Where is the foundation of modern science today?

Today, we frequently hear about, witness, and even use in our daily lives the capabilities of modern technologies, sciences, and professions that are “lightening our burdens” in every field. Yet, in many cases, this modernity, progress, and scientific advancement are attributed to the West. But is that really the case? Scholars united to enrich the exhibition of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan with scientific and innovative projects are preparing to present compelling evidence that will soon provide a clear answer to this question.

 

These scholars are working to prove that the foundation of today's modern technologies and sciences and the answer to the question posed at the beginning of this article lies hidden within the ancient walls of Baghdad’s Bayt al-Hikma (House of Wisdom). Historical records testify that it was here that Muhammad al-Khwarizmi laid the foundation of algorithms, Abu Nasr al-Farabi systematized philosophy and logic, and Ibn Sina revolutionized medicine and natural sciences. Scholars such as Hunayn ibn Ishaq, Yahya ibn Abu Mansur, and many other great thinkers practically rediscovered science at this center.

 

Bayt al-Hikma is considered the ancient yet still relevant heart of knowledge. At this center, scholars not only carried out their work but were also supported both materially and spiritually. The discoveries they founded have become the very foundation of today’s modern professions, sciences, and fields.

 

For this reason, Bayt al-Hikma occupies a central place in the “First Renaissance Period” exhibition at the Center of Islamic Civilization.

 

Through this section, visitors will gain a close and detailed understanding of the stages of development of intellectual thought, science, and culture throughout history. The exhibition content has been developed by leading scholars of Uzbekistan and is based on historical evidence. The design of this project is being developed using a modern approach by the renowned Italian company “Magistr ART”.

 

A Historical Site Turned Center of Science and Knowledge

 

Bayt al-Hikma (Arabic: “House of the Wise”) was a major scientific institution that became a center of intellectual and scientific advancement in the Islamic world during the Middle Ages. Established in the late 8th and early 9th centuries in the city of Baghdad under the Abbasid Caliphate, it was significantly expanded by Caliph Harun al-Rashid and especially his son Al-Ma’mun, eventually rising to the status of an official scientific institute.

 

This institution functioned not only as a library but also as a translation center, a hub for scientific research and debate, and a collective source of the most advanced knowledge and technical expertise of the time. Scientific works in Greek, Indian, Persian, and Syriac were translated into Arabic here, elevating the global stature of science and learning.

 

How Did Bayt al-Hikma Operate?

 

Bayt al-Hikma was a unique model that nurtured a thriving scientific environment. It brought together mathematicians, astronomers, physicians, philosophers, translators, and other specialists. These scholars received salaries and were both materially and morally supported for their scientific endeavors. Renowned scholars such as Hunayn ibn Ishaq, Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, and Al-Kindi conducted their work in this very institution.

 

Bayt al-Hikma laid the foundations of algebra and algorithms in mathematics and harmonized traditional Greek and Indian medical knowledge with Islamic scientific thought in the field of medicine. Special instruments were developed for astronomical observations, and scientific experiments were conducted regularly.

 

The First Global Scientific Institution

 

Bayt al-Hikma had a profound influence not only on the Islamic world but also on the advancement of global science. Its activities bridged the knowledge of the ancient East and West. The body of knowledge accumulated at this center later served as a foundation for the European Renaissance. Numerous sources regard Bayt al-Hikma as the first global scientific institution. Its model had a direct impact on the development of modern universities and research centers.

 

Presentation of Knowledge and Discoveries

 

At the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, the history of Bayt al-Hikma is expected to be presented in capsules that combine historical foundations with modern approaches within the “First Renaissance Period” exhibition.

 

The capsule dedicated to Bayt al-Hikma will feature:

Historical maps;

Copies of rare manuscripts;

Interactive displays illustrating the work of prominent scholars;

Visual reconstructions and digital animations

 

Through these elements, visitors will gain a deep understanding of the true essence of this scientific center. In the virtual environment, the interior of Bayt al-Hikma, the scholars’ activities, and the scientific processes will be brought to life.

 

This capsule devoted to Bayt al-Hikma is not merely a collection of historical facts. It represents a vivid panorama of civilizational advancement shaped through the history of thought, scientific dialogue, and the exchange of knowledge. Within the framework of the “First Renaissance Period” exhibition being developed at the Center of Islamic Civilization, you will deeply grasp how ancient global knowledge was centralized, how scholars collaborated to create groundbreaking discoveries, and how scientific thought was formed. The exhibition allows you to witness the place Bayt al-Hikma holds at the core of today’s technologies. In short, this is a journey back to the rich historical pages of knowledge and discovery, and a close look at the scientific heritage that laid the foundation for future progress.

 

Husan Tursunov