Bayt Al-Hikma: the first library in the Islamic world
This week we hear from Baghdad’s Bayt Al-Hikma Library (House of Wisdom):
Established as the first UNESCO City of Literature in Asia, Baghdad has been a centre for translation, knowledge, and culture for centuries. Central to its literary influence was the academic institution and library Bayt al-Hikma, also known as the House of Wisdom. It is considered a leading library in Islamic history, leading to advancements in science, math, and medicine.
Bayt al-Hikma, the House of Wisdom
Founded in the eighth century, the library’s vast collection of books is said to have rivalled the ancient Library of Alexandria. A place of discourse, discussion and debate, the library was also the centre of a major translation movement that connected east and west. During the reign of caliph Al-Ma’mun, the library’s role evolved to include education, research, and training, and it was then considered the first scientific university in the world.
Bayt al-Hikma, the House of Wisdom
Sadly, Bayt al-Hikma was destroyed by a Mongol invasion in the thirteenth century. In The Library: An Illustrated History, Stuart AP Murray writes that many of the books were torn apart by pillagers who turned their leather covers into sandals.
In 1995, Bayt Al-Hikma was re-established with the goal of reviving the original library’s role in knowledge and exchange. “As the first library in the Islamic world, this included collecting books, foreign works and precious manuscripts to attract scientists and encourage them to write and translate,” Mudhafer Al-rubai, the director of public relations and media at Bayt Al-Hikma told the Melbourne City of Literature Office. “Bayt Al-Hikma now includes eight scientific departments that work together to achieve the establishment’s aims.” The library is also home to the Baghdad City of Literature Office.
Bayt al-Hikma, the House of Wisdom
Through printing original publications and updating the collection with books discovered through international book fairs, the library ensures that its collection stays relevant. There is a focus on translating important research and books concerning Arabic history and heritage from and into Arabic. There is also a digital library through which a large number of the publications can be accessed by the local community. Writers are supported through invitations to participate in “…scientific seminars held within the institution, in addition to publishing research in the journals issued by the library’s scientific departments,” said Al-rubai.
Bayt al-Hikma, the House of Wisdom
The library also collaborates with other organisations interested in thought, culture and literature. For example, it was an official sponsor and partner with the Baghdad International Book Fair, which hosted over 350 publishing houses from across Iraq, the Arab world and internationally. Its diverse program of panel discussions, book releases, debates, lectures and more attracts thousands of readers each year. The library also organises training courses and hosts youth-focused cultural activities, issues publications, magazines, and periodicals throughout and outside of Iraq, holds the rights to author and translate works, and awards the Bayt Al-Hikma prizes that honour “intellectuals and thinkers who serve the goals of Bayt Al-Hikma with their writings”.
Bayt al-Hikma, the House of Wisdom
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