The Scientific Movement in Bilad al-Sham The Physician Muhadhdhib al-Din al-Dakhwar and His Role in Founding al-Dakhwariyya School – A Case Study

Abstract

The scientific and medical movement in Bilad al-Sham witnessed remarkable advancement and sophistication during the 6th and 7th centuries AH (12th and 13th centuries CE). This period represents one of the most flourishing eras in the history of Islamic medical sciences, marked by the intellectual and scientific maturity of Islamic medicine, as reflected in the studies and writings produced by Muslim physicians, as well as their practical engagement in the medical profession through various medical institutions that proliferated widely during this era.

Physicians of this period—most notably, Muhadhdhib al-Din al-Dakhwar—employed diverse methods in medical education that combined both theoretical and practical aspects. Among the most widespread approaches was the practice of apprenticeship with experienced medical scholars. In addition, specialized medical assemblies were held in schools and bimaristans (hospitals), where physicians conducted discussions and debates on medical issues, disease diagnosis, and treatment methods through reading and analyzing medical texts.

The scientific and medical movement in Bilad al-Sham was further distinguished by the emergence of specialized medical schools dedicated to the instruction of medicine—an achievement that arguably placed Bilad al-Sham at the forefront of medical education in the Islamic world. This, without doubt, contributed significantly to the advancement of medical studies in the region in particular, and to the development of medical education among Arab Muslims in general.