ISLAMIC MATHEMATICS Meaning and
Definition
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Islamic mathematics refers to the mathematical traditions that emerged and developed within the Islamic world during the medieval period, roughly from the 8th to the 14th centuries. It encompasses the mathematical contributions made by Muslim mathematicians, scholars, and scientists of diverse ethnicities and backgrounds who were inspired by and contributed to the Islamic civilization.
Islamic mathematics is known for incorporating and advancing the knowledge inherited from ancient Greece, India, Persia, and other cultures. However, it also introduced unique contributions and new methodologies, often influenced by Islamic religious practices and intellectuals' philosophical perspectives.
One defining characteristic of Islamic mathematics was the systematization and organization of mathematical knowledge. Scholars such as Al-Khwarizmi and Al-Kindi worked on translating classical Greek texts and developed concepts like algebra and algorithmic procedures that would become fundamental to Western mathematics. Islamic mathematicians also made significant contributions to trigonometry, geometry, number theory, and numerical methods, laying the foundations for several branches of mathematics.
Islamic mathematics had practical applications in various fields like astronomy, architecture, navigation, and trade, where precise calculations were crucial. Furthermore, Islamic mathematics played a significant role in preserving and transmitting mathematical knowledge during the European Middle Ages and Renaissance through translations and interactions with scholars from different cultures.
Overall, Islamic mathematics represents an important historical period characterized by scientific advancements, cross-cultural exchanges, and the development of new mathematical concepts and approaches. It is an integral part of the world's mathematical heritage.
Etymology of ISLAMIC MATHEMATICS
The term "Islamic mathematics" refers to the mathematical tradition that emerged within the Islamic world during the medieval period. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Islamic: The word "Islamic" is derived from the Arabic term "Islām" (إسلام), which means "submission" or "surrender". It is the verbal noun form of the root word "salam" (سلم), which signifies peace and safety. In a religious context, "Islamic" refers to anything related to Islam, the monotheistic Abrahamic religion founded by Prophet Muhammad in the early 7th century.
2. Mathematics: The word "mathematics" originates from the Ancient Greek word "mathēma" (μάθημα), which means "knowledge" or "learning".
