Today, the most prominent and notable representatives of Bani Hashim, also known as the Hashemites, are the ruling family of Jordan. According to the provided reference, while members of Bani Hashim historically ruled Hijaz (western Arabia) until World War I and were subsequently established as monarchs in Syria and Iraq by European Mandate powers, only the ruling family of Jordan remains in power today.
Historical Context
Bani Hashim is a clan of the Quraysh tribe, to which the Islamic prophet Muhammad belonged. Historically, prominent members of this lineage held significant power and influence throughout the Arabian Peninsula.
- Pre-WWI: Ruled the region of Hijaz in western Arabia.
- Post-WWI: Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, European Mandate powers helped establish Hashemite kingdoms in several newly formed states:
- Jordan: The Hashemite family remains the ruling monarchy.
- Syria: A Hashemite kingdom was briefly established but overthrown.
- Iraq: A Hashemite monarchy ruled until 1958.
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is the only state where a branch of Bani Hashim (Hashemites) currently holds ruling power. The current monarch, King Abdullah II, is a direct descendant of the Hashemite lineage.
This demonstrates the historical trajectory and current standing of the Bani Hashim clan, with their most visible role today being as the royal family governing Jordan.
