History of Damascus (book)
The History of Damascus is a multi-volume, Arabic-language biographical dictionary and historical chronicle compiled by Ibn 'Asakir (1105-1176 CE). It is considered a major source for the history of Damascus and the surrounding region, as well as a significant resource for Islamic biographical information.
The complete title in Arabic is Ta'rikh Dimashq al-Kabir (تاريخ دمشق الكبير), meaning "The Great History of Damascus." It is an extremely large work, originally comprising around 80 volumes. Different editions and abridgements exist, varying in length and content.
The History of Damascus focuses primarily on biographies of prominent figures who lived in or were associated with Damascus. This includes individuals from various fields, such as religious scholars, political figures, poets, and other notable individuals. Ibn 'Asakir diligently collected information from a wide range of sources, including earlier historical texts, oral traditions, and personal accounts.
Each biography typically includes the individual's lineage (isnad), birth and death dates, biographical details, anecdotes, and accounts of their activities and accomplishments in Damascus. Ibn 'Asakir also includes quotations from or about the subjects, providing valuable insights into their lives and times.
The significance of the History of Damascus lies in its comprehensive coverage of Damascene history and its preservation of biographical information that might otherwise have been lost. It provides invaluable data for researchers studying Islamic history, genealogy, literature, and the social and intellectual life of the medieval Islamic world. Its detailed biographical entries offer insights into the networks of scholars, the transmission of knowledge, and the cultural landscape of Damascus throughout history.
Several editions and translations of portions of the History of Damascus exist, making it accessible to scholars and researchers. However, due to its immense size, a complete translation remains a significant undertaking.