Page 26 - Arabian Studies (I)

14 Arabian Studies /

such deeds reflects a much greater interest in the dead amongst these
peoples than is met elsewhere in the Arab world.
The measuring soothsayer gave precise instructions on the scene
for the next blood-letting. It was to be at the tree where the hornet
had stung him and the she-goat one of mixed colour (terkdz). They
were to bury half the she-goat there.
The journey to the place took two days. But this time the patient
recovered shortly afterwards. He was unwilling to admit to me that
his recovery was because of the soothsayer and regarded the whole
business sceptically though the same person knew personally of
many true incidents of witchcraft and shape-changing.
Some soothsayers have books which they consult for advice on
magico-medical matters and others cast pebbles (yefersem) and
interpret the patterns, saying ‘[Now] we understand [know]’
(negoreb). Older people still have faith in the soothsayers.
Besides such professional soothsayers there are wise men (M.
metawwa from Ar. mtawwi*, S. nebhi) among the Mehri tribes who
give advice arising out of their experience, and give simple treatments
such as branding. Sometimes such people have special gifts however.
The following short (remembered)16 conversations may be taken as
representative:
Doctor Do you want me to brand you?
Patient As you think right.
D. As you think right.
P. All right, heat up the iron.
D. It is hot. Make the mark where you want the brand.

D. I’ve heard them say aloes are good medicine.
P. All right, I’ll tell one of the women to collect aloes. Do you
know when I should drink it?
D. Drink it on an empty stomach.

P. You probably know I have a pain in my chest. Do you
know what I should do for it?
D. Indeed I do. When morning comes drink beestings and run
till you get tired. And when you come (back) tie a rag
round your chest for three days. It will get better.

Woman
Patient: My son’s stomach is sore. Do you know what I should do
for him?
Doctor: Since when?