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Contents: List of maps and diagrams viPreface Acknowledgements 1 The Islamic East a millennium ago: Biruni's world 2 Life of a polymath: his autobiography and biography 3 Scientific and cultural research: overview of key works 4 An approach to truth: aspects of his thought 5 Friends and rivals: knowledge, institutions, and relationships 6 Reception of a polymath: Biruni in history 7 Further reading: a guide to the literature Works cited Timeline Key Works Index. 

This book places Biruni in his historical and cultural context within the long-term history of medieval Eurasia. It outlines the course of Biruni's life, clarifying key questions about his associations, travels, and patrons. Following an overview of Biruni's chief interests, it details his major works to illustrate the breadth of Biruni's output and his intellectual approach, especially his attention to language, esteem for knowledge, and commitment to objective truth. An account of his institutional context and relationships elucidates his friendships and rivalries, notably with Avicenna. The book also shows how varied paths of transmission affected the legacy of Biruni and its reception in global scientific and literary traditions. Finally, a timeline, list of key works, and detailed bibliographic essay will guide readers into further study of Biruni and his thought.