English Art/Literary History Religion, Archaeology, Mythology

Dear colleagues,

I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this case.

I am currently working on a translation of a Karl May book set in late 19th-early 20th century Egypt. The title is 'Im Lande des Mahdi' [engl: In the Kingdom of Mahdi; The Kingdom of Mahdi]. Karl May is well-known for his precise research in the socio-cultural science of his century which made him an unpopular man among his fellow (post-)colonial citizens. In this case however, whether or not he 'got it right'.

I am looking for the following term: Chajjal .... my research has not brought any results. My Jordanian colleague suggested he might have confused Chajjal with Dajjal which would make perfect sense within the concept of Mahdi.

My question to you is, has anyone heard of Chajjal and knows what he is?

Unfortunately, I am only able to provide you with a sample of the source text in German:

Ein Chajjal.

Die Siegreiche, »El Káhira« und »Bauwaabe el bilad esch schark«, das Thor des Orientes, so nennt der Aegypter die Hauptstadt seines Landes. Wenn die erstere Bezeichnung längst nicht mehr am Platze ist, so besteht die zweite doch zu vollem Recht. Kairo ist wirklich die Pforte des Ostens.

I am grateful for any suggestions.

Best wishes, Frauke