Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Aziz ibn Baz (رحمه الله)

Date of Birth and Death

Born: November 21, 1910 (12 Dhu al-Hijjah 1330 AH) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Died: May 13, 1999 (27 Muharram 1420 AH) in Ta’if, Saudi Arabia

Origin and Early Life
Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Aziz ibn Baz was born into a family known for its piety and scholarship in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He lost his eyesight at a young age due to illness but persevered in his pursuit of Islamic knowledge. Despite his blindness, he memorized the Quran and other significant texts, and his dedication to learning earned him great respect.

Education and Teachers
Ibn Baz studied under numerous scholars in Saudi Arabia. Some of his most influential teachers included:

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibrahim Al ash-Shaykh (his primary mentor)
Shaykh Sa’d ibn Hamad ibn Atiq
Shaykh Muhammad ibn Abdul-Latif ibn Abdul-Rahman Al ash-Shaykh
Shaykh Hamad ibn Faris
Shaykh Sa’d Waqqas Al-Bukhari in Mecca

Expertise and Works
Shaykh Ibn Baz was a prolific scholar known for his extensive knowledge in various Islamic disciplines, particularly Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and Aqeedah (Islamic creed). His notable works include:

“Majmoo’ Fataawa wa Maqaalaat Mutanawwi’ah” (Collection of Various Fatwas and Articles)
“Fataawa al-Mar’ah al-Muslimah” (Fatwas for Muslim Women)
“Al-Tahqiq wal-Idah” (Verification and Explanation of Many Issues of Hajj, Umrah, and Ziyarah)
“Risalat al-Dalil ‘ala Anna al-‘Umra laa Tajibu bi al-Fawr” (Treatise on the Evidence that Umrah is Not Immediately Obligatory)

Famous For
Shaykh Ibn Baz is renowned for his service as the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia and his leadership at the Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Ifta. His fatwas and rulings significantly influenced contemporary Islamic thought and practice. He was also known for his strong stance on issues such as the prohibition of interest (riba), the importance of Tawheed (monotheism), and adherence to the Sunnah.

Character and Piety
Ibn Baz was widely respected for his humility, kindness, and dedication to Islam. His contemporaries and students often praised his commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge and his compassionate approach towards those seeking guidance. His life and work reflected a deep piety and an unwavering commitment to the principles of Islam.

Books and Teachings
The teachings of Shaykh Ibn Baz are preserved in his numerous fatwas, books, and recorded lectures. His contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and theology continue to be studied and referenced by scholars and students worldwide, ensuring his enduring legacy in the field of Islamic studies.