Epidemic crisis management in the Islamic East during the Mamluk era: Bimaristans as a response mechanism and social defense line (648–923 AH / 1250–1517 CE).
Abstract
The objective of this research is to present an insightful analysis of the role that was performed by the Bimāristāns (hospitals), as structural and institutional frameworks, in dealing with the epidemic crises that prevailed in the urban regions of the Islamic East throughout the period of the Mamluks (648-923 AH/1250-1517 AD). The research problem can be articulated in terms of one key question regarding the ability of these facilities, which operated in the capacity of endowment institutions (waqfs) and government establishments, to rise above their conventional role in treating illnesses and assume an administrative system to deal with the spread of epidemics. Such a development was aimed at maintaining the stability of society and legitimizing the rule of its authorities amidst large-scale pandemics. Moreover, the research will shed light on the organizational structure of the institution in order to evaluate the effect of endowments in sustaining medical services and offering food and medication during emergencies.
Lastly, it evaluates the limitations that exist regarding the interplay between Islamic legal politics and the well-being of the people through the medical services. As regards the methods used, it is based on the historical methodology in order to identify the course of crisis and developments, using some major secondary sources from recent times such as al-Maqrīzī, al-Qalqashandī, and Ibn Taghrī Birdī. Moreover, a comparative methodology is used to examine the variations in architectural designs and administrative functions of Bimāristāns.
In conclusion, the results of the study indicate that the Bimāristān in the Mamluk era was not just a hospital facility; it formed one of the core elements of the welfare policies of the state. It established a quarantine system for those who were infected and had treatment facilities divided into specialties like surgery and psychology. The institutions were able to offer free medical assistance, as well as distribute medication and food supplies, due to the funding from the sultan and emirs during large-scale epidemics, notably the epidemic of 749 AH/1348 CE, thus maintaining the demographic stability in cities like Cairo and Damascus. Nevertheless, although the system proved to be effective, its performance was marred towards the end of the Mamluk era due to the interruption of finances and corruption in endowments' management. The research concludes that the Mamluk Bimāristān can be regarded as a distinct example of an institute combining science and endowment-based management, which provides useful lessons on how society copes with crises.
Nonetheless, despite this successful institution, the study shows that there were notable challenges to the efficacy of such organizations. The depletion of endowed properties and the rampant corruption by endowments' supervisors made it impossible for Bimāristāns to cater for the rising number of patients in subsequent epidemics.
Key words: Bimāristāns, Mamlukperiod, Welfare policy, Epidemic Crises,mmedical endowment.
