Al-Ghazali (رحمه الله)

Date of Birth and Death

• Born: 1058 CE (450 AH) in Tus, Persia (modern-day Iran)
• Died: 1111 CE (505 AH) in Tus, Persia

Origin and Early Life

Abu Hamid Muhammad ibn Muhammad al-Ghazali, commonly known as Al-Ghazali, was born in Tus, a city in the Khorasan province of Persia. Raised in a family of modest means, Al-Ghazali lost his father at a young age, and his upbringing and education were overseen by a pious Sufi. From an early age, he displayed a keen intellect and a fervent desire for learning.

Education and Teachers

Al-Ghazali pursued his education rigorously, studying at various institutions and under numerous scholars. Some of his notable teachers included:

• Imam al-Haramayn al-Juwayni: Under whom he studied Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and philosophy
• Abu Nasr al-Isma’ili
• Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Radhkani

He studied in places like Nishapur and Baghdad, gaining expertise in a wide array of subjects including Islamic law (Fiqh), theology (Kalam), and philosophy.

Expertise and Works

Al-Ghazali was a polymath, excelling in fields such as theology, philosophy, jurisprudence, and Sufism.

His most significant works include

• “Ihya’ Ulum al-Din” (The Revival of the Religious Sciences): A comprehensive work that covers various aspects of Islamic theology, ethics, and mysticism.
• “Tahafut al-Falasifah” (The Incoherence of the Philosophers): A critical examination of the works of Islamic philosophers, particularly Avicenna and Al-Farabi, arguing against certain philosophical views that he felt were in conflict with Islamic teachings.
• “Al-Munqidh min al-Dalal” (Deliverance from Error): An autobiographical account of his spiritual crisis and journey towards Sufism.
• “Mishkat al-Anwar” (The Niche of Lights): A philosophical and mystical work discussing the concept of divine light and its manifestation in the world.

Famous For

Al-Ghazali is renowned for his critical approach to philosophy and his efforts to reconcile reason with Islamic faith. His book, “Tahafut al-Falasifah,” marked a turning point in Islamic philosophy, emphasizing the limitations of human reason and promoting a more orthodox theological perspective. Additionally, his work “Ihya’ Ulum al-Din” is considered one of the greatest works of Muslim spirituality, extensively influencing Islamic thought and practice.

Character and Piety

Al-Ghazali was known for his deep piety, humility, and dedication to spiritual purification. After experiencing a profound spiritual crisis, he left his prestigious teaching position in Baghdad and spent several years in retreat, focusing on Sufism and the inner dimensions of Islam. This period of seclusion profoundly influenced his later works, which emphasize sincerity, inner transformation, and the importance of a personal connection with God.

Books and Teachings

The teachings of Al-Ghazali continue to be highly influential in the Muslim world. His works are studied in Islamic universities and seminaries globally, shaping the understanding of Islamic theology, ethics, and spirituality. His approach to integrating Sufi mysticism with orthodox Islamic practices has had a lasting impact on Islamic thought, promoting a holistic view of religion that balances outer practice with inner spirituality.

Al-Ghazali’s legacy as a scholar, theologian, and mystic remains enduring. His contributions to Islamic philosophy, theology, and spirituality have left an indelible mark on the Muslim intellectual tradition, and his works continue to inspire and guide Muslims in their quest for knowledge and spiritual growth.