Adkhamjon Janobiddinov
 
The Imam al-Bukhari complex is one of the most important historical landmarks in Uzbekistan. 

It is the resting place of Imam al-Bukhari, whose work has shaped the study of Islam over a millennium. In recent years, a large-scale renovation has been untaken to expand and modernize the complex, transforming it into a center of knowledge, enlightenment and cultural exchange. 

During the 43rd UNESCO General Conference which took place in Samarkand, the President of Uzbekistan stated that promoting Islamic knowledge and enlightenment is one of the most effective ways to combat radicalism and Islamophobia. He highlighted the importance of jointly using the potential of Uzbekistan’s unique projects: the Islamic Civilization Center, and Imam Bukhari, Imam Maturidi, Imam al-Tirmidhi, and Bahouddin Naqshband research centers. 

This vision is strongly reflected in the ongoing renovation of the Imam al-Bukhari Complex. 

Moreover, President Mirziyoyev visits the complex during every trip to Samarkand, demonstrating its significance within his broader agenda.

The redevelopment of the Imam al-Bukhari Complex is one of the largest projects in Uzbekistan. The total area has been expanded to 44 hectares. The current complex includes a mosque which can accommodate over 10,000 worshippers, a new mausoleum, an administration building, and 4, 75-meter-tall minarets in four corners of the complex. 

Moreover, one four-star hotel, two three-star hotels, and 22 family guesthouses were erected to accommodate the increasing number of visitors and pilgrims. Additionally, based on President Mirziyoyev’s instructions, trees have been planted throughout the site, the green spaces have been expanded and the amenities for people have been increased, while preserving the harmony of the landscape.

One of the most significant parts of this reconstruction is an innovative museum which aims to enable visitors to travel back to history and learn about the life of Imam al-Bukhari through modern technologies. According to Uzbek officials, the idea of establishing this type of museum emerged after the visit of President Mirziyoyev to Saudi Arabia where he visited the International Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization in Medina. 

Exhibits also cover the lives of the 25 prophets mentioned in the Qur’an, the genealogy of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his life in Mecca and Medina, and the development, writing, and preservation of hadiths.

Imam al-Bukhari is considered one of the most influential and famous scholars in Muslim world. He was born in the city of Bukhara, modern-day Uzbekistan in 810. He is known as the Sultan of Hadith, and his work “Sahih al-Bukhari”, is considered the second most authentic book in Islam, after the Qur'an. Muslims around the world study his writings, and millions dream of visiting his mausoleum to pay their respect.

Imam al-Bukhari’s life can be described by his extraordinary dedication to study and collect hadiths, sincerity, and faith. His father, a respected scholar, passed away when al-Bukhari was very young. At the age of three, he lost his eyesight, which was later miraculously restored after his mother’s continuous prayers. 

According to the biography of Imam al-Bukhari, his mother had a dream in which Prophet Ibrahim appeared to her and informed her that Allah had restored her son's eyesight due to her fervent prayers.

From early childhood, Imam al-Bukhari demonstrated an exceptional memory. At age 10, he attended scholarly gatherings and even corrected the mistakes of older students. At 16, he traveled with classmates to Basra to study hadiths. 

He once said, “I wanted this book to be a document between me and Allah,” highlighting his sincerity and commitment to absolute authenticity.

Overall, the Imam al-Bukhari complex is one of the largest cultural projects of Uzbekistan. As the President of Uzbekistan mentioned, the development of the complex will help inspire the younger generation of Uzbekistan and foreign visitors to learn more about Imam al-Bukhari and the great Islamic civilization.