[198]. The deenár is a mitkál (or nearly 72 English grains) of gold. Sale, copying a false translation by Marracci, and neglecting to examine the Arabic text quoted by the latter, has stated the sum in question to be four deenárs.
[199]. The feet are confined by a chain or rope attached at each end to a staff, which is turned round to tighten it. This is called a “falakah.” Two persons (one on each side) strike alternately.
[200]. Kur-án, chap. iv., v. 19.
[201]. This is a “Sunneh” law. The doom, as Mr. Urquhart observes, “stands rather as the expression of public abhorrence, than as a law which is to be carried into execution.” (“Spirit of the East,” vol. ii., p. 425.) The law is the same in the case of the adulterer, if married; but it is never enforced. See Leviticus xx. 10, and John viii. 4, 5.
[202]. It is worthy of remark, that the circumstance which occasioned the promulgation of this extraordinary law was an accusation of adultery preferred against the Prophet’s favourite wife, ’A’ïsheh; she was thus absolved from punishment, and her reputation was cleared by additional “revelations.”
[203]. Chap. xxiv., vv. 4-9.
[204]. An unmarried person convicted of adultery is likewise obnoxious only to this punishment. The two laws mentioned in Leviticus xx. 13 and 15 have been introduced into the Muslim code; but in the present day they are never executed.
[205]. In the villages of Egypt, a woman found, or suspected, to have been guilty of this crime, if she be not a common prostitute, often experiences a different fate, which will be described in the account of the domestic life and customs of the lower orders.
[206]. The conduct of the lower orders in Cairo on this occasion speaks sadly against their character. A song was composed on the victim of this terrible law, and became very popular in the metropolis.
[207]. Among many other erroneous statements respecting the Wahhábees, it has been asserted that they prohibit the drinking of coffee.