Ismail al-Jazari
A Muslim polymath, inventor, mechanical engineer, artisan, artist, and mathematician who is best known for writing 'The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices'.
Most quoted
"The purpose of this book is to explain the construction of various kinds of ingenious devices, and to describe their operation in detail, so that others may be able to construct them."
— from Kitāb fī maʿrifat al-ḥiyal al-handasiyya (Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices)
"The elephant clock is not merely a timepiece; it is a gathering of the world's wisdom: Indian elephant, Greek water works, Egyptian phoenix, Persian carpets, and Arab ingenuity."
— from The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices, 1206
"To truly understand a mechanism, one must not only observe its function but also comprehend the principles that govern its operation, for these principles are universal."
— from The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices
All quotes by Ismail al-Jazari (422)
The true inventor is one who not only conceives of new ideas, but also brings them to fruition.
The process of invention is a journey of trial and error, but it is through perseverance that success is achieved.
The greatest joy of an engineer is to see his creations come to life and to serve their intended purpose.
The pursuit of knowledge is a continuous process, and there is always more to learn and to discover.
Let us not be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and to explore new possibilities.
The power of human imagination is boundless, and it is through imagination that we can create a better future.
The study of history teaches us about the achievements of those who came before us, and it inspires us to strive for greatness.
Let us build upon the foundations laid by our predecessors and create a world that is more advanced and more prosperous.
The pursuit of excellence is a worthy goal, and it is through excellence that we can leave a lasting impact on the world.
May my work be a source of inspiration and guidance for all who seek to understand the wonders of mechanics.
I have described each device in words and illustrated it in drawing, so that all the details may be taken in at a glance.
The most ingenious and subtle device is that by which the water is made to ascend to the top of the mountain.
In this machine, the peacock opens its beak and out comes a spray of water.
The elephant raises its trunk and trumpets, delighting the onlookers.
By means of gears and cams, the automaton performs its dance.
Water, the essence of life, is lifted by the ingenuity of man.
The candle clock measures time with flickering light and mechanical precision.
From the simple lever to the complex automaton, all serve the purpose of utility.
The scribe automaton dips its pen and writes verses of poetry.
In the palace of the mind, inventions are born from observation of nature.
Contemporaries of Ismail al-Jazari
Other Engineerings born within 50 years of Ismail al-Jazari (1136–1206).