An Introduction to Rasāyel-ul-Oshāgh and Investigation of Seyfi Neyshabouri's Method in Writing and Composing Persian Romantic Letters During 6th Hegira Century

Seyfi Neyshabouri, a 6th century literary man, has compiled the oldest complex of romantic letters known as "Rasāyel-ul-Oshāgh va Vasāyel-ul-Moshtāgh". He has provided one hundred letters in different subjects for all lovers to select their own oppropriate one and send it for their beloved. He has used of a way known as "sending convenants" (Ohud-e-Estersāl) to write friendly and romantic letters. The authors in this article have tried to introduce this work and, by referring to persian books on writing and composing techniques, especially those related to this work, discuss about the construction of letters included in it and its author's opinions on writing letters. Findings showed that Seyfi has composed letters by considering elements such as preface (including title, citing God's name (Tasmiyeh), introduction or "Sadrnāme", prayer for the Prophet and its family), main context (including a part referred to "Ammā Baad" and main text) and conclusion of the letter. In conclusion, he has suggested that one may delete Tasmīyeh and poet's name, if he/she want to send a letter for his beloved.