Ministry collects poems in Syriac in a new book

ISTANBUL - Anatolia News Agency

Poems in Syriac have been translated by Kırklar Church high priest Gabriel Akyüz.

Syriac poems have been translated into Turkish by the Mardin Kırklar Church high priest Gabriel Akyüz, at the request of the Culture and Arts Ministry.

“These poems are an important part of Syriac culture and literature,” Akyüz said. The translated works include poems by one of the most important names in Syriac literature, Mor Efem. The poems were written during the fourth century using a seven-syllabic meter, Akyüz said.

The book consists of 400 pages and includes additional information on Mor Erem’s life.

The book was presented at the Frankfurt Book Fair on Oct. 13 and the ministry will publish the book soon in both the Turkish translation and original Syriac. “The book will consist of two books. Those who read the book will have the chance to learn information about the poets and how they lived,” said Akyüz, adding that the book will reflect the richness of Syriac culture. “Syriac literature is very old. On the other hand, they will learn more about Mor Efem. Mor Efem was a theologian, poet and linguist.”

“In the past the old Mardin Municipality collected some poems, and there is a book which was written in the handwriting of Mor Efem.” This manuscript has also been translated into Turkish and will be published. The book project, consisting of 31 poems, has taken one year. “I am very happy to complete the project,” said Akyüz.