Islamic Educational Institutions in Jerusalem during the Late Middle East Ages; 583-922 H/1187-1516

Abstract

The article examines the development of Islamic educational institutions in Jerusalem during the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods. During the first period, there was a limited number of such institutions operating in Jerusalem, and most were established by the Ayyubid sultans soon after the city was captured in 583H./1187. By the end of the Mamluk period, however, there were more than 70 educational institutions of various kinds: Madrasa, Khanqah, Ribat and Zawiya in operation. The article discusses political, economic, social, and religious factors that promoted this rapid growth. It shows that the sanctity and religious importance of Jerusalem brought the rulers of the city, princesses, and other members of the Ayyubid and Mamluk political elite, to invest much attention and resources in building philanthropic establishments, in order to increase their personal fame and enhance their political stature. This was especially true in years of peace and economic stability. Nevertheless, throughout the late Mamluk period and especially during the 9/15th century, when other Syrian cities suffered decline, educational establishments in Jerusalem continued to flourish