The Study of Chivalry Philosophy, Islamic Generosity and Moral Teachings in Athletic and Gymnasium Sports in Zurkhaneh

Abstract

ABSTRACT Defining the Perian word, ‘Fotowat’ or ‘Chivalry’ is not an easy task; in the rite of ‘Fotowat’, before entering any profession, one must set one’s soul free and pay attention to the moral teachings that are necessary for noble men to reach this honorable position. Reflecting on the philosophy of ‘Fotowat’ brings many achievements, forming moral and social foundations including a special kind of sport called ‘Zurkhaneh sport’ or ‘Ancient sport’. The rite of ‘Fotowat’ has a long history in Islam and has always been of interest to athletes from the very beginning of its history, using concepts such as spirituality and moral principles based on Islamic values like justice and compassion. ‘Fotowat’ is a pact between the disciple and the intended, and a way to adhere to the law of Islam and act in the right way. ‘Fotowat’ in Islam contains moral virtues that lead to the morality and the brotherhood among the athletes and the invitation to virtues and courage and the avoidance of vices and sins. The purpose of this article is to study the philosophy of ‘Fotowat’, Islamic advice and moral teachings in ‘Zurkhaneh sports’ by studying the old texts of chivalry and the traditions that became their legacy, such as ethics, to reach a definition of the system of ‘Fotowat’ and its special moral advises. It has always been a harbinger of human moral values such as ‘equality’, ‘brotherhood’, ‘health’, and ‘justice’ which can be a good model for society.