Sharh al-Wasiyya al-Kubra li-Ibn Taymiyya - al-Rajihi
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- Sharh al-Wasiyya al-Kubra li-Ibn Taymiyya - al-Rajihi
Sharh al-Wasiyya al-Kubra li-Ibn Taymiyya is a contemporary commentary by the Saudi scholar Abd al-Aziz ibn Abd Allah al-Rajihi on the theological and spiritual treatise al-Wasiyya al-Kubra ("The Grand Admonition") authored by Ibn Taymiyya (661–728 AH / 1263–1328 CE) .
Background and Context
The original text, al-Wasiyya al-Kubra, is an epistle that Ibn Taymiyya addressed generally to the Muslims adhering to the Sunnah and the community, and specifically to the followers of the ascetic master Adi ibn Musafir al-Umawi and those who followed their path . It acquired the title al-Kubra ("the Grand" or "Major") on account of its expansive treatment of beliefs, deeds, and spiritual states, as well as the fundamental principles of faith and religion, in contrast to Ibn Taymiyya's shorter epistle known as al-Wasiyya al-Sughra . Al-Rajihi characterizes the treatise as containing comprehensive and restorative counsel of great value .
Method and Contents
Al-Rajihi's commentary originated as teaching sessions delivered to students of religious knowledge, structured around reading and explaining Ibn Taymiyya's text clause by clause . In his introductory remarks, al-Rajihi emphasizes the virtue of seeking knowledge with sincerity for the sake of God, warning students against deviation and urging adherence to the creed of the early generations (al-salaf al-salih) .
In the course of his commentary, al-Rajihi notes Ibn Taymiyya's adherence to the prophetic model in his opening composition, beginning with the basmala and hamdala, and adopting the format used by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in letters to rulers and tribal chiefs by writing: "From Ahmad ibn Taymiyya to whomsoever this letter reaches among the Muslims..." . The work systematically unpacks the theological and methodological points of the original text, focusing on the preservation of orthodox Sunnite creed, the fundamentals of Islamic worship, and guidance regarding spiritual conduct .
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