The book details the characteristics and stories of various animals, weaving together scientific facts, folklore, and moral lessons.
[1] Al-Din Muhammad Ibn Musa al-Damiri (A.H. 745-808 / A.D. 1344-1405) was an eminent scholar known for his contributions to zoology and Islamic literature.
[2][3] Ḥayāt al-ḥayawān al-kubrā is celebrated for its alphabetical arrangement and polythematic approach, making it a rich source of knowledge for both scientific and cultural insights.
It covers not only the physical and behavioral traits of animals but also their symbolic significance, drawing from a variety of sources including ancient texts and contemporary accounts.
His method of integrating scientific observation with literary and ethical perspectives has made this book a unique and enduring piece of literature.