The Numerical, Calculative, and Codification System in the Maghreb: A Historical and Documentary Study

Abstract

This study delves into the intriguing interplay between numbers and letters, with a focus on their role in letter calculation and encoding among Muslims in the Western Islamic world. It traces the historical evolution of Arabic numerals, originating from the Indian numeral system known as Ghubār numerals, and their lasting impact in the Maghreb region until the 19th century AD. The research meticulously examines the sophisticated system of obfuscation and encryption, essential for safeguarding sensitive information during confidential exchanges, thus leaving a profound imprint on numerical practices in the Islamic West. These cryptographic techniques not only ensured information security but also significantly influenced the cultural and socio-economic landscape of the region, fostering trust in commercial transactions and potentially affecting diplomatic exchanges and the preservation of religious texts. This intricate symbiosis between numbers and letters showcases the intellectual ingenuity of Muslim scholars, who utilized mathematics and encryption methodologies to navigate and shape the complexities of their society.