Judaeo-Persica I: Sahin-i Sirazi's Ardasir nama
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Judaeo-Persica I: Sahin-i Sirazi's Ardasir nama
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study of Judeo-Persian literature has greatly expanded thanks to the efforts of scholars like Wilhelm Bacher, who, around the turn of the century, analyzed manuscripts and books collected by Elkan N. Adler and Simeon Chakam, a Bukharan Jew living in Jerusalem. This scholarly work revealed that Judeo-Persian literature is not limited to translations of the Old Testament but also includes a diverse range of valuable Persian classics and original literature of considerable literary and historical significance. One of the key figures in this tradition was Maulana Sahin from Shiraz, who gained prominence in the 14th century during the Ilkhanate era.
The Significance of Maulana Sahin
Sahin was a notable epic poet who drew upon historical and religious narratives, reminiscent of Firdausi’s grand epic, the Sah-nama. While later Persian poetry has often been labeled as mere imitative works of the Sah-nama, Sahin's contributions distinguish him as more than just a follower; his unique style and cultural context granted him a special place in the post-Firdausian "Nama" literature. His works include epic poetry such as the Pentateuch poetry in two parts, the Genesis book and the Moses book, as well as the Ardasir poetry, showcasing his literary prowess. Moreover, Sahin's incorporation of Zoroastrian elements and themes adds richness to his works, which provide insight into the complexities of Jewish identity and heritage within the Persian cultural milieu.
Conclusion
The legacy of Maulana Sahin and Judeo-Persian literature continues to be explored, with manuscripts from various regions shedding light on the period's literary landscape. Scholars like Simeon Chakam played a crucial role in making Sahin's works accessible to a wider audience, thus introducing him into the global literary canon. As interest in Judeo-Persian literature grows, it affirms the ongoing importance of these narratives in understanding the intertwined histories and cultures of Jews and Persians, revealing a profound literary heritage that transcends religious and geographical boundaries.
Original source:
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Jes P. Amunsen
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Judaeo-Persica I: Sahin-i Sirazi's Ardasir nama
Year: 1963 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5246
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What impact did Wilhelm Bacher have on Judeo-Persian literature?
Wilhelm Bacher significantly advanced the study of Judeo-Persian literature by analyzing manuscripts and works gathered by notable collectors, revealing the rich literary heritage beyond just Biblical translations.
Who was Sahin-i Sirazi and what was his significance?
Sahin-i Sirazi (circa 1788) was an influential Judeo-Persian poet known for his contributions to literature during the Ilkhanate, drawing parallels with notable Persian poets and creating essential original works.
What works are attributed to Sahin-i Sirazi?
Sahin-i Sirazi is attributed with several important works, including two significant texts: the Genesisbook and the Mosesbook, along with a poetic narrative about Ardasir, which reflect both historical and literary value.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Judaeo-Persica I: Sahin-i Sirazi's Ardasir nama”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Literature:
The term 'Literature' refers to the body of written works, in this context, particularly referring to Judeo-Persian literature, which includes poetry and prose produced by Jewish authors in Persian. It encompasses various genres and historical perspectives, showcasing the cultural synthesis of Jewish and Persian influences from the medieval period onward.
2) Religion:
Religion denotes the organized system of beliefs, practices, and values that shape the worldview and life of a community. In the context of Judeo-Persian literature, it highlights the interaction of Jewish religious texts with Persian cultural elements, contributing to the development of a unique literary tradition reflecting faith and identity.
3) Bombay:
Bombay, now Mumbai, is a significant city in India known for its diverse cultural tapestry. Within the context of Judeo-Persian literature, references to Bombay may relate to scholarship or communities of Persian-speaking Jews, indicating a geographical locus for the dissemination and study of this literature influenced by historical migrations and trade routes.
4) Tamal:
Damal refers to a figure or concept possibly linked with historical narratives in Persian literature. Its precise implications in Judeo-Persian texts warrant exploration, particularly regarding characters, themes, or folklore that might intersect with the broader Persian literary tradition and contribute to understanding cultural exchanges in the region.
5) Jacob:
Jacob, a prominent biblical figure, is significant in Judeo-Persian literature where his stories and interpretations are woven into the fabric of religious texts. His presence often symbolizes themes of faith, struggle, and legacy—connecting Jewish midrashic traditions with poetic forms and narrative adaptations in Persian-language works.
6) Roman (Roma):
Roma may refer to a geographical or cultural concept relevant to the heritage and history of Jewish communities, particularly in relation to the diaspora. In the context of Judeo-Persian literature, it could denote cultural exchanges that occurred across regions, influencing literary styles and themes in the Jewish-Persian narrative.
7) Jami:
Jami refers to a renowned Persian poet and scholar whose works are celebrated in Persian literature. His influence extends into Judeo-Persian literature where themes of mysticism, love, and spiritual reflection resonate. Jami's cultural significance represents the bridging of Persian poetic forms with Jewish literary expression in different historical contexts.
8) Horn:
Horn likely denotes Paul Horn, a scholar related to studies in Judeo-Persian literature. His contributions may involve analyses or translations of Jewish Persian texts, reflecting the scholarly effort to understand the linguistic, cultural, and literary intersections that characterize the Judeo-Persian literary heritage, enriching the academic discourse surrounding these works.