Birjand Hospice (The historical experience of charity in contemporary Iran)

Providing social welfare and establishing related centers have been among the main concerns of human societies throughout history. Therefore, different governments, statesmen, religious leaders, and benefactors with various intentions have endeavored to provide them. One of the most significant and pioneering experiences of Iranians in this regard is the establishment and administration of hospices or nursing homes. The study focused on the establishment and function of Birjand hospice from the late Qajar era to the beginning of the Islamic Revolution. It aimed to reveal the results of the benevolent endeavors of seven decades for maintaining this charity center. Using a descriptive-analytical method, library resources, news and historical evidence including documents, sources and field research, the study tried to see that why and how Birjand hospice was established, what financial resources were used, and who lived there. The results showed that a set of sociopolitical, administrative, religious and individual motivations resulted in the establishment of the charity center.  Despite the political and social changes throughout the decades, the center survived and provided useful social services in society and become crucial in South Khorasan, Qaenat and Birjand region.