Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal رضي الله عنه

Let us delve into the life of the esteemed Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal رضي الله عنه a beacon of knowledge, courage, and resiliency in Islamic history - a soul immensely loved and honoured till date. As Allah says in The Holy Quran, "Say (unto them, O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم ): Are those who know equal with those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed.” (Quran 39:9)

Born in the Islamic hub of knowledge, Baghdad, in 780 AD, Imam Ahmed رضي الله عنه was a man of learning par excellence. He dedicated his life to the study and collection of hadiths, memorized 1 000,000 hadith, 700,000 among them are related to jurisprudence. His ceaseless pursuit of knowledge led him throughout the Islamic caliphate, learning from principal scholars of his time.

Yet what sets Imam Ahmed رضي الله عنه on a high pedestal is not only his yearning for knowledge but also his unwavering stand on the principles of Islam. When he was tried during the Mihna, his principled stance on the uncreated nature of the Quran solidified his legacy. It was said that he stated, "The word of Allah is not created."

It was from his profound understanding and dedication that the Hanbali School of Jurisprudence was born, the fourth of the four major Sunni schools, extending his vibrant legacy in the fabric of our faith.

One of his many teachings that deeply resonate with us is his saying, “If you love that Allah should keep you upon that which you love, then remain upon that which He loves, and the good is in the one who sees no good in himself.” This quote is a universal reminder for us to elevate our love for Allah and deter from sin, however minor we might perceive it to be.

let the life of Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal رضي الله عنه be a guide for us, in our quest for Islamic knowledge, resilience when tested, and strict adherence to Allah's Word. As we remember and salute his rich contributions, let's pray that Allah grants us the same fortitude and will to stay on the path of truth, wisdom, and righteousness. Ameen.