Jabir ibn Hayyan

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Jabir ibn Hayyan (c. 721 – c. 815), also known by the Latinization Geber, was a polymath: a chemist, alchemist, astronomer, engineer, geographer, philosopher, physicist, and pharmacist and physician. Born in Tus, Iran, he is often referred to as the "father of chemistry". Jabir's major contribution was in the field of chemistry, where he introduced experimental methodology and systematic classification of substances, significantly advancing the chemical sciences.

Early Life

Little is known about the early life of Jabir ibn Hayyan. It is believed that he was born in Tus, in present-day Iran, and later moved to Kufa in Iraq. His father was a pharmacist, which might have influenced his early interest in the field of chemistry and medicine.

Contributions to Chemistry

Jabir's work in chemistry was revolutionary. He introduced the experimental approach to the discipline, emphasizing the importance of experimentation in the acquisition of knowledge. He is credited with the invention of several chemical apparatus, including the alembic, which is essential for the process of distillation.

Jabir ibn Hayyan's most notable works include the Kitab al-Kimya (translated into Latin as Book of the Composition of Alchemy), the Kitab al-Sab'een (translated as The Seventy Books), and the Kitab al-Rahmah (translated as The Book of Mercy). In these texts, he laid down the basic principles of chemistry, describing chemical processes such as crystallization, calcination, sublimation, and evaporation and introducing the concept of chemical compounds.

Alchemy and Philosophy

Jabir ibn Hayyan also delved into alchemy, seeking to transform base metals into noble metals like gold and silver. His philosophical approach to alchemy was deeply influenced by Hermeticism, and he believed in the transmutation of metals, which was a common goal among alchemists of his time. However, his approach was more scientific and less mystical than that of his predecessors, as he insisted on the empirical, experimental basis of alchemy.

Legacy

Jabir ibn Hayyan's contributions to chemistry and alchemy had a profound impact on both the Islamic world and Europe. His works were translated into Latin in the 12th century and played a significant role in the development of medieval and Renaissance chemistry in Europe. He is remembered as a pioneer of experimental chemistry and has been honored with the title of the "father of chemistry".

See Also

• Alchemy
• Chemistry
• History of chemistry
• Islamic Golden Age
• Scientific method