Ibn Hisham, Abu Muhammad Abd al-Malik 📚
Comprehensive Definition
Ibn Hisham, Abu Muhammad Abd al-Malik (d. 827 CE), is celebrated as a Muslim historian who played a crucial role in preserving the biography of the Prophet Muhammad. Known primarily for editing and annotating the original biographical work by Ibn Ishaq, Ibn Hisham’s version (“Sirat Ibn Hisham”) has become the foundation for understanding the life of the Prophet and is considered an authoritative text in Islamic historiography.
Etymology and Background
The name ‘Ibn Hisham’ means “son of Hisham,” a customary Arab naming convention where ‘Ibn’ signifies “son of.” “Abu Muhammad” is a Kunya, an honorary title named after his first son, “Father of Muhammad.” ‘Abd al-Malik’ translates to ‘Servant of the King’ in Arabic, a theophoric name pointing towards the Islamic tradition.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Death: Ibn Hisham died in 827 CE.
- Works: He is renowned for refining and commenting on the biography of Prophet Muhammad originally penned by Ibn Ishaq, ensuring its authenticity and clarity.
- Legacy: Ibn Hisham’s version became the standard in the Islamic world, guiding all subsequent Islamic biographical and historiographical efforts.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Ibn Hisham’s contribution to the Sirah (Prophetic biography) literature holds a monumental place across various Islamic cultures. While the core work remains consistent, individual communities might give preferential respect to this biographical text, influencing the custom and style of religious scholarship and teaching around Prophet Muhammad’s life.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Sirat Ibn Hisham, Biographer
- Antonyms: Fabricator, Unreliable Historian
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ibn Ishaq: The original author of the life of Prophet Muhammad, whose work was edited by Ibn Hisham.
- Sirah: Biographical accounts or histories of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Hadith: Reports of the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad.
Exciting Facts and Quotations
- Verification of Poetry: Ibn Hisham was known for critically evaluating the authenticity of poetry included in Ibn Ishaq’s work.
- Academic Influence: His annotated version provided a more reliable source for scholars during the Abbasid period.
“In preserving the intricate details of the Prophet’s life, Ibn Hisham offered humanity a lens to view the sacred reality of existence through the prophetic narrative.” - Count Ioannis Stephanou, 19th-century Orientalist
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Life of Muhammad: Apostolic Life of the Prophet” – A translation of Ibn Hisham’s work by Alfred Guillaume.
- Madelung, Wilferd. “The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate.”
- Watt, W. Montgomery. “Muhammad at Mecca” and “Muhammad at Medina” – Thought-provoking insights into the life of Prophet Muhammad, complementing Ibn Hisham’s work.
Additional Translations
- Arabic: ابن هشام، أبو محمد عبد الملك
- Urdu: ابن ہشام، ابو محمد عبد الملک
- Turkish: İbn Hişam, Ebû Muhammed Abdülmelik
- Persian: ابن هشام، ابو محمد عبد الملک
- Bengali: ইবন হিশাম, আবু মুহাম্মদ আব্দুল মালিক
- Indonesian: Ibn Hisyam, Abu Muhammad Abduk Maliki
May our study ignite within us the passion for learning and inspire us to keep exploring the beauty of history and knowledge. - Zahra Khan 🌙
