Abu al-Fadl Ja‘far ibn ‘Ali al-Dimashqi

Eleventh century Merchant

Source

Obscure Origins . Abu al-Fadl J‘far ibn ‘Ali al-Dimashqi is the author of Kitab al-Isharah ila Mahasin at-Tijarah wa Marifat Jayyid al-A’rad wa Kadiiha wa Ghush-ush al-Mudallisin fiha (A Guide to the Merits of Commerce and to Recognition of Both Fine and Defective Merchandise and the Swindles of Those Who Deal Dishonestly). Little is known about al-Dimashqi’s life. Historians generally agree that he was a prosperous merchant who lived in either Egypt or Syria. His life is dated to the eleventh century because in his only book, he mentions a specific Indian coin that circulated in eastern Mediterranean ports during that time period.

Middleman. It is evident from his book that al-Dimashqi engaged as a middleman in the import-export business. He dealt primarily with raw or partly finished goods, such as expensive fabrics and precious stones, as opposed to finished products, such as clothing and jewelry. (Apparently, the former offered a better return on his investments.) Scholars believe that, as a young man, he traveled extensively. His book makes frequent references to sea voyages and major port cities. They also assume that he composed his work at the end of his career, when he was more sedentary and likely investing in real estate, which he recommended highly.

Practical Advice . Al-Dimashqi’s Guide is a valuable tool to understanding tenth-century and eleventh-century commercial activity. It is filled with practical advice and warns the reader to use his wealth wisely and not to squander it. Moreover, the Guide provides shrewd commentary on a variety of topics, including the evaluation of commodities, proper pricing and record keeping, methods for identifying fraud, and correct sales techniques.

Source

George N. Atiyeh and others, The Genius of Arab Civilization: Source of Renaissance, third edition (New York & London: New York University Press, 1992).