On Cash Waqf Credits in Sidjil of Tuzla From Year 1644-46

Abstract

This paper deals with analysis of existing data regarding cash waqf credits in Sidjil of Tuzla from year 1644-46. The data shows that credit business was widespread both in urban and rural area of the region. In this aspect the most important role was played  by cash endowments as creditors. The range of endowment capital was between 500-19500 of Ottoman akçe, while the rate of interest was in range of 10-20%. The creditors were from ranks of ulema, army officers, janissaries, women and middle estate. The debtors were both Muslims and non-Muslims. The paper draws attention on problem of methodological approach of studying the cash waqfs. The examined documents from the Sidjil are related to small and medium waqfs, while crediting by some big waqf is not registered. This means that big waqfs had separate records. Here we can conclude that the Ottoman sidjils are not always unquestionable perfect historical source.