The Civilizational and Intellectual Legacy of Fatimah al-Fihri in the History of Islamic Education in Fez since 859 CE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38073/batuthah.v5i2.6066Keywords:
Fatimah al-Fihri, Islamic education, civilization, intellectualAbstract
Fatimah al-Fihri was a prominent female figure who played a key role in the development of Islamic education and intellectual tradition through the founding of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, in 859 CE. A study of this figure is important for understanding women contributions to the establishment of educational institutions and the development of the Islamic scholarly tradition. This study aims to examine the social, cultural, and spiritual background of Fatimah al-Fihri, explain her role and contributions to the founding of al-Qarawiyyin, and analyze her influence and intellectual legacy in the history of Islamic education. This study employs historical methodology with a library research approach, following the stages of heuristics, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography. Research sources include historical books, biographical literature, scholarly journals, research articles, and other relevant written sources. The results of the study indicate that the social and intellectual environment of Fez, spiritual values, and the use of inherited wealth for the benefit of the community served as a crucial context for Fatimah al-Fihri contributions. The founding of al-Qarawiyyin in 859 CE initially involved the construction of a mosque, but it later evolved into a space for learning and a center for intellectual activity through the tradition of halaqah and the support of waqf. Fatimah al-Fihri legacy lies primarily in laying the institutional foundations that enabled the sustained development of education and the transmission of knowledge, while also highlighting women involvement in the development of Islamic educational institutions.
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