Biography of Imam Ibn Taymiyyah – Hanbali Scholar and Islamic Reformer
What can my enemies do to me? My paradise is in my heart.
Early Life & Education
Imam Ibn Taymiyyah (1263–1328 CE) was a brilliant and bold Islamic scholar, Hanbali jurist, and one of the most influential Sunni theologians of the medieval period. Known for his sharp intellect and fearless advocacy of reform, he lived during a time of great political turmoil and religious confusion. Yet, his works laid the foundation for many modern Islamic revivalist movements and continue to influence Islamic jurisprudence, aqeedah (creed), and spiritual reform to this day.
Born in Harran (modern-day Turkey) and raised in Damascus, Ibn Taymiyyah excelled in the religious sciences from a young age. He was a prolific writer and teacher, mastering Qur’an, Hadith, Arabic grammar, logic, theology, and law. His vast knowledge and passion for Islamic purity led him to challenge what he saw as religious innovations (bid‘ah) and deviations from the authentic teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Ibn Taymiyyah’s Legacy in Aqeedah, Fiqh, and Revivalism
Imam Ibn Taymiyyah is best known for his defense of Sunni creed, particularly through works like Al-Aqidah Al-Wasitiyyah, Darʾ Taʿāruḍ al-‘Aql wa al-Naql, and Minhaj as-Sunnah an-Nabawiyyah. He firmly argued for returning to the pure teachings of Islam as practiced by the Salaf (early generations), and he openly opposed blind following (taqlid) of scholars without scriptural evidence.
Though a follower of the Hanbali madhhab, he often prioritized direct interpretation of the Qur’an and Hadith, which sometimes placed him at odds with other scholars. He was imprisoned multiple times for his bold positions but remained steadfast. His influence lives on through the works of his students, especially Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah, and modern movements that emphasize scriptural purity and revival.
Ibn Taymiyyah’s contributions extend across theology, law, polemics, spirituality, and political thought. He is widely respected as a mujaddid (reviver), whose legacy continues to shape debates on faith, reform, and the role of reason in religion. Learn more from Oxford Islamic Studies – Ibn Taymiyyah
Quick Facts:
- Full Name: Taqi al-Din Ahmad ibn Taymiyyah
- Born: 1263 CE in Harran, Turkey
- Died: 1328 CE in Damascus, Syria
- Known for: Hanbali jurist, Sunni theologian, reformist scholar
- Legacy: Revival of Islamic creed, challenge to bid‘ah, influence on modern movements