Al-Ruhawi

Al-Ruhawi was a prominent physician and medical ethicist during the Islamic Golden Age. He is best known for his seminal work, the Adab al-Tabib (The Practical Ethics of the Physician), which is considered the first comprehensive treatise on medical ethics.

Life and Career

Little is known about the early life of Al-Ruhawi. He was born in the city of Ruhah, hence his name, and lived during the 9th century. He was a contemporary of other notable physicians such as Al-Razi and Ibn Sina. His work, Adab al-Tabib, is considered one of the most important contributions to the field of medical ethics.

Adab al-Tabib

The Adab al-Tabib is a comprehensive treatise on medical ethics. It covers a wide range of topics, including the moral and ethical responsibilities of physicians, the importance of patient confidentiality, and the need for physicians to continually update their knowledge and skills. The work is notable for its emphasis on the moral character of the physician, arguing that a good physician must not only be skilled in medicine, but also possess virtues such as compassion, humility, and integrity.

Legacy

Al-Ruhawi's work has had a lasting impact on the field of medical ethics. His emphasis on the moral character of the physician and the importance of patient confidentiality are principles that continue to be upheld in modern medical practice. His work is also considered a precursor to the Hippocratic Oath, a pledge taken by physicians to uphold certain ethical standards.

A portrait of Al-Ruhawi

See also

• Islamic Golden Age
• Medical ethics
• Hippocratic Oath