Maksud 1889 Islamic education in Ottoman Empire Arabic Grammar Turkish

Maksud – Constantinople Edition (1314 AH / c. 1896)

Description:

This is an Ottoman-era edition of Maksud, a classical Arabic grammar text printed in Dersaadet (Istanbul) around 1314 AH (circa 1896) at the printing house of Hacı Hüseyin Efendi. The work was published with the official approval of the Maarif Nezareti (Ministry of Education), confirming its role within the formal Ottoman curriculum.

Maksud is a foundational text in Arabic grammar, widely used in rüşdiye (secondary-level) schools during the Ottoman period. It reflects the structured language education system of the time, where Arabic held a central place in intellectual and religious studies.

The book focuses on essential grammatical rules, offering students a systematic introduction to Arabic language structure. As part of a broader educational progression, such texts were instrumental in preparing students for more advanced studies in both linguistic and religious disciplines.

Its use in state schools demonstrates the importance given to Arabic education in the Ottoman Empire, not only for religious purposes but also for scholarly development. The standardized nature of the text reflects the institutionalization of education during the late Ottoman period.

With its dimensions of 18 x 12.9 cm, the book represents a typical classroom-sized instructional manual of the era. Today, it stands as a valuable collectible item, offering insight into Ottoman educational practices and the emphasis placed on classical language instruction.

Key Features:

• Title: Maksud

• Date: 1314 AH (circa 1896)

• Place of Publication: Dersaadet (Istanbul)

• Printer: Hacı Hüseyin Efendi Matbaası

• Language: Arabic (with Ottoman Turkish instructional context)

• Format: Educational Textbook (18 x 12.9 cm)

• Subject: Arabic Grammar

• Educational Level: Rüşdiye (secondary school)

• Approval: Maarif Nezareti approved

• Historical Context: Late Ottoman education system

• Significance: Core Arabic grammar text used in formal schooling

• Collector Appeal: Authentic Ottoman schoolbook reflecting classical language education

• Condition: Cover has minor tears