Sanj

Sanj or Senj (Persian سنج) is a metallic percussion instrument, like a cymbal, but much larger in diameter, in the form of cup- or bell-shaped plates. Other names for Sanj, are Zang, Chalab, and Boshqābak.

Etymology

All theories about the etymology of the word Sanj, identify it as a Pahlavi word. By some accounts means weight; and it is possible that the original term was Sanjkūb meaning ”striking weights” [against each other]. By some accounts the word is reform version of "Zang" (bell), referring to its belle-shaped plate.

History and Function

The instrument consists of cup- or bell-shaped round plates of various alloys, mainly brass or tin. The earliest record of its usage in Persian literature is of Ferdowsi’s masterpiece, Shahname. It referred to Sanj as a military-musical-instrument that was used by the legendary Iranian king, Q-mars. It was a favourite of King Key-Kavus and the Hero Rostam.

About King Key Kavus:

About Mazandaran, and what Rustam did:

Hamzehnameh, which draws upon myth, literature and history, refers to Sanj as the instrument of Q-mars: "One morning, to sound the call for battle, Hamza ordered Alexander’s drum, Jamshed’s Sorna, and Gayomarth’s Sanj sounded. According to the Persian mythology, Q-mars (Gayomarth) is the first man created by Ahura Mazda, and the first King of the world."

Sanjō

In Japanese, Sanjō (三条, lit. third street) may refer to:

People

Fictional characters

Places

See also