Irrigation Devices

A shaduf, or shadoof, is a hand-operated device used to lift water for irrigation. It was invented in ancient times and is still used in Egypt, India, and other countries. 

 The shaduf is made of three pieces of wood shaped like an H or a football goal post. A piece of wood is placed across the crossbar, with a weight on one end and a rope with a bucket on the other end. 

The weight helps to offset the weight of the water being lifted. 

The shaduf is used to lift containers full of water. By pulling the rope, the bucket is lowered into the canal. 

The shaduf was invented in prehistoric times, probably in Mesopotamia. It was widely spread in the ancient world, and several ancient civilizations dispute its origin.