DescriptionThese pages contain the text of Ayyuhā al-Walad by Abū Ḥāmid al-Ghazzālī, the renowned theologian and philosopher. He addressed the treatise to one of his students, who served him and learned diverse kinds of knowledge from him over a long period, and who requested a treatise that would be useful in the afterlife. Written probably in the final years of the author’s life, the content is hortatory in nature, reflecting the master-disciple dynamic central to classical Islamic pedagogy. Throughout the epistle, al-Ghazzālī exhorts the recipient to remain unwavering in adherence to the Islamic faith, emphasizing steadfastness amid intellectual and spiritual challenges. He argues for the pursuit of moral excellence (akhlāq) and the cultivation of virtue as essential components of the righteous life. Additionally, the text provides general guidance on the conduct, priorities, and inner disposition expected of a sincere seeker of knowledge (ṭālib al-ʿilm). For researchers, this text offers direct insight into al-Ghazzālī’s personal mentorship style and his practical counsel on integrating faith, ethics, and the pursuit of learning within the spiritual formation of his students.
Extentff. 260v-275r
PlaceIslahul Uloom Arabic College, Kerala, India
Yeard. 1111
CitationRisālat Ayyuhā al-walad, Abū Ḥāmid al-Ghazzālī, MAC4/CM1, iv, https://ari.nus.edu.sg/arabia-asia-archives/mac4-cm1-iv/
