Biography of Imam Al-Nawawi – Hadith Scholar and Jurist
The key to knowledge is good questioning and attentive listening.
Early Life & Education
Imam Al-Nawawi (1233–1277 CE) was one of the most celebrated Islamic scholars of the 7th century Hijri. Revered for his scholarship in Hadith, Shafi‘i jurisprudence, and spirituality, Al-Nawawi is best known for his works that continue to educate and inspire Muslims around the world. His legacy represents deep devotion, clarity of thought, and a life dedicated to knowledge and piety.
Born in Nawa, a small town near Damascus, Yahya ibn Sharaf al-Nawawi showed signs of intelligence and asceticism from an early age. At the age of 18, he moved to Damascus—the intellectual center of the time—to study under the leading scholars of Hadith and Islamic law. His commitment to learning was legendary; he devoted his nights to writing and his days to attending multiple study circles without pause.
Imam Al-Nawawi’s Legacy: 40 Hadith, Riyad-us-Saliheen, and Shafi‘i Fiqh
Imam Al-Nawawi authored some of the most accessible and beneficial books in Islamic tradition. His “Arba‘in Nawawiyyah” (40 Hadith Nawawi) is a foundational text that condenses core principles of Islam into 40 concise narrations. His masterpiece “Riyad-us-Saliheen” remains one of the most widely read collections of Hadith, used for personal study and public teaching in homes, mosques, and schools globally.
A committed follower of the Shafi‘i school of thought, Imam Al-Nawawi also wrote influential commentaries on classical fiqh texts, such as Al-Majmu‘ Sharh al-Muhadhdhab. Despite his scholarly brilliance, he lived a life of humility, never marrying, owning property, or seeking wealth. His deep sincerity and piety earned him the title of one of Islam’s greatest spiritual scholars.
Imam Al-Nawawi passed away at the age of 45, yet his contributions endure. He is remembered as a mujaddid (reviver) of his time—his books still serve as a bridge between the scholarly elite and the everyday believer. Read more about his work at Alim.org – Imam Nawawi Biography
Quick Facts:
- Full Name: Yahya ibn Sharaf al-Nawawi
- Born: 1233 CE, Nawa, Syria
- Died: 1277 CE, Nawa
- Known for: 40 Hadith Nawawi, Riyad-us-Saliheen, Shafi‘i Fiqh
- Legacy: Hadith expert, jurist, spiritual guide, ethical educator