Ibn Kathir
أبو الفداء إسماعيل بن عمر بن كثير الدمشقي
al-Ḥāfiẓ
Abū al-Fidāʾ Ismāʿīl ibn ʿUmar ibn Kathīr al-Dimashqī
- Birthplace
- Bosra, Syria
- Madhhab
- Shāfiʿī
- Reference
- Wikipedia ↗
Monumental history Al-Bidāyah wa al-Nihāyah, the world's most widely read Qurʾanic commentary, and the classical Stories of the Prophets.
A student of Ibn Taymiyyah, Ibn Kathir combined the hadith sciences with historical scholarship to produce works of enduring reference. His Stories of the Prophets extracts the prophetic narratives from his larger history into a single, readable narrative that has shaped Muslim imagination for centuries.
- Tafsīr al-Qurʾān al-ʿAẓīm (Ibn Kathir's Tafsir)
- Al-Bidāyah wa al-Nihāyah (The Beginning and the End)
- Qiṣaṣ al-Anbiyāʾ (Stories of the Prophets)
- Al-Sīrah al-Nabawiyyah (The Prophetic Biography)
Ibn Kathir's tafsir is the most reproduced in Sunni Islam, translated into every major language. His histories are still the entry point for anyone reading the classical record of the prophets, the Prophet ﷺ, and the centuries after.
Ibn Kathir, from the books.
-
"Tabuk, during the days of Umar, he asked the people of Kuba, Chapter, The Importance of Knowledge. Knowledge is a light that illuminates the path of the seeker. It is through knowledge that one can discern right from wrong, and it is the foundation upon which the edifice of faith is built. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, emphasized the significance of seeking knowledge, stating, Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim. This pursuit is not limited to a specific age or gender. Rather, it is a lifelong journey that enriches the soul and guides the heart. In the pursuit of knowledge, one must approach it with sincerity"
-
"encouraged his followers to seek knowledge, regardless of their circumstances, stating, Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave. This teaching emphasizes that the quest for knowledge is a lifelong endeavor, and one should never cease to learn and grow in understanding. Chapter The Benefits of Knowledge The benefits of knowledge are manifold. It leads to a deeper understanding of one's faith, enhances one's ability to worship Allah correctly, and fosters a sense of responsibility towards oneself and others. Knowledge also cultivates humility, as one realizes the vastness of what remains to be learned. Knowledge empowers individuals to contribute positively"
— Volume 2 — From the Israelite Prophets to Pre-Islamic Arabia
-
"the soul and guides the heart. In the pursuit of knowledge, one must approach it with sincerity and humility. It is essential to seek knowledge from reliable sources and to engage with scholars who embody the teachings of Islam. The companions of the Prophet, such as Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali, were known for their dedication to learning and their commitment to sharing that knowledge with others. As we embark on this journey of learning, let us remember the words of the great scholar Ibn Kathir, who said, Knowledge is the key to understanding the Divine and the means to attain closeness to Allah. Therefore, let us strive to acquire"
-
"This statement underscores the importance of scholars in preserving and transmitting the teachings of Islam to future generations. It is through their efforts that the light of knowledge continues to shine in the hearts of believers. Section The Pursuit of Knowledge The pursuit of knowledge requires dedication and perseverance. It is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual journey that brings one closer to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad encouraged his followers to seek knowledge, regardless of their circumstances, stating, Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave. This teaching emphasizes that the quest for"
— Volume 2 — From the Israelite Prophets to Pre-Islamic Arabia
-
"is an obligation upon every Muslim. May Allah grant us the ability to comprehend his words and the teachings of his messenger, and may he guide us on the straight path. Chapter The Importance of Knowledge Knowledge is a light that illuminates the path of the believer. It is through knowledge that one can discern right from wrong, and it is through knowledge that one can strengthen their faith. The Quran emphasizes the significance of knowledge in many verses, including, Say are those who know equal to those who do not know."
— Volume 2 — From the Israelite Prophets to Pre-Islamic Arabia
