Imam Mohammed bin Saud: The founder of the First Saudi State and architect of stability

Saudi Gazette

21-02-2025

Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Imam Mohammed bin Saud bin Mohammed bin Muqrin was the founder of the First Saudi State in 1727. He was one of the four sons of Saud bin Mohammed bin Muqrin, alongside his brothers Thunayan, Mishari, and Farhan. His father ruled the Emirate of Diriyah in 1719, setting the stage for what would later become a unified and influential state on the Arabian Peninsula.Born in 1679 (1090 AH), Imam Mohammed was raised in Diriyah, where he closely observed the political and social conditions of the emirate. He worked alongside his father in governing and defending Diriyah, particularly during an invasion led by Saadoun bin Mohammed, the leader of Bani Khalid tribe. Imam Mohammed played a pivotal role in repelling the attack, showcasing his leadership and military capabilities.From a young age, he demonstrated political acumen and diplomatic skill. Before assuming power, he played a key role in strengthening Diriyah's security and economic stability. He had four sons, Abdulaziz, Abdullah, Saud, and Faisal, who would continue his legacy.In February 1727, Imam Mohammed bin Saud took over leadership of Diriyah following the Al-Uyaynah campaign in the middle of 1139 AH. Zaid bin Markhan, the Emir of Diriyah, had planned a campaign against Al-Uyaynah, but the ruler of Al-Uyaynah, Mohammed bin Hamad bin Muammar, sought to avoid conflict by inviting the Diriyah leadership for negotiations. However, this was a deceptive move, and Zaid, along with many members of the ruling family and notable figures from Diriyah, was assassinated. Imam Mohammed bin Saud survived the attack by taking refuge in one of the palace towers, and with the assistance of Al-Jawhara bint Abdullah bin Muammar, he was able to return safely to Diriyah. Upon his return, he was sworn in as the leader and the new ruler of Diriyah, marking the beginning of the First Saudi State.Imam Mohammed bin Saud led several military campaigns to unify the central region of the Arabian Peninsula. He successfully defended the newly established state against various regional coalitions that sought to weaken it. His leadership resulted in the formation of the first unified Arab state in the Arabian Peninsula since the Rashidun Caliphate. Under his rule, the Saudi State extended its influence over most of the Arabian Peninsula. Its borders reached as far south as Haer Subay, excluding Riyadh, and as far north as Sudair, while in the west, it included Durma, Al-Qway'iyah, and the areas of Al-Washm.Upon assuming leadership, Imam Mohammed bin Saud focused on ensuring stability and security in Diriyah. He worked to organize and secure pilgrimage routes and strengthen trade networks passing through the state. His leadership transformed Diriyah from a local emirate into a powerful state whose influence extended across the Arabian Peninsula.Diriyah was established as the capital of the state, and he adopted Islamic Shariah law as the foundation of governance. He introduced significant reforms to unify society, promote education, spread culture, and enhance communication between communities. His leadership emphasized maintaining security and stability across the region.Imam Mohammed bin Saud was known for his integrity, courage, and dedication to justice. His leadership style was marked by loyalty, honesty, and wisdom, earning him a lasting reputation as one of the most significant founders of a state in the history of the Arabian Peninsula. Despite the eventual fall of the First Saudi State, its foundations remained strong, allowing for the establishment of the Second Saudi State, which ultimately led to the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Over his four decades of rule, Imam Mohammed bin Saud solidified the state's economic, political, and social structures. He led twelve military campaigns to bring Riyadh under the Saudi rule but suffered personal losses when his sons Faisal and Saud were killed in battle in 1746. He continued his efforts, securing victories against campaigns from Al-Ahsa and Najran that sought to weaken the Saudi state in 1764.During his reign, he focused on developing military and economic institutions. The financial system of the First Saudi State under his leadership followed principles from the early Islamic era, relying on multiple sources of income, including zakat and war gains. In 1758 (1172 AH), he oversaw the construction of the Diriyah wall, a defensive structure made of parallel clay walls reinforced with stone for added strength.Imam Mohammed bin Saud ruled with justice and tolerance, emphasizing knowledge and education. He worked to eliminate illegal transgressions, attacks, and raids while securing the pilgrimage and trade routes. His governance led to lasting stability, allowing the First Saudi State to flourish.He also relocated the center of power within Diriyah from the neighborhood of Ghusaiba to Al-Tarfiyah in Samhan, reflecting his vision for long-term governance and strategic planning.
Imam Mohammed bin Saud passed away in 1765 after forty years of rule. His legacy continued through his son, Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Saud, who succeeded him and carried forward his father's vision of a unified and strong Saudi state.