Bayt al-Hikmah, House of Wisdom
You can’t discuss education without acknowledging the “House of Wisdom."
The "House of Wisdom" is a reference to the Grand Library of Baghdad. It was a "major public academy and intellectual centre" during the Abbasid-era. One of the most significant and iconic institutions in history.
"The House of Wisdom was established in Baghdad during the 9th century by Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid as a library to house his private collection. The library grew to become the jewel of the Islamic Golden Age. A period of great intellectual growth and discovery between the 8th & 13th centuries."
The Grand Library attracted the greatest minds across three continents (Asia, Africa & Europe), acting as a nerve point that encouraged the search of knowledge. Surpassing and enabling great advancements in all fields, including art, literature, philosophy, medicine, astronomy, geography, mathematics, etc.
One of the key functions was saving knowledge for future generations by translating manuscripts to increase accessibility. Many languages were spoken, written, and practiced. Therefore, enhancing the process of ancient texts being saved. A wide variety of languages including Greek, Aramaic, Hebrew, Syriac, Latin, Farsi & Arabic (amongst many more). All texts were standardised and translated into Arabic. This is the reason for thousands of scientific, philosophic, and literature works being preserved.
"The House of Wisdom was said to contain more than 400,000 books."
Education has always been at the heart of Islam. All are encouraged to become lifelong learners and seek beneficial knowledge. As knowledge lights the path to God.
"My Lord, increase me in knowledge." (Quran 20:114)
