In the realm of Middle East studies, D. G. Hogarth emerges as a prominent figure whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the understanding of Arabian landscapes and cultures. Among his significant works, “The Penetration of Arabia” stands as a cornerstone, offering a comprehensive review of the existing writings on Arabia up to the time of his authorship. Within the pages of this seminal work, Hogarth meticulously examines various texts that contributed to the burgeoning field of Arabian studies. Notably, he delves into the intricate details of “Jihan Numa,” a treatise authored by Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah, also known as Hajji Khalfah or Katib Chelebi. This essay seeks to unravel the nuances of “Jihan Numa,” exploring the life and contributions of its author and illuminating the ways in which this treatise advanced the collective knowledge in the dynamic field of Arabian studies.
Introducing Katib Chelebi
In the rich tapestry of Islamic scholarship and geographic exploration, the figure of Kâtip Chelebi, or Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah, emerges as a luminary whose contributions to the intellectual landscape of Arabian studies has been significant. At the heart of his scholarly endeavours lies the treatise “Jihannuma,” a significant work that, according to D. G. Hogarth, stands as the first earnest attempt to unveil the intricate details of the largely unexplored interior of Arabia. Despite its historical importance, it remains somewhat underappreciated and poorly known in Western circles. Perhaps, the oversight is rooted in Kâtip Çelebi’s Turkish background, underscoring the necessity to shed light on his profound contribution to our understanding of 17th century Central Arabia and to bridge the gap that has obscured his work from Western scholarly recognition.
Early Life and Background
Kâtip Chelebi, born Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah, entered the world in the vibrant city of Constantinople in February 1609. His early life unfolded against the backdrop of a burgeoning Ottoman Empire, and from the outset, he exhibited a penchant for both scholarly pursuits and military endeavors. Embarking on a career as an army clerk, Mustafa actively participated in numerous campaigns in the East, collecting a wealth of material for his future historical works. While his childhood education centered on the Qurʾān, Arabic grammar, and calligraphy, his later educational journey took a somewhat irregular trajectory. In between military campaigns, he attended lectures, displaying a keen intellectual curiosity that would become a hallmark of his later scholarly achievements. The juxtaposition of military service and scholarly pursuits laid the foundation for the multifaceted life of Kâtip Chelebi, where the worlds of warfare and academia converged in a unique synthesis.
Education and Career Transition
Kâtip Chelebi’s educational journey, though marked by irregularities due to military engagements, took a decisive turn, shaping the trajectory of his intellectual pursuits. Blessed with an inheritance, he found the means to establish a permanent settlement in Constantinople. This newfound stability allowed him to dedicate his time fully to pursuits that ignited his scholarly passion. In the bustling city, amidst the responsibilities of a government clerk, Kâtip Chelebi fervently embraced the life of a bibliophile. His dedication extended beyond the mundane tasks of a government clerk, as he immersed himself in the world of books, studying, and writing. The confluence of inherited wealth and a steadfast commitment to intellectual endeavors propelled Kâtip Çelebi into a sphere where his scholarly contributions would transcend the confines of his immediate surroundings, laying the groundwork for his magnum opus, “Jihannuma.”
Jihannuma (View of the World)
At the core of Kâtip Chelebi’s scholarly legacy stands “Jihannuma,” a treatise of profound significance in the realm of geography, written by Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah, also known as Hajji Khalfah or Katib Chelebi. Composed within fifty years after the sixteenth century, this monumental work was later printed in Istanbul, marking a pivotal moment in the dissemination of knowledge about Central Arabia. Hogarth’s acknowledgment of “Jihannuma” within the context of “The Penetration of Arabia” underscores its importance as the first serious attempt to provide detailed knowledge on the hitherto largely unexplored interior of Arabia.
The Belts of Nejd
Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah exhibited a marked improvement in the understanding of Central Arabia compared to his predecessors. The treatise meticulously divides Central Arabia into belts, elucidating the nuances of its diverse topography. The first belt encompasses a great desert region named Ahkaf, accompanied by fertile oases like Nejran, Dauasir, and Yabrin, collectively termed “Nejd al-Yemen.” The second belt, “Nejd al-Ared,” is characterized by numerous wadys, while the third delineates the low valley region of Kasim. The fourth, the plateau of “Schemr,” introduces readers to ranges of hills that dot the landscape.
Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah’s detailed descriptions extend to the villages, products, and geographical features of these regions, offering an unparalleled insight into the intricacies of Central Arabia. Specific locations such as Daraeia (Diriyah) and Rajad (Riyadh) are meticulously cataloged, providing a comprehensive overview of the landscape. The treatise’s richness lies not only in its detailed accounts but also in the author’s ability to present a clearer and more informed perspective compared to earlier writings on the subject. The inclusion of firsthand observations and eye-witness accounts elevates “Jihannuma” to a valuable source, crucial for understanding the geography and features of Central Arabia, particularly Nejd, during the time of its writing. Despite Hogarth’s recognition, it is lamentable that Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah’s pioneering work remains relatively unknown in English- speaking circles.
Other Notable Works
Kâtip Chelebi’s scholarly pursuits extend beyond “Jihannuma,” encompassing a diverse array of notable works that have left an indelible mark on the landscape of Arabian studies. Among his chief works stands “Kashf al-ẓunūnʿan asāmi al-kutub wa al-funūn” (“The Removal of Doubt from the Names of Books and the Sciences”). This masterpiece serves as a bibliographical encyclopaedia in Arabic, a testament to Kâtip Chelebi’s avid bibliophilia, industrious scholarship, and prolific writing.
Within the pages of “Kashf al-ẓunūn,” Kâtip Chelebi meticulously cataloged information on 15,000 Arabic, Persian, and Turkish books published up to his time. This comprehensive compilation not only showcases his dedication to scholarship but also highlights his commitment to preserving and disseminating knowledge. The encyclopaedia stands as a testament to Kâtip Chelebi’s role as a meticulous chronicler, meticulously documenting the literary landscape of his era.
In addition to “Kashf al-ẓunūn,” Kâtip Chelebi’s literary repertoire includes several other notable works that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of his intellectual breadth. “Tuhfat al-Kibar fi Asfar il-Bahar” (The Gift to the Great Ones Concerning the Campaigns in the Sea) serves as a detailed chronicle of the Ottoman navy, providing a historical narrative of maritime wars involving the Turks. This work becomes a valuable resource for scholars exploring the naval history of the Ottoman Empire, offering insights into strategic engagements and the evolution of maritime conflicts.
“Dustūr al-amal li islah al-khalal” (Instructions for the Reform of Abuses) stands out as a treatise addressing the economic challenges faced by the Ottoman Empire during Kâtip Chelebi’s time. In this work, he not only diagnoses the existing economic crisis but also proposes practical solutions for reform. It reflects Kâtip Chelebi’s commitment to contributing not only to scholarly pursuits but also to addressing the socio-economic issues of his era.
“Mizan al-ḥaqq fi ikhtijārī al-ahaqq” (The Balance of Truth) emerges as a testament to Kâtip Chelebi’s intellectual depth. This work not only defends the positive sciences and Islamic doctrine but also engages in a critical examination of fanaticism. Kâtip Chelebi advocates for a balanced approach, encouraging the pursuit of truth without succumbing to extremes.
These works collectively showcase Kâtip Chelebi’s multifaceted contributions, portraying him not merely as a geographer but as a scholar deeply engaged with the socio-economic and intellectual challenges of his time.
In the realm of Arabian studies, Kâtip Çelebi, or Mustafa ibn ‘Abd-Allah, stands as a trailblazer whose intellectual pursuits have left an enduring imprint on our understanding of the region. While several European travellers preceded him in exploring Arabia, many confined their journeys to the relatively cosmopolitan Hijaz. Kâtip Çelebi, however, distinguished himself by meticulously venturing into Nejd, the arid central region of Arabia, with his seminal work “Jihannuma.” In this treatise, he not only provided unprecedented insights into the largely unexplored interior but also demonstrated a commitment to comprehensively unravelling the geographical intricacies of Central Arabia. As DG Hogarth aptly recognizes in “The Penetration of Arabia,” Kâtip Çelebi’s dedication and detailed exploration of Nejd set him apart, deserving the recognition and acclaim bestowed upon him for his invaluable contributions to the understanding of Arabian geography and culture.