Role of Muslim Scientists
Role of Muslim Scientists
Role of Muslim Scientists
INTRODUCTION
❑ During the Golden Age of Islam, spanning from the
8th to the 14th centuries, Muslim scientists made
groundbreaking contributions that significantly
advanced various fields of knowledge. This era was
marked by a rich exchange of ideas among diverse
cultures, fostering innovations in mathematics,
astronomy, medicine, chemistry, physics and many
more. Prominent scholars like Al-Khwarizmi,
Avicenna, and Ibn al-Haytham etc. not only shaped
their own disciplines but also laid the groundwork
for the European Renaissance. Their remarkable
achievements continue to influence modern science
and underscore the importance of collaboration and
curiosity in the pursuit of knowledge.
MUSLIMS IN SCIENCE
Here are some notable Muslim scientists along with their periods of activity:
1. Al-Khwarizmi (c. 780–850) - Mathematician and astronomer known as the father of algebra.
2. Ibn al-Haytham (c. 965–1040) - Physicist and mathematician, often referred to as the father of optics.
3. Ibn Sina (Avicenna) (c. 980–1037) - Philosopher and physician, known for his works in medicine and philosophy.
4. Al-Razi (Rhazes) (865–925) - Physician and chemist known for his contributions to medicine and the discovery of alcohol.
5. Al-Biruni (c. 973–1048) - Mathematician and astronomer known for his work in astronomy and geography.
6. Ibn Khaldun (1332–1406) - Historian and philosopher, known for his work on sociology and historiography.
7. Al-Farabi (c. 872–950) - Philosopher and scientist, often called the "Second Teacher" after Aristotle.
8. Ibn Rushd (Averroes) (1126–1198) - Philosopher and physician known for his commentaries on Aristotle.
9. Al-Jazari (1136–1206) - Engineer and inventor known for his work in automata and mechanical devices.
10. Nasir al-Din al-Tusi (1201–1274) - Mathematician and astronomer known for his contributions to trigonometry and
astronomy.
Al-Khwarizmi, active during the 9th century (c. 780–850), was a pioneering
mathematician and astronomer whose work laid the foundations for modern
algebra. Often referred to as the "father of algebra," his seminal text, "Al-Kitab
al-Mukhtasar fi Hisab al-Jabr wal-Muqabala," introduced systematic methods
for solving linear and quadratic equations, establishing algebra as a distinct
mathematical discipline. His name is the source of the term "algebra," derived
from "al-jabr," one of the operations he described. In addition to his
contributions to mathematics, Al-Khwarizmi also made significant
advancements in astronomy, producing tables for calculating the positions of
celestial bodies. His work not only influenced the development of mathematics
in the Islamic world but also had a lasting impact on European mathematics
during the Renaissance, highlighting his vital role in the history of science.
MUHAMMAD BIN MUSA AL-KHAWARIZMI
❑Introduction:
Popularly known as AL-KHAWARIZMI
Born in Khawarizm in A.D. (780-847)
Great mathematician, astronomer, historian, geographer and musician
❑Major contributions:
First person who used zero
Considered as an authority in mathematics
Composed oldest works on algebra and astronomical tables
Systematized the Greek and Hindu mathematical knowledge
CONTINUE…
❑ Major contributions:
Contributed to the medical science, philosophy, logic,
mathematics, astronomy and music
Wrote a famous book named “AL-QANNUN FIL TIB” in
which he discussed human physiology and medicine
CONTINUE…
This book is known as CANON in Latin Courtesy
Was translated in many languages and it remained the sole textbook of
medicine for several hundred years in western universities.
Consisting of approximately a million words, is the most influential textbook
ever written
❑Books:
▪ Al- Shifa
He wrote no less than 230 books and treaties.
▪ An-Najat
Was the first to use “ CATHETERS” made of the skins of various animals ▪ Nafia
He mentioned “INTRAVESICAL INJECTIONS” by means of a silver syringe. ▪ Isharrat
He is considered as “FATHER OF GEOLOGY”
He wrote books on interior of earth, mountains and gave scientific reasons for
earthquakes.
He fell victim to a disease in which he was a specialist
Al-Razi (Rhazes) (865-925) was a renowned Persian physician, chemist, and philosopher who
made significant contributions to the fields of medicine, chemistry, and philosophy. Here are some
key highlights of his work:Medical Contributions:1. "Kitab al-Mansouri" (The Book of Medicine):
A comprehensive medical encyclopedia.2. Described measles and smallpox, distinguishing between
the two.3. Introduced mercury as a treatment for skin conditions.Chemical Contributions:1.
Developed laboratory equipment, including distillation apparatus.2. Isolated and characterized
sulfur, mercury, and other substances.3. Contributed to developing chemistry as a distinct
science.Philosophical Contributions:1. Criticized Aristotelian philosophy, advocating for empirical
observation.2. Supported the concept of atomism.Legacy:1. Influenced European scholars, including
Gerard of Cremona.2. Translated into Latin, his works reached a wider audience.3. Considered one
of the greatest physicians of the Islamic GoldenAge. Al-Razi's emphasis on observation,
experimentation, and empirical evidence laid the foundation for later scientific
advancements.Notable Works:1. "Kitab al-Mansouri" (The Book of Medicine)2. "Kitab al-Hawi"
(The Comprehensive Book)3. "Kitab al-Kimya" (The Book of Chemistry)
ZAKARIYA- AL- RAZI
❑ Introduction:
Abu Bakr Muhammad Ibn Zakariya Al-Razi
Born in A.D. (865-925) at RAYY
Better known as Rhazes in the West
Persian Muslim
Was great PHYSICIAN of Islamic world
Most brilliant pillar of Islamic medicine along with Ibn-
Sina
His major fields of interest were Physics, medicine,
chemistry, philosophy etc.
CONTINUE…
❑ Major Contributions:
AL-HAWI is a most monumental work of him. It is the most
comprehensive encyclopedia of medicine in 20 volumes.
Earned the title of “FATHER OF PAEDIATRICS” by writing his
monograph on “Diseases in Children”.
Was the first person who recognized the reaction of pupil to the light.
Was the first person who used animal gut as ligature for surgical
operations.
Was the first person who used Opium as anesthetic during surgery.
Was the first to classify substances into vegetables, animals and
minerals.
Believed in five eternal principals in metaphysics namely 1)creatot
2)soul 3)matter 4)time 5)space
Al-Biruni (c. 973-1048) was a renowned Persian mathematician, astronomer, and geographer
who made seminal contributions to the fields of astronomy, geography, and mathematics.
Born in Khwarizm (modern-day Uzbekistan), Al-Biruni's works had a profound impact on
Islamic and European scholarship. His magnum opus, "Al-Qanun al-Masudi" (The Masudic
Canon), is considered one of the most accurate astronomical tables of its time, introducing
trigonometric methods and calculating solar and lunar eclipses. Al-Biruni's geographical
works, such as "Kitab al-Tafhim" (The Book of Instruction), provided detailed descriptions of
the Indian subcontinent and the Mediterranean region. He also accurately calculated the
Earth's circumference, latitude, and longitude, and developed innovative methods for
determining solar and lunar positions. Al-Biruni's collaborations with Indian scholars and his
knowledge of Sanskrit, Greek, and Arabic facilitated a rich exchange of ideas, earning him
the title "The Master of Astronomy" and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest scholars
of the Islamic Golden Age.
Some notable works of Al-Biruni include:
1. Al-Qanun al-Masudi (The Masudic Canon)
2. Kitab al-Tafhim (The Book of Instruction)
3. Kitab al-Athar al-Baqiyah (The Remaining Signs of Past Centuries)
4. Kitab al-Jamahir fi Ma'rifat al-Awqat wa al-Ziyarat (The Book of Knowledge of Times
and Astronomical Observations)
Ibn Khaldun (1332-1406) was a renowned Tunisian historian, philosopher, and sociologist who
revolutionized the fields of historiography, sociology, and economics. His seminal work, "The
Muqaddimah" (Prolegomena), is considered one of the greatest works of Islamic thought. Key
Contributions:1. Historiography: Ibn Khaldun introduced a scientific approach to history,
emphasizing objective analysis and critique of sources.2. Sociology: He pioneered the study of
social structures, cultural dynamics, and the cyclical nature of human societies.3. Economics: Ibn
Khaldun discussed the concept of supply and demand, division of labor, and the role of
government in economic development.4. Philosophy: He integrated Aristotelian and Islamic
thought, exploring the nature of knowledge, reality, and human existence. The Muqaddimah:This
seven-volume work explores:1. Historical methodology2. Sociology and anthropology3.
Economics and politics4. Philosophy and epistemology5. Islamic theology and jurisprudence.
Innovative Ideas:1. Asabiyyah (group solidarity): Ibn Khaldun's concept explaining social
cohesion and tribal dynamics.2. Cyclical theory of history: Societies rise, peak, and decline due to
internal and external factors.3. Environmental influences on human societiesLegacy:1. Influenced
Ottoman and Arab historiography2. Inspired European thinkers, such as Gibbon and Voltaire3.
Considered the "Father of Sociology" and "Father of Historiography"4. Shaped modern Islamic
thought and intellectual discourse
Other Notable Works:1. "Kitab al-Ibar" (The Book of Lessons)2. "Tarikh al-Arab wal Berber"
(History of the Arabs and Berbers)
Al-Farabi (c. 872-950) was a renowned Persian philosopher, scientist, and logician, esteemed as the
"Second Teacher" after Aristotle. His profound impact on Islamic philosophy, science, and politics has
shaped the intellectual heritage of the Islamic Golden Age.Key Contributions:1. Philosophy: Al-Farabi
reconciled Aristotle's ideas with Islamic theology, laying the groundwork for Islamic philosophy.2.
Logic: He introduced Aristotelian logic to the Islamic world, writing commentaries on Aristotle's
works.3. Science: Al-Farabi made significant contributions to physics, mathematics, astronomy, and
music.4. Politics: His book "The Perfect City" explored ideal governance, justice, and the role of the
philosopher-king.Major Works:1. "The Perfect City" (Kitab al-Madina al-Fadila)2. "The Book of
Letters" (Kitab al-Huruf)3. "The Principles of Being" (Kitab al-Wujud)4. "Commentary on Aristotle's
De Interpretatione"Innovative Ideas:1. Concept of the "Perfect City": Al-Farabi envisioned a
harmonious society governed by reason and justice.2. Classification of sciences: He categorized
sciences into theoretical and practical disciplines.3. Integration of Greek and Islamic thoughtLegacy:1.
Influenced Avicenna, Averroes, and other prominent Islamic scholars.2. Shaped the development of
Islamic philosophy, science, and politics.3. Recognized as one of the greatest philosophers of the
Islamic Golden Age.Titles:1. "Second Teacher" (al-Mu'allim al-Thani)2. "The Prince of Philosophers"
(Sayyid al-Hukama)
Ibn Rushd (Averroes) (1126-1198) was a renowned Andalusian philosopher, physician, and jurist
who profoundly impacted Western and Islamic thought. Born in Cordoba, Spain, Ibn Rushd wrote
comprehensive commentaries on Aristotle's works, harmonizing Greek philosophy with Islamic
theology. His influential works, particularly "The Incoherence of the Incoherence" and "The Decisive
Treatise", defended philosophical inquiry against theological criticism. Ibn Rushd's Aristotelian
commentaries, translated into Latin, significantly shaped the development of Scholasticism,
influencing thinkers like Thomas Aquinas. His medical writings, including "Kitab al-Kulliyat fi al-
Tibb" (The Book of Generalities on Medicine), demonstrated expertise in anatomy, physiology, and
pharmacology. Ibn Rushd's philosophical and medical contributions earned him the title "The
Commentator", cementing his legacy as a bridge between Islamic and Western intellectual
traditions.Some notable works of Ibn Rushd include:1. "The Incoherence of the Incoherence"
(Tahafut al-Tahafut)2. "The Decisive Treatise" (Fasl al-Maqal)3. "Commentaries on Aristotle's
Works"4. "Kitab al-Kulliyat fi al-Tibb" (The Book of Generalities on Medicine)
IBN RUSHD
❑ Introduction:
Abdul Waleed Muhammad Ibn Ahmed Ibn
Muhammad Ibn Rushd
Popularly known as AVERROES in the West
Born at Cordova (Spain) in A.D. (1126-1198)
He was an authority on FIQH
❑ Major Contributions:
He contributed in different fields especially Islamic
Jurisprudence.
He investigated astronomy at length and discovered
the sunspots.
Al-Jazari (1136-1206) was a renowned Arab engineer, inventor, and polymath from Diyarbakır,
Turkey. He is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in automata, mechanical devices, and
water clocks.Key Contributions:1. Automata: Al-Jazari designed and built intricate automata,
including humanoid robots, animals, and musical instruments.2. Water Clocks: He developed
sophisticated water clocks, precise time-keeping devices.3. Mechanical Devices: Al-Jazari
created innovative mechanical devices, such as door-opening systems and water-raising
machines.4. Robotics: His work in robotics predates modern robotics by centuries.Major
Works:1. "The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices" (Kitab al-Hiyal)2. "The
Book of Water Clocks" (Kitab al-Mi'iyat) Innovative Designs:1. Elephant Clock: A water clock
featuring an automated elephant.2. Automatic Door-Opening System3. Water-Raising
Machine4. Musical AutomataLegacy:1. Inspired medieval European engineers and inventors.2.
Considered one of the greatest engineers of the Middle Ages.3. Paved the way for modern
robotics and mechanical engineering.4. Demonstrated Islamic Golden Age's technological
advancements.Tributes:1. "Father of Modern Robotics"2. "The Engineer of the Islamic Golden
Age"
Nasir al-Din al-Tusi (1201-1274) was a renowned Persian mathematician, astronomer, and
philosopher from Tus, Iran. He made significant contributions to trigonometry, astronomy, and
mathematics, shaping the Islamic Golden Age's scientific advancements.Key
Contributions:Mathematics:1. Trigonometry: Al-Tusi wrote "Treasury of Nasir" (Khazinah-i Nasiri),
introducing trigonometric concepts.2. Algebra: He developed algebraic methods for solving
equations.Astronomy:1. Planetary motion: Al-Tusi proposed alternative models to Ptolemy's
geocentric system.2. Astronomical tables: He created accurate tables for celestial bodies'
movements.Philosophy:1. Avicennan philosophy: Al-Tusi commented on Avicenna's works,
integrating philosophy and science.Major Works:1. "Treasury of Nasir" (Khazinah-i Nasiri)2.
"Akhlaq-i Nasiri" (Nasirean Ethics)3. "Tahrir al-Majisti" (Commentary on Ptolemy's
Almagest)Legacy:1. Influenced European scholars, including Copernicus and Regiomontanus.2.
Contributed to the Maragheh Observatory's founding.3. Shaped Islamic and Persian intellectual
traditions.4. Considered one of the greatest mathematicians and astronomers of the Islamic Golden
Age.
JABIR IBN HAYYAN
❑ Introduction:
Popularly known as GEBER in the West
Born in A.D. (721-815)
Known as a legendary figure in the field of Chemistry
God-Father of modern chemistry
❑ Major Contributions:
Prepared large number of important chemicals like NITRIC
ACID, HYDROCHLORIC ACID, SULPHURIC ACID,
WHITE LEAD etc.
CONTINUE…
❑ Major Contributions:
Classified and gave names of plants kingdom over which modern botany is
based.
Gathered herbs and new plants from Spain to Syria and extracted
medicines from them
Laid foundation of herbal medicines
His work was considered as authority in plants
AL BIRUNI
❑ Introduction:
Abu Rayhan Muhammad Al- Biruni
Born in A.D. (973-1048) near Khawarizm
He was a prolific writer and he never had a pen out of his hand.
❑ Major Contributions:
Explained the problems of advanced trigonometry
Gave theory that light travels faster than sound
Described and explained fully the concept of longitude and latitude
He gave idea that earth is not stationary but rotate on its axis
He learned Sanskarit language in order to investigate Indian
knowledge
He accurately determined the weight of 18 stones in physics
ABU ISHAQ AL KINDI
❑ Introduction:
Born in Basrah in the beginning of 9th century AD.
Popularly known as “Philosopher of the Arabs”
Known as AL-KINDUS in the west.
He was a great physicist
❑ Major contributions:
Contributed in the fields of music, meteorology, and optics.
No less than 265 works are ascribed to him of which 15 are
on meteorology, 8 on music and several on specific weights,
tides and optics .
Most important work was on reflection of light.
Discussed music from scientific point of view
Worked on geometrical optics
Explained the laws related to gravitational fall of the bodies
AL-BATTANI
❑ Introduction:
Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Jabir Al-Battani
A great ARAB astronomer and mathematician
Born around A.D. 858.
Died in A.D. 929
❑ Major Contributions:
Introduced the use of sines in mathematical calculations
Widened the scientific horizons of astronomy beyond the
Greek’s metaphysical concepts.
Was an excellent observer of lunar and solar eclipses.
Had a great command in trigonometry and he established
the relation between the sides and angles of a spherical
triangle.
CONTINUE…
❑ BOOKS:
His famous book was KITAB AL-ZIG
UMMAR AL-KHAYYAM
❑ Introduction:
Born in Nishapur in A.D. (1044-1123)
Was mathematician, astronomer and philosopher
❑ Major contributions:
Was the first person who proved BINOMIAL THEORUM
Classified algebraic equations
Introduced the Jalali calendar
Determined accurate methods for determination of specific
gravity
Recognized 13 different forms of cubic equations and
arranged them in their order of complexity
ABUL WAFA MUHAMMAD AL-BUZJANI
❑ Introduction:
Born in A.D. (940-988) in NISHAPUR, later on migrated
to Baghdad in 959 AD.
❑ Major contributions:
His major contribution was in mathematics.
Gave many solutions of trigonometry and geometry.
Gave knowledge on movements of the moon
ALI BIN RABBAN TUBRI
❑ Introduction:
Born in A.D. (775-870) in Tubristan
Was great scientist of his age
❑ Major contributions:
Greatly contributed in the field of Zoology, Psychology ,
PHILOSOPHY as well as TRONOMY
His famous book was FIRDOS UL HIKMA
ABDUL QASIM AL- ZAHRAWI
❑ Introduction:
Better known as “Mamoon of the West”
Born in A.D. 936 in SPAIN
❑ Major contributions:
Was a great Surgeon
Invented many surgical appliances, never known before.
Was a physician as well.
He was an excellent dentist also and he could very successfully set
an artificial tooth in place of diseased.
He gave perfection to the surgical science.
He died in A.D. 1013.
DR ABDUL QADEER KHAN
❑ Introduction:
Greatest scientist and pioneer of PAKISTAN nuclear power
Born on 1st April 1936 at Bhopal in India
Received early education from India
Went to HOLLAND for higher education and worked as a research
assistant after MSc
Received Phd. degree from University of Leaven (Belgium)
❑ Achievements:
Appointed as an expert in Urenco enrichment plant in Holland
Laid the foundation of engineering lab at KAHUTA renamed as
Abdul Qadeer Khan laboratories
It was his efforts that Pakistan became 1st Islamic nuclear power
on 28th May 1998.
CONCLUSION
❑ History describes that Muslims were the pioneers of science. Muslim scientists made the majority of
scientific contributions in the early centuries. Later on, in the enlightenment period of Europe, the
West progressed so well and made discoveries and inventions in all fields. Science and technology
made this world a global village, and technological aspects and their power in the hand of the West
made them rigorous towards Muslims. The seventeenth till the twenty-first century resulted from
enormous scientific development and technological bombardment. Muslim scientists are also
participating in this development, and their struggle is praiseworthy. Islam stresses discoveries, and
the Quran and Sunnah are the brightening of the paths of Muslims and non-Muslims. There are
precise shreds of evidence in the Quran mentioned hundreds of centuries ago, proven in this twenty-
first century. Islam motivates the Muslims to go side by side with this world and find the signs of
Allah almighty. The early centuries present the whole scenario of Muslim scientists' dedication and
discoveries, which later remained Al-Irfan (Biannual Journal) Jan-June 2022 beneficial for the West.
West proceeded to take up those inventions and explore them. Being Muslims, we need to increase
the scientific work and research to achieve the lost treasure of science back into our hands. Muslim
scientists all across the globe need to join hands to make a robust research frame network to support
Muslim science students in developing scientific research and uncovering discoveries.
SUGGESTIONS
❑ In a nutshell, Muslim scientists and their work are admirable, but if we compare it with the West, we find
very few scientists compared to the early centuries. To compete with the western world, we need to produce
more laboratories, and the government needs to allocate more funding for research. Metaphore of
Technology has blind the facts that lead the world to a dichotomy because the Muslim countries with fewer
technological facilities are still contemporaries. Serious endeavors, hard work, and round-the-clock efforts
may bring changes in science for the development and progress of the Muslim Ummah.
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