It's absolutely incredible to learn that Ibn Sina mastered Islamic law, medicine, and even metaphysics by the age of 17.  I think it is also important to note that he was the first to discover that tuberculosis is contagious and could be transferred through water and soil.  It has definitely influenced much of medical practices today all over the world and I believe it is very important to preserve for future generations as it has directly and indirectly affected the lives of countless individuals.

You had noted that it was rare for children during his time that he had mastered such knowledge and education and had ultimately applied it to his work.  How was this made possible? Was he schooled or did he teach himself?