Ibn Tumart vs Robert II the Pious

Ibn Tumart proclaimed himself the Mahdi, the guided one, after returning from the East. He began preaching a strict reformist message, condemning the Almoravids for their perceived religious laxity and calling for a return to the Quran and Sunnah.

Ibn Tumart founded the Almohad movement (al-Muwahhidun) in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. He organized his followers into a disciplined religious and military community, rejecting the Almoravid interpretation of Islam and advocating for tawhid (strict monotheism).

Ibn Tumart compiled his teachings into a book titled 'A'azz ma Yutlab' (The Most Precious of What is Sought). This work outlined the Almohad doctrine, emphasizing the unity of God and rejecting anthropomorphism, and became the foundation of the movement's ideology.

Ibn Tumart's Almohad forces were defeated by the Almoravids at the Battle of al-Buhayra near Marrakech. This setback prevented the Almohads from capturing the Almoravid capital and forced them to retreat to the mountains.

Ibn Tumart died shortly after the Battle of al-Buhayra, possibly from wounds or illness. His death was kept secret by his successor Abd al-Mu'min, who continued the Almohad movement and eventually overthrew the Almoravids.

Robert II succeeded his father Hugh Capet as King of the Franks. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate royal power, but he faced challenges from powerful nobles and the Church, limiting his authority.

Robert II was excommunicated by Pope Gregory V for marrying Bertha of Burgundy, his cousin, without papal dispensation. The excommunication was lifted after Robert repudiated Bertha, but it damaged his reputation and strained relations with the Church.

Robert II supported the Cluniac monastic reforms, which aimed to purify the Church and reduce secular influence. His patronage strengthened the Cluniac movement and enhanced the Church's moral authority in France.

Robert II attempted to assert control over the Duchy of Burgundy after the death of Duke Henry I. The conflict lasted several years and resulted in limited success, as Burgundy remained largely independent under its own dukes.