Treatment of knowledge : the case of Al-Biruni and Ibn Battuta

Abstract

Al-Biruni and Ibn Battuta were two outstanding figures that the Muslim civilization of the Middle Period had produced. Al-Biruni's extensive scholarship and learning surpassed his reputation as a traveller whilst Ibn Battuta's celebrated journey camouflaged his intellectual achievement. Irrespective of these facts, our study largely revolves around their treatment of knowledge. In so doing, their educational and intellectual geography, philosophy, objective, epistemology and methodology of knowledge, and their contribution to the Muslim intellectual and scientific tradition dominate our discussion. In the course of our analysis, similarities and differences surface, much to our delight for the knowledge that they seemed world apart at the preliminary stage of this study. Al- Biruni and Ibn Battuta can be considered pioneers in their field. Up to the time of modern means of communication, Ibn Battuta surpassed others in his feat whilst al- Biruni's major works still needed to find their match. The Muslims rejoice and celebrate their achievements but most importantly the positive attitude towards knowledge as exemplified by both and the early Muslims must be upheld. The Muslim intellectual and scientific tradition should be the beacon, thereby helps to manoeuvre in uncharted grounds. Today's challenge demands some original and creative thoughts in providing solutions to contemporary problems. This could only be achieved by embracing Islam as its Worldview is replete with concepts and principles in building a real civilization. For this to materialize, our approach to the Muslim intellectual and scientific tradition must be that of contemporary Islamic Asalah. To again play our role as 'ibad and khulafa', the dynamic role of the towering Muslim figures of the past must be emulated and treatment of knowledge should result in ta'dib and thus forms the foundation for the revival of the future Muslim Civilization.