Virtues of the Imam Ahmad ibn ¿anbal

A¿mad ibn ¿anbal (d. 241/855), renowned for his profound knowledge of hadith-the reports of the Prophet's sayings and deeds-is a major figure in the history of Islam. Ibn ¿anbal's piety and austerity made him a folk hero, especially after his principled resistance to the attempts of two Abbasid caliphs to force him to accept rationalist doctrine. His subsequent imprisonment and flogging became one of the most dramatic episodes of medieval Islamic history. Ibn ¿anbal's resistance influenced the course of Islamic law, the rise of Sunnism, and the legislative authority of the caliphate. Virtues of the Imam A¿mad ibn ¿anbal is a translation of the biography of Ibn ¿anbal penned by the Baghdad preacher, scholar, and storyteller, Ibn al-Jawzi (d. 597/1201). It includes insights into Ibn ¿anbal's childhood, travels, and teachings, as well as descriptions of his way of life. Volume One presents the first half of the text, offering insights into Ibn ¿anbal's childhood, education, and adult life, including his religious doctrines, his dealings with other scholars, and his personal habits. Set against the background of fierce debates over the role of reason and the basis of legitimate government, Virtues of the Imam Ahmad ibn ¿anbal tells the formidable life tale of one of the most influential Muslims in history.A bilingual Arabic-English edition.

Letter from the General Editor iii