1300-year-old personal letter discovered in a cave is a beautiful reminder of sibling bond
Even though the world has made dynamic transformations, some things like love, care and more have remained deep-rooted. Even centuries ago, familial bonds were prioritized and kept close to the heart. A 1300-year-old letter from a brother to his sister is proof that even ages ago, love was a wholesome and heartwarming concept. The letter was found in an Iranian Cave, as per My Modern Met, and is considered one of the rich pieces of history among other items. The cave itself was hidden from the eyes of the world for a long time before researchers stumbled upon its rich discoveries.
Mustafa Deh Pahlvan, head of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, mentioned that even during their search, the team wouldn’t have laid eyes on the cave until a language expert spotted the name of the cave. “The name of this cave was not mentioned in the archaeological map or the archaeological reports until one of the Pahlavi language experts abroad noticed the leather writings that contained valuable information,” he said. Titled “Hajestan” cave, it is said to have had several precious items that may have been in the cave were looted and found a home in different parts of the world.
There were several important documents as well whose disappearances have called for investigation. In light of the same, the institute published the 1300-year-old letter. It is one of the documents that was believed to be looted. The letter was in the Pahlavi script and a translation was provided by media outlet Khabar Online. It read, “Marwaid, dear sister, may the Gods bless her. Good luck to my sister. I sent you a bottle of oil by Bakhtak. Write me a letter about the health and comfort of yourself and Farrokhzad and be at ease about me and my children. Send the oil soon.”
There was no additional context provided but it was clear that the intent of the letter came from a place of care and concern. It is bewildering to know that even over a thousand years ago, people prioritized love and looked after each other. Although far from the advanced literacy of today, their simple words and wholesome gestures were enough to reveal that they stood by each other. The letter is part of a huge Islamic collection that is kept in Berkley, Los Angeles and other parts of the world to be preserved and respected.
The outlet mentioned that apart from the text in the letter, there is no identity as to who the recipient and sender of the letter were. It is also not known whether they were siblings or simply held a brother-sisterly love as many did in the ancient periods. However, the words have captured the emotion and are an overwhelming reminder of the history and legend of relationships and bonding. Love, kindness, care and other emotions have been a part of the world before all other discoveries. The very fact that they have made their way through eons later tells us the need to carry forward the legacy. This letter, in particular, is part of the Pahlavi Archive at UC Berkley's Bancroft Library.