DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2663-4619/126/15-27
Elmira Akhundova
Baku, Azerbaijan
PhD in Art History
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8661-567X
elmira_akhundova@yahoo.com.tr
The Unity of Eastern and Western Cultures and Social Values in the
Umayyad State of Andalusia
Abstract
Muslims were introduced to different cultures as a result of the Arab conquests and the spread of Islam, promoted scientific and economic development; the Andalusian period, in particular, made significant contributions to this progress. The Umayyad Caliphate in Andalusia during the reigns of Abd al-Rahman III and al-Hakim II united Islamic and Western cultures and reached the peak of scientific development. Schools and libraries, especially architectural and artistic examples, science and education centers that developed in cities such as Qurtuba (Cordoba), Garnata (Granada), and Ishbiliya (Seville), played an important role. During this period, translation activities brought together Eastern and Western sciences, marking the beginning of the Renaissance in the West. Philosophers like Ibn Bajjah and Ibn Rushd introduced new approaches to philosophical thought, having a profound impact on both the Islamic world and the West. Ibn Rushd’s interpretation of Aristotle and his approaches that united philosophy and religion have held an important place in Western philosophy. Ziryab also enriched Andalusian culture with his innovations in music and had a great impact on Europe by organizing music education.
Ibn Khaldun brought original approaches to the philosophy of history, explained the development of societies and social relations, introduced the concept of “asabiyya” (group solidarity), and linked the strength of societies to social cohesion. His work Muqaddimah (Introduction) became an important foundation for history and social sciences. These great thinkers left a deep mark on both the Islamic world and world history and led to the interaction of cultures.
Keywords: Umayyad State of Andalusia, Eastern and Western philosophy, Ibn Rushd, Ibn Bajja, Ziryab, Ibn Khaldun