Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Ibn 'Uthaymeen
*Please appropriately reference this biography to: www.fatwa-online.com, thankyou!*
Abu 'Abdullaah Muhammad ibn Saalih ibn Muhammad ibn 'Uthaymeen at-Tameemee an-Najdee was born in the city of Unayzah, Qaseem Region on 27th Ramadhaan 1347 A.H./1926 C.E. in a famous religious family.
He received his education from many prominent scholars like Shaykh 'Abdur-Rahmaan as-Sa'dee,Shaykh Muhammad Ameen ash-Shanqeetee and Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez ibn Baaz.
When he entered into teaching, a great number of students from inside and outside Saudi Arabia benefited from him. He had his own unique style of interpretation and explanation of religious points. He was from among those scholars who served Islaam without any type of religious prejudice and kept themselves away from the limitations of blind-following. He was distinguished in his great exertion of effort in religious matters and analogical deductions which clearly prove the religious understanding he possessed, and the correct usage of the principles of religion, he adopted.
In giving religious verdicts, like Shaykh ibn Baaz, his Fataawa were based on evidence from the Qur.aan and Sunnah. He had about fifty compilations to his credit. He taught Religious Fundamentals at the Sharee'ah Faculty of Imaam Muhammad ibn Sa'ood Islaamic University, Qaseem Branch. He was also a member of the Council of Senior Scholars of the Kingdom, and the Imaam and Khateeb of the big Mosque of Unayzah city.
The Shaykh passed away on Wednesday 15 Shawwaal 1421 A.H. / 10 January 2001 C.E. He was 74 years of age. May Allaah (subhaanahu wa ta'aala) have Mercy upon his soul, aameen.
“Isn't the graveyard in as-Saalihiyyah"!?
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
“Once, King Khaalid (rahima hullaah) visited the Shaykh at his house, as was the habit of the rulers in their high regard and respect for the scholars. And when the King saw the humble home of the Shaykh he offered to have a new house built for him, (at which) the Shaykh thanked him saying:
“I am building a house in (the district of) as-Saalihiyyah (a district in ‘Unayzah, Qaseem), however, the masjid and the charitable trust are in need of (financial) assistance. So, after the King left, some of those sitting in the gathering said: O Shaykh, we did not know that you were building a home in as-Saalihiyyah, (to which) the Shaykh replied:
“Isn’t the graveyard in as-Saalihiyyah”!?”
*(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-‘Allaamah ibn ‘Uthaymeen – Page 218)
“...the Shaykh remained patient at this until...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Hamad ibn ‘Abdillaah al-Jutaylee:
“I have many memories of the Shaykh, since I studied under him over (a period of) thirty years in the (study) circles in al-Jaami’ al-Kabeer in ‘Unayzah; even when there was only myself and another (student) in these (study) circles, the Shaykh remained patient at this until his (study) circles (grew and) were (later) attended by hundreds.”
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammed ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 80)
“...one of the students of knowledge reminded the Shaykh”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
“During the Jumu'ah khutbah, the Shaykh mentioned the excellence of reciting Soorah al-Faatihah before sleeping, and encouraged (everyone) to recite it. After the khutbah, one of the students of knowledge reminded the Shaykh, saying:
“O Shaykh, you probably meant the excellence of Aayatul-Kursee”
The Shaykh then realised he had unintentionally made a mistake, so he corrected his mistake immediately before the congregation left, warning them a mistake had been made in the khutbahand that which is correct is reciting Aayatul-Kursee before sleeping.”
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 43)
“...whilst he was still young...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh 'Aasim ibn 'Abdil-Mun'im al-Maree:
“And from the special characteristics for which he was well-known was his steadfastness in (seeking) knowledge. Some of the relatives of Shaykh 'Abdullaah ibn Muhammad al-Maani' (rahima-hullaah), who was a judge in 'Unayzah until 1360 AH (1936 AD) mentioned that the Shaykh (Ibn 'Uthaymeen) would arrive early every morning at their home, whilst carrying his papers and books. He would knock on the door, extend greetings and seek permission to ascend to the library. There he would remain until just before (the time of) Zhuhr, whereby he would descend, extend greetings and depart. This was whilst he was still young and had not yet reached the age of puberty.”
(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-'Allaamah ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 24)
“...whilst he was still young...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh 'Aasim ibn 'Abdil-Mun'im al-Maree:
“And from the special characteristics for which he was well-known was his steadfastness in (seeking) knowledge. Some of the relatives of Shaykh 'Abdullaah ibn Muhammad al-Maani' (rahima-hullaah), who was a judge in 'Unayzah until 1360 AH (1936 AD) mentioned that the Shaykh (Ibn 'Uthaymeen) would arrive early every morning at their home, whilst carrying his papers and books. He would knock on the door, extend greetings and seek permission to ascend to the library. There he would remain until just before (the time of) Zhuhr, whereby he would descend, extend greetings and depart. This was whilst he was still young and had not yet reached the age of puberty.”
(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-'Allaamah ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 24)
“Resting is in being at the service of the Muslims”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Badr ibn Naadir al-Mashaaree:
“Despite the ill-health of the Shaykh, he was steadfast in delivering the Jumu'ah khutbah in al-Jaami' al-Kabeer and leading the prayers and meeting the people to answer their questions and enquiries; All this in spite of what he was going through himself, such that it was said to him: "Rest yourself O Shaykh", to which he replied: "Resting is in being at the service of the Muslims".”
(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-'Allaamah ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 296)
“...he slept very little at night during the times of major crises within the Ummah...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Badr ibn Naadir al-Mashaaree:
“One of his (Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen's) students informed me that he slept very little at night during the times of major crises within the Ummah, especially during the days of the Gulf War and the tragedy of our brothers (and sisters) in Bosnia and Chechnya; Whereby he would stand the night (in prayer) beseeching His Lord for their victory (against their enemies) and firmness (upon Islaam) and to repel the plans of the enemies of the religion against them; He also prayed for the Muslims (in general) and encouraged them to stand by (support) them (in their hardship against their enemies).”
(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-'Allaamah ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 300)
“...he memorised the Qur.aan in 6 months...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Ibraaheem ibn Hamad al-Jutaylee, who knew the Shaykh for more than 45 years, whilst also studying under him for more than 20 years:
“Indeed, he memorised the Qur.aan in 6 months under the guidance of a blind teacher, 'Alee ibn 'Abdillaah ash-Shuhaytaan.”
(ad-Durr ath-Thameen fee Tarjamti Faqeehil-Ummah al-'Allaamah ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 23)
Note: Based upon this narration it is clear the Shaykh did not memorise the Qur.aan under the guidance of his grandfather, ‘Abdur-Rahmaan Ibn Sulaymaan ‘Aal Daamigh, as is popularly narrated, rather he merely read the Qur.aan to him, whilst later memorising it under the guidance of ash-Shuhaytaan.
“...at a time when he was desperately in need of sleep...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Muhammad ibn ‘Abdil-Jawwaad as-Saawee:
“Once the Shaykh was invited by one of the charity organisations in Jeddah, and the meeting prolonged into the night, close to one o’clock in the morning; and it was not the habit of the Shaykh to remain awake like this. It was noticeable that he was overcome with exhaustion and tiredness and it was evident he needed sleep, so we returned to the house where the Shaykh was staying, and we entered and fell asleep right away.
In the middle of the night, at about 3:30(am), after we had been sleeping for about only two hours – since we fell asleep at about 1:30 – I noticed the sound of the Shaykh reciting in prayer; and this at a time when he was desperately in need of sleep and rest, (yet) he was standing before his Lord praying.”
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammed ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 73)
“I saw you with my own eyes talking to him and greeting him”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), ‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Alee al-Matawwu’ narrates that he accompanied the Shaykh (from ‘Unayzah) to al-Badaa.i’ – which was a distance of 15 kilometres from ‘Unayzah – for a lunch invitation.
After lunch, on their return home they noticed a man with a red beard (possibly dyed with henna), and a peaceful look about him waving his hand. The Shaykh said:
“Slow down, we’ll take him with us.”
So the Shaykh said to him:
“Where do you want to go?”
He said: “Take me with you to ‘Unayzah.”
So the Shaykh said to him:
“On two conditions:
First, that you do not smoke, and second, you increase in the remembrance of Allaah.”
The man responded: “As for smoking, then I do not smoke, however, I was a passenger with a man who smoked and (because of this) I asked him to drop me off (here), and as for the remembrance of Allaah, there is no Muslim except that he remembers Allaah.”
So the man got in the car.
(It was apparent throughout the journey that) the man was not aware he was in the company of Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen. So when they arrived at ‘Unayzah, the man said:
“Direct me to the house of Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, (as I have a question I need to ask him).”
So the Shaykh said to him: “Why did you not ask him when you met him in al-Badaa.i’?”
And the man said: “I did not meet him.”
The Shaykh said: “I saw you with my own eyes talking to him and greeting him.”
So the man said: “You are making fun of a man who is older than your father!”
The Shaykh smiled and said to him: “Pray the ‘Asr prayer at this (masjid) Jaami’ (Jaami’ ‘Unayzah) and you shall see him.”
The man then left without knowing he was talking to Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen himself.
After he finished praying the ‘Asr prayer, he saw the Shaykh in front having led the congregation in prayer. So he asked about him, and was informed that he is the Shaykh. So he approached the Shaykh and excused himself that he had not known (recognised) him (earlier), then asked his question. The Shaykh answered his question, and the man began to cry, supplicating for the Shaykh.
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 38)
“Do you know who the Shaykh is?”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
Whilst the Shaykh was returning from al-Masjid al-Haraam to his hotel having prayed, he noticed a group of youth playing football instead of having prayed. So the Shaykh stopped and began advising them and reminding them about Allaah, whilst they did not know who he was. The Shaykh then forbade them to continue playing football until they prayed. So one of them came forward and began raising his voice and cursing the Shaykh. At this, the Shaykh turned to address him with love and humility, and said to him:
“You must come with me to the hotel, where we shall talk.”
With the Shaykh were some students of knowledge, and they advised the youth to listen to the Shaykh and go with him. So he went with him and the Shaykh hosted him in his room. The Shaykh then left the room for a brief moment, and those present turned to the youth, asking him:
“Do you know who the Shaykh is?”, and he replied: “No”
They told him: “This is Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen”
At this, the look on the youth’s face suddenly changed.
When the Shaykh entered the room, the youth stood up crying and kissed the Shaykh on the forehead.
It is related that this incident happened to be the turning point for the youth who changed and became religious.
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 41)
“So the Shaykh got out and pushed the car himself...”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
The Shaykh once rode in an old car of a dear friend which happened to break down a lot. So, along the journey, the car broke down and the Shaykh said to the driver:
“Stay where you are, I will get out and push the car”
So the Shaykh got out and pushed the car himself until it started up again.
Such was the extent of the humility of the Shaykh (rahima-hullaah).
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 42)
“...since it was the property of the University”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
"When the Shaykh was in need of refilling his pen with ink from an inkpot in the University library to use for University work purposes, he would make sure to empty the ink out of his pen into the inkpot before he left, since it was the property of the University.”
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 25)
“Subhaan-Allaah! ...here is an old man who has succumbed to prayer and worship!”
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Dr. Hamad al-‘Uthmaan from Kuwait, who was one of the ardent students of the Shaykh for more than five years:
"I accompanied the Shaykh on a journey from ‘Unayzah to Riyadh, then headed for Makkah by car to perform ‘umrah.
After completing the ‘umrah, all those who accompanied the Shaykh sought leave of the Shaykh to go and sleep, that being out of severe tiredness after travelling for so long and then doing the ‘umrah (right away upon arrival)."
Shaykh Hamad then relates that he woke up sometime in the middle of the night and found the Shaykh standing in prayer. He said to himself:
“Subhaan-Allaah! I am a young man and have succumbed to sleep, and here is an old man who has succumbed to prayer and worship!”
So he got up and made wudhoo. and joined the Shaykh in prayer. He tried hard to fight off his sleepiness, until he was finally unable to persist, and then fell asleep leaving the Shaykh standing in prayer.
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 39)
"Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen! Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen! Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen!..."
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
"A member of the Da’wah and Guidance Centre in Jeddah narrates that during the hajj of 1416A.H, he was in the company of the Shaykh at King ‘Abdul-‘Azeez Airport in Jeddah surrounded by the pilgrims who were arriving for hajj.
Here, the Shaykh undertook that which was obligatory upon him by giving da’wah to the arriving pilgrims. A large group of Russian pilgrims arrived and the Shaykh wanted to offer some words (of da’wah) to them. So he asked if there was a translator amongst them. Then, the (Russian) guide for the group came forward not knowing this was Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen.
After completing the translation, the guide asked who the Shaykh was. He was told that it was Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen. At this, he turned to embrace the Shaykh kissing him (on his forehead) whilst crying. He then grabbed hold of the microphone and addressed all the members of his group that this was Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen. At this, tears began falling from the eyes of each and every member of the group, whilst the guide was repeatedly loudly calling out on the microphone “Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen! Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen! Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen!...”
The members of the group then came (forward) and conveyed their greetings to the Shaykh and kissed him (on his forehead).
The guide for the group then turned to the Shaykh and said:
“These are your students. They used to read your books in shelters under the ground during the Communist rule.”
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 38)
"Take the car (back) to the Prince and thank him for his noble gesture..."
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by his son, ‘Abdullaah ibn Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen:
"Prince ‘Abdul-Ilaah ibn ‘Abdil-‘Azeez Aal Sa’ood, the governor of Qaseem, sent a brand new car as a gift to the Shaykh. When the Shaykh arrived home, he saw the car in front of the house and was informed about it. The car remained outside the house for five days without being used, then the Shaykh said to his son, ‘Abdullaah:
“Take the car (back) to the Prince and thank him for his noble gesture, and inform him that I am not in need of it.”
So the car was returned to the Prince, whilst the Shaykh remained with his cheap, old car, not seeking much importance at the sight of his (cheap and old) vehicle; And (as such) the Shaykh died whilst he was still in possession of that same (cheap and) old car."
(al-Jaami’ li-Hayaat al-‘Allaamah Muhammed ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen – Page 23)
"...just allow them to go to their families!"
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Ihsaan ibn Muhammed al-'Utaybee:
"Some youth travelled (by car) from Jordan for 'Umrah and in Khaybar they had an accident whereby they hit a lamp-post. The police were quick to arrive at the scene of the accident and demanded the driver pay for the damage to the lamp-post which was estimated to be at a cost of SR21,000! (approximately £3,500)
Neither the driver nor the youth could afford to pay such an amount! Therefore, the police confiscated the passport of the driver until such time that they could arrange for payment on their return from having performed 'Umrah.
The students were overcome by this affair and began thinking of a way to get hold of such an amount. There was no way before them except that they present their case to some of the scholars. So, one of them travelled to meet Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen in his room in al-Masjid al-Haraam in Makkah after the 'Asr prayer.
After the Shaykh was made aware of the situation, he said to him: "Come (back) tomorrow and inshaa.-Allaah, all will be well!"
However, the youth did not return to the Shaykh (the following day) because he knew how large the amount (of money) was and moreover, the Shaykh did not know them and he did not know of the Shaykh to assist in such matters.
So the youth returned back to his friends (held up in Khaybar) believing he had carried out their request to at least having talked to the Shaykh.
The youth then decided to return back to Jordan but they had to pass through the checkpoint in Khaybar to collect the driver's passport - hoping that Allaah had softened their hearts and they may overlook payment for the damage caused.
When the youth entered the office, the inspector demanded payment in full (for the damage) or no travel! However, if they really wished to travel, they could do so but without the driver!
The youth and their driver became worried - what were they to do? They all turned to the youth who had met Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen and said to him: "Did you not go to see the Shaykh? What did he say to you?"
He replied: "Come (back) tomorrow."
So they said: "Did you go (back) to him?"
He said: "No."
They said: "Call him (now) and maybe Allaah will open a way for us at his hands - we are held up here, far from our families and we are in the final days of Ramadhaan."
The youth called the Shaykh in his room and he (the Shaykh) responded. The youth explained their situation.
The Shaykh said: "Are you the Jordanian youth?"
He said: "Yes, O Shaykh!"
The Shaykh said: "Did I not tell you to come (back) tomorrow - why did you not come?"
He said: "I became shy."
The Shaykh said: "Then why did you come to me? …in any case, the amount was ready the same day!"
The youth could not believe the news, they were all elated.
The youth said: "So how do we proceed, O Shaykh?"
The Shaykh said: "I shall transfer the funds to the centre and will ask them to make your affairs easy and permit you to return to your families before 'Eed (al-Fitr)."
So the Shaykh spoke to the inspector, saying: "I have the funds so give me the account number and I will transfer the amount to you. Let the youth and their driver go to their families."
The inspector responded disrespectfully, saying: "I am sorry, O Shaykh, but it is imperative we have the funds here in cash, otherwise they will not be allowed to travel and return (to their families)."
The Shaykh became angered by the inspector and said to him: "I say to you, the funds are with me, just allow them to go to their families!"
But, again, the inspector, refused.
The Shaykh then put the phone down.
Moments later the entire office was turned upside down!
The governor of Madeenah - Prince 'Abdul-Majeed - was on the phone asking for the inspector who had refused the request of the Shaykh and began to threaten him with discplinary action!
The inspector’s colleagues tried hard to cover for him.
The youth just stood there (staring at them), noticing how their tone had changed from disrespect to that of respect!
The Prince ordered them to release the youth and their driver immediately and have the lamp-post repaired at the expense of the state.
No-one could imagine the extent of the youth's happiness at such news. They thanked the Shaykh for his efforts and his stance towards them, their voices rising with supplications for the Shaykh and their thanks to the Prince for his respect towards the scholars and appreciation of their rank and position - all this in a situation none of them will ever forget as long as they live!"
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammed ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 75)
"I would like a new riyal"
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Ahmad al-Qar'aawee:
"Most of the time, before the Shaykh entered the masjid, a little girl of 6 years would approach him asking the Shaykh for a riyal. So, the Shaykh, smiling, would say to her:
"Would you like a (brand) new riyal or an old (used) riyal?"
So she would reply: "I would like a new riyal."
So the Shaykh would give her a new riyal and then she would ask him on behalf of her sister and the Shaykh would give her one (riyal) too."
(Safahaat Mushiqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammed ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 71)
"...who started first?"
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Abu Khaalid 'Abdul-Kareem al-Miqrin:
"Once while I was recording a special edition of the radio programme ((Noor ‘alad-Darb)) at the Shaykh’s house, we heard the sound of workmen doing some work in a house close to the Shaykh’s house, in fact they were the Shaykh’s neighbours. It appeared they were doing some breaking in the yard, and as such this noise affected the recording.
It was then that the Shaykh stood up and proceeded to go to them to inform them of this and to take a break. However, when he got to the door of the room within which we were recording, he turned around and said:
“O ‘Abdul-Kareem, who started first?”
So I replied: “It was them O noble Shaykh”
So from his piety and fear (of infringing upon their rights) he left them alone. He said:
“We will postpone our recording (session) for some time until they finish their work.”
(Arba'ah 'ashar 'aam ma'a Samaahatil-'Allaamah ash-Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 55)
The Shaykh disliked attention...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Abu Khaalid 'Abdul-Kareem al-Miqrin:
"As is known to many Muslims, the Shaykh disliked attention as well as titles and positions of importance.
The Shaykh was a member of the Council of Senior Scholars, and as such he requested that I not mention this of him whilst hosting the radio programme ((Noor 'alad-Darb)). He suggested it was sufficient I introduce him as the imaam and khateeb of al-Jaami' al-Kabeer masjid in the city of 'Unayzah, and a teacher at the Faculty of Sharee'ah and Usool ad-Deen in Qaseem.
So I adhered to the Shaykh's request since I began hosting the programme until he died.
And many of those who loved the Shaykh ask me:
"O Abu Khaalid, why is it that you do not mention that the Shaykh is a member of the Council of Senior Scholars?
So I respond by telling them this was the Shaykh's personal request."
(Arba'ah 'ashar 'aam ma'a Samaahatil-'Allaamah ash-Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 34)
...so the people are not denied the opportunity to ask questions...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Towfeeq as-Saa.igh:
"When the Shaykh returned from his trip abroad for treatment, he had spent 14 hours in the air travelling from the United States to Saudi Arabia; And when he arrived in Taif he called me by telephone and said:
"If you are able to inform the people via the internet websites of our telephone number in Taif, and that we have now arrived here, then do so, so that the people are not denied the opportunity to ask questions and seek fatwa".
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 75
Ref: Audio cassette entitled: "Widaa'an al-'Uthaymeen")
Words worthy of being written in gold
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Shaykh Badar ibn Naadir al-Mashaaree:
"When he returned from America after (medical) treatment, he was asked as to his health and condition. So the Shaykh said some words worthy of being written in gold:
"Know that both illness and good health do not come before or after their (decreed) time. Indeed my time has been written and your time has been written (even) before Allaah created the heavens and the earth. So believe in this, for certainly I have believed in this"."
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 111
Ref: Audio cassette entitled: "Ahabba Liqaa.a Rabbihi")
"You're Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez ibn Baaz?!!!"
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Ihsaan ibn Muhammad al-'Utaybee:
"After having prayed in al-Haram al-Makkee, the Shaykh left the Haram wanting to go somewhere by car. So he stopped a taxi and sat in. During the journey, the taxi driver wanted to get to know his passenger, so he asked: "Who are you O Shaykh?"
The Shaykh replied: "Muhammad ibn 'Uthaymeen"
Surprised, the taxi driver asked: "Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen?", thinking the Shaykh was lying to him, since he could not believe someone like the Shaykh would ever be a passenger in his taxi.
So the Shaykh replied: "Yes, the Shaykh"
So the taxi driver turned his head towards the Shaykh out of sheer surprise at this fare.
The Shaykh then asked: "Who are you O brother?"
So the taxi driver replied: "Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez ibn Baaz!!"
The Shaykh laughed, enquiring: "You're Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez ibn Baaz?!!!"
The taxi driver replied: "Yeah! just like you're Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen!!!"
So the Shaykh said: "But Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez ibn Baaz is blind, and does not drive a car!!
Just then it dawned upon the taxi driver that the passenger sitting next to him was indeed theShaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen. And what a fine mess he had got himself into now!"
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 79
Ref: al-Madeenah ((ar-Risaalah)), number: 13788)
Do what you have to and I am going to give the lesson...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Muhammad Raabi' Sulaymaan:
"Last year (1420 A.H.), there occurred a memorable incident during the month of Ramadhaanwhilst Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen was giving his daily lessons in al-Masjid al-Haraam, Makkah.
The specialist doctors who were supervising the Shaykh's condition advised that the Shaykh's condition necessitated rest that particular evening, rather than giving a lesson after Salaat at-Taraaweeh. The doctors needed to give him a blood transfusion and do some medical checks on him. In response to them, the Shaykh simply said:
"Do what you have to and I am going to give the lesson".
So, while he was giving the lesson, the doctors (around him) were putting a needle into him to initiate the blood transfusion process and complete the medical checkup, checking his temparature, pulse and general health.
Such was the level of importance the Shaykh gave to spreading knowledge and teaching the people, (right) up until the last night of Ramadhaan before his departure from al-Masjid al-Haraam."
(Safahaat Mushriqah min Hayaat al-Imaam Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Page 24
al-Arbi'aa - date: 29 Shawwaal 1421 A.H.)
The Shaykh smiled and (then) laughed, and we all laughed together...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Abu Khaalid 'Abdul-Kareem al-Miqrin:
"Whilst in the studio recording the programme "Questions by Telephone", a brother by the name of Sa'd Khamees used to say to the Shaykh after every recording session:
"May Allaah reward you with good O Shaykh, (and may) Allaah have mercy upon your parents".
(And on this particular occasion) the Shaykh said: "Aameen O Sa'd, and (as for) me?"
So Sa'd said: "(May) Allaah have mercy upon your parents".
And (then) the Shaykh said: "Aameen, and (as for) me?"
It was then that Sa'd Khamees realised (what the Shaykh was saying) and (so) he said: "(May)Allaah have mercy upon you and (may) Allaah have mercy upon your parents, and (may) He reward you with the best of rewards".
(At this) the Shaykh smiled and (then) laughed, and we all laughed together.
(Arba'ah 'ashar 'aam ma'a Samaahatil-'Allaamah ash-Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 63)
The Shaykh gave much importance to the affairs of his students...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by his prolific student, the Shaykh - Khaalid ibn 'Alee ibn Muhammad al-Mushayqih (lecturer at the Faculties of both Sharee'ah and Usool ad-Deen - Islaamic University of Imaam Muhammad ibn Sa'ood, Qaseem branch):
"The Shaykh gave much importance to (the affairs of) his students.
He was keen to assist in alleviating the difficulties which came their way during their path in seeking knowledge. In so doing, he allocated free accommodation for foreign students, supplying them with all necessary comforts from food, drink and other than these".
(al-Yowm (newspaper) - Number 10080
Ibn 'Uthaymeen, al-Imaam az-Zaahid - Page 573)
The Shaykh sewing/mending his own clothes...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by one of his students:
"Once, I visited Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen in Makkah in his lodgings during the days of Hajj, and I found him with a needle in his hand sewing his thobe (traditional full-length shirt-type garment)."
(Ibn 'Uthaymeen, al-Imaam az-Zaahid - Page 163)
The Shaykh was the peak of simplicity and humility...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated:
"And he (rahima-hullaah) was the peak of simplicity and humility; He did not like sleeping on a bed, nor a comfortable mattress, rather he slept on the floor or a meagre mattress or straw mat which affected his side."
(Ibn 'Uthaymeen, al-Imaam az-Zaahid - Page 163)
These are the attributes of the real scholars...
Concerning the Imaam, the Shaykh - Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahima-hullaah), it has been narrated by Abu Khaalid 'Abdul-Kareem al-Miqrin:
"One night while we were recording the radio programme ((Noor 'alad-Darb)), the Shaykh appeared as if sleep was taking over him. And from that which is known about the Shaykh is that he has much patience, tolerance and endurance towards anything within which there is benefit for theummah. As such, he fought off his sleep and we continued with the recording.
Later he stopped and asked for an extension cable to the microphone so he could continue answering the questions whilst standing. So I gave him a small microphone (which he was able to attach to his clothing) with an extension cable. The Shaykh then continued answering the questions whilst walking to and fro within the room so as to fight off his sleep. He continued in this manner until we finished the (recording) session.
These are the attributes of the real scholars and the importance they attach to the affairs of theummah both with their knowledge and actions."
(Arba'ah 'ashar 'aam ma'a Samaahatil-'Allaamah ash-Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen - Page 56)
MAY ALLAH HAVE MERCY ON HIM !
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