardship: The Foundational Covenant of Qabal Khan and Qacūli Bahadur
Published on 4/17/2025
The Akbarnama, Abu'l Fazl's monumental history of Emperor Akbar, doesn't just list rulers and battles. It delves deep into the past, tracing a lineage believed to be divinely guided, stretching back through centuries to the early Mongol and Turkic tribes. At the heart of this ancient history lies a foundational moment involving two brothers, Qabal Khan and Qacūli Bahadur, and a covenant that would shape the destiny of their descendants, including the future emperors of Hindustan.
A Dream Foretelling Destiny
The narrative takes us back to Tumana Khan, a descendant of the legendary Alanquwa, whose lineage was considered 'Nairun'—light-produced—the noblest among the Mughals. Tumana Khan had a powerful dream, a vision of stars emerging from the breasts of his two sons, Qabal and Qacūli. The interpretation, revealed through spiritual insight, was clear: from Qabal would come princes and a great king who would rule much of the earth, while from Qacūli would descend seven dominant figures, culminating in an eighth who would wield world-wide sovereignty.
This wasn't just a prophecy; it was a blueprint for governance. Tumana Khan, guided by this vision, established a solemn compact ('ahd-nama) between his sons. Qabal Khan was designated to inherit the throne, the Khanate, while Qacūli Bahadur was appointed Commander-in-Chief and Prime Minister (Sipah-salar and wakalat). This division of power, sealed with Tumana Khan's Altamgha (royal seal), was intended to be observed by their descendants for generations.
The Pillars of the Covenant
Upon Tumana Khan's passing, Qabal Khan ascended the throne, and Qacūli Bahadur faithfully took up his role as Commander-in-Chief. Their partnership, as described in the Akbarnama, was one of concord and shared purpose, focused on the management of the state and the well-being of their subjects. This period wasn't without conflict; Qabal Khan faced challenges, notably from Altan Khan of Cathay, a rivalry that escalated and led to tragic loss and subsequent revenge by Qabila Khan, Qabal's son.
Throughout these events, Qacūli Bahadur remained steadfast in his commitment to the covenant. He served Qabal Khan and later Qabila Khan, providing wisdom and military prowess. His role was not merely administrative; it was foundational, ensuring the stability and continuation of the lineage's power, even as the visible sovereignty rested with the Khans.
The Legacy of Stewardship
Qacūli Bahadur's dedication established a tradition of loyal stewardship within his line. His son, Iradam-ci Barlas, inherited the title of Commander-in-Chief and is credited as the origin of the Barlas clan, a name signifying bravery and noble lineage. This branch of the family, though not holding the title of Khan, played a crucial role in supporting the ruling line, embodying the principle of service established by the covenant.
This historical account, preserved in the Akbarnama, highlights the importance placed on lineage, divine guidance, and the fulfillment of ancient compacts. The dream of Tumana Khan and the subsequent covenant between Qabal Khan and Qacūli Bahadur provided a framework for understanding the roles and destinies of their descendants. It wasn't just about who ruled, but how the different branches of the family contributed to the overall strength and purpose of the lineage.
Connecting Past and Present
For Abu'l Fazl, recounting this history was essential to establishing the legitimacy and divine sanction of Akbar's rule. The narrative of a lineage guided by prophecy and marked by significant figures like Qabal Khan and Qacūli Bahadur, culminating in Akbar, served to elevate the emperor's status and place his reign within a grand, preordained cosmic plan. Understanding these early chapters helps us appreciate the layers of meaning embedded in the Akbarnama and the cultural and spiritual significance attached to historical events and lineage in the Mughal world.
Today, this history reminds us of the complex interplay between prophecy, human agency, and political structure in shaping empires. It underscores the value placed on loyalty and defined roles within a hierarchical system, and how foundational myths can be used to legitimize power and preserve a sense of historical continuity. The story of Qabal Khan and Qacūli Bahadur is more than just a list of names; it's a narrative of a covenant that laid the groundwork for a dynasty that would profoundly impact the history of the Indian subcontinent.