For over five decades, the sun of Sharjah has shone brightly, illuminating the path of knowledge and culture under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. His Highness has always exemplified the remarkable ability of an "educated" ruler to channel his passion for knowledge into tangible benefits for culture and the nation. This unique and influential model has not only marked a milestone in the history of Arab culture but has also left a lasting and positive impact on the broader landscape of human knowledge.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, as well as Chairman of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, recently signed the latest edition, Volume No. (127), of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language. This marks the completion of a monumental Arab project that meticulously chronicles the words of the Arabic language, tracing the history of their usage and the evolution of their meanings over time. This significant cultural and civilizational achievement serves as a testament to the commitment to preserving and documenting the linguistic heritage of the nation.
Volume (127) of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language stands as a significant milestone within the grand project championed by the Sultan of Culture. This volume embodies the ongoing pursuit of Sheikh Al Qasimi's vision to elevate the Arabic language and celebrate its rich heritage. It is a testament to his profound commitment to expanding linguistic knowledge and preserving Arab history. Initiated to trace the origins and evolution of Arabic words across the centuries, this comprehensive dictionary now documents the journey of the Arabic language from its earliest days to the modern era. Thanks to Sheikh Al Qasimi's unwavering support, this invaluable resource is now available digitally, offering scholars and enthusiasts seamless access. It is a cultural and linguistic triumph that underscores the enduring significance and dynamic progression of the Arabic language through history.
The Sultan of Culture affirms that the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language project was conceived to elevate, enhance, serve, and safeguard the Arabic language for generations to come. He highlights that the Language Academy in Sharjah was not established to be a standalone pillar among linguistic institutions in the Arab world, but rather to offer support—both material and moral—to these academies. The aim is to bolster their efforts through close coordination and collaboration with the Union of Arab Scientific Language Academies and other language academies across the Arab world.
Sheikh Sultan’s words consistently reflect his profound passion and deep love for the Arabic language, the language of the Qur'an and the prophets. His enduring commitment to this noble cause is evident in the foundational projects he has championed—may God protect him—with the aim of elevating the language, supporting Arabization, and enhancing Arabic translation. His vision seeks to develop new terminology that resonates with the modern age, guided by dedicated linguists determined to collectively advance and enrich this treasured language.
At the forty-third session of the Sharjah International Book Fair, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah expressed his heartfelt joy on this distinguished occasion that celebrates literature and the art of publishing at its highest caliber. The event showcased remarkable achievements, including the groundbreaking work of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, symbolizing a profound cultural milestone.
His Highness highlighted the emirate’s deep-rooted connection with books and its dedication to fostering a love for reading and knowledge. He remarked, “Today, we gather on an occasion dear to all our hearts, marked by two sources of happiness. The first is the Sharjah International Book Fair, as the book embodies the secret behind the success, rebirth, and progress of nations. Here in Sharjah, we revere the book and its creators, acknowledging its role in shaping generations and civilizations. We know it to be the finest companion and most loyal friend, as Al-Mutanabbi once said: ‘The most beloved place in the world is a saddle for travel, and the best companion in life is a book.’”
“Our second joy,” continued His Highness, “is the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, a monumental scholarly accomplishment brought to fruition by the grace of God and the diligent efforts of a vast team of over 700 contributors. These scholars, editors, expert consultants, administrators, and production staff have all worked tirelessly to achieve this exceptional cultural milestone. To everyone who contributed to this significant project, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you.”
With heartfelt pride, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah reflected on the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, an ambitious dream realized for the entire Arab world through years of tireless dedication, scholarly pursuit, and unwavering effort. He highlighted the dictionary's profound linguistic and intellectual wealth and acknowledged the future cultural initiatives that continue to honour Arabic as a magnificent and enduring language. He stated, “The Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language was a vision I held dear for many years, understanding that preserving the language is synonymous with preserving its people, their storied history, literature, authenticity, and identity. Our forebears and the scholars of the Arab world have dedicated much to this endeavour, labouring for over seven years of continuous planning, organization, and execution. They compiled the treasures of our language, safeguarded the poetry of old, documented its rules, and chronicled its narratives—may God bless them for their work—culminating in the completion of the Historical Dictionary in 127 volumes.”
His Highness emphasized the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language’s remarkable breadth, accuracy, and comprehensive nature, underscoring Sharjah’s unwavering commitment to advancing cultural and intellectual endeavours. He affirmed his steadfast resolve to carry on with the pursuit of knowledge, promote Arab culture, and strengthen the Arabic language across the globe. This monumental project joins the ranks of Sharjah’s other significant cultural achievements focused on the Arabic language and the nation's history and heritage.
Adding to the splendour of this initiative, His Highness, known as the Sultan of Culture, shared, “I bring glad tidings to the Arab nation with this historical lexicon and announce that we have embarked on another grand scholarly project, equally as vital as the Historical Dictionary. This is the comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia, which will encompass science, literature, the arts, and media.”
This visionary cultural project is set to reconnect the nation with its vast heritage of sciences, arts, and literature, while encouraging the study of biographies and legacies left by distinguished figures such as scholars, jurists, commentators, philosophers, authors, poets, and many others. It serves as a true bridge between the nation’s vibrant present and its illustrious past.
His Highness concluded with inspiring words to scholars, intellectuals, and future generations, urging them to continue supporting these grand scientific endeavors for the flourishing future of the Arabic language. He stated, “I say to my children... The future holds great scientific projects, and I am confident that the future of the Arabic language is promising, blessed, and full of hope, God willing. The Arabic language will endure as long as life continues, protected and enriched by the memorization of the Holy Quran.”
In conclusion, for over five decades, the Emirate of Sharjah has witnessed the brilliance of its enlightenment project under the stewardship of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. His Highness continues to embody the archetype of an "educated" ruler, seamlessly channelling his fervour for knowledge into fostering cultural and national progress. This dedication has established a significant milestone in the annals of Arab culture, leaving a lasting, positive imprint on the collective narrative of human knowledge.
Source: Al-Riyadh Newspaper - Dr. Mohammed Al-Masoudi