Dimension #148 Islamic Civilization & Sciences
جَامِعَةُ الْقَرَوِيِّينَ وَفَاطِمَةُ الْفِهْرِيَّةُ
The World's Oldest Operating University (Al-Qarawiyyin)
Linguistic Root: ق-ر-و (To gather students, host seekers of knowledge)
Core Conceptual Overview
Founded in 859 CE in Fez, Morocco by a Muslim woman named Fatima al-Fihri, it is the world's oldest operating university.
يَرْفَعِ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْعِلْمَ دَرَجَاتٍ
“...Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.”
Deep Dive & Significance
Fatima al-Fihri used her entire inherited fortune to establish a center of learning that granted degrees and taught both religious sciences and mathematics, grammar, and medicine. It stands as an enduring tribute to the leadership of Muslim women in education.
Linguistic & Thematic Gem
“The world's oldest university was founded by a woman who dedicated her wealth to education.”
Daily Practical Application
Invest in education and support young people, especially women and girls, in pursuing their academic dreams.