One of my favourite Islamic scholars is none other than the 7th-century scholar and reviver, Sheikh-ul-Islam Ahmad Ibn Taymiyyah رَحِمَهُ ٱللّٰه. A towering figure in Islamic history, Ibn Taymiyyah left an indelible mark on Islamic thought, jurisprudence, and theology, earning widespread respect and admiration for his profound knowledge, unwavering commitment to the truth, and extraordinary courage.
Early Life and Scholarly Pursuits
Born in 1263 CE (661 AH) in Harran, a city situated in modern-day Turkey, Ibn Taymiyyah hailed from a family deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship. His father, Sheikh Shihab al-Din, was a renowned scholar of his time, and Ibn Taymiyyah grew up in an environment that nurtured his intellectual growth. From a young age, he displayed an exceptional aptitude for learning, memorizing the Qur’an and studying Hadith, Tafsir, and various branches of Islamic sciences under the guidance of his father and other eminent scholars of Damascus.
Born in 1263 CE (661 AH) in Harran, a city situated in modern-day Turkey, Ibn Taymiyyah hailed from a family deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship. His father, Sheikh Shihab al-Din, was a renowned scholar of his time, and Ibn Taymiyyah grew up in an environment that nurtured his intellectual growth. From a young age, he displayed an exceptional aptitude for learning, memorizing the Qur’an and studying Hadith, Tafsir, and various branches of Islamic sciences under the guidance of his father and other eminent scholars of Damascus.
At the age of 21, following the death of his father, Ibn Taymiyyah assumed the role of Head of Education at an Islamic institute in Damascus. This position not only reflected his remarkable erudition but also his capability to lead and inspire the next generation of scholars.
Scholarly Career and Contributions
After returning from Hajj, Ibn Taymiyyah began issuing Fatawa (legal verdicts), delving into complex issues that required profound knowledge and insight. His Fatawa were characterised by a rigorous adherence to the Qur’an and Sunnah, coupled with an emphasis on Ijtihad (independent reasoning). However, his verdicts were not confined to theoretical discussions; they also addressed the pressing socio-political and economic challenges of his time.
After returning from Hajj, Ibn Taymiyyah began issuing Fatawa (legal verdicts), delving into complex issues that required profound knowledge and insight. His Fatawa were characterised by a rigorous adherence to the Qur’an and Sunnah, coupled with an emphasis on Ijtihad (independent reasoning). However, his verdicts were not confined to theoretical discussions; they also addressed the pressing socio-political and economic challenges of his time.
Ibn Taymiyyah authored an extensive range of works, including books on Tafsir, Hadith, Seerah, Fiqh, and Aqidah. His magnum opus, Majmu' al-Fatawa, spans 36 volumes and is regarded as one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic legal and theological opinions in history. His writings on Aqidah, especially Aqidah al-Wasatiyyah, remain foundational in Islamic theology, offering clarity on the creed of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama’ah.
In addition to his Islamic scholarship, Ibn Taymiyyah addressed worldly matters with remarkable acumen. He wrote extensively on governance, economics, and society, advocating for justice and accountability in leadership. His rebuttals to philosophies that contradicted Islamic principles demonstrated his deep engagement with intellectual challenges.
Imprisonment and Legacy
Ibn Taymiyyah’s courage and commitment to the truth often brought him into conflict with political authorities and certain segments of the scholarly community. He fearlessly spoke truth to power, challenging practices and beliefs that he deemed un-Islamic, such as innovations in religious practices (bid’ah) and the misuse of public funds by rulers. These actions led to his imprisonment on multiple occasions.
Ibn Taymiyyah’s courage and commitment to the truth often brought him into conflict with political authorities and certain segments of the scholarly community. He fearlessly spoke truth to power, challenging practices and beliefs that he deemed un-Islamic, such as innovations in religious practices (bid’ah) and the misuse of public funds by rulers. These actions led to his imprisonment on multiple occasions.
While in prison, Ibn Taymiyyah continued to write prolifically, often under challenging conditions. It is believed that many of his works were lost due to the restrictions he faced. Despite the hardships, he remained steadfast, drawing strength from his reliance on Allah and his unshakable conviction in the truth of his mission.
In 1328 CE (728 AH), Ibn Taymiyyah passed away in prison at the age of 65. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to the service of Islam and the betterment of the Muslim Ummah. It is said that his only regret was not having spent more time in the remembrance of Allah.
A Timeless Inspiration
Ibn Taymiyyah’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of knowledge, courage, and devotion to the truth. His works continue to inspire scholars and students of Islam across the world, offering guidance on matters of faith, governance, and society. He remains a paragon of scholarly excellence and moral fortitude, embodying the prophetic tradition:
"The scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, for the Prophets did not leave behind dinar or dirham, but they left behind knowledge. Whoever takes it has taken an abundant portion." [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, and At-Tirmidhi]
Ibn Taymiyyah’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of knowledge, courage, and devotion to the truth. His works continue to inspire scholars and students of Islam across the world, offering guidance on matters of faith, governance, and society. He remains a paragon of scholarly excellence and moral fortitude, embodying the prophetic tradition:
"The scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, for the Prophets did not leave behind dinar or dirham, but they left behind knowledge. Whoever takes it has taken an abundant portion." [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, and At-Tirmidhi]
Throughout his life and scholarship, Sheikh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah exemplified what it means to be a servant of Allah, using knowledge to uplift others and steadfastly adhering to the principles of Islam, regardless of the personal cost. His profound contributions ensure that his legacy will remain alive for generations to come.
