Rethinking Jabir ibn Hayyan's Scientific Thought: His Contributions to Experimental Chemistry and the Foundations of Modern Chemical Science

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to rethink the scientific thought of Jabir ibn Hayyan by critically examining his intellectual contributions to experimental chemistry and evaluating their significance in shaping the foundations of modern chemical science. Rather than portraying Jabir solely as an alchemist, the study investigates his role as a pioneer of systematic experimentation, laboratory practice, and scientific reasoning within the Islamic Golden Age. Theoretical framework: The research employs the history and philosophy of science framework, complemented by Islamic epistemology, to analyze the interaction between empirical observation, rational inquiry, and experimental methodology in Jabir's scientific writings. Literature review: Previous studies have predominantly emphasized Jabir's achievements in alchemy, laboratory apparatus, and chemical substances, yet relatively few have explored his methodological contributions to the emergence of experimental science. Existing scholarship also provides limited discussion regarding the continuity between Islamic scientific traditions and contemporary chemistry. Method: This study adopts a qualitative library research design using historical and philosophical approaches. Primary sources include translated works attributed to Jabir ibn Hayyan, while secondary sources consist of peer-reviewed journal articles, historical monographs, and contemporary studies on the history of chemistry. Data were analyzed through thematic content analysis and historical interpretation. Results: The findings reveal that Jabir ibn Hayyan established fundamental scientific principles through systematic experimentation, precise observation, classification of substances, quantitative procedures, and reproducible laboratory techniques. His intellectual framework transformed speculative alchemy into an evidence-oriented discipline that significantly influenced later Islamic scholars and subsequently contributed to the evolution of European chemistry. Furthermore, his integration of empirical investigation with philosophical reflection anticipated several principles associated with modern scientific methodology. Implications: The study contributes to a more balanced understanding of the global history of science by highlighting the pivotal role of Islamic civilization in the development of chemistry and offers valuable perspectives for integrating historical scientific achievements into contemporary science education. Novelty: This research introduces a comprehensive reinterpretation of Jabir ibn Hayyan by positioning his experimental epistemology, rather than his alchemical practices alone, as the principal foundation connecting classical Islamic science with modern chemical science.