Myths and Folklore Among the Yemenis and Their Wars

Superstition runs deep in Yemen, with the well of "Barhoot" standing as a perennial source of suspicion and fear, believed to be a dwelling place of malevolent spirits. However, Omani youths ventured into the well, dispelling these age-old fears.

According to religious narratives and myths, the well is said to be haunted by evil spirits, and its water is considered the most malevolent and repugnant on Earth. Yet, the exploration team found nothing but frogs, snakes, and insects at the bottom of the well, alongside magnificent and pure waterfalls flowing from the cavernous walls.

Surprisingly, even the snakes encountered were docile, posing no harm to the eight-member team that descended into the expansive well.

With a depth of 116 meters and an opening width of 30 meters, the pit widens further at its base. The team attributed the foul odors emanating from the well to decaying animals and birds, a natural occurrence.

References to this well can be found in various narratives and are prevalent in the works of Arab historians and storytellers. Legends suggest that a Himyarite king enlisted the help of jinn to conceal his treasures by digging the well, only to meet his demise, leaving the jinn to dwell within. Consequently, it earned monikers like "Land of the Jinn," "City of the Jinn," "Cave of the Jinn," and "Abyss of Hell."

The scientific reality reveals that the pit is classified within the realm of karst geology, a geological process that occurs in thick limestone rocks. Alternatively, it is linked to the Habshi formation, a sedimentary deposit dating back to the Eocene epoch. This information underscores the geological origins and composition of the pit, shedding light on its formation and characteristics within the context of Earth's history.

Thus, the Yemenis remained prisoners of these beliefs that defy scientific realities. It is truly astonishing that, despite the dispelling of these illusions, the "guardians" of superstition swiftly sought to perpetuate these deeply rooted beliefs in the minds of the populace following the successful expedition of the Omani research team. They embarked on a skeptical endeavor, at times disputing that this was the authentic well mentioned in the narratives, and at other times obstinately and ignorantly asserting: "Tradition holds truth while science is fallacy."
This stands as just one among the multitude of misconceptions in Yemen that have entrenched themselves in the collective psyche over the expanse of history.

Snakes in the bag!

Imam Ahmed bin Hameed Al-Din's reputation as a formidable figure was built on his adept use of intimidation tactics, weaving a tapestry of mystical prowess around his very being. Whispers and tales surrounding him painted a picture of a man who commanded supernatural forces, faced off against jinn, and even had the ability to control wild beasts, all in service to him. His alleged connection to the celestial realm was said to grant him foresight into unfolding events, to the extent that he once communicated with Gamal Abdel Nasser on such matters.

Nestled within the confines of the Imam's abode in Taiz lay a sanctuary teeming with lions and colossal serpents, a domain where he meticulously oversaw the breeding and care of these majestic creatures. The lore spun around him spoke of daring feats, including engaging in physical combat with lions, capturing venomous snakes, and daringly confining them within a singular bag. Upon making his grand entrance into the reception hall, where eager spectators awaited his presence, he would theatrically release these creatures, inciting a pandemonium of fear and chaos as the bewildered onlookers scrambled in terror in every direction.

The Duel Between the Imam and Ibn Alwan

Amidst the captivating and extraordinary narratives of Imam Ahmed's 14-year reign in the city of Taiz, one particularly intriguing tale emerges - the account of his visit to the dome and shrine of the esteemed Sufi saint, Ahmed bin Alwan, for a fateful duel. Ahmed bin Alwan, a revered Sufi jurist who departed from this earthly realm in the mid-7th century Hijri, around 1267 AD, during the illustrious Rasulid dynasty's era.

The dome of the esteemed jurist Ahmed bin Alwan stands proudly in the town of Yafros, nestled 25 kilometers to the west of Taiz. In a momentous event during the mid-20th century, Imam Ahmed orchestrated a grand procession to Yafros, where he boldly dismantled the adorned structure, rich with motifs and symbols harking back to the Rasulid era. Upon his triumphant return to Taiz, he commemorated what he perceived as a victorious clash with a Sufi jurist who had departed this earthly realm eight centuries prior.

Whispers and tales began to swirl among the townsfolk, weaving a narrative of a sword duel between Imam Ahmed and the late saint Ibn Alwan, with Amir al-Mu'minin Ahmed Hameed Al-Din emerging as the triumphant figure. Yet, the toll of battle was not without consequence, as a wound inflicted upon the Imam's thigh by Ibn Alwan's strike rendered him incapacitated for days, hidden away for treatment away from prying eyes. Upon his recovery, a lavish banquet unfolded within the palace walls, drawing dignitaries, statesmen, and scholars to honor this "unforgettable victory." As the evening unfolded, a dramatic climax awaited the attendees, as Imam Ahmed theatrically unleashed a multitude of serpents from a concealed bag into their midst, a symbolic gesture of his perceived conquest. The serpents slithered and writhed, casting a spell of awe and reverence upon the gathering, sealing the tale of Imam Ahmed's daring encounter with the legendary Sufi saint in the annals of history.

The Fabrications of the Sharifs of the Hijaz and Abu Arish

Sharif Hussein, the esteemed Amir of the Hijaz, harbored a penchant for the unusual, indulging in the breeding of serpents, foxes, and traps, employing them as tools of intimidation during his official gatherings to unsettle his guests.

In the bygone era of the Hijaz, Sharif Hussein wove a web of deceit and illusion, spurred on by the tantalizing promise of being anointed as the king of the Arab lands by Great Britain. Whispers from Western voyagers recounted his crafty ploys, concealing traps and serpents within the folds of his garments, only to unleash them theatrically during crucial diplomatic deliberations, casting a shadow of fear and uncertainty over the proceedings.

Such tales of deception and intrigue echo through the corridors of history, shedding light on the eccentricities and unorthodox practices of rulers and monarchs across the Arabian Peninsula.
Similarly, the ruler of Abu Arish, Ibn Ali Haider, succumbed to the lure of deception, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Abu Masmar, who regaled tales of solitary nocturnal exploits, infiltrating enemy lines unscathed and returning victorious. These narratives of clandestine maneuvers and subterfuge underscore a timeless folly that has ensnared the hearts and minds of rulers throughout the ages, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Arabian governance.

The Jurist Saeed and Ibn Ali Haider

the era when the valorous armies of Sharif Ibn Ali Haider ventured towards the southern foothills of the Tihama region in Yemen, a message of defiance and grandeur reached their encampment.

 It was none other than the rebellious ruler of Ibb and its surrounding domains, the esteemed Jurist Saeed, who had taken refuge within the formidable walls of the Danwah fortress. In his bold proclamation, the Jurist Saeed adorned himself with the prestigious title of the "King of Land and Sea," a declaration meant to instill awe and trepidation in the hearts of his adversaries.

The Sharif received the message from the jurist and scoffed at it, considering himself worthy of such a title! Thus, they continued to exchange messages, each accusing the other of lacking sincerity and challenging them to direct their armies to Aden first to liberate it from the grasp of the English, who had just arrived by ships. The rulers of that era persisted in exchanging accusations through messages, leading fighters into the fires of death through deception.

Yemen found itself fragmented among various powers during this tumultuous period. An Imam held sway in Tihama, another in Ibb, while others exerted control over Taiz and the central regions. Additionally, 12 sultans asserted their authority in the southern and eastern territories. The city of Sana'a, a focal point of power and intrigue, was divided into intersecting cantons, each aligned with one of the 12 Imams ruling over Sana'a and its environs.

The Legendary Tales of the Al-Idrisi Dynasty

In due course, Mohammad bin Ali Al-Idrisi, the ruler of Sabya (towards the end of the 19th century and the initial decades of the 20th century), assumed the mantle of the Sulaymani Successor Imam. Persisting in his extravagant displays, he soon became shrouded in a tapestry of boundless legends, despite his profound knowledge, with whispers even suggesting that he possessed the ability to stroll upon the sea's surface.

Following the conclusion of World War I and the withdrawal of the Turkish forces from Yemen, a ferocious conflict erupted in Tihama between Al-Idrisi, the ruler of Sabya, and the newly appointed Imam Yahya, who had recently ascended to power in Sana'a. Throughout the tumultuous events and skirmishes of the seven-year war that ensued between them, the influence of legends loomed large for both adversaries.

Both contenders, Imam Yahya and Imam Al-Idrisi, instilled fervor in their fighters by propagating tales of angelic battalions fighting alongside them. Al-Idrisi's fervent rhetoric permeated the ranks of his warriors hailing from Jizan, Haradh, and Wadi Bish, asserting that their Imam (Al-Idrisi) possessed the ability to command jinn, dispatching them to the front lines to stand shoulder to shoulder with mortal troops. It was even whispered that Al-Idrisi undertook nightly journeys from Sabya to the borders of the formidable "Buraa" mountain, a contested terrain shared with Imam Yahya year after year (over seven tumultuous years) in brutal conflicts.

The fierce war continued to rage across and beyond the mountainous landscapes of Buraa, Malhan, Hofash, and the western fringes of the Sharafin district for an extended period, culminating in the climactic Battle of Mount Buraa. Both adversaries suffered heavy losses, yet it was Imam Yahya who ultimately emerged triumphant through sheer military might, further aided by the demise of his formidable rival, the governor of Sabya, following the ensuing power struggle among his successors.

The Tales of the War of the Zaranik

When the War of the Zaranik erupted later on, rumors and propaganda resurfaced from both sides: the Zaranik leaders, bolstered by their Sufi beliefs and the miracles of the saints, alongside the unceasing British propaganda that aimed to sow further division within Yemen, aligning with its major interests in Aden.

The War of the Zaranik was shrouded in unprecedented legends, with whispers that some could leap through the air and execute somersaults for hundreds of meters, effortlessly hitting their targets mid-air! Or that some bodies were impervious to rifle bullets.

These alleged beliefs, which became part of the tools of mobilization, propaganda, and psychological warfare for those bloody confrontations, were effectively utilized on the opposing side (within the Imam's army). This propaganda seeped into the Imam's camps, nearly convincing some to believe it, causing tremendous disruptions within the army, which suffered five consecutive defeats in campaigns sent by the Imam over three years.

The Zaranik fighters were indeed formidable and stood strong on the battlegrounds, but the Imam's warriors were renowned for their bravery and resilience as well. Amidst both camps, Great Britain was not far from this context, and the propaganda machinery added a colossal aura of war legends to the course of that war.

The Imam's army itself nearly collapsed before the miraculous defenses of the city of "Beit Al-Faqih," influenced by these legendary stories and beliefs as well.

The Legend of Ahmed Ya Janaah

The aides of the Imam resorted to the same tactics, employing and spreading psychological stories and tales when they propelled his eldest son, Ahmed, into the heart of battles, adorned with myths.

The new commander of the Imam's army found the fighters on the battlefield wavering under the influence of the terrifying psychological propaganda about the supernatural powers of the opposing side. He, in turn, resorted to similar propaganda and embarked on his adventure under the name "Ahmed Ya Janaah".

It was here that his fame began to rise and shine under this title, "Ahmed Ya Janaah". However, the prince dubbed as "the demon" designed his legendary program for himself alone, monopolizing this fame and mythical tales from that war for himself only. From that day on, the stories revolved around his character, proving to be truly effective in all stages.

Ahmed Ya Janaah remained a legendary figure that instilled fear, not only in his enemies but also in the hearts of his comrades, due to the propaganda and his exceptional ability to masterfully utilize it. The tales continued to accompany his mysterious persona, preceding him wherever he went in all stages of his life until his death (from 1927, the Zaranik War, until his passing on September 21, 1962).

Since the tumultuous Zaranik War, Prince Ahmed rose to fame as "Ahmed Ya Janaah". The shrewd eldest son of Imam Yahya and his military advisors cleverly harnessed the power of this lethal form of propaganda within their own ranks and throughout society. Prior to plunging into the battles of Tihama, he meticulously crafted an image of himself as a supernatural legend, swiftly capturing the attention and fear of friend and foe alike.

Establishing his command center in the city of "Al-Sukhnah" near the rugged northern mountains, Ahmed fearlessly led his troops into battle, personally facing the heat of combat at the forefront. Yet, beyond his gallant bravery, he reigned supreme as a master of propaganda and psychological warfare throughout the twilight years of the Imamate.

In addition to his valor, Ahmed's ability to captivate the imaginations of those engulfed in a realm of myth and superstition showcased his remarkable skill as a performer. Rumors and legends preceding his every move, enveloping the skies of Tihama and the encircling mountains, painted a portrait of Ahmed Ya Janaah as a figure commanding mystical forces, his body believed to be invulnerable to the sting of bullets.

People often recount a humorous anecdote that transpired between his father, Imam Yahya, and the Sheikh Qutaish from Hashed. When the Imam gathered the tribes in Sana'a and informed them about the challenging situation with the Zaranik, explaining how previous campaigns had not yielded victory, he requested additional reinforcements to Tihama and warned against any slackness or hesitation, stating, "Otherwise, by God, I will invoke a curse upon you, and you know that my prayers are answered." In response, Qutaish quipped, "If your prayers are indeed answered, then pray against the Zaranik and spare the believers from the horrors of battle." This witty retort embarrassed him in front of the people, leading him to promptly order Qutaish's imprisonment.

Legend of the Paralytic Cure

The rich tapestry of myths and folklore deeply weaves into the lives of Yemenis, transcending the realms of war and its demands. These tales resonate widely in everyday existence, where many still interpret cases of paralysis, stemming from strokes, as afflictions caused by the touch of malevolent spirits.

In line with this belief, numerous Yemeni families, particularly those in rustic settings, turn to fire as a therapeutic remedy for such individuals, alongside a plethora of other peculiar treatment practices entrenched within this superstition.

These mysterious customs have woven themselves through the tapestry of Yemen's political history, manifesting in a myriad of intriguing forms. During the era of the Kings of the Imamate, rulers delved into the realms of astrology and other mystical pursuits, adding an air of mystique to their reigns. Within the lineage of the Zaidi Imams, notable figures emerged bearing titles such as "enveloped in mist," claiming the revered position of the awaited Mahdi, and engaging in other enigmatic practices. Among these captivating narratives, the stories and legends surrounding "Ali bin Mahdi" stand out prominently. This enigmatic figure not only seized the legacy of the esteemed Queen "Arwa" but also laid claim to the wealth and power of the illustrious Sulayhid State in Jibla and the surrounding heartlands.

Moreover, in their battles against the Soviets in the Afghan mountains, Sheikh Abdul Majid Al-Zindani and the "Arab Mujahideen" propagated such tales, while the CIA printed essential materials to reinforce these beliefs. As detailed by Steve Coll in his book "Ghost Wars," the American intelligence agency mass-produced copies of the Quran, strategically distributing them to further this cause. This convergence of myth, warfare, and strategic manipulation underscores the intricate interplay between storytelling, ideology, and conflict in the complex landscape of global politics.