Letter: Moss. VII,204.1

Description

Letter in Judaeo-Arabic in rudimentary handwriting, early 13th century (or perhaps 11th century [AA]), addressed to "my brother" Abū l-Ghayth. Abū l-Majd recently arrived in Bilbays and told the writer that he had gone with Umm Abū l-Ghayth (perhaps the writer's sister who shares a name with their mother?) to the Rayyis, and conducted the symbolic purchase to the effect that she will give him (the addressee?) the qumāsh (dowry) of his (the addressee's?) sister on Thursday. The writer continues, "As soon as you see this letter, go to Abū l-Faraj b. al-Rayyis al-Iskandarānī (aka Eliyyahu the Judge), and go with him to the Rayyis, and take possession of the dowry of your sister's daughter." There follows a difficult sentence, then the writer lists all the items in the dowry. The relationships and the legal standing of the various parties are confusing. Needs further examination. ASE.