Relocating to Egypt in 1236, Ibn al-Nafis found success in his medical career. He began at Al-Nassri Hospital before transitioning to Al-Mansouri Hospital, ultimately ascending to the positions of chief of physicians and personal physician to the Sultan. Upon his passing in 1288 A.D., he magnanimously bequeathed his residence, library, and clinic to the Mansuriya Hospital, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.
A prolific writer, Ibn al-Nafis embarked on ambitious projects such as "Al-Shamil fi al-Tibb," an encyclopedia intended to span 300 volumes. Though unfinished at his demise, the manuscript remains housed in Damascus. His groundbreaking contributions to ophthalmology and his renowned work "Mujaz al-Qanun" (The Summary of Law), alongside various commentaries, attest to his profound impact on medical knowledge. Commentaries on works by Hippocrates, Ibn Sina, and Hunayn Ibn Ishaq further showcase his deep engagement with medical discourse.
Among his original works, "Kitab al-Mukhtar fi al-Aghdhiya" stands out for its exploration of diet's influence on health, reflecting Ibn al-Nafis's holistic approach to medicine. However, his most significant contribution lies in the discovery of pulmonary circulation, a revelation only rediscovered by modern science centuries later. Ibn al-Nafis's accurate descriptions of lung structure, bronchial interactions, and the role of coronary arteries in heart function demonstrate his pioneering insights into cardiac and pulmonary physiology.
Ibn al-Nafis's enduring impact extends beyond the medical realm, shaping broader intellectual discourse. His interdisciplinary approach, coupled with seminal discoveries, underscores his indelible legacy. His life and work exemplify the rich intellectual tradition of the Islamic Golden Age, which continues to influence modern science and medicine.
Ibn al-Nafis: A Renaissance Man of Medicine
