bearing a fatha, followed by the single-dotted bā—and al-Mansūrī (1).

He governed Damascus for approximately eleven years, from 709 to 719 AH. Before that, he had served as governor of al-Karak from 690 to 709 AH, where he left a fine legacy. He then moved to Cairo to take charge of the government bureaux for four months before his death. He died in 719 AH.

This emir was known for his good conduct and was beloved by the people. The inhabitants of Damascus rejoiced when he came to them as emir in 709 AH. Ibn Kathīr said: “His decrees (meaning the sultan’s) arrived and were read at the portico. They enjoined gentleness toward his subjects and kindness to them, so the people prayed for him. Emir Jamāl al-Dīn Āqush al-Afram then arrived as governor of Damascus. He entered the city on Wednesday, the twenty-second of Jumādā al-Ūlā, shortly before the afternoon prayer, and took up residence in the Palace of Felicity, as was customary. The people rejoiced at his arrival and lit candles in his honor.”

This emir received abundant praise. Al-Barzālī said: “His conduct was praiseworthy, and he was approachable. He possessed humility and good character. The people loved him and desired no one else as their governor.”

Al-Safadī said: “His conduct was praiseworthy and his inner character virtuous. He was amenable and continually increased in goodness. His tenure as governor of Damascus was long, and everyone loved him.…”

Ibn Kathīr said: “Throughout his tenure, he was beloved by the common people.”