Introduction
In the annals of maritime history, there exist tales of fearless navigators who braved uncharted waters and guided sailors through treacherous seas. Among these legends, stands Ahmed Ibn Majid, lovingly referred to as the "Lion of the Sea." His contributions to navigation shaped the course of seafaring and exemplified the rich heritage of Muslim scholars in this field.
In this article, we will journey through the life of Ahmed ibn Majid, shedding light on his exceptional skills, timeless legacy, and the profound impact of Muslims on the world of exploration and navigation.
The Legendary Navigator:
Ahmed ibn Majid, born in the early 15th century in the Arabian Peninsula, was a prodigious figure whose name became synonymous with maritime excellence. At a time when the vastness of the world's oceans presented formidable challenges to sailors, Ahmed ibn Majid emerged as a beacon of knowledge and guidance.
Pioneering Contributions: Ahmed
Bin Majid's contributions to navigation were diverse and groundbreaking. Here
are some of his most notable innovations:
1. The Modern Compass: Ahmed Bin
Majid is credited with developing the navigational compass in a modern sense,
replacing the Arab "Al-Haqah." He introduced the concept of
suspending the magnetized needle on an axis for free movement, a revolutionary
step in navigational technology.
2. Measurement Techniques: Bin
Majid introduced precise measurement techniques, connecting the division of the
horizon circle into 32 parts, known as "Akhnane," with the use of the
hand's fist and extended arm for sighting. This innovation effectively divided
the compass into 32 sections.
3. Improved Measurement Devices:
He enhanced measurement devices by introducing a square wooden tool with a
central hole, allowing a rope to pass through. This rope was divided into
sections with knots, corresponding to the tangent of the mid-angle between the
horizon, the observer's eyes, and the observed star.
4. Deep Oceanic Understanding: Ahmed
Bin Majid exhibited a profound understanding of oceanic phenomena, including
monsoons and reflected currents in the Indian Ocean. He provided detailed
explanations of sea closures, openings, and the summer season, highlighting the
importance of sailors' knowledge of these conditions for safe navigation.
5. Territorial Water Definition: Bin
Majid defined territorial waters as approximately four nautical miles, based on
the captain's ability to see the coast with their own eyes while sailing on a
sailboat. He emphasized the reliance on stars and celestial navigation when
land is not visible, a crucial concept in maritime science.
6. Prolific Authorship: Ahmed Bin Majid's scholarly contributions extended to writing around 53 books on navigation science, cementing his status as a prominent theoretical contributor to maritime knowledge. His work, "Benefits in the Origin of Sea Science and Rules," remains a cornerstone in the field of navigation.
Legacy and Influence: The legacy
of Ahmed ibn Majid endures to this day. His navigational guides and charts,
including the renowned "Kitab al-Fawa'id," were invaluable resources
for sailors, guiding them safely through uncharted waters. These contributions
laid the foundation for future generations of navigators and explorers.
Muslim Contributions to Navigation:
Ahmed ibn Majid's story is just one chapter in the larger narrative of Muslim
contributions to navigation. Muslims, driven by a thirst for knowledge and
exploration, made significant strides in charting the seas, developing advanced
navigational instruments, and establishing trade routes that connected the
world.
Conclusion: Ahmed ibn Majid, the
Lion of the Sea, remains a symbol of Muslim excellence in navigation and
exploration. His legacy stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Islamic
scholars and adventurers on the world's oceans. As we look back at his
remarkable journey, we must continue to celebrate and recognize the invaluable
contributions of Muslims in shaping our understanding of the seas and the wider
world.
References:
http://sumc.lt/index.php/se/article/view/31/20
https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/full/10.1086/713561