The role of Syriacs in the history of Arabic translation (Umayyad - Abbâsîd period

Syriacs have made significant contributions to the intellectual development of Islamic civilization through their role in the history of Arabic translation. In particular, during the Umayyad period, Syriacs played a critical role in translating works from Greek, Persian, and other civilizations into Arabic. This process increased the Arabs' accumulation of knowledge in science, philosophy, medicine, and other fields, leading to a great intellectual awakening in the Islamic world. The linguistic and translation skills of the Syriacs allowed them to convey their cultural heritage and knowledge to the Arabic-speaking world, thus becoming one of the cornerstones of Islamic civilization. Syriacs played an active role in major cultural centers such as Gundeshapur, Harran, and Alexandria. The scientific and philosophical studies conducted in these centers were transferred to the Arabic-speaking world through the Syriacs. Their mastery of Greek science and philosophy ensured the accurate and effective translation of this knowledge into Arabic. These translation activities not only facilitated the transfer of knowledge but also contributed to the development of the Arabic language and scientific terminology. Syriacs also pioneered the systematic conduct of translation activities in the Islamic world. Important figures like Khalid ibn Yazid benefited from the knowledge and experience of the Syriacs, contributing to the institutionalization of translation activities. The translations made during this period laid the foundation for the scientific and cultural developments that peaked during the Abbâsîd period. The efforts of the Syriacs facilitated the spread of science and thought in the Islamic world and enhanced the Arabs' contributions to the history of world science.