Mufti Abdullah Tamim: Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (1058-1111 AD), known as one of the greatest philosophers and Islamic thinkers in the Muslim world. The impression of his knowledge and intelligence was so profound that he earned the reputation of 'Hujjatul Islam' or the ardent logician of Islam. Ghazali's philosophy, theory, and every aspect of his life had a deep devotion to Islam and a desire to achieve the welfare of Muslim society.

He lived at a time when a moral and spiritual crisis was evident in the Islamic world. His writings and teachings were an outstanding guide for Muslims in this critical period.

Imam Ghazali An indefatigable path to knowledge
Imam Ghazali was born in the city of Tus, Iran. From childhood he had a keen interest in acquiring knowledge. He received his primary education at Tusei and later studied at Nishapur under Imam al-Haramain al-Juwaini (r.a.), who was a prominent theoretician of the time. Al-Juwaini was one of Imam Ghazali's mentors, and it was from him that Ghazali had the opportunity to study deeply on various Islamic subjects.

Later, Ghazali joined the 'Nezamiyya Madrasah' in Baghdad as a professor at the invitation of Imam Nezamul Mulk from Nishapur. There he gave extensive lectures on Islamic philosophy and wrote several important books. His philosophy and teachings brought him so much fame that he was regarded as a brilliant gnostic in contemporary society.

A spiritual and intellectual renaissance in his philosophy
The main purpose of Imam Ghazali's writings and teachings was to bring Muslims back to the core ideals of Islam. He saw that various doctrines and philosophies in society at that time were causing confusion among Muslims. He developed a new approach to establish Islamic philosophy between philosophy and rationalism. His main task was to reconcile rationalism and spirituality to understand Islam.

Imam Ghazali was skilled in 'Ilmul Kalam' i.e. Islamic rationalism. He believed that only following the Islamic way of life in the light of the Qur'an and Sunnah was the true liberation. In his famous book 'Ihiyaw Ulumuddin' he extensively discussed the moral and spiritual aspects of Islam. This book continues to provide spiritual and moral guidance for Muslims even today. Also, in 'Maqasid al-Falasifah' and 'Tahafut al-Falasifah' he deeply analyzed the issues of philosophy and thought and from them correctly guided the Muslims' view of Islam.

An invaluable treasure trove of spiritual and philosophical practice,
Imam Ghazali authored numerous books, which reveal different aspects of Islamic philosophy, theory and spirituality. The most famous book among them is 'Ihiyaw Ulumuddin' (Revival of Religious Knowledge). In this book he has analyzed every aspect of Muslim life in the light of Quran and Hadith. This book was later translated into many languages ​​and formed the moral values ​​of Muslims in different cultures.

Another important book of his is 'Tahafut al-Falasifah' (The Delusions of the Philosophers). In this book he has refuted various doctrines of philosophers based on rationalism. This book created such a stir among philosophers that Ibn Rushd later responded by writing a book called 'Tahafut al-Tahafut'. Also, in his book 'Kimiya-i Saadat' (Chemical Ingredients of Happiness) he discusses Islamic spirituality and ethics.

Farewell to a Star of the Muslim Ummah
Imam Ghazali returned to the city of Tus towards the end of his life and continued to lead a secluded life. He devoted himself to worship, meditation and research until his death. He passed away in 1111 AD, but the light of his teachings still shines among Muslims today. He is remembered with reverence throughout the ages in recognition of his contribution to Islam.

Although Imam Ghazali died, his writings and teachings are still an invaluable guide for Muslims. His writings are like a beacon, which inspires not only the Muslim world but also the entire humanity towards morality. Through his views and teachings, Muslims are inspired to advance on the path of spiritual and moral enlightenment.

What Imam Ghazali Left Behind
Imam Ghazali was a shining star in the history of Islam, whose light has shone through the ages. It was through his teachings that Muslims were able to unite with the core teachings of Islam, opening up a new horizon of spiritual life. His philosophy, thought, writings are still the main source of moral and spiritual education in Muslim society.