In a new episode of the Mulhem podcast, produced and broadcast by the University of Jordan, Professor Mohammad Adnan Al-Bakhit shares a deeply personal account of a life shaped by perseverance, purpose, and a strong devotion to history. His story is more than a personal biography, it reflects how education, resilience, and vision can shape both individuals and institutions.
He begins with a powerful memory: in a small two-room schoolhouse, students were responsible for bringing firewood to keep the classroom warm and for cleaning it themselves. With only one teacher, learning was built on simplicity, shared responsibility, and a deep sense of purpose. These early moments laid the foundation for his lifelong approach to education and leadership.
As he moved from Mahis to Sweileh and later joined Al-Hussein College, Al-Bakhit began to experience the cultural and social diversity of Jordan. He met classmates from Circassian, Chechen, and other Jordanian communities. This exposure expanded his understanding of identity and belonging within a broader national context. His academic excellence earned him a scholarship to the American University of Beirut. He described this moment as a rebirth. In his words, life began again in Beirut because of how intellectually and personally transformative it was.
He later continued his academic path in London, pursuing a PhD focused on the history of the Levant during the 16th century. What stood out in his account was the effort he invested in learning Turkish, Ottoman Turkish, and French. He also spent time in Istanbul researching original historical records. This was not just academic routine; it was hard work, deep commitment, and respect for historical truth.
After returning to Jordan in 1972, he joined the University of Jordan, which he often referred to as his academic home. It was there that he launched the Conference on the History of Bilad al-Sham, which over time became the longest-running academic event in Jordan. For him, it was never just a conference; it was a meaningful scholarly space aimed at preserving regional identity and supporting young researchers in the field of history.
Jerusalem held a central place in his work. Al-Bakhit co-edited six volumes based on Ottoman records documenting daily life in the city. These included records on population, bakeries, public baths, and water systems. He believed that Jerusalem represented identity and presence, and that claiming it should happen through real work and continuous dedication.
Al-Bakhit, as a member of the Royal Committee that drafted the Jordanian National Charter of 1990, emphasized that the Charter was a shared decision between the leadership and the people, marking a significant milestone in Jordan’s democratic journey.
As President of Mutah University, he was deeply involved in developing infrastructure and community life. He helped build new dormitories and academic buildings and led efforts to plant tens of thousands of trees in the southern city of Karak. His leadership was grounded in the belief that education is not just about buildings; it is about creating an environment that brings people together and serves their future.
Later in his career, he was chosen to lead the foundation of Al al-Bayt University, a project based on a vision shared with the late King Hussein. The university was intended to welcome students from all Islamic backgrounds, promoting unity and shared values. With very limited resources, Al-Bakhit and his team worked day and night, even during Ramadan, to turn that vision into a real institution.
In preserving Jordan’s intellectual heritage, Al-Bakhit noted that the Center for Documents and Manuscripts was originally founded upon the vision of His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal, who sought to preserve historical manuscripts and protect them from loss. Professor Al-Bakhit not only helped realize that vision, but he also chaired the Center for many years, leading its efforts to safeguard Jordan’s historical records and scholarly legacy.
The story of Professor Mohammad Adnan Al-Bakhit is not just a timeline of achievements. It is a living reflection of Jordan’s journey in education, nation-building, and cultural preservation. His life shows how strength, knowledge, and belief in a cause can shape the future for generations to come.