Imam Abu Hayyan
Imam Abu Hayyan is renowned as a distinguished scholar in the field of jurisprudence. His significant contributions to hadith, its transmission, and understanding of Islamic law are notable. Additionally, he followed a Sufi approach rooted in Andalusian thought and philosophy. The following overview provides insight into his life, works, and legacy:
Imam Abu Hayyan, whose full name is Muhammad ibn Yusuf ibn Ali ibn Yusuf ibn Hayyan al-Andalusi, is recognized by the historian Al-Dhahabi as one of the most knowledgeable scholars of his time: “The most learned Arab in knowledge and the most knowledgeable mufti in Andalusia and Egypt.” Born in one of the regions of Granada in 1256 AD, he did not remain long in Andalusia before relocating. Eventually, he settled in Cairo, where he took on the role of a teacher at various educational institutions. He passed away in 1034 AD.
In his work “Ma’rifat al-Qira’at,” Al-Dhahabi describes him as a profound scholar in religion, mentioning his expertise in grammar and his writings on jurisprudence and related religious sciences. He established his base in Granada and studied under prominent figures such as Abu Ja’far Ahmad ibn Ibrahim ibn al-Zubair al-Hafiz and the grammarian Abu Ja’far Ahmad ibn Ali ibn Kariha, among others.
His Scholars
Abu Hayyan pursued his studies extensively, learning all Qur’anic readings in Alexandria under Sheikh Abdullah al-Sahib al-Safrawi. He further enhanced his knowledge in Cairo with Sheikh Abu Tahir Ismail ibn al-Maliji, a notable figure in the field. He also studied “Al-Taysir Al-Am” and “The One Hundred and Seventieth State” with Sheikh Husayn Abu Ali ibn Abi al-Hafiz and Sheikh Abu Salim ibn al-Rabi. Notably, he delved into “Al-Muwatta” at the age of seventy-three and learned various Islamic sciences from scholars in Damietta and others. Mastering the Arabic language and the sciences of jurisprudence, reports, readings, and grammar, he was part of a thriving community in Egypt that sought knowledge. He was regarded as one of the prominent imams of his time.
Abu Hayyan was fortunate to be mentored by notable scholars in the fields of hadith, sunnah, and exegetical writings. He acquired knowledge from various renowned figures including Abu Ali, Abu al-Hasan ibn Asfour, Abu al-Hasan ibn al-Hasan, Abu Sayyid, and Ibn Daqiq al-Eid. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the sciences, often stating, “This is what we have received from the mouths of teachers in their gatherings.”
His Students
Among his notable students are Ibrahim ibn Muhammad ibn Ibrahim al-Qaisi, the author of “Al-Ta’bir al-Majid ‘an Al-Qur’an al-Majid,” Abdul Rahim ibn al-Hassan ibn Ali ibn Jamal al-Din, Ahmad ibn Yusuf, known as Al-Halabi and author of “Al-Durr al-Masoun,” Al-Hassan ibn Al-Qasim Al-Muradi, Muhammad ibn Qudamah al-Maqdisi, Ahmad ibn Aqil, and Ibn Hisham al-Ansari.
As for his beliefs and methodology, Al-Maghrawi notes in his work “Al-Mufassirun Bayna Al-Ta’wil wal-Ithbat” that Abu Hayyan is considered part of the Ash’arite theological school (Chapter 2, page 147).
His Works
Abu Hayyan left behind a vast legacy of written works, including:
- Ithaf Al-Arib Bima Fi Al-Quran Min Al-Gharib – a printed work
- Al-Bahr Al-Muhit – a tafsir (interpretation of the Quran), also printed
- Kitab Al-Tadhil wal-Takmil Fi Sharh Al-Tahsil
- Taqrib Al-Muqarrab Li Ibn Asfour – his renowned manuscript
- Al-Lum’hah Al-Badriyah Fi Ilm Al-Arabiyyah – published
- Manhaj Al-Salik Fi Al-Kalam ‘ala Alfiya Ibn Malik – a printed volume
- Irtashaf Al-Darb Min Lisan Al-Arab – published