Scientific event

Methodology of cultural, linguistic and historical research in Abī Rās Al-Nāṣar Al-Mᶜaskrī

Type

National Seminar

date

11/05/2023

heure

09:00

lieu

CRASC

Socio-anthropology of History and Memory Division

Theme :

History and the Relationship with National Memory

Keywords :

culture linguistics historical memory methodology

Concept note

On the occasion of Algeria's celebration of Heritage Month, and as part of the scientific program established by the Research Unit on Culture, Communication, Literature, Languages, and Arts, we propose the national panel symposium titled: "Cultural, Linguistic, and Historical Research Methodology of Abi Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari (d. 1823 AD)", commemorating the bicentennial of the passing of the master of memorizers, Abi Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari (d. 1823 AD). This symposium addresses several cognitive and intellectual contributions made across his works and manuscripts. Abi Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari (may God have mercy on him) authored works across numerous fields of science and arts, producing more than 86 achievements in history, literature, genealogy, tribal studies, Sufism, jurisprudence, and exegesis. He was described as a "rich encyclopedia and a wonder of his time," "the master of the rational and transmitted sciences," and the authority to whom "reference is made in both foundational principles and branch disciplines."

He dominated the realm of writing and composition for nearly two centuries, unmatched in his prolific output and multi-disciplinary intellectual presence. The Center for Research in Social and Cultural Anthropology (CRASC) in Oran previously examined and edited several of Sheikh Abi Ras's manuscripts through the work of researcher Ahmed Amine Dellai, who edited the book "Al-Durra Al-Aniqa fi Sharh Al-Aqiqa" in 2007. This literary work united two prominent Algerian figures: the poet Saïd El-Mandassi (d. 1677 AD), author of the famous poem Al-Aqiqa praising the Prophet (PBUH), his companions, the Ansar, and the holy sites; and the commentator of the poem, the scholar Sheikh Muhammad Abu Ras Al-Nasir Al-Jalili Al-Maskari Al-Jaza'iri. Furthermore, the Center published historian Mohamed Ghalam's two-volume edited edition of Abi Ras's book titled "Aja'ib Al-Asfar wa Lata'if Al-Akhbar" in 2008. The author covered extensive historical data and detailed commentaries on Arab-Islamic civilization, particularly in Al-Andalus and the Far, Central, and Near Maghreb. He also investigated the conditions of successive Mamluk dynasties and detailed the history of Algerian tribes and cities, highlighting the liberation of Oran and Mers El Kébir on February 27, 1792, and the events surrounding the Spanish occupation.

In another publication by the Center on Scholar Abi Ras, a research team comprising Benamar Haddadou, Abdellah Thani Kaddour, and Larbi Bouamama edited the manuscript "Zahr Al-Shamarekh fi 'Ilm Al-Tarikh" in 2016. This historical and scientific contribution is as significant as Aja'ib Al-Asfar, serving as a primary source for Algerian and Maghrebi historical heritage, which the authors aimed to introduce and analyze.

This symposium seeks to continue the scholarly discourse on the legacy of Abi Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari, a key figure in the Maghreb region, whose manuscripts have been studied and edited by the Department of Socio-Anthropology of History, Memory, Imaginary, and Social Processes.

The symposium will cover the following tracks:
Documentation, revitalization of sciences, and sources of knowledge according to Sheikh Abi Ras Al-Nasir
Writing and composition methodologies in the works of Sheikh Abi Ras Al-Nasir
Abi Ras Al-Nasir in academic research and scholarly studies
Cataloging of Sheikh Abi Ras Al-Nasiri's manuscripts: edited and lost works

Participants

Hanifi HALAILI

intervenant

intervention_summary

The Islamic Conquests in the Maghreb in the Heritage of Abu Ras al-Nasir al-Mu'askari: A Study of Terminology and Methodology

Al-Isaba fi Man Ghaza al-Maghrib min al-Sahaba* (The Account of the Companions Who Invaded the Maghreb) is a book authored by Abu Ras al-Nasir al-Mu'askari. In it, the author sought to comprehensively document the Companions—specifically those who participated in the conquests of the Maghreb—and provide their biographies. It is considered one of the most significant and extensive works ever written on the history of the Maghreb. The book focuses on introducing the Companions who conquered the region, detailing the circumstances of their arrival, their companionship with the Prophet (peace be upon him), the number of Hadiths they narrated from him, their contributions to urban development, and their role in establishing Kairouan—the first major Islamic city in the Maghreb and the base for the Islamic conquests.

The work comprises fifty-three biographical accounts. Regarding its methodology, the author begins by outlining the geographical context and meticulously examining the conquest operations from a geostrategic perspective, while also detailing the sources of his information—including oral accounts gathered in Kairouan from eyewitnesses who had preserved the narratives passed down by their forebears. Significantly, the book remains consistent with earlier Eastern and Maghrebi sources in terms of both terminology and methodology.

Biography

Professor., (Dr) Research DirectorResearch Director at Djillali Liabes University Sidi Bel Abbès. He works as a professor in the field of modern and contemporary history and archives

Boumediene BOUZID

intervenant

intervention_summary

The Discourse of Grace in Relieving Distress and the Victory of the Nation: A Reading of the Autobiography of Abu Ras Al-Nasiri.

This paper examines the artistic and aesthetic nature of Abu Ras’s autobiography, specifically his acknowledgment of his lived social status—a process through which he identifies with prophets, messengers, and saints regarding their ascent through social, intellectual, and spiritual ranks. Consequently, his autobiography serves as a model of the "confessional" autobiography—a genre some Orientalists have claimed is exclusive to Western culture. The paper also highlights how the Algerian art of autobiography—in its modern form of articulating the "self"—predated the 19th-century works of Al-Tahtawi. Abu Ras’s narrative blends the traditional style of hagiography (accounts of saintly virtues) with the nature of confessional autobiography; it incorporates the age-old element of boasting about intellectual achievements and scholarly excellence, yet frames this as an act of "speaking of God’s grace" (acknowledging divine blessings).

Abu Ras’s autobiography is an account of the self—its inner stirrings and spiritual ascent—as well as an account of others, including ancestors, sheikhs, and companions. It is a form of self-writing; even when discussing others, the focus remains on the self, as the author constitutes the very subject of the narrative. It is, in the words of Philippe Lejeune, a retrospective narrative. In this work, he attempts to both emulate and innovate upon the established conventions of biographical and hagiographic writing found in the works of Al-Suyuti, Usama ibn Munqidh, Ibn Khaldun, and Al-Sha'rani.

Biography

Secretary-General of the High Islamic Council (HIC)

Benamar HAMDADOU

intervenant

intervention_summary

Abu Ras al-Nasir al-Mu'askari and the Khaldunian Frame of Reference

Sheikh Abou Ras Al-Nasser Al-Mascari is one of the prominent historians of the Ottoman period in the Mascara region (Watan Al-Rashidiyya). Anyone who examines his scholarly biography bears witness that he was, without contest, the undisputed authority (Hafiz) of the Central Maghreb (Al-Maghrib Al-Awsat) and a remarkably prolific author, rivaling Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti in the sheer volume of his writings.

He is a cornerstone historian relied upon for documenting historical facts and events, particularly through his historiographical works enriched by his insightful views and critiques. Through these writings, researchers can discern the Sheikh's profound mastery of linguistic, literary, and especially historical analysis. His life was devoted to knowledge and learning, marked by intellectual debates and scholarly discussions with prominent scholars across various regions.

The value of his historical works is particularly evident in his critical engagement with and critique of Ibn Khaldun's ideas, demonstrating a strong Khaldunian influence across most of Abou Ras's historical and literary writings. Abou Ras Al-Nasser and Ibn Khaldun intersect in a shared domain: both were keen witnesses to their respective eras. This highlights their deep awareness of the political and social contradictions surrounding them, as each sought to interrogate past events to better understand the present and even anticipate the future, as Abou Ras accomplished in his book Aqwal Al-Ta'sis.

Biography

Former Rector of the University Ali Kafi of Tindouf, Professor of Modern and Contemporary History, Department of History and Archaeology, University of Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella, Editor-in-Chief of the Algerian Journal of Human Studies, published by the University of Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella.

Ammar MANAA

moderateur

Amar MOHAND AMER

moderateur

Biography

Historian, researcher and Research Director at the CRASC (Oran) , ‘Socio-anthropology of History and Memory division, and deputy editor-in-chief of the journal Insaniyat.

Belkacem Daif

intervenant

intervention_summary

Catalogue of the Manuscripts of Al-Hafiz Abu al-Nasr

Here, we wish to introduce the legacy of a prominent scholar from Central Maghreb—a distinguished figure whose prolific writings have gained widespread renown and filled the shelves of libraries and collections: Abu Ras al-Nasiri al-Mu'askari. Abu Ras detailed his works in his book *Fath al-Ilah wa Minnatuhu*, assigning them a subtitle: *Al-'Asjad wa al-Ibriz fi 'Iddat ma Allaftu bayna Basit wa Wasit wa Wajiz* (Gold and Pure Gold: An Account of the Comprehensive, Intermediate, and Concise Works I Have Authored). Most of these works are considered lost, save for copies found in select global libraries and collections. Certain repositories have preserved manuscripts such as *Al-Iksir wa al-Ibriz*, *Al-Hawi*, *Nazm 'Ajib fi Furu' Qalil Nassuha ma'a Kathrat al-Wuqu'*, and *Luqtat al-'Ajlan fi Sharaf Bani Zayan*; the collection of Sheikh al-Bashir al-Mahmoudi in the city of Bordj (Mascara) holds some of these in the author's own hand, as does the Algerian National Library.

Biography

Based in Djelfa, he is a researcher specializing in the critical editing and preservation of Algerian heritage. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Islamic Jurisprudence and its Principles (Fiqh and Usul) from the Atar Institute in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. He specialized in heritage editing and obtained a certification in manuscript editing methodologies from the Institute of Arab Manuscripts in Cairo. Among his published works is the critical edition of "Sharh Al-Filali Al-Biskri 'ala Mukhtasar Al-Akhdari" (Explanation of Al-Filali Al-Biskri on Al-Akhdari's Summary), published by Dar Ibn Hazm.

Eltayeb Belaadel

intervenant

intervention_summary

Al-Hulal al-Haririyya (The Silken Garments): A Commentary on *Al-Maqamat al-Haririyya* by Abu Ras al-Nasir — A Study and Critical Edition.

In this presentation, I briefly outline the life of Abu Ras al-Nasiri, his methods of acquiring various forms of knowledge, and his capacity to assimilate them, relying on available sources—particularly the highly significant *Fath al-Ilah wa Minnatuhu fi al-Tahadduth ‘ala Fadl Rabbi wa Ni‘matihi*. I also examine the book *al-Hulal al-Haririyya* and *al-Faskh*, along with related matters; here, I discuss the manuscripts used for our critical edition—specifically the al-Hamil and National Library copies—while touching upon the history of *al-Maqamat al-Haririyya* in Algeria and citing sources that document Algerian interest in this genre of writing. Furthermore, I address the qualifications required for editing such extensive manuscripts and analyze Abu Ras’s "library"—encompassing both the knowledge he internalized and the sources he consulted directly—focusing on: a) his linguistic philosophy; b) his method of explaining vocabulary; c) his approach to citing linguistic evidence and examples; d) his method of expanding on information and presenting insights—whether linguistic, narrative, or historical; and e) his critiques of al-Hariri and other linguists, as well as the nature and location of these linguistic observations.

Biography

Ziane Achour University, Djelf

Belaid Berouain

intervenant

intervention_summary

The lecture is divided into three sections based on the title. The first section addresses the names given to the settlement of Al-Rashidiyya—the regional capital—as well as the designations for its surrounding environs and outskirts. It also explores the history of its connection to the Arabic language and script, the emergence of its cultural landmarks, and its renown for a scholarly elite specializing in jurisprudence (*fiqh*) and theology (*tawhid*); indeed, the majority of scholars across the Maghreb came to take pride in tracing their scholarly lineage back to the scholars of Al-Rashidiyya. The second section focuses on the scholar Abu Ras al-Nasir, covering his birth, birthplace, family background (parents and siblings), and early education—including his time at his father’s *kuttab* (traditional school) and other institutions, his memorization of the Quran, and his mastery of its orthography, vocalization, recitation styles, and variant readings. It further details his pursuit of jurisprudence studies in Mascara and Mazouna, his graduation, and his subsequent career in teaching and public office, noting that he never ceased his pursuit of knowledge despite having attained a high level of proficiency and renown among peers across various regions—an excellence that earned him the title of *al-Hafiz* (the Memorizer). The third section examines his character through the lens of his scholarly debates and exchanges. Given the sheer number of these encounters, the discussion is limited to two specific instances: his debate with the scholars of Egypt—in which he prevailed—and his debate with Wahhabi scholars in the Hijaz during his second pilgrimage, concerning issues of jurisprudence and creed.

Biography

A Quran teacher in the province of Mascara and a researcher specializing in the Rashidun heritage and the tribes that settled in the region; he also has an interest in manuscriA Quran teacher in the province of Mascara and a researcher specializing in the Rashidun heritage and the tribes that settled in the region; he also has an interest in manuscript transcription, the art of calligraphy, and the study of textual variants and scribal errors.pt transcription, the art of calligraphy, and the study of textual variants and scribal errors.

Takieddine Boukeabeur

intervenant

intervention_summary

The Pearl of the Necklace of Glosses, on the excellent commentary of al-Zarqani and al-Kharashi on Abu Ras al-Nasir

Sheikh Abu Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari Al-Jazairi is one of the most prolific Algerian scholars during the Ottoman era, authoring high-quality works that researchers cannot afford to overlook due to the wealth of rare information and insights contained within them. Although the Sheikh wrote across a diverse range of disciplines, his works undoubtedly drew significant attention from his peers and contemporaries. Through this presentation, we aim to shed light on the manuscript titled "Wassitat 'Aqd Al-Hawashi fi Sharh Jayd Al-Kharashi", examining its contents as well as the commentaries written about it by scholars of the Maghreb region.Sheikh Abu Ras Al-Nasir Al-Maskari Al-Jazairi is one of the most prolific Algerian scholars during the Ottoman era, authoring high-quality works that researchers cannot afford to overlook due to the wealth of rare information and insights contained within them. Although the Sheikh wrote across a diverse range of disciplines, his works undoubtedly drew significant attention from his peers and contemporaries. Through this presentation, we aim to shed light on the manuscript titled "Wassitat 'Aqd Al-Hawashi fi Sharh Jayd Al-Kharashi", examining its contents as well as the commentaries written about it by scholars of the Maghreb region.
The topics addressed are as follows:
-Introduction to the Sheikh.
-Introduction to the manuscript.
-The value of the manuscript through the commendations and praises (taqarid) of Maghrebi scholars.
-Issues and questions regarding the manuscript.

Biography

A researcher specializing in Algerian manuscript heritage, he has made significant contributions to highlighting Algeria’s prominent figures and cultural centers and has played a major role in advancing the cultural and intellectual landscape in the cities of Mascara and Oran. An expert on Algerian manuscripts, he is also a member of the Laboratory for Mediterranean Historical Studies Across the Ages at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Yahia Fares University of Médéa.
A researcher specializing in Algerian manuscript heritage, he has made significant contributions to highlighting Algeria’s prominent figures and cultural centers and has played a major role in advancing the cultural and intellectual landscape in the cities of Mascara and Oran. An expert on Algerian manuscripts, he is also a member of the Laboratory for Mediterranean Historical Studies Across the Ages at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Yahia Fares University of Médéa.

Ben Qada Zelmat Mosalla

intervenant

intervention_summary

Clear verses in the explanation of the proofs of good deeds by Abu Ras al-Nasir

Imam Al-Maqqari said: "I read in the handwriting of some eminent scholars the following: The objectives of authorship are seven: inventing something unprecedented, completing an incomplete work, correcting an error, explaining a complex issue, summarizing a lengthy text, gathering dispersed material, or organizing scattered content."

Based on this quote, we attempt to describe this manuscript from all its aspects. Indeed, the Hafiz Abi Ras Al-Naciri came close to combining all these objectives in this manuscript, owing to the depth of his knowledge, the excellence of his memory, and the clarity of his presentation. He explicitly stated the reason for composing this work: the scarcity of the book "Dala'il al-Khayrat" in this vast land, as well as the shortcomings and gaps he found in the commentary "Matali' al-Massarat" by Imam Al-Mahdi Al-Fassi — entitled "Matali' al-Massarat bi-Jala' Dala'il al-Khayrat" (d. 1109 AH) — and in the supercommentary (hashiya) of Sheikh Al-Arbi Al-Fassi on "Dala'il al-Khayrat" (d. 1052 AH). Thus, he expanded the discourse by adding numerous essential notes, excerpts, and valuable benefits from the Hadith literature, along with the verification (takhrij) and chains of transmission (turuq) for the Hadiths concerning the manner and virtues of invoking blessings upon our Master Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

Biography

A researcher specializing in the critical editing of heritage texts, he has actively participated in various scholarly, cultural, and historical activities in the Zelmata region of Mascara Province. His publications include *Al-Ayat al-Bayyinat fi Sharh Dala’il al-Khayrat* (Clear Verses: A Commentary on *Dala’il al-Khayrat*) by Abu Ras al-Nasir (published in Jordan).

Nourredine Mahi

intervenant

intervention_summary

The Pearl of the Guided One for the Ghuthiya of Abu Mahdi - and the Maghreb news about the Maghreb matter, the situation in Andalusia and the borders of the Maghreb, authored by Abu Ras bin Ahmed bin Abdul Qadir Al-Nasir Al-Muaskari.

"In this presentation, I address two books that I have critically edited and verified:

The first book is titled 'Al-Durr Al-Mahdi li-Ghawthiyyat Abi Mahdi', which is a commentary on the poem by Sheikh Sidi Issa ibn Musa Al-Toujini Al-Ghrissi, one of the 10th-century AH scholars. Its theme pertains to a specific poetic genre, namely seeking divine intervention (Al-Istighatha) and supplication (Al-Tawassul) to Allah during times of adversity, calamities, and severe distress. I relied on 7 manuscript copies for the critical edition of this book.

The second book is titled 'Al-Khabar Al-Mughrib 'an Al-Amr Al-Mughrib Al-Hal bi-Al-Maghrib wa Al-Thughur Al-Mughrib'. It is a commentary on a poem composed by Sheikh Abi Ras on the occasion of the final liberation of Oran in 1792 AD, which he entitled 'Al-Hulal Al-Sundusiyya fi Sha'n Wahran wa Al-Jazira Al-Andalusiyya' or 'Nafisat Al-Juman fi Fath Madinat Wahran wa Madh Al-Fatih laha Al-Bey Sidi Muhammad ibn Othman'. This poem, also known as 'Al-Siniyya', was presented to Bey Muhammad El-Kebir. Several commentaries were written for this poem under various titles, including:

Biography

A researcher specializing in the editing of heritage manuscripts—particularly those concerning scholars from Al-Rashidiyya—he plays a prominent role in various historical activities organized by the Directorate of Culture in the province of Mascara.

Haroun Boulakrinat

intervenant

intervention_summary

"Between the 'Hawi' of Abi Ras Al-Mascari and the 'Hawi' of Al-Suyuti: Perspectives and Comparative Approaches"

Sheikh Abi Ras left behind a vast legacy of works across numerous disciplines. Notably, he spoke of himself and enumerated his compositions in his book "Fath Al-Ilah wa Minnatuh", stating: "The time has come for me to mention his commendation of some of my works due to his admiration for me and my writings, following the example of Imam Jalal Al-Din Al-Suyuti." He further stated: "As for what we mention regarding my lineage—God willing—you will find in it the spirit of Imam Al-Suyuti." This clearly demonstrates the profound influence of Hafiz Al-Suyuti on him, both in naming some of his compositions and in following in his footsteps.

As for Abi Ras's book, "Al-Hawi li-Lubab min Al-Tawhid wa Al-Tasawwuf wa Al-Awliya wa Al-Fatawi", it highlights his strong and well-rounded intellect. The book comprises chapters associated with three disciplines, each governed by its own methodology:

First: Related to creed, speculative theology (Ilm Al-Kalam), and associated matters. In this section, the Sheikh presents Ash'ari doctrines, their schools, and views, following the approach of his teacher, Abd Al-Qadir Al-Fasi.

Second: Related to the purification of the soul (Tazkiyat Al-Nafs) and spiritual conduct. Here, he portrays the Algerian context and the Sufi orders present at the time, detailing their etiquette (Adab) and followers (Murids).

Third: Related to the branches of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) and its legal issues. One observes a rigorous pursuit of truth and an equitable discussion of issues supported by evidence, where the methodology of balancing opposing arguments (Mawazana) and legal deduction (Takhrij) predominantly prevails.

Conclusion: I framed it as a comparative study between the Hawi of Al-Mascari and the Hawi of Al-Suyuti.

Biography

A researcher specializing in Algerian and Maghrebi heritage—both manuscript and printed—he has conducted training courses for postgraduate students and researchers on manuscript editing and textual analysis at the "Nour 'ala Nour" Center in Setif (2023), the Emir Abdelkader University of Islamic Sciences in Constantine (2022), Zitouna University in Tunisia (2020), and the Institute of Islamic Studies in Kairouan (2019). He has authored books and research papers published by the Algerian Ministry of Religious Affairs and in peer-reviewed academic journals; his scholarly works include the critical edition of *Al-Mustamlah min Kitab al-Takmilah* by Abu Abdallah al-Dhahabi.

El-Tahar Bekdar

intervenant

intervention_summary

The Linguistic Vocabulary in the Works of Hafiz Abi Ras Al-Nasser: An Analysis of Selected Examples

Biography

Professor in the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at the University of Mascara; researcher in linguistic and Quranic studies with an interest in both Classical and *Malhun* (vernacular) poetry; fiction writer; researcher specializing in the critical editing of manuscripts; member of the Laboratory for Arabic Linguistics and Text Analysis; head of the Literary Studies specialization; and President of the Algerian House of P

Maachou BOUOUCHMA

intervenant

intervention_summary

Abi Ras al-Nacir's Stance on the Issue of Lineage: Between Rigor and Enmity

Abu Ras engaged in numerous scholarly and intellectual battles, displaying fierce tenacity in his stances and demonstrating—through his writings and research—a remarkable ability to articulate and justify his positions. Yet, he was not spared from criticism and opposition that escalated into outright hostility and malice, particularly regarding the field of genealogy. This raises a compelling question: Were his views scientifically sound, accurate, and credible? Did he subject them to the established standards of genealogy? This study seeks to provide answers that offer a fair assessment of Abu Ras, clarifying his positions and examining the underlying rationales and contexts—both his own and those of his adversaries. It also explores the reasons why these disputes evolved into matters of public opinion, leaving a complex legacy that impacted his life, personality, thought, and body of work, as well as the region where he lived: Al-Rashidiyya. The research draws primarily upon the writings of Abu Ras himself.

Biography

A professor at Mila University and a researcher specializing in cultural criticism and cultural studies. He focuses on anthropological research concerning ethnicity, nationalism, and genealogy, has conducted extensive research on literary criticism and cultural systems, and is an expert in Algerian genealogy.

Salah Eddine Ben Naoum

intervenant

Biography

A researcher based in Mascara and a graduate of the University of Oran 1, specializing in Islamic history and civilization. He holds a certificate of attendance from a training program on the critical editing of texts at Umm Al-Qura University (Saudi Arabia) and has contributed to the critical editing of Algerian heritage, as well as to raising awareness about prominent figures from Al-Rashidiyya and centers of scholarship.

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