Al-Mas‘udi on the Important Personalities of the Arabic Olden Days. The Legendary Tradition about the Nizar’s Sons’ Partition of Fatherly Legacy

Among the materials of Murudj al-Dhahab wa Ma‘adin al-Djawhar (“The Meadows Gold and Mines Gems”) by al-Mas‘udi (10th century), dedicated to pre-Islamic Arabia, one notes legendary tradition about sons Nizar, for-father so called Northern Arabs: Unable comprehend their father’s testimony, they turned for help wise king al-Af‘a b. al-Djuhumi. On way sage during stay at his lodging Nizar’s manifested unusual power insight, earned host’s favour managed with king’s understand will. It appeared that testimony later influenced sons’ descendants’ life, as well members major Arab tribes tribe unions. The author displays folklore origin story under study also shows that, from viewpoint al-Mas‘udi, proved be masters kiyafa, specific Bedouin art divination. Some clans descendants were renowned practicing sort skill. In addition presents an academic translation al-Mas‘udi’s version question, it is framed important cultural historical context. Besides, legend presented possesses uncontestable literary qualities. For sake comparison, version, al-Tabari (839–923), delivered.