The role of Alphonse X in transferring the achievements of Islamic civilization to the West

Aghamohammadi, Somayye; Ashkevari, Mohammad Jafar; Mohammadi, Hosssin

doi:10.30465/os.2024.47777.1949

The role of Alphonse X in transferring the achievements of Islamic civilization to the West

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Somayye Aghamohammadi ¹

Mohammad Jafar Ashkevari ²

Hosssin Mohammadi ³

¹ PhD in History and Civilization of Islamic Nations, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad

² Assistant Professor, Department of History and Civilization of Islamic Nations, University of Zanjan

³ Master's student in History and Civilization of Islamic Nations, University of Zanjan

10.30465/os.2024.47777.1949

Abstract

During the reign of Alfonso X (618-682 A.H./1221-1284 A.D.), Andalusia initiated translation efforts significantly earlier than other European countries, aiming to incorporate elements of Islamic culture and civilization. Under Alfonso X's direct support, the School of Translators of Toledo emerged as a pivotal institution, fostering the translation and adaptation of Islamic heritage into Castilian. This collaborative effort involved Muslims, Jews, and Christians working together to advance the translation movement.
At that time, languages like Castilian and Catalan were still developing and could not fully accommodate the scientific and philosophical content of Islamic texts. Therefore, translations were often made into Latin. The Mozarabs and Mudéjar—Christians living in Andalusia who were proficient in both Arabic and Spanish—were central to this movement. Initially, the Mozarabs led the effort, significantly influencing the transfer of Islamic knowledge to the Christian world. However, due to their lower social status, the Mudéjar had less cultural impact on Christian society compared to the Mozarabs.
Despite their opposition to Islam and struggles with Muslim religious identity, Christian leaders and scholars recognized the immense value of Islamic sciences. From the 11th century (5th century A.H.) onwards, they undertook extensive measures to translate and develop these sciences. Alfonso X assembled a group of Mudéjar scholars at his court to collaborate with translators. This group, along with Jews and Christians, played a crucial role in the flourishing of the translation movement. They translated a vast array of Islamic treatises, using books acquired from the capture of Córdoba and Seville, focusing primarily on educational outcomes.
This research employs a descriptive-analytical method to examine Alfonso X's significant role in transmitting Islamic sciences to the West. By analyzing historical sources, translated texts, and credible documents, the study explores the profound impact of Alfonso X's support for translators and the role of translation schools in the development and transfer of Islamic knowledge to Christian societies. The findings reveal that Alfonso X played a crucial role in this process. His support for translators and the establishment of translation schools in Toledo resulted in the translation of numerous Islamic scientific and philosophical texts into Latin and Spanish. This not only transferred existing Islamic knowledge to Christian societies but also laid the foundational groundwork for scientific and intellectual development in Europe.
The research also highlights the significant collaboration between Muslims, Jews, and Christians during this period. This multicultural cooperation was essential for the success of the translation movement. Scholars from various regions were welcomed into Alfonso X's new school, where translators were instrumental in disseminating scientific achievements. All works were translated into both Latin and Spanish, facilitating the spread of knowledge across cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Ultimately, the study emphasizes Alfonso X's pivotal role in bridging the gap between Islamic and Christian civilizations. By translating a substantial volume of Arabic scientific and philosophical texts, these efforts profoundly influenced the intellectual landscape of medieval Europe. The collaboration among different religious and cultural groups not only enriched the translation process but also fostered an environment of intellectual exchange and mutual respect. This environment was crucial for the success of the translation movement and the subsequent advancement of European knowledge and understanding.
The research demonstrates that Alfonso X's strategic support for translators and the establishment of translation schools in Toledo were crucial factors in the successful transfer of Islamic sciences to the West. These concerted efforts significantly influenced the development of scientific and intellectual traditions in Europe, marking a pivotal period of knowledge exchange between distinct cultures. The findings underscore the profound importance of multicultural collaboration in advancing intellectual progress and innovation. They highlight how the translation movement acted as an essential bridge between Islamic and Christian worlds, facilitating the flow of knowledge across cultural and religious boundaries. This dynamic exchange not only enriched European intellectual history but also laid the groundwork for future scholarly endeavors. By fostering such collaboration, Alfonso X played a key role in shaping the course of European intellectual development for centuries to come.

Keywords

Alphonse 10th

Andalus

translation movement

transmission of Islamic sciences

Talitla

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