Great men, it is often said, are ahead of their time, and Charles Doughty undoubtedly exemplifies this adage. A pioneering figure in the realm of travel literature, Doughty, known for his remarkable journey through Arabia, ventured where few had dared to tread nearly a century before the great British Arabists emerged on the scene. His magnum opus, a captivating account of his experiences, despite its intrinsic brilliance, received but modest recognition from his contemporaries in his native England. Nevertheless, the enduring greatness of Doughty’s work is not measured merely by the accolades of his time but by the profound impact it would have on future generations.
It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of his travels that, years later, his fellow countrymen and Arabists at large found themselves making extensive references to his works, drawing from his keen insights on both natural and human geography. In the following essay, we shall delve into a small yet illuminating portion of these insights, as gleaned from his sojourn in Unaizah, a place nestled in the sands of what is modern-day Saudi Arabia. Here, we shall embark on a journey through Doughty’s observations, unearthing the treasures of knowledge and understanding he left behind in his path, awaiting the curious explorer to follow in his footsteps.
Unaizah: A Glimpse into an Arabian Oasis
Nestled in the heart of the Arabian desert, Unaizah is a town with an intriguing history and culture. Charles Doughty’s observations during his 19th-century journey shed light on this enigmatic settlement.
Ancient Settlement of Jannah
Within the vicinity of Unaizah lies an ancient settlement known as Jannah. Charles Doughty, the intrepid British explorer, encountered remnants of this long-abandoned town during his travels. As he ventured into the heart of Unaizah, Doughty came across traces of Jannah, a settlement that once stood as a rival to Unaizah, separated by a mere mile. Doughty’s writings offer a glimpse into the historical significance of Jannah within the larger context of Unaizah’s storied past.
A Tapestry of Rivalry and Change
Intriguing historical context surrounds the town of Unaizah, and Charles Doughty’s accounts offer fascinating insights into its past. Jannah, a settlement within Unaizah, was founded by a figure named Fendy, a member of the Bani Khalid tribe. This settlement, born from the annals of history, predated Unaizah itself. The two towns shared a complex and enduring history, marked by perpetual enmity, despite their close proximity, standing a mere mile apart.
Jannah’s narrative takes us back through the annals of time, having been abandoned for a substantial period of about 95 years, but remnants of this once-thriving settlement lingered on until just four decades ago. Doughty’s meticulous accounts evoke images of old, weathered houses still standing on the site of Jannah, now transformed into fertile fields.
The Bani Khalid Arab tribe, hailing from El-Hasa, once called this region home. In Doughty’s era, they had shifted their nomadic existence northward, wandering towards the lands of Kuwait. These nomadic shifts mirror the ever-changing landscape of the Arabian desert, where tribes like Bani Khalid repositioned themselves according to the rhythms of nature and history. Doughty’s writings capture this dynamic history, where ancient enmities, abandoned settlements, and nomadic tribes all contribute to the rich tapestry of the Arabian desert’s past.
Unravelling the Tapestry of Lineage
The nomadic ebb and flow of tribes in the Arabian desert is a recurring theme. Doughty notes that the Ajman, formerly residents of other regions, have also ventured northward and now reside in the vicinity of Kuwait, bearing witness to the ever-shifting sands of tradition and territory.
As we delve further into the narrative, we encounter the founders of Unaizah. Colonists from es-Sbeya, specifically the Keys (according to Doughty) , embarked on the ambitious venture that led to the establishment of this Arabian town. The enduring legacy of these pioneers is a testament to the power of human will and ambition in a land that has long been both harsh and bountiful. Doughty’s meticulous descriptions breathe life into the ancestral connections and nomadic migrations, revealing the intricate web of lineage and heritage that crisscrosses the Arabian desert, where the past and present coexist in a timeless embrace.
A Journey Through Time and Power
In the tapestry of Unaizah’s history, the element of time becomes an essential thread, and Charles Doughty’s chronicles offer intriguing insights into the temporal dimensions of this Arabian town. According to Sheykh Nasir, a sage of local lore, Jannah, the ancient settlement nestled within Unaizah, saw its inception approximately six centuries ago. This estimation places its foundation three to four generations prior to the establishment of Unaizah, underscoring the antiquity that blankets the region.
What lends further intrigue to Jannah’s history is its early association with the Wahhabi power. In the annals of Arabia, the Wahhabi movement holds a significant place, and Doughty’s historical notes illuminate the symbiotic relationship between Jannah and the burgeoning Wahhabi authority during their formative years. This connection with a burgeoning religious and political movement lends an air of mystique to the town’s early existence, as its fortunes waxed and waned in tandem with the rise of Wahhabism.
The passage of centuries, the rise and fall of powers, and the indomitable spirit of the people are intricately interwoven in the history of Unaizah, as seen through the discerning lens of Charles Doughty. His meticulous observations offer us a bridge through time, connecting us with the ancestral roots and the changing tides of power that have shaped this Arabian town.
Echoes of Departure and Resettlement
Within the annals of Unaizah’s history, a chapter unfolds where the inhabitants of Jannah faced a crossroads, marked by difficulties and a poignant decision – to abandon their ancestral abode. Charles Doughty’s keen observations illuminate the circumstances surrounding the decline and eventual relocation of the Khalidies from Jannah, weaving a narrative that reverberates with a sense of both loss and hope.
The trials faced by the Khalidies of Jannah, which precipitated their departure, remain veiled in the sands of time. However, their choice to abandon their cherished town did not signify the end of their journey. Many of these resilient souls embarked on a new chapter, seeking refuge and opportunity in the northern regions of the Arabian landscape. Others, bound by ancestral ties and a shared history, found solace in the heart of Unaizah, where the past and present converged, fostering a sense of unity among the descendants of Jannah.
In recounting these poignant events, Charles Doughty’s narrative immerses us in the emotional and pragmatic aspects of human migration, evoking the sense of yearning for a brighter future while paying homage to the bonds that tie a community together. The story of Jannah’s abandonment and the subsequent dispersion of its people are not mere historical footnotes but chapters that resonate with the perennial themes of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring spirit of human endeavour.
The Tapestry of Unaizah’s Landscape
Charles Doughty’s descriptive pen paints a vivid picture of Unaizah, offering a glimpse into the geographical tapestry that defines this Arabian town. Amidst this arid terrain, the author’s words transport us to a world where Kenneyny’s palm and corn-ground emerge as oases of sustenance within a vast expanse of sandy soil. These lush pockets, covering approximately three and a half acres, stand as a testament to the resilience of the people who, through toil and perseverance, cultivated life amidst challenging conditions.
Intriguingly, the town of Unaizah, while nestled in the embrace of the desert, is not without its own tales of struggle and endurance. Doughty notes that a part of the town’s wall had succumbed to the relentless passage of time, revealing the expanse of the Nefud, a sand-sea that stretches into the horizon. This exposed vista, stark in its simplicity, symbolises the delicate balance between human habitation and the natural forces that shape the land.
The juxtaposition of fertile acres and the unyielding sands reminds us of the harmonious yet precarious coexistence of humanity and the desert. Unaizah’s geography is a canvas where life persists, where the toil of its inhabitants has triumphed over adversity, and where nature, though harsh, remains an integral part of the town’s story. It is in these geographical details that we find the enduring spirit of Unaizah, a town that thrives amidst the dunes and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
Wealth and Want in Unaizah
Within the tapestry of Unaizah’s existence, economic threads weave a complex narrative, reflecting both prosperity and deprivation. Charles Doughty’s account delves into the economic intricacies of this Arabian town, revealing a diverse spectrum of livelihoods and hardships.
One prominent figure in Unaizah’s economic landscape is Abdullah, a trader who engaged in a variety of commodities. His business dealings encompassed the trading of horses and slaves, as well as the sale of rice to Arabian ports. Abdullah’s ventures were emblematic of the multifaceted nature of Unaizah’s economy, where a blend of traditional trades and regional commerce coexisted.
Doughty’s observations extend beyond individual pursuits, delving into the broader economic context of the town. Money, land values, and water resources are discussed as pivotal factors that shape the town’s prosperity. The monetary system, reflecting the economic heartbeat of Unaizah, witnessed its own fluctuations and challenges, mirroring the ebb and flow of economic fortunes.
Yet, amid the bustling trade and economic transactions, a darker undercurrent emerges. Doughty points to the scourge of usury practices by money-lenders, casting a shadow on the lives of many inhabitants. The vicious cycle of indebtedness and exploitation by money-lenders paints a picture of economic inequality and individual impoverishment, echoing the broader societal struggles of the time.
Unaizah’s economic aspects, as chronicled by Doughty, reflect the intricate interplay of wealth and want, of opportunity and adversity. The town’s economic ecosystem, rich in its diversity, stands as a reflection of the human spirit’s capacity to thrive, even in the face of economic challenges. In Unaizah, as in many places, the pursuit of livelihood is a reflection of the resilience and adaptability of its people in the ever-changing sands of time.
A Tale of Knowledge and Well-Being
Amidst the arid and enigmatic landscapes of Unaizah, Charles Doughty’s writings unveil an intriguing relationship that blossomed between two seemingly disparate individuals: the venerable Bedouin sheikh Ibn Ayith and a literate, discerning figure. This literary vignette offers a glimpse into the confluence of knowledge and well-being within the tapestry of Unaizah’s society.
Ibn Ayith, the Bedouin sheikh, emerges as a figure of reverence, steeped in the traditions of his people. Despite his nomadic lifestyle, he carried the beacon of knowledge, particularly in matters of religion. His wisdom extended not only to spiritual concerns but also encompassed the realm of health – a testament to the holistic nature of wisdom within his culture.
In contrast, we encounter Abdullah el-Bessam, a man renowned for his generosity. In the unforgiving environment of Unaizah, where sustenance is often scarce, Abdullah stands as a beacon of benevolence. His kindness is manifest in the act of sharing his food with Ibn Ayith, an act that transcends the mere exchange of sustenance but symbolises the deep bonds of camaraderie that can form between individuals in the face of adversity.
Doughty’s writings allude to an intriguing interaction between the Bedouin sheikh and Ibn Ayith, one that revolves around the dual concerns of prayers and health. This dialogue reflects the fusion of tradition and knowledge, as well as the recognition of the symbiotic relationship between spiritual well-being and physical vitality. In Unaizah, the discourse between Ibn Ayith and his benevolent benefactor serves as a microcosm of the town’s essence, where diverse threads of wisdom and humanity intersect to create a rich tapestry.
The tale of Ibn Ayith and his quest for well-being resonates with a universal theme – the pursuit of health, both of body and soul, and the role that knowledge and compassion play in this endeavour. In the sands of Unaizah, as in any other corner of the world, the exchange of wisdom and kindness continues to illuminate the human spirit, forging connections that endure the tests of time.
Unaizah’s Marginalised Voices
Within the bustling streets of Unaizah, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, Charles Doughty’s narrative casts light on a segment of the population often shrouded in silence – the widows, divorced wives, the aged, and those burdened with disabilities. In the shadow of this vibrant Arabian town, these individuals found themselves navigating a challenging path, where their voices were often reduced to whispers, and their means of sustenance became confined to the act of begging.
The plight of widows and divorced wives in Unaizah echoes a universal story of women thrust into the unknown, grappling with the complexities of societal expectations and personal desires. Unaizah, with its rich tapestry of culture and tradition, also witnessed these struggles. Doughty’s pen paints a picture of these resilient women who, despite the odds stacked against them, found the strength to carve out their spaces in the town’s mosaic.
The aged, too, found themselves woven into the intricate fabric of Unaizah’s society. Their experiences and wisdom, etched into the lines on their faces, carried the weight of time. The town served as a custodian of their memories, and in return, they added a layer of authenticity to Unaizah’s story, embodying the notion that a society’s value is measured not just by its youth but also by its elders.
And then there were those burdened with disabilities, often on the fringes of society, struggling to find their place. The challenges they faced were palpable, but so were their indomitable spirits. Unaizah, like any community, bore witness to their resilience as they faced adversities with courage, their presence reminding us that humanity’s strength often lies in its diversity.
Begging, a practice deeply rooted in the margins of society, became a survival strategy for these marginalised individuals. In the streets of Unaizah, the act of begging was more than a mere exchange of alms; it was a poignant commentary on the inequalities that often define human existence. It called upon the town’s more fortunate denizens to pause, reflect, and extend a helping hand to those who had been dealt a tougher hand by fate.
A Glimpse of Sanctity: The Arrival of a Sherif in Unaizah
In Charles Doughty’s evocative accounts of Unaizah, a remarkable episode emerges that speaks to the town’s connection with the broader religious and spiritual currents of the Arabian Peninsula. Amidst the sand dunes and windswept streets of Unaizah, the arrival of a sherif from Medina brought a touch of sanctity that left an indelible mark on the town’s collective memory.
The sherif’s arrival was not a mere casual visit; it was a moment of great significance for the town’s inhabitants. Doughty’s narrative portrays the way in which this religious figure was not only welcomed but accommodated in a public hostel, reflecting the profound respect and reverence the townsfolk had for the sanctity that the sherif embodied.
For those residing in Unaizah, the arrival of the sherif must have been akin to an oasis amidst the arid expanse of the Nefud desert. It was a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between their town and the spiritual heart of the Arabian Peninsula, Medina.
The very act of accommodating the sherif in a public hostel is a testament to the hospitality and veneration that Unaizah held for those who carried the mantle of religion. In the swirling sands of the desert, the townsfolk’s gesture symbolised their desire to be hospitable hosts and to honour the spiritual leaders who traversed the vast Arabian landscape.
Nurturing Ambitions: Kenneyny’s Vision for His Son’s Education
In the arid, windswept expanse of Unaizah, amidst the enduring tales of a town’s history and culture, there emerges a story that epitomises the aspirations of a father for his son. Kenneyny, a man of Unaizah, harboured grand dreams for the education and future of his offspring.
Charles Doughty’s narrative unveils a compelling facet of Kenneyny’s character as he sought to provide his son with an education that transcended the confines of their desert town. Kenneyny’s vision was bold and ambitious, reflecting his unwavering determination to offer his child the best opportunities that knowledge and the world had to offer.
Kenneyny’s educational plan was nothing short of comprehensive. His son’s curriculum encompassed a diverse array of languages, including Persian, Turkish, French, and English. It is a testament to Kenneyny’s understanding of the globalised world, even in the heart of the Arabian desert, where he recognized the importance of linguistic proficiency in fostering connections and accessing knowledge from different corners of the world.
What truly sets Kenneyny’s ambitions apart is his plan to send his son to Europe when he reached his early twenties. This vision is a testament to a father’s unyielding belief in the potential of his progeny, as well as a testament to the way Unaizah, despite its remoteness, was firmly anchored in the broader world. Kenneyny understood that exposure to diverse cultures, technologies, and ideas would empower his son to contribute to the development and prosperity of their town upon his return.
Abdullah’s story begins with his father, a humble horse trader who, despite his labour, remained ensnared in the shackles of poverty. It was within these humble beginnings that Abdullah inherited not just his father’s legacy but also the fervent desire to break free from the cycle of deprivation that had burdened his family for generations.
As a young man, Abdullah embarked on a journey that led him to different corners of the Arabian world. His life became a tapestry of various trades and experiences, reflecting a keen and adaptable mind ready to explore and seize opportunities. His travels exposed him to the diverse tapestry of Arabian culture, as he witnessed the ebb and flow of traditions and customs in different regions.
It was this journey that eventually brought Abdullah to Unaizah, where he carved a niche for himself as a corn-chandler. Here, he established a reputation for trading on trust, a practice that elevated him in the eyes of the townsfolk and instilled in him the trust and respect of the community. Abdullah’s success wasn’t solely based on monetary gains but was deeply rooted in his character, his integrity, and his commitment to the welfare of the town he now called home.
Doughty’s narrative beautifully captures Abdullah’s progression from a life of hardships to becoming a cornerstone of Unaizah’s society. His evolution from a wandering trader to a trusted, benevolent figure exemplifies the transformative power of resilience and the impact one individual can have on a community.
Abdullah el-Bessam’s Legacy
Charles Doughty’s journey through the Arabian town of Unaizah provides us with an intriguing glimpse into the economic dynamics of the region, and at the center of this economic web stands Abdullah el-Bessam. In a town where traditions and values run deep, economic prosperity was not solely measured in material wealth but in trust, integrity, and the relationships that bound the community together.
Abdullah’s annual household spending of approximately £400 might appear modest when viewed through a Western lens, but in the context of Unaizah, it marked him as a figure of affluence. This sum represented more than financial resources; it was a measure of the prosperity he had gained through his years of trading, not just in goods but in the currency of trust.
Abdullah’s success was built upon a unique approach to business. He was not a merchant who solely traded in commodities; he was a merchant of trust. His economic dealings were deeply rooted in his knowledge of his clients, a valuable currency that transcended the mundane exchange of goods and money. This knowledge allowed him to navigate the complexities of the marketplace, to understand the needs and desires of his customers, and to build relationships that were as enduring as they were profitable.
In Unaizah, the concept of trust was a currency unto itself, underpinning the town’s economic structure. It was a place where one’s reputation could carry more weight than gold, where word-of-mouth and a person’s character were invaluable assets. Abdullah’s prosperity can be attributed to his unwavering commitment to maintaining that trust, a commitment that extended beyond his business transactions into the very fabric of his being.
Abdullah el-Bessam was not merely a man of means; he was a man of profound empathy. His benevolent actions rippled through the community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of its inhabitants. Doughty’s narrative captures the collective praises and encomiums heaped upon this remarkable individual. In a place where the relentless heat of the desert tested the mettle of even the most resilient souls, Abdullah’s acts of kindness shone like a precious gem in the harsh, unforgiving terrain.
One particular example of Abdullah’s compassion, elucidated by Doughty, provides an illuminating insight into the depths of his charitable spirit. The tale of Abdullah extending his hand, not to those who sought his aid through merely traditional channels, but to the deserting soldiers, stands as a testament to his exceptional character. In a society where deserters were often seen as outcasts, Abdullah welcomed them with open arms, offering them shelter, sustenance, and hope.
This act of compassion towards soldier-deserters illuminates a profound truth – that true generosity knows no bounds. Abdullah el-Bessam’s generosity knew no prejudice or judgement; it was a beacon of light in a world often darkened by division and mistrust. His deeds resonated through the town, forging bonds of unity and fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
Unaizah: Navigating the Political Landscape of Arabia
In Charles Doughty’s chronicles of Unaizah, a town nestled amidst the Arabian deserts, a complex tapestry of political and historical interactions unfolded. This modest Arabian town, despite its seemingly remote location, was not isolated from the broader political currents of the Arabian Peninsula. It held historical connections and obligations that echoed across the sandy dunes.
Doughty, in his encounters with the people of Unaizah, unearthed references to an Ottoman Government agent who had visited their town. This individual, an emissary of a powerful empire, undertook the task of documenting town names and tribes, thus making a historical record of the region. The presence of such an agent underscored the fact that Unaizah, though small and humble, was not immune to the interests of larger political entities. Its significance transcended its modest size.
A pivotal point in the town’s historical and political interactions was its acknowledgment of an obligation to pay tribute to the Ottoman Government. This tribute represented a tangible link between Unaizah and the far-reaching Ottoman Empire. It was a demonstration of Unaizah’s adherence to a system of governance that extended beyond its own borders.
Unaizah’s position in the larger political landscape of Arabia illustrated a nuanced and interconnected world. It showed that even in the heart of the desert, where the sands stretched endlessly, the tendrils of politics and history could be felt. The town’s interactions with the Ottoman Government agent and its acknowledgment of tribute served as a reminder that the past was woven together by intricate threads of diplomacy and obligation.
In a landscape where history was etched in the grains of sand and power extended its reach over vast stretches, Unaizah’s history was a testament to the enduring significance of political and historical interactions. It was a story of a town that, in its own humble way, played a part in the broader narrative of Arabia, navigating the shifting sands of politics and diplomacy.
Unveiling the Enigma of “Jorda”
Charles Doughty’s remarkable narrative unfolds as an expedition through the deserts of Arabia, uncovering hidden stories and mysteries that have eluded history’s grasp. One such enigma that caught his attention was the elusive location of “Jorda.” In the annals of time, this place remained shrouded in obscurity, leaving travellers and scholars alike puzzled. As Doughty embarked on his journey, he, too, was drawn into the labyrinthine quest to find “Jorda.”
The text Doughty penned alludes to a persistent and unresolved inquiry regarding the whereabouts of “Jorda.” Old itineraries and historical documents had failed to provide a clear indication of this mysterious place. Yet, Doughty, with his insatiable curiosity, couldn’t resist delving into the depths of the Arabian landscape in search of this enigmatic locale.
Upon arriving in the region, Doughty confronted a community that was initially unable to offer any concrete information about “Jorda.” The obscurity of the place seemed to be mirrored in the people’s collective memory. Yet, as he engaged with the locals, his unwavering determination and keen observations sparked a collective effort to decipher the puzzle of “Jorda.”
The local individuals, armed with their intimate knowledge of the geographical features and the echoes of history etched into the landscape, gradually began to piece together educated guesses regarding the elusive “Jorda.” The process was akin to solving an intricate jigsaw puzzle, with each clue and insight contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of this long-lost place.
As the enigma of “Jorda” gradually begins to unravel, we are reminded that the world is replete with secrets waiting to be uncovered, and that even the most elusive mysteries can be solved through a combination of curiosity, diligence, and the collective wisdom of those who call a place home. Charles Doughty’s expedition into the heart of Arabia is not merely a historical account but an exploration of the endless allure of the unknown, the tantalising riddles that beckon to those who dare to seek.