ACADEMICS.web.id – In the annals of history, Islamic civilization once stood as a global hub of knowledge, making significant contributions to science, technology, and various fields of learning. This was driven by a strong culture of research. From the 8th to the 14th centuries, a dynamic culture of research and literacy flourished in the Islamic world. This “Golden Age” produced innovative discoveries and advancements across numerous disciplines and laid the groundwork for the modern scientific revolution.
The wealth of literature, derived from the translation of classical works from Greek, Persian, and Indian sources, was integrated with Islamic values by Muslim scholars of the time. The substantial financial support and scholarly climate provided by Muslim rulers further solidified the foundations of a research culture within Islamic civilization, leading to the development of superior science and technology.
However, over time, the culture of research and literacy in the Islamic world experienced a decline. Factors such as colonization, political turmoil, and intellectual stagnation led to a lag in Islamic research and literacy. Even today, many Muslim-majority countries face significant challenges in building robust research infrastructure, enhancing the quality of education, and promoting an inclusive and sustainable culture of literacy.
This reality has prompted many intellectuals to reflect on why the discussion has often been limited to recounting past glories. They are raising critical questions—how did Islam achieve such heights in research culture, and what lessons can be learned to rekindle this spirit in the contemporary world?
FOSTERING A RESEARCH CULTURE
Broadly speaking, the foundation of Islamic research lies in the Quran itself, a text that repeatedly emphasizes the importance of knowledge and reflection (Quran 31:29, 27:86, 4:94). Understanding Surah Al-Alaq verse 1, as the first revelation commanding the act of reading, signifies that reading is not only of the revealed verses (Qauliyyah) but also of the natural world (Qauniyyah), closely linked to research and inquiry.
Therefore, research is not merely for the sake of accumulating knowledge but also for recognizing and understanding Allah’s creation. From this understanding, such activities are expected to carry a noble purpose, serving as a means (wasilah) to recognize the Creator.
Based on the Quran, Muslim scholars of the past were motivated to continuously seek knowledge, actively engaging with sources from various traditions, including the scholarly works of Greeks, Persians, and Indians (Robinson, 2003). Particularly during the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258 CE), this scholarly activity played a crucial role in establishing a research culture.
Consequently, Caliphs such as Harun al-Rashid and Al-Ma’mun provided protection to scholars, scientists, and translators by offering scholarships and adequate rewards, establishing libraries, and founding institutions such as the House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikmah) in Baghdad (Lewis, 2008). These institutions facilitated intellectual exchange and collaboration, enabling innovative research in fields such as mathematics, biology, astronomy, medicine, engineering, and beyond.
PIONEERING RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
The existence of Muslim scholars during the Islamic Golden Age significantly contributed to various fields. Mathematicians like Al-Khwarizmi revolutionized algebra, while astronomers such as Ibn al-Haytham (Alhazen) laid the groundwork for optics. In medicine, scholars like Ibn Sina (Avicenna) and Ar-Razi (Rhazes) produced comprehensive medical treatises that influenced European medicine for centuries (Haq, 2009).
This research enthusiasm extended to other fields as well, with pioneering work by Ibn Khaldun in historiography and advancements by Ibn al-Nafis in cardiovascular theory being prime examples (Makdisi, 1999). This era also saw progress in engineering, with inventions such as the astrolabe and windmills demonstrating the practical application of scientific knowledge (Saliba, 1994). A hallmark of this research was its emphasis on careful observation, experimentation, and meticulous recording of findings, practices that laid the foundation for the modern scientific method.
DECLINE AND CAUSES: LOSS OF MOMENTUM
Several factors contributed to the decline of Islamic research after the 16th century. Political instability, economic stagnation, and a shift towards religious orthodoxy diminished the fervor for intellectual inquiry (Makdisi, 1999). Educational institutions became more focused on memorization rather than critical thinking and scientific exploration. The printing press, a technology pioneered in China, was not widely adopted in the Islamic world, hindering the dissemination of knowledge (Robinson, 2003).
Moreover, for an extended period, Islamic civilization experienced a decline in research and literacy. Factors such as the Mongol invasions, the Crusades and subsequent wars, colonization, intellectual stagnation, and political instability in the Islamic world became major obstacles to the development of knowledge. The culture of research and literacy began to wane, causing Muslims to gradually fall behind in the fields of science and technology.
From these conditions of stagnation, Europe was able to rise from the Dark Ages and begin leading in scientific advancements, ushering in the scientific revolution and spurring the birth of modern science and technology.
A ROADMAP FOR THE FUTURE
The legacy of Islamic research is indeed rich and offers valuable lessons for the contemporary Muslim world. Now, it is time for Muslims to rekindle the spirit of research and literacy through several key actions:
FIRST, Modernizing the Education System: The education curriculum needs to change its policy to focus not only on memorization but also on emphasizing critical thinking, research methodology, and scientific literacy. This can be achieved by incorporating research projects, encouraging student-involved research, and fostering a culture of innovation.
SECOND, Investing in Research Infrastructure: Governments and private institutions can play a crucial role in building comprehensive research centers and universities, attracting top scholars, and encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration to provide better opportunities for Muslim scholars. Additionally, adequate incentives should be provided to existing researchers.
THIRD, Promoting a Research Culture: Religious institutions and the presence of Muslim scholars play a vital role. Thus, it is necessary to emphasize the importance of a culture of inquiry, experimentation, and innovation within the framework of Islamic principles, thereby bridging the gap between science and religion. At the same time, a conducive environment for conducting research should be created.
FOURTH, Adopting Technology: The Muslim world needs to embrace modern technology and utilize it for knowledge dissemination, research collaboration, and scientific communication. This includes building online platforms for sharing research findings, leveraging digital tools for data analysis, and fostering international research partnerships.
These steps must be supported by a strong political commitment and cooperation among all Muslim elements to exchange knowledge, resources, and experiences.
CONCLUSION
The historical presence of Islamic research serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of scientific inquiry. By understanding the factors that led to the Golden Age and its decline, as well as the challenges faced today, Muslims can take concrete steps to rekindle this spirit. By prioritizing research, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, and embracing new technologies, the Muslim world can once again lead in scientific and intellectual exploration to reclaim its place on the world stage in science and technology.
Ultimately, by reviving a strong culture of research and literacy, the Islamic world can once again become an influential center of knowledge and contribute significantly to the advancement of humanity as a whole. Through a holistic and sustainable approach, Islam can once again become a primary reference in the fields of science, technology, and other scholarly pursuits, as it did during its golden age in the past.@
By: Asih Subagyo
