Comprehensive Definition
Abu al-Fadl Abd al-Rahman ibn Abi Bakr ibn Muhammad Jalal al-Din al-Khudayri al-Suyuti (d. 1505), commonly known as Suyuti, is one of the most prolific and influential scholars in Islamic history. His expertise encompassed a wide array of disciplines including Quranic exegesis, Hadith compilation, Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), Sufism, literature, and history.
Etymology
The name “Suyuti” originates from Asyut—his ancestral town in Upper Egypt. The full name is a laudatory expression highlighting his lineage and scholarly attributes.
Background
Born in 1445, Suyuti was part of the Shafii school of Islamic jurisprudence. He was closely associated with the Shadhili Sufi order and contributed significantly to Islamic mysticism. Suyuti is perhaps best known for completing the Quranic Tafsir initiated by his teacher, al-Mahalli, resulting in Tafsir al-Jalalayn, a cornerstone text of Islamic scholarship.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Born: 1445 CE in Cairo, Egypt.
- Died: 1505 CE.
- Key Works: Tafsir al-Jalalayn, Al-Itqan fi Ulum al-Quran, Al-Jami’ al-Saghir.
Suyuti held various teaching and legal positions and played a pivotal role in the rich scholarly tradition of the Mamluk era in Egypt.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Suyuti’s works gained respect beyond Egypt, influencing Islamic scholars worldwide, particularly within regions adhering to Shafi’i jurisprudence. Cultural transmission was facilitated through his systematic and accessible writing style.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Polymath Scholar
- Mamluk Scholar
Antonyms:
- Ignoramus
- Unlettered
Related Terms with Definitions
Tafsir: Quranic exegesis or commentary.
Fiqh: Islamic jurisprudence.
Hadith: Records of the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad.
Sufi: A practitioner of Sufism, which emphasizes inward search for God and shunning materialism.
Dhikr: Remembrance of God, often through recitation of His names and sacred phrases.
Exciting Facts
- Suyuti claimed to have memorized 200,000 Hadiths.
- His unfinished works were reportedly numerous, testament to his prolific output.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Suyuti was an ocean of knowledge whose depths we still navigate.” - Famed Islamic scholar, Taj al-Din al-Subki.
References
- A’zami, Muhammad Mustafa. “On Schacht’s Origins of Muhammadan Jurisprudence.”
- Brown, Jonathan. “Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World.”
Suggested Literature
- “The Ultimate Guide to Islamic Sciences” by Muhammad Zahid
- “A History of Islamic Legal Theories” by Wael Hallaq
- “Sufi Orders in Islam” by J. Spencer Trimingham
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Suyuti’s life serves as a profound reminder of the boundless realms of knowledge awaiting our exploration. His dedication beckons us to pursue a journey of scholarly and spiritual discovery, forever lighting the path of wisdom.
Yusuf Al-Harith
October 11, 2023
