Sharjah Ruler’s vision sparks Arabic Dictionary creation

Sharjah24: Sharjah Media City (Shams) continues to highlight the achievements of Sharjah across various sectors, reinforcing its leadership role in advancing the media sector in all its aspects. Through a series of interviews with officials, experts, and prominent figures, Shams aims to enhance communication in the media field via its interactive podcast "Shams Talks" The podcast sheds light on key challenges in media, economics, culture, and society, while also showcasing the pioneering initiatives, projects, and successes achieved by the Emirate of Sharjah.

Podcast Featuring Dr. Muhammad Safi Al Mosteghanemi

The podcast "Shams Talks" recently hosted Dr. Muhammad Safi Al-Mustghanemi, Secretary General of the Arabic Language Academy (ALA) in Sharjah, discussing the challenges facing the Arabic language and key initiatives.

The Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language

The conversation highlighted the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, marking a significant linguistic achievement. Dr. Al Mosteghanemi emphasized its importance as the second major compilation since Sibawayh and Al-Asma'i's efforts in the early Islamic centuries.

The Role of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi

Dr. Al Mosteghanemi credited His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for his unwavering support and dedication to the project, ensuring its successful completion despite numerous challenges.

Contributions and Collaboration

The project involved over 780 contributors, including approximately 500 linguists. After seven years of hard work, the Historical Dictionary was successfully completed, showcasing the collective effort and commitment to preserving the Arabic language.

Guiding Youth in Language Studies

Dr. Al Mosteghanemi stressed the importance of guiding young people to study Arabic in its historical, poetic, and Qur’anic contexts, encouraging them to engage with the Historical Dictionary app for deeper understanding.

Overcoming Challenges in Lexicography

He discussed the significant challenges faced at the project's inception, noting that this was the first such dictionary attempt in 80 years, and highlighted the unity of the Arab world in achieving this goal.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Al Mosteghanemi shared their collaboration with a major AI company to launch the "GPT Dictionary," designed to engage youth and offer accessible information on the Arabic language through technology.

Personal Journey and Love for Arabic

Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Al Mosteghanemi shared his deep love for the Qur'an and Arabic poetry, influenced by notable poets and the beauty of the Arabic language.

Concerns for the Modern Generation

He expressed concern for the current generation amid modernity and globalization, emphasizing the need to guide them back to the richness of the Arabic language and its literary heritage.