Rab'-e Rashidi: One of the Pioneering Educational and Medical Centers in the Islamic World

Narges  Tajik; Fatemeh  Mollazadeh; Hamed  Ahansazan; Mohammad Hossein  Ayati

doi:10.18502/tim.v10i1.18227

Narges Tajik Department of History of Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Fatemeh Mollazadeh Department of History of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Religion, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
Hamed Ahansazan Department of History of Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Mohammad Hossein Ayati Department of History of Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/tim.v10i1.18227

Keywords: Rab'-e Rashidi; Islamic civilization; Medical education center; History of medicine; History of pharmacy

Abstract

Rab'-e Rashidi, a historical establishment, emerges as a paramount educational and medical institution in the Islamic world. Founded by Khwaja Rashiduddin Fazlullah Hamadani, this center encompassed a hospital, pharmacy, and provisions for patient families; while maintaining a strong focus on medical education. Historical texts reveal Rab'-e Rashidi's exceptional success during its time, positioning it as a leading educational and therapeutic hub that outperformed European universities in the field. This article delves into the profound impact of Iran's medical education system, with departments such as Dar al-Shafa (hospital), pharmacy, and early forms of drug processing laboratories, during the 8th century AH / 14th AD. This influence, which took root only a century after the peak of the Islamic civilization, left a lasting mark on both Islamic and Western territories. Notably, the presence of a university-hospital structure akin to the historic Jundishapur Scientific Center reflects the efficiency and unique educational approach that Iranians applied to medical education and doctor training. This study highlights Rab'-e Rashidi's pioneering role in shaping the landscape of medical education and its enduring legacy in the realm of healthcare and academia.