Arabia before and after Islam | Islamic Golden Age- Part II
Part I of this Article: https://medium.com/@ulislammaktab/arabia-before-and-after-islam-islamic-golden-age-part-i-268b43fe5a5a
For a video version of this article watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=He6PgnH7X7M
A selection of some of the most influential Muslim Scientists:
Al-Hassan Ibn Al-Haytham
Al-Hassan Ibn Al-Haytham, often heralded as the father of modern optics, authored over 80 scientific letters and books. His groundbreaking work on vision, mirrors, and lenses culminated in his influential book “Al-Manazir,” where he corrected misconceptions about vision from Roman and Greek traditions. He debunked the Greek theory that vision emanates from rays emitted by our eyes, proving instead that vision occurs through light reflected into the eyes. This discovery paved the way for the invention of glasses, telescopes, and cameras. His contributions remain foundational in the fields of optics and vision science.
For further reading, visit the National Library of Medicine or explore this article on Ibn Al-Haytham’s legacy.
Al-Khawarizmi
Al-Khawarizmi, a luminary in mathematics and astronomy, introduced the number system we use today and pioneered the field of algebra. The term “algebra” itself is derived from the Arabic word “al-jabr.” Before his contributions, numbers were represented in cumbersome Roman numerals. Al-Khawarizmi’s innovative system, based on angles in symbols, revolutionized mathematics. His introduction of the number zero, symbolized by a circle with no angles, was a pivotal advancement. His work in algebra laid the foundation for all modern mathematics, crucial for scientific and technological progress.
Al-Zahrawy
Known as the father of surgery, Al-Zahrawy authored “At-Tasrif,” a comprehensive medical encyclopedia in 30 volumes. This seminal work includes recipes for anesthesia and detailed designs of surgical instruments, many of which are still in use today. His contributions have been instrumental in the development of modern surgical practices.
Jabir Ibn Hayyan
A titan in the field of chemistry, Jabir Ibn Hayyan invented chemical distillation and discovered methods for producing nitric acid, sulfuric acid, and sodium hydroxide. His innovative techniques for separating gold and silver, making liquid gold, and creating fire-resistant paper, as well as anti-rust paint, are just a few of his numerous contributions to the field of chemistry. The term “chemistry” itself is derived from the Arabic word “Kemia.”
Abbas Ibn Firnas
Abbas Ibn Firnas was a polymath known for his pioneering work in aviation, inventing the first ink pen, and innovating vision glasses. He also created the sand clock, glass from sand, and conducted early experiments in flight, inspiring future generations of aviators.
Taqi ad-Din Muhammad ibn Ma’ruf
Taqi ad-Din was an inventor and engineer who developed the mechanical watch and the crankshaft, integral to the internal combustion engine. His work on the rudimentary steam turbine in 1551 predated Thomas Newcomen’s invention by more than a century.
Ibn Sina
Ibn Sina, or Avicenna, authored “The Canon of Medicine,” a foundational medical text that described 720 different medicines. He invented the first medical thermometer, discovered that light travels faster than sound, and elucidated the relationship between sound waves and disturbances in the air. His work also emphasized the importance of psychotherapy in health.
Ismail Al-Jazari
Known as the father of robotics, Ismail Al-Jazari conceptualized and created automatic machines powered by water flow. His sophisticated devices, which performed tasks on timers without human intervention, were the precursors to modern robotics and automation technology.
Abu Bakr Al-Razi
Dubbed the magician of medicine, Abu Bakr Al-Razi was the first to use alcohol as an antiseptic and opium as anesthesia. He discovered allergic asthma, formulated descriptions of smallpox and measles, and invented surgical sutures from animal intestines. His medical ointments and other innovations significantly advanced the field of medicine.
Abd Al-Rahman Ibn Khaldun
Ibn Khaldun is recognized as the founder of modern disciplines such as historiography, sociology, economics, demography, and political science. His magnum opus, “Muqaddimah,” lays out the principles of these fields and remains influential to this day.
Muhammad Al-Idrisi
Muhammad Al-Idrisi, the man who created the world’s first map, made significant advancements in geography. His detailed and accurate maps vastly improved upon prior attempts, marking a major leap forward in cartography.
Ibn Battuta
The great traveler Ibn Battuta documented his extensive journeys, traveling four times the distance of Marco Polo. His writings provide valuable insights into the cultures and societies of his time.
Ammar Al-Musily
Ammar Al-Musily, a renowned ophthalmologist and surgeon, invented the hypodermic syringe and developed surgical methods for cataract surgery. His hollow drill for soft cataracts and strabismus treatment techniques were groundbreaking.
Ibn Rushd Al-Andalusi
Ibn Rushd, also known as Averroes, was a multifaceted scholar who wrote extensively on philosophy, medicine, law, theology, and language. His works greatly influenced both Islamic and Western thought.
Fatima al-Fihriya
Fatima al-Fihriya founded the world’s first university, the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco, which is still operational today. Despite its historical significance, it is often overlooked in favor of Western institutions.
The Islamic world has been a fountain of innovation and knowledge for over a millennium. From the invention of soap, shampoo, and toothbrushes to advancements in medicine, mathematics, and engineering, Muslim scholars have laid the groundwork for many aspects of modern science and technology. Their contributions have profoundly shaped our world, demonstrating the enduring impact of their intellectual and practical achievements.
Part I of this Article: https://medium.com/@ulislammaktab/arabia-before-and-after-islam-islamic-golden-age-part-i-268b43fe5a5a
For a video version of this article watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=He6PgnH7X7M
More on this topic: https://medium.com/@howtomuslimnow/how-islam-transformed-the-arabs-c4c8e1672ad0
