From Samarqand with Love

Writing memoirs has always been a cherished tradition among scholars, serving as a bridge between profound academic wisdom and personal life experiences. Just as contemporary scholars like the renowned Hadith expert Muhammad Awwamah documented his spiritual and intellectual journey in the book "Rihlat Uzbekistan" (The Journey to Uzbekistan), other modern academics continue to find profound inspiration in the sacred soil of this region.

A beautiful recent addition to this genre is the book titled "From Samarqand with Love: A Memoir Across Six Cities", authored by Prof. Shukran Abd Rahman, a distinguished professor from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).

The book is born out of a deep connection with Uzbekistan, specifically written during Prof. Shukran's sabbatical attachment at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center in Samarqand. Completed in September 2025 and introduced during his final presentation at the Center, the book is a heartfelt tribute to the spiritual and cultural resonance of the region.

Rather than being a conventional, strictly structured academic text, From Samarqand with Love is a collection of deeply personal reflections, observations, and invaluable life lessons co-authored by the professor and his family. The narrative gracefully weaves through six historically and spiritually significant cities: Samarqand, Tashkent, Bukhara, Makkah, Madinah, and Istanbul.

Prof. Shukran highlights that the primary objective of this memoir is to illustrate how travel can serve as a profound catalyst for reflection, lifelong learning, and spiritual elevation. Inspired by the divine Qur'anic encouragement to travel through the earth and observe the signs of creation (Surah al-'Ankabut 29:20), the author beautifully connects daily encounters with diverse cultures, rich histories, and ordinary people to the timeless teachings and noble character (Aklaq) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Designed to be a leisurely yet intellectually stimulating read, the book invites readers to contemplate fundamental human and spiritual values: faith, gratitude, family, friendship, humility, and kindness. While the narratives are deeply personal, they carry a universal educational value and spiritual inspiration, showing how profound wisdom can be extracted from everyday, ordinary moments.

In his remarks, Prof. Shukran expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the team at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, particularly extending his thanks to Dr. Otabek, Prof. Shohvosil, and the entire staff for the exceptional hospitality and warm academic environment provided during his stay.

On behalf of the entire team at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, we would like to express our warmest congratulations to Prof. Shukran on the successful publication of his wonderful book, "From Samarqand with Love: A Memoir Across Six Cities".

It was a true honor and privilege for our Center to host Prof. Shukran during his sabbatical attachment. Prof. Shukran's presence added immense value to our academic community, and this book stands as a beautiful testament to the strong bond of friendship, mutual respect, and cultural exchange between Malaysia and Uzbekistan.

We are deeply touched by Prof. Shukran's kind words and reflection on his time in Samarqand. We pray that this memoir inspires countless readers worldwide, touching hearts and nurturing faith, just as Prof. Shukran's presence inspired us here.

The Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center wishes Prof. Shukran, his family, and his academic career continued blessings, good health, and outstanding success in all his future endeavors. He will always have a home and a community here in Samarqand.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Otabek Mukhammadiev is Deputy Director of Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, Samarkand, Uzbekistan