Ibn Taymiyya's Thoughts Under Scrutiny

Scholars from both the Shi’a and Sunni traditions have long written books about Ibn Taymiyyah, his beliefs, and his ideologies. In order to understand Ibn Taymiyyah, his writings, and the opinions of esteemed Sunni scholars regarding him, it is necessary to examine the subject in three main sections:

1. His beliefs and doctrinal views


2. His knowledge and level of scholarship


3. His piety and justice

In general, if we seek to benefit from any scholar, follow them, or derive religious knowledge and principles from them, they must meet the following three essential criteria in full:

• Their beliefs must not be deviant.


• They must be a true scholar with sound knowledge.


• They must be just in their conduct, including their speech, writings, and actions.

This is because someone who is ideologically and doctrinally misguided cannot be a guide for others. Similarly, an ignorant and unlearned person can never be a leader, and the words of a corrupt individual will not be accepted or considered authoritative.

A comprehensive discussion on Ibn Taymiyyah from all aspects would be extensive and beyond the scope of this brief work. Therefore, it is more appropriate to focus solely on his most significant book, Minhāj al-Sunnah, and highlight the insults and attacks he directed at the exalted status of Amir al-Mu’minin Ali (peace be upon him) and the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).

By examining his statements in light of the Qur’an and Hadith, particularly in comparison with what is recorded in authentic Sunni sources, we can sufficiently assess his intellectual and doctrinal stance, his justice and piety, as well as his knowledge and scholarly merit.

It is hoped that this effort will be beneficial for those who either follow him or place their trust in his statements.