Documents of Eastern Jordan During the Ottoman Era: New Findings from Jerusalem Sharia Court Records (922–1336 AH / 1516–1918 AD): A Documentary Study

Abstract

This study aims to examine the documents of Eastern Jordan during the Ottoman era (1516–1918), relying on the records of Jerusalem Sharia Court preserved at the Center for Documents, Manuscripts, and Studies of Bilad Al-Sham at the University of Jordan. These records are analyzed and scrutinized as new sources of information to provide insights into the historical realities of the study area based on the documents contained within these records.  The researcher adopted the descriptive historical-analytical method, conducting a comprehensive review and survey of 416 Sharia court records, comprising approximately 170,000 pages and containing around 800,000 documents. These documents were meticulously examined one by one over the years of research and follow-up. The study analyzes the records geographically and administratively, exploring their insights into the population and their social life, including professions, intermarriage, marriage, divorce, khulʿ (a form of divorce initiated by the wife), guardianship, alimony, inheritance, and the negative aspects of their daily life. Moreover, the research examines various aspects of their activities and relationships, such as land and agriculture, leasing (Ejarah), endowments (Awqaf), debts and loans, legal claims and powers of attorney, as well as their commercial transactions recorded in sales and purchase contracts. The study confirms the significance of Jerusalem Sharia Court records in highlighting the strategic and geographical importance of Eastern Jordan due to its role as a passage for trade and pilgrimage caravans connecting the Ottoman Empire to Hijaz. The study also reveals the state's efforts to ensure security and protection for these routes, as well as for its fortresses and garrisons.  In addition, the study highlights the security disturbances caused by Bedouin tribes, including acts of looting and banditry, which made the region a refuge for outlaws and rebels. However, over time, these tribes played an important key role in securing and supplying the caravans, contributing to a vibrant social and economic environment, demonstrating that the study area was flourishing and active. The study emphasizes the need to raise awareness among researchers, historians, and scholars about the importance of Jerusalem Sharia Court records, as well as the Palestinian court records in general and other related archives, such as Damascus Sharia Court records. It recommends directing in-depth qualitative research toward studying the conditions, significance, and historical status of Eastern Jordan.