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The National
04-05-2025
- Health
- The National
Avicenna's legacy is global – so why has the Arab world forgotten him?
His work shaped our understanding of medicine and philosophy, while his books were studied from Spain to India. So why do so many Arab students today have little understanding of who Avicenna was? The question was at the heart of Saturday's panel at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, where the 11th-century polymath, known in Arabic as Ibn Sina, is designated as the Focus Personality of the event. Born in 980 CE and raised in what is now Uzbekistan, Avicenna is heralded as a totemic figure in Islamic philosophy and medicine. He authored the seminal Canon of Medicine – used as a foundational medical text until the 18th century – alongside influential works on astronomy, music and theology. His philosophical treatises – particularly The Book of Healing (Kitab al-Shifa') and The Book of Salvation (Kitab al-Najat), with their focus on logic, metaphysics and the natural sciences – went on to shape the thinking of major medieval western thinkers such as Thomas Aquinas, Maimonides and Descartes. Yet despite these achievements – commemorated through tributes such as the Avicenna Hospital in Paris and Unesco's official recognition – his legacy in the region remains distorted or, at best, a faint echo. 'Avicenna didn't write for Muslims alone. He wrote for all of humanity,' said Muheeb Al Mubaidin, historian and former Jordanian government official. 'And perhaps that's one reason why he continues to be viewed with unease in some parts of the Arab world. He's often seen not as a figure of knowledge and healing, but as someone who strayed from the faith. 'So when I reference The Canon of Medicine or cite his views on music and mental well-being, the reaction isn't always about the content. Often, it's about the fact that I dared to invoke his name at all.' Al Mubaidin pointed to the public backlash that followed a previous government effort to reintroduce philosophy and the arts into Jordanian school curricula – a controversy sparked, in part, by a proposal featuring a passage from Avicenna on the healing power of music. 'I included a quote by Ibn Sina on the therapeutic effects of music in the school curriculum,' he said. 'The response was immediate – someone said, 'So now you're bringing us the one who strayed from the faith?'' For Al Mubaidin, the episode was revealing. 'It made it clear to me that the reaction wasn't really about the music – it was about the man, and the fact that I dared to treat him as a source of insight. It was disappointing, but it showed me the disconnect between his historical stature and how he's viewed today.' It wasn't always this way, according to professor Mustafa Al-Nashar – a distinguished Egyptian philosopher – who noted how Avicenna's work as both physician and philosopher was once widely studied in hospitals and universities from Baghdad to Cordoba. His medical innovations, including his theories of contagion and the importance of quarantine – helped shape both practice and ethics, training generations of doctors and scholars. The rupture, Al-Nashar said, occurred gradually in the centuries that followed, driven by what he described as theological and ideological misunderstandings of Avicenna's work. 'The problem began when some people started saying that philosophy contradicts religion. This is not true. Avicenna believed that reason and revelation complete each other. But when certain ideologies took over education, they removed philosophy – they said it was foreign, even sinful," he said. "In Europe, they taught Avicenna. They studied him for centuries – in Paris, in Italy and in Spain. He shaped how they understood medicine, how they thought about the soul. They built on his work while we forgot his name.' It is partly for this reason that French-Egyptian author Gilbert Sinoue has dedicated parts of his career to bringing Ibn Sina's impact back into view. His most recent book, The Golden Age of Arab Civilisation, highlights Avicenna's contributions alongside other towering figures. It follows 1989's Avicenna: The Road to Isfahan – a fictionalised biography that traces the philosopher's life and legacy. "I've always tried to be a sort of bridge between Avicenna's thought – the Muslim world in general – and the West,' Sinoue said. 'Especially now, when anything that represents 'Muslim' carries a rather dark image in the West. For me, it was both a need and a duty to transmit the humanist and cultural dimension of Avicenna.' Al-Nashar described reclaiming Avicenna's legacy, through the study of philosophy and the arts, as central to the region's cultural and educational advancement. He called it a 'disgrace' that some educational institutions in the Arab world had removed these disciplines entirely. At the same time, he commended the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair for spotlighting Avicenna and praised Fujairah's House of Philosophy for sparking renewed interest. 'It is a disgrace that philosophy was removed from our schools,' Al-Nashar said. 'We are in dire need of it. How can philosophy disappear from our Arab world, especially when we are in such desperate need of clear thinking and vision?" The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is running at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre until Monday
Al Etihad
27-04-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
A tribute to Ibn Sina at ADIBF 2025: Discover the life and legacy of Islamic world's great scholar
28 Apr 2025 00:01 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Ibn Sina (Avicenna) has been considered the most influential philosopher and scientist of the Islamic world. At the ongoing Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, visitors get to learn more about the life and legacy of the great physician, who has been selected as Focus Personality for the event this year. Born in 980 CE in Afshana (present-day Uzbekistan), Ibn Sina was raised in a family with strong intellectual roots. His father hailed from Balkh (modern-day Afghanistan) and later moved the family to Bukhara, where Ibn Sina would start his academic the age of 10, he already knew the entire Quran by heart, and shortly thereafter, his interests broadened to philosophy, mathematics, and the natural growth took shape for Ibn Sina in a city known for its rich cultural and scientific heritage, was only 22 when his father died and he had to leave Bukhara in search of wider subsequent move served as the incredible groundwork for his scientific and philosophical contributions that inspired the world even until Sina's groundbreaking contributions span a wide spectrum — from physics to chemistry, philosophy, astronomy, and anticipated ideas on motion and stillness that would later be echoed by Isaac Newton. His work in chemistry cleared up subtle theories, while his synthesis of Greek philosophy and Islamic thought bore such deeper incursion into existence, essence, and the astronomical observations about Venus on closer approach to the Sun were settled only after major medical treatise, called 'The Canon of Medicine', became the cornerstone of medical education in Europe and kept on rendering its potency even until the 17th looked into human psychology, studied the aspect of the soul, and defined music as a mathematical writings and ideas were part of the great number of academic disciplines he left behind, which made a major contribution in the European Renaissance when his works were translated and studied in most prominent universities, such as the University of Paris, Harvard University, and Cambridge his contributions, Ibn Sina has gained distinction not only as one of the main scholars of the Islamic Golden Age, but also a bridge between the Eastern and Western intellectual traditions. His work continues to inspire and influence scholars across various disciplines, celebrating his contributions to global knowledge that transcend time.
Al Etihad
27-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
From ‘The Golden Koran' to region's first-ever books: Rare, ancient publications on display at ADIBF 2025
27 Apr 2025 23:54 Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)A treasure trove of rare manuscripts and historical prints is captivating visitors at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), which runs until May 5 at the ADNEC by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), this year's fair is being held under the theme 'Knowledge Illuminates Our Community'. It celebrates the Culture of the Caribbean Basin as Guest of Honour, with renowned philosopher Ibn Sina (Avicenna) as the Focus Personality, and 'One Thousand and One Nights' as the Book of the the highlights is a collection from Peter Harrington, a leading rare book dealer based in London. Owner Pom Harrington personally curated a selection of invaluable works centred on the Arab world, including a 14th-century original manuscript of Ibn Sina's 'Canon of Medicine' (Canon 5), focusing on pharmacy. 'It's wonderful to have such a piece here, especially with Ibn Sina being honored at the fair,' Harrington told rare items include early Arabic prints produced using the first printing press brought to Egypt by Napoleon in the 1790s, along with one of the earliest French-Arabic dictionaries printed in Cairo in 1798 for Napoleon's troops. Harrington is also displaying a range of original travel and geographic works, including photographs of the Arabian Peninsula and firsthand accounts of women travelers in Palestine during the include a 1499 edition of Colonna's Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, featuring the first Arabic word ever printed in a European book – a testament to early East-West cultural exchanges. Harrington said: 'We're here at the Abu Dhabi Book Fair because Abu Dhabi is the best location to exhibit in the Middle East. [Here,] you get to meet the best museums, the best libraries, and the best collectors in the region in one place.' ADEVA, a leading Austrian publisher specializing in facsimile editions, is offering a glimpse into the art of manuscript preservation. Managing Director Paul Struzl explained that ADEVA meticulously reproduces ancient manuscripts, a process that can take up to a year for a single book. Their showcase includes a facsimile of 'The Golden Koran', written on golden paper, and a rare collection on falconry – a nod to the region's deep-rooted cultural in 1949, ADEVA's mission is to ensure that scholars and future generations can study ancient texts that are otherwise locked away in museum vaults. 'In an increasingly digital world, preserving physical books is more important than ever,' Struzl, whose family has been running the business for three generations, told Aletihad. Struzl lauded the Abu Dhabi fair's organisation, saying: 'I really love coming to Abu Dhabi. It's well-organised, it's a beautiful fair, and the facilities are excellent. It's more or less a tradition for us to be here since 2009.'
CairoScene
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Leading Saudi Cultural Institutions Showcased at Abu Dhabi Book Fair
The Saudi pavilion features contributions from key institutions including the King Abdulaziz Foundation and Princess Nourah University. The 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened on 26th April 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and will run until 5th May, bringing together a global celebration of literature, culture, and ideas. Saudi Arabia is prominently represented at the fair with a pavilion organised by major cultural institutions. Participating entities include the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), the King Abdulaziz Public Library, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran. The Saudi pavilion offers visitors a diverse display of publications, research, and cultural initiatives, underlining the Kingdom's efforts to promote knowledge exchange and cultural diplomacy. A dedicated section at the pavilion spotlights the UNESCO Chair in Translating Cultures, showcasing research collaborations and initiatives in the field of cultural translation. This year's fair features more than 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries and hosts over 2,000 cultural activities. The 2025 edition honours renowned Islamic philosopher Ibn Sina (Avicenna) as its Focus Personality, and celebrates 'One Thousand and One Nights' as the Book of the World, underlining the fair's emphasis on intellectual heritage and storytelling traditions.
Gulf Today
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair begins
Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) officially opened on Saturday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The event will run until 5th May 2025. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, this year's fair is being held under the theme "Knowledge Illuminates Our Community", and features participation from 1,400 exhibitors representing 96 countries. The fair offers a comprehensive programme with around 2,000 activities and events, catering to readers, intellectuals, publishers, and content creators. It continues to serve as a global platform for cultural dialogue, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading international hub for knowledge and creativity. The event reflects the UAE's strategic vision of investing in culture, supporting the publishing industry, and promoting dialogue among civilisations. The book fair will feature panel discussions and interactive exhibits highlighting Ibn Sina's legacy, discussing his ideas, achievements, and impact on human civilisation, marking 1,000 years since the publication of his seminal work "The Canon of Medicine", a landmark text that profoundly influenced the global advancement of medical science. The fair also celebrates "One Thousand and One Nights" as the "Book of the World", recognising its timeless influence across cultures and its enduring inspiration for writers and artists worldwide. Moreover, the Culture of the Caribbean Basin has been chosen as this year's Guest of Honour, underscoring the UAE's commitment to fostering global cultural partnerships and providing enriching knowledge experiences that deepen intercultural exchange, further strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a premier destination for intellectual and cultural exchange. With the opening of its 34th edition, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair has successfully reinforced its status as a leading cultural and intellectual destination. Over the decades, it has firmly established the concept of knowledge and cultural sustainability, while promoting the Arabic language's presence within the creative and cultural industries both locally, regionally, and globally. Started in 1981 The Fair's journey began in 1981 when the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan inaugurated the first edition under the name "Islamic Book Fair" at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, with the participation of 50 publishers. In 1986, the first official edition of the Abu Dhabi Book Fair was launched, again at the Cultural Foundation, featuring 70 publishers. The momentum grew in the 1988 edition, with 80 publishers from 10 Arab countries participating. By 1993, the event had evolved into an annual fixture, attracting an increasing number of local, regional, and international publishing houses. Entering the new millennium, the 2001 edition attracted around 514 publishing houses, marked by the notable presence of cultural leaders and intellectuals. The 2009 edition witnessed the launch of "The Arab E-Library" and attracted 637 publishers from 52 countries. France was the Guest of Honour for the first time in 2011. In 2014, the fair introduced Al Mutanabbi as the Fair's inaugural "literary figure of honour", with participation from 1,050 exhibitors. In 2015, the fair celebrated its Silver Jubilee, honouring the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan as pivotal personality of the Year, with 1,181 publishers from 63 countries participating. The fair again celebrated Sheikh Zayed in the 2018 edition, coinciding with the Year of Zayed, welcoming 1,350 exhibitors from 63 countries, with Poland selected as the Guest of Honour. In 2019, India was the Guest of Honour, and for the first time, the "One Million Tolerant Document" initiative was launched, in line with the UAE's Year of Tolerance. The most recent edition saw 1,350 exhibitors from 90 countries under the theme "Where the World's Tales Unfold". It also welcomed 145 new publishers and participants from 12 countries, including Greece, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Pakistan, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Mozambique, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Indonesia. In an unprecedented move, the current 34th edition (April 26 - May 5, 2025) extends the exhibition period to 10 days for the first time. This aims to encourage innovation within the publishing sector, enhance cultural dialogue, and provide greater support to local and Arab authors by offering more opportunities for networking with international publishers. This year's edition features participation from over 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries, speaking more than 60 languages. Impressively, 120 exhibitors are participating for the first time, marking an 18% growth. Moreover, the fair welcomes publishers from 20 new countries across four continents, speaking more than 25 languages. It hosts 28 international pavilions, 87 local and international government entities, 13 author-publishers, 15 universities, and 8 initiatives dedicated to supporting the publishing industry. WAM
