خلاصه و جستاری موجز از تاریخ خاندان مشایخ انصاری لاری

Preface

After conducting extensive research on the history of Larestan Region and southern Iran, it has become evident to us that the renowned members of Al-Ansāri (Ansāri Lāri) family were among the immigrants from the Arabian Peninsula, who settled in southern Iran, specifically Larestan, during the early Islamic centuries. Over time, various branches of this family established themselves in different parts of Iran, such as Fars (including Shiraz and its surrounding cities) and Hormozgan (including its ports and islands). They also spread to other countries like Shāmāt (Aleppo, Damascus, Jerusalem, Ottoman, Istanbul, Diyār Bakr (a city resided by Kurdish people in eastern Turkey)), Afghanistan, India, the United Arab Emirates (including Sharjah and Dubai), and Egypt. Throughout their history, they have been known for their numerous charitable contributions.

Over the past 3 decades, I have dedicated a significant portion of my documental research and fieldwork to uncovering the rich history of Larestan and the southern regions of Iran. During this time, while delving into the biographies of notable scholars and prominent figures from the past, I made an intriguing discovery. It became apparent that a prominent family known as Mashāyekh al-Ansāri (Ansāri Lāri) possessed a vast collection of valuable manuscripts and works spanning a wide range of disciplines. What surprised me even more was the fact that a considerable number of educated and knowledgeable individuals from this family were constantly on the move, driven by their thirst for knowledge. Despite their nomadic lifestyle, these individuals maintained a strong connection to their homeland, often identifying themselves as "Lāri" or "Al-Lāri" wherever they settled across the globe.

The aforementioned events ignited an indescribable sense of motivation within me during my initial foray into historical studies. This motivation compelled me to embark on a dedicated research endeavor aimed at unraveling the significant cultural and scientific aspects of this remarkable family. While the initial drive was present, it became evident that a scientific roadmap needed to be meticulously crafted, aligning with established historical methodologies and guided by an individual well-versed in the subject matter. Additionally, financial support was essential to facilitate the procurement, compilation, and organization of the vast array of documents and archival materials, including numerous manuscripts. Furthermore, achieving the desired objective necessitated the inclusion of field investigations, local research, and a comprehensive study of the ancestral homes and migration patterns of the family members. Consequently, I patiently awaited an opportune moment to transform this inner desire and motivation into a tangible and practical undertaking.Remarkably, my long-held aspiration was unexpectedly realized through a proposition put forth by Mansour Ismā'eeli, a dear old friend who was actively involved in public affairs.

Mr. Ismā'eeli serves as the managing director of Larestan Hāshemi Foundation, a philanthropic and non-profit organization. This esteemed foundation has made significant contributions to the society by initiating numerous projects that benefit the public. With the generous support of charitable individuals, it has successfully undertaken the construction and establishment of various health and medical facilities, sports centers, and cultural institutions. I have known Mr. Esmā'eeli since my childhood days as we grew up in the same neighborhood and attended the same school. Our friendship has always been strong and enduring. Throughout the years, Mr. Esmā'eeli has been well aware of my passion and involvement in historical matters.

Given his connection to certain individuals from the Al-Ansāri family, who had sought his support for noble causes, he expressed a keen interest in having a book compiled on the history of this remarkable family. As was customary, I required sufficient time to conduct preliminary investigations and consult with esteemed professors to determine the best approach for fulfilling this request. Together, we established a deadline by which a decision would be made regarding the execution of this project.

I approached Dr. Mohammad Bāqer Vosouqi, a distinguished teacher of history at Tehran University, to discuss this request. It was crucial and inevitable for me to seek the guidance of Professor Vosouqi, who was widely recognized as one of the foremost authorities in the field of southern Iranian history, particularly Larestan. With his expertise, I was confident that we could develop a comprehensive roadmap and scientific methodology to accomplish the aforementioned objective. Upon discussing the matter with Professor Vosouqi, he graciously expressed his support and willingness to collaborate, pledging to assist in all the necessary processes involved in identifying and compiling the history of the Al-Ansāri family. On the other hand, Mr. Esmā'eeli extended an offer to the Ansāri family, expressing his readiness to assemble a scientific research team and initiate practical measures. A well-defined roadmap was presented, outlining the necessary steps and providing a coherent plan to achieve the desired objectives. These actions were projected to yield the desired outcome within a timeframe of 20 months. To ensure a systematic approach, the proposal and project outline were meticulously crafted, encompassing a well-structured schedule of goals and plans. The compilation plan also included a clear perspective and vision for attaining both intermediate and overarching objectives.

Consequently, a comprehensive program was devised to address various aspects related to accessing documents and manuscripts, conducting documentary studies in libraries both domestically and internationally, and examining local endowment and archival materials. The program also accounted for laboratory-related matters, including genetic analysis and laboratory examinations of tablets, etc. among other considerations. Furthermore, the program anticipated the formation of field teams to conduct on-site studies and gather valuable observations. With the guidance of Dr. Vosouqi, the necessary roadmap was developed and an operational framework was meticulously planned. The initial phase of this research project was commenced by utilizing Professor Vosouqi's personal archive, which he had diligently compiled over a span of 40 years. This phase, lasting 2 months, involved the meticulous identification of authentic documents and copies, as well as the exploration of scientific elements pertaining to the aforementioned family across different centuries, particularly the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries. Dr. Vosouqi's continuous efforts resulted in the compilation of written materials during this period.

Having successfully completed this stage, the path for further research and investigation into the history of the Al-Ansāri (Ansāri Lāri) family became clearer, allowing for the continuation of the project.

Regrettably, due to personal issues and particularly academic commitments, we were unable to maintain direct collaboration with Dr. Vosouqi beyond the initial stage. Although he kindly offered his continued guidance for the research project, the responsibility of overseeing all research activities fell solely upon me from that point onward. Initially, I faced significant doubts and apprehension regarding the research stages compounded by the absence of direct support from Dr. Vosouqi. I questioned whether I would be capable of achieving the desired goals in a satisfactory manner. However, there was no time to halt the work as the research teams had already been assembled in Lar, Shiraz, and Tehran with the experts selected for their respective roles. They had commenced the distribution of responsibilities and were diligently following the research project's schedule.Despite the initial uncertainties, the project was now in motion and the teams were actively engaged in carrying out the research work.

The culmination of 2 years of unwavering dedication to research, encompassing both documentary and field investigations, has resulted in the publication of a comprehensive book. This remarkable work serves as a gateway to the captivating history of the esteemed Al-Ansāri family, tracing their lineage from the early days of the Qahtāni Arabs in the southern region of Yemen. The book delves into the migration journey of these ancestors to Yathreb prior to the advent of Islam, highlighting the prominent role of Sa'd bin Obādah Khazraji, who emerged as the leader of the Khazraj clan in Yathreb. It further explores the significant presence of the Al-Ansāri family in Medina during the spread of Islam, shedding light on Sa'd's invaluable contributions as a companion of the Prophet. Subsequently, the narrative unfolds to reveal the migration path of the Mashāyekh Al-Ansāri family, descendants of Sa'eed bin Sa'd bin Obādah Al-Ansāri, as they ventured to the southern region of Fars (Larestan) in the 4th century. The establishment of the illustrious ancestor, Sheikh Hassan bin Suleimān al-Ansāri, takes center stage, marking a pivotal moment in the family's history. Finally, the book delves into the subsequent migrations of various branches of the family as they dispersed from Larestan to Shiraz under the name of Ansāri al-Shirāzi and eventually settled in different regions of Iran and various countries across the Middle East. The book serves as a comprehensive exploration of the Al-Ansāri family's rich heritage, offering invaluable insights into the historical journeys of its members and their enduring impacts on the regions they traversed.

Through the exploration of this book, we gain insight into the remarkable individuals, who contributed to the scientific and cultural landscape of the historical region of Herāt. Among them is Maulānā Sheikh Abd al-Ghafoor al-Ansāri al-Lāri, a distinguished disciple of the renowned Mystic Maulānā Abdulrahmān Jāmi, also known as Khātam al-Sho'arā (the last of the greatest poets). Heauthored 'Takmaleh Bar Nafahāt al-Ens' (A Supplement to Human Fragrance), presenting himself as a follower of Sa'di and Obādi, indicating his lineage from the descendants of Sa'd Obādah. Notably, his descendants, including Allāhdād al-Ansāri and Sheikh Abdul Malik al-Ansāri, who resided in India, also belonged to the Ansāri family and the lineage of Sa'di and Obādi.

Furthermore, within the pages of this book, we encounter Maulānā Sheikh Amid al-Din As'ad Abzari Khonji Lāri, a renowned minister of the Atābak dynasty in ancient Persia. He was not only a member of the Ansāri family, but also hailed from the Sa'di-Obādi branch. He is particularly known for his notable work, the famous ode 'Ashkanwāniyah'.

In this book, we further delve into the lives and contributions of numerous renowned scientists and writers, who were affiliated with various branches of the esteemed Al-Ansāri family. Spanning from the 12thcentury to the present day, each individual's biography is meticulously described, offering a comprehensive understanding of their remarkable achievements and impacts in their respective fields.

Across the borders of Iran, in Diyār Bakr, we encounter the esteemed figure of Mosleh al-Din Muhammad al-Ansāri al-Lāri. His tomb holds great reverence among the people of Turkey. He is known to possess an impressive collection of over 30 manuscripts and numerous printed books in the fields of astronomy, history, philosophy, and jurisprudence. These valuable works further solidify his connection to the distinguished al-Ansāri family.

Throughout the book, extensive efforts have been made to trace and establish the lineage of the Al-Ansāri family. This endeavor has been supported by a wealth of documents and manuscripts, as well as the information gleaned from various sources, such as tombstones, public records, and endowment documents. These valuable resources have provided crucial insights into the family's genealogy and allowed for a comprehensive understanding of their historical significance.

By exploring the rich tapestry of the Al-Ansāri family's history, this book offers a captivating journey through time, unveiling the remarkable lineage and intellectual legacy of this esteemed family. The culmination of this extensive research is the comprehensive genealogical record of the mentionedfamily, encompassing 23 members from the 13th century to the present day, 11 members from the 10th to the 13thcentury, 10 members from the 7th to the 10th century, and 28 members from ancient times to the 7th century, along with their respective children's names.

Within the pages of this book, a diverse array of manuscripts is introduced, covering a wide range of scientific disciplines, such as astronomy, literature, jurisprudence, philosophy, and history. Accompanied by numerous documents and infographics, the topics are presented in a clear and eloquent manner.

It is important to note that this book is the culmination of nearly 30 years of research on the general history of southern Iran and Larestan, coupled with 2 years of continuous and arduous work dedicated to this specific research project. With humility, I present this work to you, dear reader, acknowledging that no research is without flaws or potential errors. I kindly request your understanding and forgiveness for any possible defects that may have inadvertently occurred. Your valuable feedback and constructive criticism will be greatly appreciated and duly considered.

I am delighted to express my utmost satisfaction with the successful completion of this research endeavor. Firstly, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the descendants of the late Hāj Sheikh Mirzā Rezā al-Ansāri for their unwavering support, continuous efforts, and invaluable guidance throughout this journey. Their exceptional sobriety, patience, companionship, and unwavering support have been instrumental in the realization of this research project and its scholarly pursuits. The research committee acknowledges its profound indebtedness to their benevolence and wholehearted assistance.

Furthermore, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Mansour Esmā'eeli, whose unwavering dedication and guidance have been instrumental in the activation and direction of this research project. Mr. Esmā'eeli graciously devoted several months of his time to provide invaluable support and guidance, ensuring the smooth progress of the project.

Their contributions have been invaluable and I am truly grateful for their unwavering commitment and support throughout this research endeavor.

I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable efforts of the museum staff at the late Ayatollāh Ayatollāhi Museum in Lar. I am particularly grateful to the children of this esteemed scholar, including Seyyed Mohammad Hassan and Seyyed Mohammad Hossein Ayatollāhi, for their indescribable dedication and support.

Moreover, I would like to extend my special thanks to Dr. Mohammad Bāqer Vosouqi, the distinguished professor from the Department of History at the University of Tehran. Dr. Vosouqi played a pivotal role in developing the initial roadmap for this research project and overseeing its first phase.

I am also deeply grateful to the researchers and experts, who contributed to the realization of commendable results and final compilation of this book. Their expertise and dedication have been invaluable.These individuals include:

1. Dr. Mohammad Kāzem Rahiminejādaān, a researcher, writer, and teacher at Farhangiān University of Shiraz, who provided valuable consultation throughout the project's implementation

2. Dr. Mohammad Sādeq Rahmāniān, a teacher and consultant, who meticulously supervised the literaryand scientific editing process

3. Dr. Mehrān Rezāyi, a teacher specializing in Iranian History of the Islamic Period, whose expertise greatly contributed to the research project

4. Seyyed Mohammad Bāqer Hosseini, a Ph.D.student in Persian and Arabic Literature, who provided valuable insights and served as a consultant for historical documents

5. Hossein Khādem, a faculty member at Islamic Azad University, Khonj Branch

6. Seyyed Hasan Zandavi, a writer and researcher

7. Rasool Ahmadlou, a Ph.D. student specializing in Iranian History of the Islamic Period at Khārazmi University, Tehran Branch

8. Engineer Ebrāhim Kiān, the esteemed head of the Organization of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Larestan

9. Rāshed Ansāri, a renowned scholar, as well as a native and national poet, who served as a local research partner

10. Ahmad Habibi, a historian, researcher, and author with expertise in historical documents

11. Engineer Ali Ābedirād, the director of the graphic department, who provided valuable graphic corrections for historical documents and PDF manuscripts

12. Seyyed Javād Movarrekh, son of the late Seyyed Alāddin Movarrekh and a renowned writer in Larestan

13. Mehrān Zeinal Dehbāshi, a respected researcher and writer residing in Bahrain

14. Farāmarz Farāmarzi, a distinguished writer and researcher

Members of the field research team in Larestan:

1. Engineer Navid Bāzyār, director of the Larestan research team

2. Adham Ebrāhimpour, research associate

3. Samad Kāmjoo, research associate

Members of the field research team in Shiraz:

1. Majid Rāshidipour, Ph.D. student of Literature and director of the Shiraz field research team

2. Mohammad Khoddāmi, Ph.D. student and research associate

3. Hossein 'Azimi, Ph.D. student and research associate

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all my dear friends and colleagues, who have shown their support and shared the vision of this research project.

Finally, I am pleased to announce that brief translations of this book in Arabic and English are currently being prepared for printing and publication.

With utmost respect,

Manouchehr Ābedirād

Shiraz, July 2023

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