THE ROLE OF THE AL-GHAZZAW? FAMILY IN THE ADMINISTRATION AND ORGANIZATION OF THE SH?M HAJJ ROUTE IN THE AJLOUN SANJAK DURING THE 16TH CENTURY

This paper seeks to trace back the involvement of the Al-Ghazzaw? family in the management and organization of the Sh?m Hajj Route from its origin in the 16th-century. Particular attention will be paid to the contribution of the Al-Ghazzaw? family in the context of the Ottoman rule and governance in the Ajloun Sanjak. The paper is based on a descriptive-analytical approach, drawing on Ottoman archival sources such as the M?himme Defterleri, imperial decrees, tahrir registers, and chronicles relevant to the subject under investigation. The primary sources have been chosen because of their thematic connection to the topic under discussion. In addition, they have been subjected to thorough cross-referencing to guarantee coherence and validity of information. The analysis of these materials has revealed the role played by the provincial elites in the process of Ottoman administration in terms of providing stable pilgrimage infrastructure through cooperation with the empire. The findings show that the members of the Al-Ghazzaw? family were instrumental in securing the route against any potential threats due to their participation in the administration and protection of the Hajj Road. Moreover, their roles encompassed the provision of transport services to pilgrims and the maintenance of relations with the local tribes. Therefore, Kansuh Bey Al-Ghazzaw? can be considered an example of negotiated governance, as the Ottoman authorities-maintained control over the Hajj routes through cooperation with local elites. As a result, it can be concluded that Ottoman governance of the Sh?m Hajj Road in the Arab provinces was based on a system of negotiated hegemony. This type of governance reflects the organized nature of interactions between the imperial authority and the provincial elites, which contributed to efficient administration and stability of the route.