Ibn Al-Qayyim (رحمه الله)

Date of Birth and Death

Born: 1292 CE (691 AH) in Damascus, Syria
Died: 1350 CE (751 AH) in Damascus, Syria

Origin and Early Life

Ibn Al-Qayyim, whose full name was Shams al-Din Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr ibn Ayyub ibn Sa’d al-Zur’i al-Dimashqi, was born in Damascus. His father, Abu Bakr, was the caretaker (Qayyim) of the Jawziyyah school, hence the name Ibn Al-Qayyim. Ibn Al-Qayyim showed a deep interest in Islamic sciences from a young age and was known for his devout worship and scholarly dedication.

Education and Teachers

Ibn Al-Qayyim studied under some of the most prominent scholars of his time, including:

• Ibn Taymiyyah: His most influential teacher, with whom he spent 16 years.
• Shihab al-Nablusi: A renowned scholar in hadith.
• Al-Mizzi: An expert in hadith studies.
• Ibn Abd al-Hadi: A noted scholar in jurisprudence and hadith.
• Ibn Kathir: The famous historian and Qur’anic exegete.
• Al-Dhahabi: An eminent historian and hadith scholar.

Expertise and Works

Ibn Al-Qayyim was a master of several Islamic sciences, including Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Tafsir (Qur’anic exegesis), Hadith (prophetic traditions), and Tasawwuf (Islamic mysticism). He is best known for his works on Islamic spirituality, ethics, and law.

His notable works include:

• Madarij al-Salikin: A comprehensive guide on the spiritual journey of a believer.
• Zad al-Ma’ad: A detailed biography and guidance on the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) daily practices.
• I’lam al-Muwaqqi’in: A profound work on Islamic jurisprudence and legal theory.
• Al-Tibb al-Nabawi: A book on prophetic medicine.
• Al-Fawa’id: A collection of spiritual and moral aphorisms.
• Tahdhib al-Sunan: An extensive work on Hadith.
• Rawdat al-Muhibbin: A treatise on love in Islam.
• Al-Jawab al-Kafi: A book addressing various social and moral issues.

Famous For

Ibn Al-Qayyim is renowned for his close association with Ibn Taymiyyah and for further developing his mentor’s ideas. He was instrumental in spreading and defending the Hanbali school of thought. His works are characterized by their depth, clarity, and practical approach to complex theological and jurisprudential issues. His emphasis on the inner dimensions of worship and piety made significant contributions to Islamic spirituality.

Character and Piety

Ibn Al-Qayyim was known for his deep piety, devout worship, and ascetic lifestyle. His contemporaries praised him for his humility, integrity, and dedication to seeking and spreading knowledge. He spent long hours in worship and reflection, often described as a person of profound spiritual insight and commitment to the Qur’an and Sunnah.

• Ibn Kathir noted his deep understanding of the Qur’an and Hadith.
• Al-Dhahabi praised his knowledge and dedication to Islamic sciences.
• Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali highlighted his asceticism and spiritual depth.

Legacy and Influence

The teachings of Ibn Al-Qayyim have left a lasting impact on Islamic thought. His works continue to be widely read and studied, influencing scholars and students across generations. He played a crucial role in the Hanbali school and is often cited in discussions on Islamic law, theology, and spirituality. His balanced approach between legal rigor and spiritual depth makes his contributions invaluable to Islamic scholarship.

Books and Teachings

Ibn Al-Qayyim’s books are essential references in Islamic studies and are taught in many Islamic institutions and universities worldwide. His approach to integrating rational thought with spiritual and ethical teachings has made his works a cornerstone for students and scholars of Islam. His influence extends beyond jurisprudence to the broader field of Islamic ethics, spirituality, and theology, ensuring his legacy endures in the Muslim world.