Seal-Holder Position in Astan-e Quds-e Razavi from the Safavid to the Qajarid Era

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 MA. History, Astan Qouds Razavi, Mashhad, I. R. Iran, (Corresponding author).

2 Assistant Professor, History of Islamic Civilization Islamic, Azad University, Mashhad, I. R. Iran

Abstract

Purpose: This paper explores the social, cultural, and economic rank of the position of seal-holder in the shrine of the 8th Shia Imam (=Astan-e Quds-e Razavi) in Mashad during from 16th to early 20th century.
Method and Research Design: Data for this paper was collected from archive documents and library sources.
Findings and Conclusion: The position was granted to prominent citizens. Although it was inferior compared to that of its counterpart in the kings’ courts, the Astan’s seal-holder was locally a high ranking position with considerable influence in the whole country. During the Safavids (16th and 17th centuries) the kings appointed the seal-holder. During the Gajarids he was appointed by Motavalli Astan-e Quds-e Razavi (=the Custodian of the Shrine) The seal on every document was a non-arguable sign of authenticity. The position became obsolete after the practice of signing instead of sealing documents became common in the Pahlavi era.

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Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 15 November 2017
  • Revise Date: 27 November 2017
  • Accept Date: 20 August 2018

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