Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani
- Born:
- 470 AH (c. 1077/1078 CE), Na'if, Jilan, Persia (present-day Iran)
- Died:
- 561 AH (c. 1166 CE), Baghdad, Abbasid Caliphate (present-day Iraq)
- Nationality:
- Persian
- Profession(s):
- Hanbali Jurist, Sufi Mystic, Preacher, Theologian
Early Life and Education
- Born in the region of Jilan, Persia (modern-day Iran).
- Lost his father at a young age and was raised by his mother.
- At the age of eighteen, he traveled to Baghdad to pursue religious studies.
- Studied Hanbali law and theology under prominent scholars such as Abu Sa'd al-Mukharrimi and Abu al-Wafa' ibn 'Aqil.
Career and Major Achievements
- Became a renowned preacher and attracted large audiences in Baghdad.
- Established a Sufi order known as the Qadiriyya, which became one of the most widespread Sufi orders in the Islamic world.
- His teachings emphasized the importance of adherence to the Sunnah, moral uprightness, and spiritual purification.
- Known for his compassionate character, generosity, and advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
- Authored numerous works on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Sufism.
Notable Works
- Ghunya li-Talibi Tariq al-Haqq (Sufficient Provision for Seekers of the Path of Truth)
- Futuh al-Ghaib (Revelations of the Unseen)
- Sirr al-Asrar (The Secret of Secrets)
- Jala' al-Khawatir (The Removal of Cares)
Legacy and Impact
Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani's teachings and legacy continue to inspire Muslims worldwide. His emphasis on both outward observance and inward spiritual development made him a highly influential figure in the history of Sufism. Students of Islamic history often come across learning materials discussing abdul qadir al jilani biography graphic organizers to better understand his life and work, facilitating a deeper understanding of the Qadiriyya order and its impact on Islamic thought and practice.