Al-Farabi and Abai in the works of Akzhan Zhaksybekuly Al-Mashani

In the second half of the 20th century, Akzhan Zhaksybekuly al-Mashani (Mashanov) emerged as one of the most prominent figures in Kazakh science and culture. This article examines the historical-philosophical and cultural perspectives of the distinguished Kazakh scholar, engineer-geologist, and philosopher on the intellectual legacy of al-Farabi and Abai. The aim of the study is to analyze al-Mashani’s role in Kazakh spiritual and scientific thought, as well as his ideological and scholarly interpretations of these two outstanding thinkers. The novelty of the research lies in demonstrating the internal continuity of Kazakh philosophical thought through al-Mashani’s works and revealing the spiritual connection between Islamic civilization and national worldview. The study employs historical-cultural, comparative, and textual-analytical methods. The results show how al-Mashani, by elevating al-Farabi as the “Second Teacher” and interpreting Abai’s philosophical essence within the framework of national consciousness, contributed to the development of Kazakh civilizational thinking. Revisiting his legacy today is vital for preserving national spirituality and historical memory, and for providing a cultural compass for future generations. Further research in this field remains highly relevant.