Abu Bakr al-Razi

Abū Bakr al-Rāzī (c. 864 – 925 or 935), also referred to by his Latinized name Rhazes, was a renowned Persian physician, philosopher, and alchemist based in Baghdad during the Islamic Golden Age. He served as a hospital director and was closely tied to the intellectual circles surrounding the House of Wisdom.

Biography

While serving as the hospital director in Baghdad, Abu Bakr was one of the first to distinguish between smallpox and measles, at a time when many of his contemporaries still relied on inherited methods—such as inscribing magical formulae on medicine bowls and rationalizing treatments through humoral theory. Abu Bakr emphasized experimentation and direct observation, often challenging long-standing medical beliefs. His discovery marked a milestone in recorded history and demonstrated his commitment to truth over tradition.

While working at the hospital, Abu Bakr was contacted by one of the caliph's wives, worried about her son's affliction. Based on the lack of back pain among the young child's symptoms, he diagnosed him with measles, sending a note to the House of Wisdom requesting that the diagnosis be sent back to the Harem alongside a copy of his publication "On Smallpox and Measles", which contained a possible treatment plan for him.

Behind the scenes

Abu Bakr al-Razi is a historical character mentioned in Assassin's Creed: Mirage, where he is the author of a note diagnosing one of the caliph's sons with measles. This, however, is an anachronism, since the game takes place in the 860s, when Abu Bakr would have been a child.

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed: Mirage (mentioned only)