Water Management: The Use of Stars in Oman: 2237 (British Archaeological Reports International Series) - Softcover

Nash, Harriet

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1407307991 ISBN 13: 9781407307992

Publisher: BAR Publishing, 2011

Synopsis

Society for Arabian Studies Monographs No.11

The study presents fast disappearing information on the ethnography of agricultural communities in northern Oman and especially on the use of stars. It aims to identify the stars used and record the methods of stargazing in sufficient detail that the systems could be replicated if all local knowledge were lost. It also aims to raise awareness and improve the understanding of the significance of the traditional use of the stars in irrigated agriculture. This aspect of the cultural heritage of the region has not been written about previously in such detail. The main reason for the continued use of stars by a few communities, even though wristwatches are now widely available, is thought to be adherence to tradition both for its own sake and to avoid disputes over the sharing of water. It is considered unlikely that this ancient practice will survive more than 10 or 20 years unless the younger generation takes an interest in learning, and putting into practice, the traditions of their forefathers.

About this title

About the Author

Harriet Nash

Edition details

• Publisher: BAR Publishing
• Publication date: 2011
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1407307991
• ISBN 13: 9781407307992
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 139