The Kanto Clan and Their Library: Islamic Literature And Knowledge in A Wsa ('Afar)
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2012-12
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This thesis deals with the 'Afar clan of KadIto (Asrat) and more specifically with the heritage
of Arabic MSS preserved in their Mosque of Dale, near the town of Aysa'Ita (Asaita) in
Awsa. I explain how, when, why and by whom the library in the Mosque of Dale was
established, and describe its present chaotic condition. The heart of the thesis is a short
catalogue of 29 MSS which I found in that library, followed by a closer philological analysis
of 10 of the MSS. In addition, the thesis discusses many issues relating to 'Afar culture,
geography, history and economy. These include such general topics as 'Afar oral literature,
food, law, clothing, as well as a history of Islamic and Muslim leaders in 'Afar and
particularly in Awsa. The history and importance of the KadIto clan, and of other scholarly
clans such as the Kabirto and Seihak-SarTfa, are presented based on oral tradition
Description
Keywords
Kanto Clan, Their Library, Islamic Literature