THE EVALUATION OF THE HUMAN ANATOMY IN QAZWINI’S AJA’IB AL-MAKHLUQAT FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF DIVINE ORDER AND WISDOM

Qazwini was one of the most influential scholars of the thirteenth century, distinguished by his encyclopedic knowledge of the natural sciences. Among his two major works, ʿAjaʾib al-Makhluqat wa Gharaʾib al-Mawjudat stands out for its scope and enduring impact. Widely circulated in both the Islamic world and the West, the work has been translated and annotated into numerous languages over the centuries. Although fundamentally cosmographic in conception, it offers a comprehensive portrayal of nature, addressing the order of the universe, celestial bodies, climates, and terrestrial elements. In addition to these topics, the work incorporates observations and explanations from diverse scientific fields, including geography, biology, geology, mineralogy, astrology, and zoology, while also engaging with cultural and religious elements such as historical events, mythological narratives, and theological perspectives. A particularly noteworthy aspect of ʿAjaʾib al-Makhluqat is its detailed treatment of human anatomy. Qazwini approaches the human body not merely as a physical structure but as an integral component of a divinely ordained order, created with wisdom and purpose. While describing the structure and functions of bodily organs, he simultaneously interprets each part within a metaphysical framework that emphasizes divine wisdom alongside physiological utility. This article examines Qazwini’s understanding of human anatomy in relation to the medical and scientific knowledge of his time and explores how his anatomical explanations reflect broader concepts of divine order and wisdom. In doing so, the study aims to highlight the significance of ʿAjaʾib al-Makhluqat for the history of medicine and for discussions concerning the relationship between religion and science.