On January 15, 2025, at the Strašnice Crematorium in Prague gathered family, friends, colleagues, and students to bid a heartfelt farewell to Prof. PhDr. Eduard Gombár, CSc., a revered scholar and a cherished figure in the field of Middle Eastern studies. The solemn ceremony was a poignant reminder of the profound impact Prof. Gombár had on academia and the many lives he touched through his work and mentorship.

Prof. Eduard Gombár, a distinguished academic known for his extensive research and contributions to understanding Middle Eastern politics and culture, passed away earlier this month. His legacy as a respected educator and passionate advocate for intercultural understanding was honored throughout the ceremony.

The atmosphere at Strašnice Crematorium was one of reverence and reflection. Attendees included colleagues from Charles University, where Prof. Gombár spent much of his career, along with former students who fondly remembered his engaging lectures and unwavering encouragement. Academic leaders and representatives from various institutions were also present, showcasing the high regard in which Prof. Gombár was held in scholarly circles.

The ceremony commenced with a quiet procession, allowing attendees to gather in dignity and share in a collective moment of sorrow and remembrance. Eulogies were delivered by close friends and colleagues, each painting a picture of a man dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the bridges he built between Eastern and Western cultures.

One of the key speakers, a long-time colleague, highlighted Prof. Gombár’s passion for fostering dialogue and understanding between diverse communities. He noted that Prof. Gombár’s work went beyond academia, as he often engaged in public discourse and wrote extensively for broader audiences, aiming to educate and demystify complex geopolitical issues surrounding the Middle East.

Former students shared anecdotes of a mentor who not only taught with brilliance but also listened with patience. They recalled his open office door, often welcoming them for discussions that extended beyond textbook teachings, exploring the nuances of cultural and political perspectives.

The ceremony also featured a passage recitation from one of Prof. Gombár’s favorite texts, symbolizing his lifelong dedication to literature and the cultures he deeply admired. The reading, infused with deep emotion, served as both a tribute to his intellectual pursuits and a comfort to those present.

In a touching moment of unity, family members expressed gratitude for the legacy Prof. Gombár leaves behind, rooted in the lives of those whom he inspired through his kindness and wisdom. Their words illustrated a man of integrity whose curiosity transcended the confines of the academic world into humane understanding.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees were invited to pay their final respects and to reflect on their personal memories of Prof. Gombár. Many carried flowers to place on his resting site—a gesture of finality and respect.

Prof. Eduard Gombár’s passing marks the end of an era in Middle Eastern studies at Charles University and beyond, but his contributions to the field endure. His commitment to teaching, exploration, and understanding leaves a lasting legacy in academia. His departure is felt as a profound loss, but his spirit will continue to foster new generations in the pursuit of knowledge and cultural harmony.

In the words of one of his students: “Prof. Gombár taught us that understanding is the bridge to compassion. His lessons remain with us, guiding the path forward.”