A Persian Combat Arts Manuscript from the Safavid Era: Šarif Mohammad’s Compendium on Warfare

Safevi Döneminden Bir Fars Savaş Sanatları El Yazması: Šarif Muhammed’in Savaş Üzerine Özeti

Abstract

This study examines Šarif Mohammad’s early Safavid-era Persian manuscript on combat arts, focusing on its significance as a historical military manual. The purpose is to analyze its technical content of archery techniques, to understand its role in martial training and warfare. Using philological and comparative methods, the study cross-references the manuscript with other Persian, Arabic, and Ottoman sources to contextualize its martial teachings. The research highlights the manuscript’s value in reconstructing Safavid-era combat practices, offering insights into the interplay between martial arts, culture, and military science. By documenting these techniques, the study contributes to preserving Persia’s martial heritage and broader military traditions.