Comprising of elements belonging to the “art of war, hunting, equestrianism, tactics, and strategy” is a Middle Eastern combat form known as Furusiyya. This “eclectic” martial art form is said to have originated from Arabia during the period of the Crusades. Furthermore, this combat form was created during the “Golden Age of Islam” using martial arts and equestrianism as the foundation. In addition, this style of combat became extremely popular during the 14th century especially in Egypt during the “Mamluk” era.
a. History/origin of the Furusiyya:
According to the cultural history of Arabia, Furusiyya was first developed as a form of combat during the Middle Ages, a period which was popular for the “Crusades”. Furthermore, it was created by fusing elements belonging to art of war, hunting, chess, tactics, strategies, and equestrianism. In addition, this combat style was described in a form of a literature which has been titled “Al-Furusiyya” written by Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziya. As per this treatise, this combat form comprises of three components and that includes horsemanship, archery, and swordsmanship.
b. Weapon used in the Furusiyya:
The weapons mainly used in this form of combat include sword, spear, lance, javelin, club, bow and arrow, tabarazin or axe.
c. Technique involved in the Furusiyya and training availability:
In terms of technique, a fighter essentially uses weapons such as a sword or a bow and arrow while riding a horse at the same time. Furthermore, the word Furusiyya has been derived from the word “faris” which literally means “knight”. As for training centers/schools, there are none available around the world for those interested in learning this “eclectic” martial art form.
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