Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin (رحمه الله)

Date of Birth and Death

Born: March 9, 1925 (27 Ramadan 1347 AH) in Unayzah, Saudi Arabia
Died: January 10, 2001 (15 Shawwal 1421 AH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Origin and Early Life
Shaykh Muhammad ibn Salih al-‘Uthaymin was born in Unayzah, in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. He was known for his sharp intellect and early dedication to religious studies. His father passed away when he was young, but his family’s encouragement and his own determination led him to pursue a path of scholarship.

Education and Teachers
Ibn ‘Uthaymin studied under several prominent scholars. His primary teachers included:

Shaykh ‘Abdur-Rahman ibn Nasir al-Sa‘di (his principal mentor)
Shaykh Muhammad Ameen al-Shinqiti
Shaykh ‘Abdullah ibn Humaid
Shaykh Abdul-‘Aziz ibn Baz

Expertise and Works
Ibn ‘Uthaymin was a distinguished scholar in Fiqh and Aqeedah, known for his clear and comprehensive explanations of complex Islamic issues. His notable works include:

“Sharh al-Mumti‘ ‘ala Zaad al-Mustaqni‘” (An Explanation of Zaad al-Mustaqni’)
“Al-Qawa’id al-Muthla fi Sifat Allah wa Asma’ih al-Husna” (The Exemplary Principles Concerning the Beautiful Names and Attributes of Allah)
“Majmoo’ Fataawa wa Rasaa’il” (Collection of Fatwas and Letters)
“Tafsir al-Qur’an al-Karim” (Interpretation of the Noble Quran)

Famous For
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin is renowned for his contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and education. He taught at the Islamic University of Madinah and later at the Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Qassim. His lectures and fatwas were widely disseminated, and he was known for his practical and accessible teaching style.

Character and Piety
Ibn ‘Uthaymin was respected for his humility, generosity, and dedication to teaching. His students and peers admired his deep knowledge, wisdom, and the sincere manner in which he conveyed Islamic teachings. His life exemplified a commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge and serving the Muslim community.

Books and Teachings
The teachings of Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin continue to be influential through his many written works, recorded lectures, and fatwas. His clear and systematic approach to Islamic jurisprudence and theology has made his works essential reading for students and scholars of Islam around the world. His legacy endures through the many students he taught and the widespread use of his educational materials.