Sachiye Madrasa: A Beacon of Knowledge

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Sachiye Madrasa: A Beacon of Knowledge

 

M T Zunun





Introduction

The Sachiye Madrasa, located in the historic city of Kashgar, was one of the most prestigious educational institutions from the Qarakhanid period. Founded during the reign of Satuq (Abdukirim) Arslan Bughra Qarakhan, this madrasa played a pivotal role in fostering cultural and intellectual advancements. The term "saç" in ancient Uyghur signifies the spread and dissemination of knowledge and science, encapsulating the essence of the madrasa's mission.

Historical Significance

Established in the 10th century, the Sachiye Madrasa was a highly regarded centre of higher education, attracting students from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum included Islamic philosophy, history, literature, astronomy, medicine, military science, and various natural and social sciences.

Location

The Sachiye Madrasa in Kashgar city is located at the head of Chasa Street, by the Tuman River to the east and the "Id Kah Mosque" and "Orda Aldi" wholesale market to the west. In the early 2000s, the madrasa comprised 14 rooms constructed as warehouses for traders in the "Orda Aldi" wholesale market.

Notable Alumni

The madrasa boasts a distinguished lineage of scholars, writers, poets, and philosophers who have made significant contributions to their respective fields:

  • Mahmud of Kashgar (1008-1105): Noted for his seminal work "Diwan Lughat al-Turk," Mahmud studied and taught at the Sachiye Madrasa.
  • Yusuf Khass Hajib: Author of "Kutadgu Bilig," one of the most celebrated works of Uyghur literature, whose intellectual foundation was shaped at the Sachiye Madrasa.
  • Sadiqiy (Muhammad Sadiq Kashgari): A prolific writer and historian who studied at the Sachiye Madrasa, contributing extensively to Uyghur literature through works such as "Tazkirah-i Azizān" and "Adab us-Salihin."
  • Gumnam (Muhammad Emin Khojamkuli Hirqati): Renowned for his poetic and philosophical insights, Gumnam's early education at the Sachiye Madrasa profoundly influenced his literary career.
  • Jamal Qarshi: A historian and scholar known for his translations and original works conducted from the library of the Sachiye Madrasa.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

Despite its recent repurposing as warehouses for the "Orda Aldi" market, the Sachiye Madrasa remains a testament to Kashgar's architectural and cultural heritage. Under the administration of the Chasa Street Authority, its historical significance continues to resonate.

Conclusion

The Sachiye Madrasa poignantly reminds us of the rich educational and cultural legacy of the Qarakhanid era. Its illustrious alums exemplify the depth of Uyghur scholarship and intellectual pursuit, inspiring generations with their enduring contributions.

For further exploration, readers can delve into comprehensive historical accounts such as those by Haji Nurhaji and others, which detail the profound impact of the Qarakhanids on education and culture.

References

  1. Haji Nurhaji: "A Brief History of the Qarakhanids," Xinjiang People's Publishing House, 1983 Urumchi.
  2. Ugdelmix: "ساچىيە مەدرىسىنىڭ ھازىرقى ھالىتى (The current state of the Sachiye Madrasa)," accessed 22 June 2019. Uyghur Archive.
  3. Jamal Qarshi: Notable works include translations such as "As-Sahh fil-Lughat" and his dictionary "Mulhaqat as-Surah," conducted at the Sachiye Madrasa.
  4. Mahmud of Kashgar: Renowned for "Diwan Lughat it-Turk" and his educational background at the Sachiye Madrasa.
  5. Yusuf Khass Hajib: Author of "Kutadgu Bilig," educated at the Sachiye Madrasa.
  6. Sadiqiy (Muhammad Sadiq Kashgari): Notable works include "Tazkirah-i Azizān," "Adab us-Salihin," "Zubdat ul-Masail," "Tazkirah-i Ashab ul-Kahf," "Tarikh-i Iskandariya wa Tajnama-i Shah," and "Risalah-i Kasibdar."
  7. Gumnam (Muhammad Emin Khojamkuli Hirqati): His epic "Muhabbatnama-Mihnatkame" and lyrical works under the pen names "Hirqati" and "Gumnam."

These references offer a comprehensive overview of the historical and educational significance of the Sachiye Madrasa, highlighting its pivotal role in advancing intellectual pursuits and cultural heritage.

Note

The last known pictures of the Sachiye Madrasa were taken in the 1990s. Unfortunately, its recent fate and current condition remain unknown. Despite this uncertainty, the madrasa holds significant historical and cultural value as a beacon of knowledge and learning in Kashgar.

 

 

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