Jewish Perceptions of the Al-Hakim Era: The Letters of Samuel the Third (original) (raw)

The transition of caliphal power to al-Hakim apparently triggered much inner strife and struggle within Palestine and Syria between the Byzantines, Turks, Berbers and Arabs. The political and military situation must have been very confusing, so no immediate estimate can be made regarding the role of the Jews. It is not difficult to believe that Jews of both the Rabbanite and Karaite branches took the side of the Fatimids. Within the historical context of the early years of Caliph al-Hakim’s rule, there is one fragmentary letter from the Cairo Genizah. Another Genizah document is known as ‘the Egyptian Scroll’. Both texts provide us with information concerning the life of Samuel the Third, This Samuel (bar/ben Hosha‘na) was a most important and meritorious poet who composed hundreds of liturgical hymns for recitation at synagogue services.