Definition and Meaning
Ibn Baz, Shaykh Abd al-Aziz
Ibn Baz, Shaykh Abd al-Aziz (1910-1999), was an eminent Saudi Arabian Islamic scholar who held the position of Head of the Supreme Religious Council. He was known for advocating political and economic reforms aimed at integrating Islamic principles more deeply into the governance and social structure of Saudi Arabia. Notably, he issued a fatwa supporting reconciliation with Israel, emphasizing the importance of Palestinian security.
Etymology and Background
- Full Name: Abdul Aziz Ibn Abdullah Ibn Baz
- Etymology: The name “Abdul Aziz” means “servant of the Almighty.” The term “Ibn Baz” denotes his lineage, often referenced to distinguish him from other contemporary scholars.
- Languages: عَبْد ٱلْعَزِيز بْن عَبْد ٱللَّٰه بْن ٕبَاز (Arabic).
Background and Historical Facts
- Birthplace: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Dates: 1910 – May 13, 1999.
- Career Highlights:
- During his tenure as Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti from 1993 until his death, Ibn Baz was instrumental in guiding religious policy and education.
- Acted as the rector of the Islamic University of Madinah.
- His extensive oeuvre includes numerous fatwas (Islamic legal opinions) and published works on various aspects of Sharia (Islamic law).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Saudi Context: In Saudi Arabia, Ibn Baz is a respected authority in Islamic jurisprudence, his opinions often shaping nation-wide policy.
- Global Perspective: Globally, responses to his views were mixed due to his traditionalist stances on modern issues. Despite this, his perspectives remain influential in Sunni Islam, particularly within Salafi circles.
Synonyms and Related Islamic Scholars
- Synonyms:
- Shaykh Ibn Baz
- Mufti Ibn Baz
- Related Scholars:
- Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen: Another prominent Saudi scholar, known for his extensive lecturing and writings.
- Al-Albani: Renowned for his expertise in Hadith (prophetic traditions).
Exciting Facts
- Unique Fatwas: Issued a fatwa declaring Earth’s flatness despite scientific consensus, sparking widespread debate.
- Visioned Scholar: Despite losing his eyesight early in life, he completed his studies and became an outstanding scholar.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Yusuf Al-Qaradawi: “Ibn Baz’s depth of knowledge was unparalleled despite his conservative stances. His commitment to Islamic education shaped Saudi Arabia’s religious landscape.”
Literature and Further Studies
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Books by and about Ibn Baz:
- “Fatwas of Ibn Baz” – A comprehensive collection of his fatwas.
- “Lives of the Scholars” by Abdul Aziz ibn Abdullah – Discusses the biographies of key Islamic scholars, including Ibn Baz.
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Academic Articles:
- “The Theological and Social Significance of Ibn Baz’s Religious Thought” in the Journal of Islamic Studies.
### What position did Ibn Baz, Shaykh Abd al-Aziz hold in Saudi Arabia before his death?
- [x] Head of the Supreme Religious Council
- [ ] Minister of Education
- [ ] Leader of the Tribal Council
- [ ] Head of Foreign Relations
> **Explanation:** Ibn Baz served as the Head of the Supreme Religious Council, guiding religious policy and education.
### What significant fatwa did Ibn Baz issue regarding geopolitics?
- [x] Support for reconciliation with Israel.
- [ ] Support for a unified Arab caliphate.
- [ ] Ban on foreign education.
- [ ] Immediate call for Jihad.
> **Explanation:** Ibn Baz issued a fatwa supporting reconciliation with Israel, emphasizing the security of Palestinians as a priority.
### Between which years did Ibn Baz serve as Saudi Arabia's Grand Mufti?
- [x] 1993 - 1999
- [ ] 1985 - 1993
- [ ] 1975 - 1985
- [ ] 1950 - 1960
> **Explanation:** He served as Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia from 1993 until his death in 1999.
### Despite losing his sight, what role did Ibn Baz play at the Islamic University of Madinah?
- [x] Rector
- [ ] Librarian
- [ ] Student Counselor
- [ ] Head of Security
> **Explanation:** Ibn Baz was the rector of the Islamic University of Madinah.
### Which of the following scholars is closely associated with Hadith expertise alongside Ibn Baz?
- [x] Al-Albani
- [ ] Sayyid Qutb
- [ ] Ramadan al-Buti
- [ ] Tariq Ramadan
> **Explanation:** Al-Albani was renowned for his expertise in Hadith and is often mentioned in discussions about traditional Islamic scholars like Ibn Baz.
### In what year was Ibn Baz born?
- [x] 1910
- [ ] 1890
- [ ] 1920
- [ ] 1945
> **Explanation:** Ibn Baz was born in 1910.
### Which Arabic letters form the basis of Shaykh Ibn Baz's last name?
- [x] ب-ز
- [ ] ع-ز
- [ ] د-ل
- [ ] ط-ي
> **Explanation:** The Arabic letters ب (B) and ز (Z) form the root of "Baz."
### Shaykh Ibn Baz was known for his position on which controversial scientific topic?
- [x] The shape of the Earth.
- [ ] The movement of stars.
- [ ] Evolution theory.
- [ ] Climate change.
> **Explanation:** Ibn Baz issued a fatwa declaring Earth's flatness, regardless of scientific consensus.
Discover the rich and multifaceted life of Ibn Baz, whose scholarship continues to influence Sunni Islam.
Inspirational Farewell:
Dive into the life and legacy of scholars like Ibn Baz to understand how historical religious leaders influence contemporary thought. Knowledge of the past illuminates the present and guides the future.
- Layla Al-Hassan
Publishing Date: 2023-10-03
