What is the primary meaning and origin of the title "Khan"?

The title "Khan" is a historical Turkic and Mongolic term originating from the Central and Eastern Eurasian Steppe. It was initially used to refer to a king or a ruler, and later evolved to signify a sovereign, emperor, or the head of a tribe or clan.

How did the title "Khan" relate to the title "Khagan"?

"Khan" is considered a variant of "Khagan," which means sovereign or emperor. Among the Gokturks, "Khan" implied a subordinate ruler compared to the supreme "Khagan."

In the Seljuk Empire, what was the hierarchical position of the title "Khan"?

Within the Seljuk Empire, "Khan" was the highest noble title, ranking above "Malik" (king) and "Emir" (prince).

What role did the title "Khan" play in the Mongol Empire?

In the Mongol Empire, "Khan" signified the ruler of a horde or *ulus* (a division of the empire). The supreme ruler of all Mongols held the title of Khagan or Great Khan.

How was the title "Khan" used among Pashtun tribes?

The title "Khan" is commonly used to designate the head of a Pashtun tribe or clan.

How did the importance of the title "Khan" change over time, particularly during the Safavid, Qajar, and Mughal periods?

The title's importance declined over time. During the Safavid and Qajar dynasties, it denoted an army general ruling a province. In Mughal India, it was a high noble rank reserved for courtiers. After the fall of the Mughals, it became more promiscuously used and eventually evolved into a surname.

What are the proposed origins of the term "Khan," and is there a consensus?

The origin of the term "Khan" is disputed and not definitively known. Some scholars suggest a Rouran language origin, while others propose a Turkic and Para-Mongolic origin. Further theories point to an ultimate root in Middle Iranian languages, such as *hva-kama-* meaning "self-ruler," or from Early Saka terms related to rulers and their wives.

When and where was the title "Khan" first encountered historically?

The title "Khan" is first documented among the Xianbei confederation, used for their chief between 283 and 289 AD.

Which people are believed to have been the first to use "Khagan" and "Khan" for their emperors?

The Rourans may have been the first people to use the titles *khagan* and *khan* for their emperors.

What is Alexander Vovin's theory regarding the origin of the title *qaghan*?

Russian linguist Alexander Vovin suggests that the term *qaghan* originated among the Xiongnu people, who he believes were Yeniseian-speaking, and subsequently spread across different language families.

How did the Gokturks adopt and spread the title "Khan"?

After its potential origin with the Xiongnu or Rourans, the Gokturks adopted the title *qaghan* and subsequently brought it to the rest of Asia.

What was the significance of the title "Heavenly Khagan" in relation to Emperor Taizong of Tang?

Emperor Taizong of Tang, who reigned from 626 to 649 AD, was referred to as the "Heavenly Khagan" (*Tian Kehan*), indicating a significant adoption and adaptation of the title within Chinese imperial context.

How was the title "Khan" used by Genghis Khan and his successors?

Genghis Khan himself was referred to as *qa'an* (khagan) only posthumously. His successors, starting with Ögedei Khan in 1229, adopted the title "Khagan" for the supreme ruler of the Mongol Empire, while "Khan" was used for leaders of important tribes, confederations, or rulers of non-Mongol countries before 1229, and later for rulers of individual dominions (*ulus*) within the empire.

What were early principalities in Europe that used the title "Khan"?

Early principalities in Europe that used the title "Khan" included Danube Bulgaria and possibly Old Great Bulgaria, where rulers were referred to as *khan* or *kan* from at least the 7th to the 9th century.

What is the meaning of the Bulgar title "Kanasubigi," and how does it relate to "Khan"?

The title "Kanasubigi" is found in inscriptions related to Bulgar rulers like Krum, Omurtag, and Malamir. While its exact meaning is debated, scholars suggest it might be related to "khan" or "vicekhan" (*kavkhan*), implying a high-ranking official or ruler.

Who were some notable early Bulgar rulers who held the title "Khan"?

Notable early Bulgar rulers who held the title "Khan" included Khan Kubrat, the founder of Great Bulgaria; Khan Asparukh, the founder of Danubian Bulgaria; Khan Tervel, who repelled Arab invaders in 718 AD; and Khan Krum, known as "the Fearsome."

When did the title "Khan" cease to be the official title for rulers in Danube Bulgaria?

The title "Khan" was the official title of the ruler in Danube Bulgaria until 864 AD, when Knyaz Boris (later Tsar Boris I) adopted Christianity and likely shifted to titles more aligned with the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

How did the title "Khan" become associated with the Jurchens and Manchus?

The title Khan was used to designate the greatest rulers of the Jurchens. Later, when the Jurchens became known as the Manchus, they continued to use the title, which was pronounced "Han" in Manchu. For instance, Nurhaci was called Genggiyen Han.

What were some of the major khanates established in present-day Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan?

Major khanates included the Kazakh Khanate in Kazakhstan (founded 1465, eliminated by the Russian Empire in 1847), the Kara-Kyrgyz Khanate in Kyrgyzstan (established 1842), and in Uzbekistan, the Khanate of Bukhara (founded 1500), the Khanate of Kokand (established 1732), and the Khanate of Khiva (dating from c.1500).

What were some of the significant khanates in Transcaucasia and Ciscaucasia?

Significant khanates in this region, often established by the Safavids or their successors, included the Khanate of Erivan, various khanates in Dagestan, and numerous khanates in Azerbaijan such as Baku, Ganja, Quba, Shaki, Shirvan, Talysh, Nakhichevan, and Karabakh.

Which successor states of the Golden Horde commonly used the title "Khan"?

The successor states of the Golden Horde that commonly used the title "Khan" included the Khanate of Kazan, the Sibir Khanate, the Astrakhan Khanate, and the Crimean Khanate.

What does the title "Gur Khan" signify, and who used it?

"Gur Khan" means "supreme or universal Khan" and was the title of the ruler of the Khitan Kara-Kitai. It was also occasionally used by the Mongols.

What was the significance of the title "Ilkhan"?

"Ilkhan" served as a generic term for a "provincial Khan" and was also the traditional royal style for one of the four successor khanates of the Mongol Empire, specifically the one based in Persia.

What was the title "Khan-i-Khanan" in the context of the Mughal Empire?

"Khan-i-Khanan," meaning "Lord of Lords" in Persian, was a title given to the commander-in-chief of the army in the Mughal Empire, with Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana being a notable example under Emperor Akbar.

How was the title "Khan" used in Korean history, according to the provided text?

In southern Korean states, the word *Han* or *Gan*, meaning "leader," is suggested as a possible origin for "khan." Titles like *Geoseogan* or *Geoseulhan*, meaning "leader of leaders" or "king," were used by rulers of the Jinhan confederacy, and later *Maripgan* ("head of kings") was used by Silla rulers.

What is the meaning and origin of the female title "Khatun"?

"Khatun" or "Khatan" is a title of Sogdian origin, roughly equivalent to a King's Queen-consort in Mongolic and Turkic languages. It designated the ruling Khan's wife with respect, and was also used in Khazar culture.

How does the title "Khanum" differ from "Khatun," and where is it used?

"Khanum" is another female derivation of Khan, primarily used in Turkic languages for a Khan's Queen-consort. It can also be a courtesy title for wives of holders of lower titles. In Afghanistan, it became a term for "Miss," and in Iranian Persian, it's used respectfully to address any woman. In modern Kazakh, "Khanum" is respectful, while "Khatun" is derogatory.

What was the significance of the title "Khan Bahadur"?

"Khan Bahadur" was a formal title of respect and honor conferred exclusively on Muslim subjects of the British Indian Empire. It was considered one degree higher than the title of "Khan Sahib."

What does "Khanzada" signify, and in which cultures was it used?

"Khanzada" is a title conferred upon princes of certain dynasties in Indian princely states. In Uzbek and Kazakh languages, it transliterates to "prince" and was used to honor their princes.

What was the role of the "Kavhan" in the First Bulgarian Empire?

The "Kavhan" (or Kaukhan) was one of the most important officials in the First Bulgarian Empire, generally considered the second most important person in the state after the ruler.

How was the title "Khan" used in Persia, particularly at the Qajar court?

In imperial Persia, "Khan" was the title of a nobleman, ranking higher than "Beg" (or Bey). At the Qajar court, it was an honorary rank title, with the fourth class being "Khan" (or synonymously "Amir"), bestowed upon commanders of armed forces and provincial tribal leaders, indicating a significant position below the ruling dynasty.

What is the modern usage of "Hanım" in Turkish?

In Turkish, "Hanım" (derived from "Khanum") is still used and is equivalent to "Mrs." or a respectful term for a woman. The related title "Hanımefendi" translates to "lady of the master."

How were the titles "Khan" and "Khan Bahadur" bestowed in India by the Mughals and the British?

The Mughals, of Turkic origin, bestowed the titles "Khan" and "Khan Bahadur" (meaning "brave hero") upon both Muslim and Hindu generals, particularly in the Bengal region, for their bravery. The British Raj later continued to award these titles as honors, often for loyalty to the crown.

What was the rank of "Khan" within the aristocratic titles of the Hyderabad state?

In the Indian state of Hyderabad, "Khan" was the lowest of the aristocratic titles bestowed by the ruling Nizam upon Muslim retainers, ranking below titles like Khan Bahadur, Nawab, Jang, Daula, Mulk, Umara, and Jah. The equivalent for Hindu retainers was "Rai."

How has the term "Khan" evolved into a surname?

The title "Khan" evolved into a surname in South Asia, particularly among Muslims, especially those claiming Pashtun heritage. It was also awarded by the Mughals to Muslim Rajputs for bravery and is widely used by Baloch and Awan tribes.

What are some "Khan-related terms" mentioned in the text?

Some Khan-related terms include "Khanzadeh" (prince, khan's son), "Khanbikeh" (queen, khan's wife), "Khanbaliq" (Yuan capital, modern Beijing), "Il khan," "Bogda Khan," "Khan of Heaven," and the female equivalents "Khatun" and "Khanum."

What is the etymological connection suggested between "Khan" and Korean titles?

The Korean words "Han" or "Gan," meaning "leader," are suggested as a potential origin for the title "Khan," reflecting a shared concept of leadership across cultures.

What is the meaning of "Khanum-e Smith" in the Iranian Persian language?

In Iranian Persian, "Khanum-e Smith" is used respectfully to address a woman, similar to saying "Ms. Smith" in English.

What was the historical context of the title "Khan" in the context of the Golden Horde and its successor states?

The title "Khan" was prevalent among the rulers of the Mongol Golden Horde and its successor states, which were often referred to as "Tatars" by Europeans and Russians. These states included the Khanates of Kazan, Sibir, Astrakhan, and Crimea.

What is the meaning of "Khan-i-Khanan" in Persian, and who held this title?

In Persian, "Khan-i-Khanan" translates to "Lord of Lords." It was a significant title, notably held by the commander-in-chief of the Mughal army, such as Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana.

How did the title "Khan" function within the hierarchy of the Seljuk Empire's nobility?

In the Seljuk Empire, "Khan" was the highest noble title, indicating a rank superior to "Malik" (king) and "Emir" (prince).

What is the significance of the title "Kanasubigi" in relation to early Bulgarian rulers?

"Kanasubigi" was a title used by early Bulgarian rulers like Krum, Omurtag, and Malamir. While not directly "Khan," it is considered a related or precursor title, possibly meaning "lord of the army" or having Indo-European roots related to rulership.

What is the proposed meaning of the Turkic phrase *sü baši* in relation to the Bulgar title *Kanasubigi*?

The Turkic phrase *sü baši* is proposed as a parallel to *Kanasubigi*, suggesting a meaning of "lord of the army" or "head of the army."

What was the role of "Khanum" as a courtesy title?

In some traditions, "Khanum" extended beyond being a Khan's Queen-consort to serve as a courtesy title, similar to "Lady" for women not married to a Lord, particularly in modern Turkish usage.

What is the distinction between "Khan" and "Khagan" in the context of the Mongol Empire's succession?

While "Khan" was used for rulers of individual *ulus* (dominions) within the Mongol Empire, the supreme ruler held the more exalted title of "Khagan" (or Great Khan), a practice adopted by successors of Genghis Khan starting with Ögedei Khan.

What does the title "Beg Khan" represent?

"Beg Khan" is a title formed by combining "Beg" (or Bey) and "Khan," and it has been used by some Mughals and Mongols.

What is the meaning of "Galin Khanum"?

"Galin Khanum" literally translates to "lady bride" and was the title given to the principal noble wife of a ruler during the Qajar dynasty.

What is the origin and meaning of the title "Khatun" in Sogdian?

The title "Khatun" originates from the Sogdian language and is equivalent to a King's Queen-consort in Mongolic and Turkic languages, signifying the ruling Khan's wife with respect.

What is the significance of the title "Khan of Khans"?

"Khan of Khans" (Khaqan) was a higher, imperial title used by rulers such as the Mongol imperial dynasty of Genghis Khan and his successors, including Kublai Khan, who founded the Yuan Dynasty in China. It was also used by Ottoman Sultans and rulers of the Golden Horde.

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The Title of Khan

Sovereign Designation

The title Khan (also rendered as Khagan, Qan, Han) is a historic Turkic and Mongolic honorific title originating among nomadic peoples of the Central and Eastern Eurasian Steppe. It historically denoted a ruler or military leader, akin to a king or emperor.

Geographic Scope

Its usage spanned vast regions, including West, Central, South Asia, and North Africa. Initially signifying a king, its importance and rank varied significantly across different empires and historical periods.

Military and Political Significance

The title was intrinsically linked to leadership and power, often associated with the command of armies and the governance of tribes, confederations, or states. Its evolution reflects the shifting political landscapes of Eurasia.

Origins and Early Usage

Ancient Roots

The title "Khan" first appears prominently among the Rouran and later the Gök-Türks. It is often considered a variant or subordinate form of the title Khagan (sovereign, emperor).

Linguistic Connections

Scholars suggest potential origins from the Rouran language, or Turkic and Para-Mongolic roots. The Xianbei people are also noted as early users of the title.

Steppe Peoples

The title emerged from the nomadic cultures of the Eurasian Steppe, reflecting their social structures and political organization, where leadership was often tied to military prowess and tribal affiliation.

Etymological Debates

Disputed Origins

The precise etymological origin of "Khan" remains a subject of scholarly debate. While a Rouran origin is proposed, strong arguments exist for Turkic and Para-Mongolic roots, supported by linguists like Ramstedt and Sinor.

Iranian Influence

Some theories, including those by Dybo and Benveniste, suggest an ultimate root in Middle Iranian languages, possibly related to terms meaning 'self-ruler' or 'emperor'. Savelyev and Jeong propose connections to Eastern Iranian languages like Saka.

Diffusion and Adaptation

Regardless of its ultimate origin, the title diffused widely, adopted and adapted by various peoples, including the Gök-Türks, who played a crucial role in its spread across Asia.

Historical Trajectory

Early Attestations

The title was used by the Xianbei confederation and potentially the Rourans. The Gök-Türks adopted and utilized the title extensively, influencing its spread. Early Bulgarian rulers also employed related titles like Kanasubigi.

The Mongol Ascendancy

The title gained unprecedented prominence with Genghis Khan, who established the vast Mongol Empire. While he was known as "Genghis Khan," his successors often adopted the higher title of Khagan.

Before 1229, "Khan" designated leaders of significant tribes and confederations. Post-Genghis Khan, the title Khagan (Khan of Khans) was adopted for the supreme ruler of the Mongol Empire, reflecting a hierarchy where "Khan" could denote rulers of subordinate states or major tribal divisions (ulus).

Post-Mongol Era

Following the Mongol Empire, numerous khanates emerged across Central Asia and Eastern Europe, including the Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Kazan, Sibir, Astrakhan, and Crimean Khanates. The title also persisted in Persia, the Caucasus, and parts of India.

Decline and Transformation

Over time, the political significance of the title waned. In later periods, such as during the Safavid and Qajar dynasties in Persia, it denoted high noble ranks or military generals. In Mughal India, it became a high courtier rank. Eventually, it transitioned into a common surname in many regions.

Prominent Empires and Dynasties

Mongol Empire

The title was central to the Mongol Empire's structure. Genghis Khan himself bore the title. His successors ruled vast domains, with the supreme ruler often styled as Khagan.

Turkic and Ottoman Realms

Turkic peoples widely adopted the title. In the Seljuk Empire, it ranked above Malik and Emir. The Ottoman Empire utilized variations and related titles, though Sultan became the primary sovereign title.

Persianate States

In Safavid and Qajar Iran, "Khan" served as a high noble rank, often indicating provincial governors or army generals. Numerous smaller khanates also existed in peripheral regions.

Mughal India

Within the Mughal Empire, "Khan" was a significant noble title, often bestowed upon military commanders and courtiers. Titles like Khan-i-Khanan ("Lord of Lords") signified the commander-in-chief.

Compound and Derived Titles

Imperial and Royal Forms

Higher imperial titles included Khaqan ("Khan of Khans"), used by rulers of the Mongol Empire and successor states. Gur Khan ("Supreme Khan") was the title of Kara-Kitai rulers.

Female Equivalents

The female forms Khatun (of Sogdian origin) and Khanum (prominent in Turkic languages) denoted a queen consort or were used as respectful titles for women of noble status. Their usage varied regionally, sometimes becoming a general term of address.

Noble and Honorary Titles

Various compound titles emerged, such as Khan Bahadur ("Brave Khan") and Khan Sahib, often bestowed as honors by ruling powers like the Mughals or the British Raj. Titles like Ilkhan designated provincial khans.

Regional Variations

Specific regional titles derived from or related to Khan include Kanasubigi (Bulgar), Kavhan (First Bulgarian Empire), Beg Khan (Mughal/Mongol), and various princely titles like Khanzada in India and Central Asia.

Related Terms and Concepts

Associated Terms

The title "Khan" is linked to numerous related concepts and terms, reflecting its deep integration into the political and social fabric of numerous cultures:

Khanate: The territory or domain ruled by a Khan.
Khagan: A higher, imperial title, often translated as "Emperor" or "Great Khan".
Turco-Mongol: Refers to the cultural and political synthesis characteristic of many groups who used the title Khan.
Khan (surname): The title has evolved into a widespread surname, particularly in South Asia.

Linguistic Relatives

Beyond direct derivatives, the title shares conceptual space with other leadership terms across cultures:

Kaan: A related Turkic term for ruler.
Chanyu: Title used by the Xiongnu rulers.
King, Tsar, Kaiser: Equivalent sovereign titles in other traditions.
Bey, Emir, Malik: Other titles denoting rulers or high-ranking nobles in Islamic contexts.

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References

Henning, W. B., 'A Farewell to the Khagan of the Aq-Aqataran',"Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African studies â University of London", Vol 14, No 3, pp. 501â522

Documenta Barbarorum altaica.ru

Fatima Mernissi, "The Forgotten Queens of Islam", University of Minnesota Press, 1993. pg 21: "... Khatun 'is a title of Sogdian origin borne by the wives and female relatives of the Tu-chueh and subsequent Turkish Rulers ..."

A full list of references for this article are available at the Khan (title) Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available academic sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only, providing a scholarly overview of the historical title 'Khan'.

This is not professional historical or genealogical advice. The content is based on data that may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, users should consult primary academic resources and expert historians for definitive interpretations or specific research needs. No representation is made as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein.

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The Khanate Chronicle

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Title of Khan 👑

👑 Sovereign Designation

🗺️ Geographic Scope

⚔️ Military and Political Significance

Origins and Early Usage 🐎

📜 Ancient Roots

🗣️ Linguistic Connections

🌍 Steppe Peoples

Etymological Debates 🗣️

❓ Disputed Origins

🇮🇷 Iranian Influence

🔄 Diffusion and Adaptation

Historical Trajectory 📜

⏳ Early Attestations

🐉 The Mongol Ascendancy

🌐 Post-Mongol Era

📉 Decline and Transformation

Prominent Empires and Dynasties 🏛️

🇲🇳 Mongol Empire

🇹🇷 Turkic and Ottoman Realms

🇮🇷 Persianate States

🇮🇳 Mughal India

Compound and Derived Titles 🔗

👑 Imperial and Royal Forms

👸 Female Equivalents

🎖️ Noble and Honorary Titles

📜 Regional Variations

Related Terms and Concepts ➡️

📚 Associated Terms

🔗 Linguistic Relatives

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References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Title of Khan

Sovereign Designation

Geographic Scope

Military and Political Significance

Origins and Early Usage

Ancient Roots

Linguistic Connections

Steppe Peoples

Etymological Debates

Disputed Origins

Iranian Influence

Diffusion and Adaptation

Historical Trajectory

Early Attestations

The Mongol Ascendancy

Post-Mongol Era

Decline and Transformation

Prominent Empires and Dynasties

Mongol Empire

Turkic and Ottoman Realms

Persianate States

Mughal India

Compound and Derived Titles

Imperial and Royal Forms

Female Equivalents

Noble and Honorary Titles

Regional Variations

Related Terms and Concepts

Associated Terms

Linguistic Relatives

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Scholarly Disclaimer

Important Notice