The long relationship between Arabs and Paris
- Rifaa Tahtawi, an Egyptian chronicler, documented the French Revolution of 1830 while in Paris with Egyptian scholarship holders.
- Gabriel Sionite, a Maronite monk, contributed to Arabic scholarship in Paris from 1614 to 1642, establishing an Arabic printing press and teaching the language.
- The historical relationship between Arabs and Paris highlights the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Arab intellectuals to French culture.
The relationship between Arabs and Paris has deep historical roots, with many Arab intellectuals and politicians finding inspiration and refuge in the French capital. One notable figure, Rifaa Tahtawi, an Egyptian chronicler, documented the French Revolution of 1830 while accompanying a group of Egyptian scholarship holders in Paris. His observations highlighted shared values of honor and truth between Frenchmen and Arabs, reflecting a broader cultural exchange. Gabriel Sionite, a Maronite monk from Lebanon, was among the first Arab scholars to make significant contributions in Paris from 1614 to 1642. He played a crucial role in establishing an Arabic printing press and translating works into French and Latin, while also teaching Arabic to future French diplomats. Despite his contributions, Sionite and other Arab scholars were often overlooked by French orientalists, who claimed credit for their work. The term "Mamelukes" was used to generically describe many Arab figures in France, even though most had no military background. This label obscured their diverse contributions to French culture and scholarship. Figures like Elias Pharaon, who served as Bonaparte's interpreter, and Raphaël Zakhour, who taught Arabic to prominent scholars, exemplified the significant impact of Arab intellectuals in France. The legacy of these interactions continues to shape the cultural landscape of Paris, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions of Arab scholars and the enduring ties between the Arab world and France.