Abdulaziz ibn Abdullah Al Baz (1910–1999 CE / 1330–1420 AH) was a prominent Saudi Islamic scholar and theologian who served as the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia from 1993 until his death. He was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern Islamic jurisprudence, particularly within Salafi and Sunni scholarship.
Early Life and Education
Birth: Born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 1910 (Dhul-Hijjah 1330 AH).
Upbringing: His father died when he was three years old, leaving him to be raised by his mother, who strongly encouraged his religious education.
Loss of Sight: He began losing his eyesight in his mid-teens due to an eye illness, becoming completely blind by around the age of 20. Despite this, he relied on an exceptionally strong memory to continue his studies.
Education: He memorized the Quran before reaching adolescence and studied under leading scholars of Riyadh, most notably Sheikh Muhammad ibn Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh (the former Grand Mufti). He specialized in Hadith (prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Tawhid (monotheism).
Major Career Milestones & Leadership
Throughout his life, Sheikh Ibn Baz held pivotal roles in judicial, academic, and governmental institutions:
Judge in Al-Kharj (1938–1951): Served as a judge for over 13 years, launching his public service career.
Academic Teaching (1951–1961): Taught at the Riyadh Educational Institute and the Faculty of Sharia in Riyadh.
Islamic University of Madinah (1961–1975): Served as Vice President and later President of the university, establishing it as an international hub for Islamic studies.
Head of Scholarly Research and Ifta (1975–1993): Appointed Chairman of the General Presidency of Scholarly Research and Religious Rulings with ministerial rank.
Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia (1993–1999): Officially appointed as the Kingdom’s Grand Mufti and Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars.
Key Accomplishments and Contributions
Prolific Legal Rulings (Fatwas) and Teaching:
- Issued thousands of legal decrees on various topics spanning daily life, financial transactions, rituals, and governance.
- Hosted frequent teaching circles in major mosques, including the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah and the Grand Mosque in Riyadh.
- Prominently featured on the popular national radio show “Noor ‘ala ad-Darb” (“Light Upon the Path”), answering public religious questions.
Published Works:
- Authored over 60 books and booklets on Islamic doctrine, Hadith, prayer, Zakat, and Hajj.
- Notable writings include Al-Aqeedah Al-Sahihah (The Correct Belief), Al-Durus Al-Muhimmah Li ‘Ammat Al-Ummah (Important Lessons for the General Public), and Sifat Salat Al-Nabi (The Description of the Prophet’s Prayer).
Global Islamic Outreach (Da’wah):
- Played a key role in founding and heading the Muslim World League (MWL) and the World Supreme Council for Mosques.
- Supported Islamic centers, schools, and charitable organizations worldwide.
King Faisal International Prize (1982): Awarded the King Faisal International Prize for Service to Islam in recognition of his extensive lifelong efforts in education, legal guidance, and international outreach.
Passing
Sheikh Abdulaziz Ibn Baz passed away on May 13, 1999 (27 Muharram 1420 AH) at the age of 89. His funeral prayer at the Holy Mosque in Makkah was attended by millions, reflecting his profound stature across the Muslim world.
