Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Ibn Uthaymeen, also known as Sheikh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen or Sheikh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, was a prominent Islamic scholar and jurist of the 20th century. He was born on 27th of Ramadhan, 1347 AH (March 9, 1929 CE) in Unayzah, a town in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.
Education:
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen began his pursuit of Islamic knowledge at a young age, studying under various local scholars in Unayzah. In his early years, he demonstrated exceptional academic abilities and a deep passion for learning. He later traveled to the city of Riyadh to continue his education and enrolled at the College of Shariah (Islamic Law) at Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University. There, he studied under renowned scholars, including Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz, Sheikh Abdullah bin Humaid, and Sheikh Abdullah al-Ghudayyan.
Scholarly Contributions:
Throughout his life, Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen dedicated himself to the study and teaching of Islamic sciences. He possessed profound knowledge in various fields, including Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Tafsir (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Aqeedah (Islamic creed), and Arabic language. His exceptional grasp of Islamic principles and his ability to address contemporary issues while remaining rooted in traditional Islamic sources made him highly respected among scholars and students alike.
Teaching Career:
After completing his studies, Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen embarked on a distinguished teaching career. He served as a professor at the College of Shariah at Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh for several years, where he influenced numerous students who went on to become scholars themselves. He also delivered religious lectures at the mosque in Unayzah, gaining a reputation as a skilled and eloquent speaker.
Authorship:
The Shaykh was a prolific writer, authoring numerous books and treatises on various Islamic subjects. Many of his works were concise and accessible, making them popular among both scholars and the general public. Some of his well-known books include explanations (tafseer) of parts of the Quran, such as “Tafsir Surat Al-Baqarah” and “Tafsir Surat An-Nisa.” He also wrote books on Fiqh, Aqeedah, Hadith, and other topics.
Revival of Knowledge:
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen played a crucial role in the revival of Islamic knowledge and the adherence to the Quran and Sunnah in Saudi Arabia and beyond. He was known for his clear and straightforward explanations, making complex matters more understandable for the masses. His teachings emphasized the importance of sincerity in worship, following the authentic teachings of Islam, and understanding religious matters based on textual evidence.
Legacy:
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen passed away on January 10, 2001, in Taif, Saudi Arabia. Despite his physical absence, his scholarly works and teachings continue to have a significant impact on Muslims worldwide. His books and recorded lectures remain popular resources for those seeking authentic Islamic knowledge, and his contributions to various fields of Islamic learning continue to be revered by scholars and students alike.
His legacy endures as an exemplary scholar who was dedicated to conveying Islamic knowledge in a simple and accessible manner, and his commitment to the principles of the Quran and Sunnah continues to inspire Muslims in their faith and practice.
