Abstract
The philosophical ideas of Abu Nasr al-Farabi on the ethical foundations of education have a close connection with the classical tradition, which combines both the metaphysical and ethical concepts of Plato and Aristotle, as well as Islamic theology. The role of systematic learning in the development of moral qualities and rational thinking forms the basis of the pedagogical model, the essence of which is embodied in various teaching methods for the elite and the majority and the deep connection of intellectual development with the moral improvement of the individual. In al-Farabi's philosophy education is considered not only as the transmission of knowledge but also the formation of the ability to apply it in practice, integrating it into human behavior and values. The research is based on a comparative analysis of al-Farabi's philosophical texts and a critical review of modern interpretations of his ideas. Special attention is paid to the interaction of the philosophical and religious foundations of al-Farabi's system of views, which makes his model universal for different cultural and educational contexts. The results show that al-Farabi's ethical concept of the «virtuous city» combining elements of Platonic utopia and Aristotelian logic remains relevant including for the development of modern education.