ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalani Rahimahullah

Born in Cairo in 1372 CE, orphaned at a young age, and raised under guardians who prioritized his Islamic education. Displayed exceptional memory and dedication to study from childhood.

Education and Teachers

Studied under over 600 scholars, including Zayn al-Dīn al-‘Irāqī, al-Balqīnī, and Ibn al-Mulaqqin. Traveled extensively to Makkah, Madinah, Yemen, and the Levant for hadith collection and ijazah certification.

Expertise and Works

Renowned hadith scholar and historian, best known for Fatḥ al-Bārī — the most celebrated commentary on Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī. Authored works in hadith sciences, biography, and history, setting high standards in scholarly precision.

Famous Quote

“The seeker of knowledge must purify his intention, for knowledge is worship.” (Fatḥ al-Bārī, Introduction)

Famous For

Mastery in hadith criticism, historical documentation, and comprehensive biographies of the Companions. His Fatḥ al-Bārī remains the definitive reference for interpreting Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī.

Character and Piety

Known for his humility, piety, and generosity to students. Balanced judicial duties with teaching and writing, refusing to compromise scholarly integrity.

Interesting Facts

• Memorized the entire Qur’an by age nine.

• Known as Amīr al-Mu’minīn fī al-Ḥadīth (“Commander of the Faithful in Hadith”).

• His funeral in Cairo drew massive crowds, reflecting his popularity and respect.

Legacy

Regarded as one of the greatest hadith commentators in Islamic history. His works, especially Fatḥ al-Bārī, continue to be studied in Islamic seminaries worldwide.

References

• Fatḥ al-Bārī bi Sharḥ Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī.
• al-Iṣābah fī Tamyīz al-Ṣaḥābah.
• al-Durar al-Kāminah.
• Biographical accounts by al-Sakhāwī in al-Jawāhir wa’l-Durar.