Muhammad Kurd Ali: The traditionalist and the reformer

Abstract

Professor Ali Kurd distinguished himself with a deep love for Arab culture and literature. It is mentioned that he had memorized a great deal of poetry and spent his life in journalism, actively combating occupation and working towards the liberation of his country and the Arab nation. He translated several French stories and wrote about Arab-Islamic civilization. He also authored literary criticism, blending a call for renewal with a commitment to preserving Arab-Islamic intellectual heritage. He took new positions that diverged from both reformist and conservative views, engaging conservatives only in his zeal for heritage preservation. His approach to renewal focused on universal benefit. His influence extended to reformers in the Arab Maghreb, such as Abdelhamid Ben Badis.