Sultan releases Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language and launches Encyclopedia

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan BIn Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, commended the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, highlighting it as a significant achievement for the Arab and Islamic communities.

Sheikh Sultan highlighted the importance of language as a pillar of national pride, preserving its knowledge, history, and culture.

Sheikh Sultan commended the devoted efforts of everyone involved in this vital endeavour throughout the seven-year journey, acknowledging their steadfast dedication to supporting researchers, scholars, and future generations.

On Monday, at the headquarters of Al Qasimi Publication, he delivered a speech highlighting the achievement of printing all 127 volumes of the Historic Arabic Language Dictionary.

Sheikh Sultan has personally signed the final volume of the dictionary, which covers the Arabic letters "Waw" and "Ya."

Sheikh Sultan has officially announced the start of the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia project, a series of extensive volumes aimed at encompassing all Arabic terminology across various fields of knowledge. The Encyclopaedia serves as a comprehensive resource for the Arabic language, making it accessible to all.

Sheikh Sultan also highlighted the importance and goals of the Historic Arabic Language Dictionary, extending congratulations to the Arab world for this significant accomplishment.

His Highness emphasised that the effort will keep going, as the dictionary focusses on the roots of the language with the goal of eventually achieving its full potential. He stated, "The Arabic language includes all sciences and knowledge, and this historic dictionary serves as a container that carries it. We are proud of this language."

His Highness emphasised the significance and objectives of the Historic Arabic Language Dictionary, offering congratulations to the Arab world for this remarkable achievement.

He emphasised that supporting Arabic is a duty for everyone in this nation. His Highness emphasised that the effort would continue as the dictionary concentrates on the roots of the language, aiming to ultimately realise its full potential. He stated, "The Arabic language encompasses all sciences and knowledge, and this historic dictionary acts as a vessel that holds it, so we are proud of it."

His Highness announced that all volumes of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language will be available at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair. Additionally, it will be accessible online to enhance accessibility, as its creation was not solely for library shelves but for the public's benefit. It is essential for researchers, students, and teachers alike.

Sheikh Sultan announced that work on the comprehensive Arabic encyclopaedia will commence without delay. It will be comprehensive and encompass all Arabic terms in sciences, literature, arts, and prominent figures. We will not omit any Arabic term except for foreign terms to maintain the integrity and purity of the language.

Sheikh Sultan stated that the development of the encyclopaedia will follow the same methodology as the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language.

During that period, the initiative commenced with the involvement of language scholars and experts from different nations, who dedicated themselves to the task diligently, utilising both computers and traditional paper methods throughout the day. Reviewers and editors would subsequently arrange the material before forwarding it to the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, which then sends it to Al Qasimi Publications.

The volumes are produced to the highest standards, prioritising ease of use and meticulous attention to the finest aspects of production and BInding. This approach ensures that readers remain engaged and at ease while reading, enhancing the accessibility and appeal of the content.

Sheikh Sultan stated: "On this blessed morning, it is now nine o’clock, Sharjah time, and with the blessings of God, we shall begin the first step towards the comprehensive Arabic encyclopaedia." We are brimming with optimism and hope for the numerous positive experiences that await us.

Sheikh Sultan emphasised the commitment to completing the encyclopaedia, even if it extends to 500 volumes, and assured that it will be accessible online for everyone.

Sheikh Sultan emphasised the thorough commitment to learning, teaching, preserving, and exchanging the Arabic language by establishing cultural centres in European and African nations.

He stated, "This encyclopaedia will contribute to the world." We are currently establishing the groundwork, but we also have another significant responsibility: to transform the learners of Arabic. This is critical, and we are taking action in childhood education, schools, public spaces, and all sectors, including advertising billboards. I meticulously review everything and promptly rectify any identified errors. Whether in the East or West, we owe the Arab and Islamic communities and Arabic language lovers. We initiated the cultural centres in Europe and are actively working on reviving the institutes in Africa.

Sheikh Sultan underscored the importance of fostering accurate, distortion-free knowledge by completing the comprehensive Arabic encyclopaedia, a crucial component of global cultural hubs.

Sheikh Sultan wrapped up his speech by commending everyone involved in the successful completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language. He recognised the numerous individuals from different fields whose committed work led to outcomes that serve the greater good.

He praised their genuine efforts and the dedication with which they worked. His Highness expressed, "We hope that those who joined us in this endeavour will stay and carry on." Indeed, our journey is delightful, devoid of hazards, and abundant in affection—initially, affection for God, followed by this faith and this language.

Sheikh Sultan and those in attendance watched a presentation detailing the stages involved in completing the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language from its inception to the final volumes, highlighting his efforts to reach this significant milestone.

Following his speech, His Highness visited Al Qasimi Publications, where he explored the documentary exhibitions showcasing original handwritten manuscripts of his works. The collection included the manuscript for the 1990 book "The Omani-French Relations."

Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Head of the Protocol and Hospitality Department, Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Dr Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary General of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, Muhannad Bou Saida, Director of Al Qasimi Publications, and several staff members from both the Publications and the Academy were in attendance at the event.