Nimira’s Blog: The Fatimids, Mawlana Hazar Imam’s ancestors, promoted an infectious book culture

Named after the Prophet’s daughter, the Fatimids – Mawlana Hazar Imam’s ancestors – ruled over various parts of the Islamic world from 909 to 1171, Fatimid rule was founded in North Africa by Imam al-Mahdi. The fourth Fatimid Caliph, Imam al-Mu’izz transferred the seat to the newly founded city that Imam had designed. In Cairo, the Fatimids promoted intellectual activities, founding major institutions of learning and libraries.

The prestigious Mosque-University of Al-Azhar was built upon the orders of the Fatimid caliph Al-Muizz Li-Din Allah by architect Gawhar Al-Seqeli, who built the then Fatimid Empire’s new capital of Al-Qahera (the Triumphant), today the heart of Islamic Cairo.

Through their efforts, Cairo became a major centre of Islamic scholarship, sciences, art and culture, in addition to playing a prominent role in international trade and commerce. In Fatimid Egypt, the book trade played an important role in facilitating intellectual interaction.

Read more at the source: The Fatimids, Mawlana Hazar Imam’s ancestors, promoted an infectious book culture

Nimira’s Blog (Nimira Dewji) comprises short articles on Ismaili history and various topics of Muslim civilisations including art, architecture, devotional and other literature, and quotes by Mawlana Hazar Imam. https://nimirasblog.wordpress.com/

Author: ismailimail

Independent, civil society media featuring Ismaili Muslim community, inter and intra faith endeavors, achievements and humanitarian works.

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