The Ottoman Ibadis of Cairo: A History

This book explores the history of an Ibadi-run trade depot, school, and library in Cairo, shedding light on how the Ibadi Muslims operated in the Ottoman Empire from the 17th to the early 20th centuries. It provides an original perspective on the history of Egypt and the lives of a Muslim minority community.

Format: Hardback
Length: 253 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Ibadi Muslims, a minority religious community with a rich historical presence across North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the East African coast, have garnered less attention regarding their settlement in Egypt. This book delves into the history of an Ibadi-run trade depot, school, and library that thrived in Cairo for over three hundred years, shedding light on the ways in which Ibadi Muslims navigated and adapted to the legal, religious, commercial, and political realms of the Ottoman Empire from the seventeenth to early twentieth centuries. Through the use of a diverse array of sources, including manuscript notes, family histories, and archival correspondence, Paul M. Love, Jr. presents an original and grassroots perspective on the history of this Muslim majority, offering a vivid portrayal of the experiences of a Muslim minority community within the Ottoman world.

While illuminating the significant events that shaped Egypt's history during this period, the book also brings to life the lived realities of the Ibadi Muslims, showcasing their struggles, achievements, and contributions to the broader Ottoman society. By delving into the details of their daily lives, social interactions, and religious practices, Love, Jr. provides a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of Muslim minority communities within the Ottoman Empire.

This book is a valuable addition to the literature on the history of the Middle East and North Africa, offering a fresh perspective on the experiences of Ibadi Muslims and their role within the larger Ottoman Empire. It will appeal to scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Muslim communities and their interactions with the broader world.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009254281