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THE ROLE OF THE WELL IN THE CHASHMAI AYYUB COMPLEX IN
THE BUKHARA WATER MANAGEMENT
Khamrayev Iskandar Murotjonovich
Researcher at Bukhara State University
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15581130
Annotation:
This article highlights the role and significance of the well in
the Chashmai Ayyub complex in the Bukhara water management.
Keywords:
well in the Chashmai Ayyub complex, physical healing and
spiritual blessing, conical dome, the sagan of the prophet Ayyub, the healing
properties of the well water against skin diseases and leprosy.
The well at the Chashmai Ayyub complex plays a crucial role in Bukhara's
traditional water management system and reflects the practical and spiritual
aspects of water use in this historic city. Located in an arid region, Bukhara has
historically faced serious problems in the supply and distribution of fresh water.
The city developed a complex system of wells, canals, and reservoirs to
effectively manage its limited water resources. Famous for its holy spring and
healing waters, Chashmai Ayyub served not only as a spiritual pilgrimage site
but also as an important source of drinking water. The well at the complex
tapped into groundwater aquifers, providing the population with clean water
and supporting the surrounding agricultural activities. This was especially
important in the desert climate, where water scarcity could threaten city life and
food production.
The well's role went beyond just providing water; it was integrated into
Bukhara's extensive irrigation network, including underground canals and other
hydraulic infrastructure designed to transport water over long distances. Careful
water management through these systems allowed the city to thrive despite its
harsh environmental conditions. In addition, the well at Chashmai Ayyub held
cultural and religious significance. The water was said to have healing
properties, particularly for skin diseases and leprosy, and attracted pilgrims
seeking physical healing and spiritual blessings. This dual role as a practical
water source and a sacred site underscores the deep connection between
natural resources and cultural beliefs in Bukhara's history. Chashmai Ayyub is a
unique architectural and spiritual monument located in the ancient city of
Bukhara. It is deeply rooted in Islamic mythology and is considered sacred by
many locals. It is named after the prophet Ayyub, who is revered in Islamic
tradition for his patience and faith in times of hardship. “Chashmai Ayyub was
built in the early 12th century during the Karakhanid period. It was renovated in
the 14th century during the reign of Amir Temur and brought to its current
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form” . The original structure was built in the early 12th century during the
reign of the Karakhanid dynasty, which ruled parts of Central Asia and played a
significant role in the development of Islamic architecture in the region. The
original building was relatively simple, serving to protect a sacred spring
believed to have miraculous healing properties. In the 14th century, the
structure was renovated and greatly expanded under Amir Temur. Under the
patronage of the Temurids, the building took on a more monumental
appearance, including a conical dome - an unusual design in Central Asian
Islamic architecture, which gives the building its own charm. Unlike the typical
domes of Central Asia, Chashmai Ayyub has a pointed, conical dome, which is
believed to have been inspired by Persian or pre-Islamic styles. The interior and
exterior reflect the intricate muqarnas and glazed tiles common in Timurid
architecture. The complex includes a small mausoleum and a spring room,
where water still flows.
It is said that during a severe drought, the prophet Ayyub prayed for water,
and God answered his prayer by causing a spring to spring up from the ground
where he struck. The water from the spring is believed to have healing
properties, especially for skin diseases and other ailments. Therefore, Chashmai
Ayyub is still visited by pilgrims and locals seeking prayers and healing.
Chashmai Ayyub is a protected cultural heritage site and forms part of the
larger historical ensemble of Bukhara, which is included in the UNESCO World
Heritage List. It now also houses a small Water Museum, which provides visitors
with information about the history of water use and irrigation in Central Asia.
The main facade of the Chashmai Ayyub monument faces east, in
accordance with the traditional Islamic architectural direction. “The main facade
of the obida faces east, and inside there is a room with a special well. Behind the
room with the well is a mihrab, and in this room there is the tomb of the prophet
Ayyub. Above the door to the tomb there is an inscription, a wooden board with
a story about the visit of the prophet Ayyub to Bukhara. Currently, the Museum
of the History of Bukhara Water Supply is located in Chashmayi Ayyub” . Inside
the structure is a special room that houses a sacred well, believed to have
healing properties. This well is central to the legend of the Prophet Ayyub, who
is said to have caused water to spring from the ground through divine
intervention. Directly behind the well room is the mihrab, a smaller space used
for prayer, with a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca. This room
houses the tomb of the Prophet Ayyub, which defines the spiritual heart of the
site. Above the tomb door is a wooden inscription panel that tells the story of the
MODELS AND METHODS IN MODERN SCIENCE
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Prophet Ayyub's visit to Bukhara. This story has been passed down through
generations and is a key element of the religious and cultural significance of the
monument. Legend has it that the spring water had powerful healing properties,
which attracted many pilgrims from afar. People came to the spring in the hope
of healing various ailments, especially skin diseases. Over the years, the
importance of this place increased and it became a famous pilgrimage site.
“According to legend, the spring water was considered healing and many
pilgrims came to the spring. Over time, this place became a place of pilgrimage.
There is information that the water of this spring is also healing for skin diseases
and leprosy” . The water from this spring cured not only common skin diseases,
but also more serious diseases such as leprosy. Many visitors experienced
significant improvements after bathing or drinking the water. Today, the spring
remains a historical site known for its legendary healing properties and cultural
significance.
In short, today the Chashmai Ayyub complex and its well remain symbols of
the ingenuity and strength of Bukhara's water management traditions. They
provide valuable information about how ancient communities adapted to their
environment through advanced engineering and harmonious relationships with
nature.
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