Image: JosephRabban - sasanam

Description: Image of the Sasanam outlining grant of rights to Joseph Rabban by the King of Cranganore (probably end of the first millenium A.D.). Major sources presents Sasanam as copper tablets, with the exception of Encyclopedia Judaica, which presents them as bronze tablets. The text of the Sasanam translates as follows: "We have granted to Joseph Rabban the village of Anjuvannam together with the 72 proprietary rights, tolls on boats and carts, the revenue and title of Anjuvannam, the lamp of the day, a cloth spread in front to walk on, a palanquin, a parasol, a Vaduga (i.e., Teluge) drum, a trumpet, a gate way, a garland, decoration with festoons, and so forth. "We have granted him the land tax and weight tax; moreover, we have sanctioned with these copper plates that he need not pay the dues which the inhabitants of the other cities pay the Royal palace, and that he may enjoy the benefits which they enjoy. To Joseph Rabban the Prince of Anjuvannam and to his descendants sons and daughters and to his nephews, and to the sons-in-law who married his daughters in natural succession. So long as the world and moon exist, Anjuvannam shall be his hereditary possession. Hail."
Title: JosephRabban - sasanam
Credit: Jewish Encyclopedia.
Usage Terms: Public domain
License: Public domain
Attribution Required?: No