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 movement of water is a powerful force, and it can be harnessed to perform many useful tasks.
The balance of forces is essential for the proper functioning of any machine.
Through careful observation, one can discern the patterns and principles that govern the natural world.
The most complex machines are often built from simple, interconnected parts.
To build something new, one must first understand how existing things work.
The pursuit of perfection is a never-ending journey, but it is a journey worth taking.
Let your imagination be your guide, but let reason be your compass.
The true value of an invention lies in its ability to serve a practical purpose.
I have presented these designs with the hope that they will inspire others to greater achievements.
The knowledge contained within these pages is a testament to the ingenuity of man.
Every detail matters, for it is the small details that determine the success or failure of a design.
The study of mechanics is a path to understanding the order and harmony of the universe.
I have sought to combine art and science in my creations, for true beauty lies in both.
Let us not be content with what is, but always strive for what can be.
The principles of engineering are timeless, and they will continue to guide inventors for centuries to come.
My aim has been to leave behind a legacy of knowledge that will benefit all who come after me.
The world is full of wonders, and it is the task of the engineer to reveal them.
Through diligent effort and a clear understanding of principles, one can achieve mastery in any craft.
The making of instruments is a noble art, but the understanding of their principles is nobler still.
My dear brother, the water clock for the Sultan is nearing completion. Its intricacies are a marvel, even to me.
Contemporaries of Ismail al-Jazari
Other Engineerings born within 50 years of Ismail al-Jazari (1136–1206).