The distinguished Professor Allameh Jalal Matini, a luminary in Persian literature, an unrivaled scholar, and a humble intellectual, departed this world on Dey 30, 1403 (January 19, 2025) to return to the Creator. A true gem of Persian literary elegance and a steadfast figure in the study of epics, Professor Matini was a rare blend of visionary leadership, intellectual depth, and scholarly excellence.
In addition to his unparalleled administrative achievements, Professor Matini was a masterful educator and a prolific researcher. A product of the “National School” in the 1950s, he embodied the virtues of a dedicated scholar, an incorruptible administrator, and a passionate patriot. His deep love for Iran resonated in every aspect of his work. As the President of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad (1975–1978), he elevated the institution to international standing while shaping a generation of exceptional talents.
As one of his humble students, I would like to highlight a unique aspect of his scholarly contributions—his distinct approach to analyzing epic texts. Among his lasting works is the critical study and publication of Kushnameh, a manuscript by Iranshan Ibn Abolkheir preserved in the British Library. This endeavor remains a landmark in Persian literary studies. Beyond his precise editing, detailed references, and insightful suggestions, it is the preface to this work that stands out. Only Professor Matini’s masterful pen could unveil the profound truths hidden within this lesser-known text.
While much of the prior research on epic texts like Samnameh, Faramarznameh, and Kushnameh has focused on their connection to Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, Professor Matini’s preface offers a fresh and unique perspective. He stands out as the first Iranian scholar to insightfully explore the thematic ties between Kushnameh and the Arab invasion of Iran, as well as the forced migration of the Sasanian royal family (Yazdegerd III) to China.
Professor Matini goes beyond the familiar narrative of Sasanian princes seeking refuge in China. For the first time, he delves into the mention of Silla (an ancient Korean kingdom) in the text’s preface, meticulously identifying seventy-five variations of its name with exceptional precision. His unwavering dedication to tracing the names “Silla” and “Basilla” within the story and historical events is evident in his thorough research, including correspondence with Rajabzadeh in Japan.
In his relentless search for evidence of those who preserved identity and nationhood following the fall of the Sasanian Empire, Professor Matini extended his studies to the Far East, even traveling to Japan—the Land of the Rising Sun—in pursuit of traces of “Fereydoun.”
