The Encyclopaedia of Islam

Quick Facts: Who was The Encyclopaedia of Islam?

Subject:

The Encyclopaedia of Islam

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Standard academic reference work covering all aspects of Islam and the Islamic world.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The Encyclopaedia of Islam (EI) was conceived as a monumental academic resource designed to facilitate the comprehensive study of the Islamic faith. Its initial publication began in 1913, marking the start of a massive scholarly undertaking. This foundational effort aimed to gather and disseminate knowledge across numerous facets of Islamic civilization. The scope was intentionally broad, covering everything from distinguished individuals to complex political structures.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

The first major edition, EI1, ran from 1913 through 1938, establishing the work's initial scholarly benchmark. This early iteration covered the vast expanse of the old Arabo-Islamic empire, including regions like Iran, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. The content was exhaustive, detailing not only history and topography but also the ethnography, flora, and fauna of diverse Islamic lands. This established the EI as a critical, standard reference tool.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The enduring legacy of the Encyclopaedia of Islam is its status as the definitive reference work in Islamic studies globally. Subsequent editions, such as the second (1954–2005) and the ongoing third (begun in 2007), demonstrate its commitment to continuous scholarly updating. It remains a vital repository of information, ensuring that modern research can build upon its deep historical and cultural foundations. The work continues to shape academic discourse worldwide.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1913: 1913 Milestone — Its initial publication began in 1913, marking the start of a massive scholarly undertaking.
2. 1954: 1954 Milestone — Subsequent editions, such as the second (1954–2005) and the ongoing third (begun in 2007), demonstrate its commitment to continuous scholarly updating.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: The Encyclopaedia of Islam

True or False: “The Encyclopaedia of Islam was designed to be a purely historical record, omitting all discussions of contemporary Islamic political institutions.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The EI explicitly includes articles on political and religious institutions, demonstrating its scope covers both historical and contemporary aspects of Islamic life.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Abraham González (governor) — Historical peer (Died in 1913) (1913): Governor of Chihuahua and key Maderista leader during the Mexican Revolution.
• Ahmad Tajuddin — Historical peer (Born in 1913) (1913): The 27th Sultan of Brunei, advocating for political autonomy.
• Abu Taher — Historical peer (Born in 1938) (1938): Bangladeshi military officer, insurgent, and political activist known for his role in the 1975 coups.
• Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud — Historical peer (Born in 1938) (1938): Somaliland politician, served as President from 2010 to 2017.
• Aarathi — Historical peer (Born in 1954) (1954): Veteran Indian actress celebrated for her roles in Kannada cinema during the 1970s and 1980s.
• Abdel Fattah el-Sisi — Historical peer (Born in 1954) (1954): Egyptian military leader who became the sixth President of Egypt in 2014.
• Ahmed Zaki (actor) — Historical peer (Died in 2005) (2005): Iconic Egyptian actor celebrated for intense dramatic performances and masterful impersonation.
• Akira Yoshizawa — Historical peer (Died in 2005) (2005): Japanese origamist, credited with elevating origami from a mere craft to a recognized living art.
• Al Oerter — Historical peer (Died in 2007) (2007): Four-time Olympic champion in the discus throw, pioneering athletic consistency.
• Albert Ellis — Historical peer (Died in 2007) (2007): Pioneering figure in psychotherapy, founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

Frequently Asked Questions about The Encyclopaedia of Islam