Imam Malik (RH)

Abu Abdullah Malik ibn Anas ibn Malik ibn Abi Aamir 

Imam Malik (RH) was born in the year 93 AH. His family was originally from the al-Ashabi tribe of Yeme, but his grandfather Abu Amir relocated the family to Madinah after converting to Islam in 623 CE. Both his father and grandfather had studied religious sciences under the Companions of the Prophet (SAW), who still lived in Madinah so young Malik was raised in an environment that was based on Islamic scholarship, learning from his father and uncle.

Living in Madina gave Imam Malik access to some of the most learned minds of early Islam. 
He memorized the Quran in his youth and learnt the recitation.  For the purpose of his study, he sought out over 300 Tabi’een- those who saw the Ashaab of Prophet (SAW), and acquired from them the knowledge of the Ahaadeeth and Sunnah.

Imam Malik’s Character    

Besides being one of the greatest scholars of fiqh in history, Imam Malik was an incredibly humble and meticulous Muslim. Out of respect for the Prophet (SAW) and his words, he would refuse to narrate a hadith while walking. Instead, when asked about a hadith, he would stop, sit down, and give the hadith the attention it deserved.

The Imam always made Wudhu or Ghusl, wore fresh clean clothes and applied perfume before conducting lessons in Ahaadeeth.  

He would also refuse to ride any animal in the city of Madinah, seeing it as mysterious that he would ride on the same dust that Muhammad (SAW) feet walked on. This type of extra respect for Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is not compulsory according to Islamic law, but simply a sign of the emphasis Imam Malik (RH) placed on the importance of Muhammad (SAW).

Imam Malik’s characteristics

-Imam Malik was very cautious in procuring Fatwa. Procure

-Imam Malik was very active within the conduct of Sunnah

-Imam Malik hated Bidaah 

-Matters of belief (Aqaaid) were very religiously followed by way of Qur’an and Sunnah.

- Although during Imam Malik’ s era there were many sects that arose, yet Imam Malik (RH) refrained from enjoining with these.

- When the Holy Prophet (SAW) was mentioned, the colour of Imam Malik’s (RH) face would change.  

Imam Malik’s death:

During the last few years of his life, Imam Malik (RH) preferred to remain alone. He never even used to attend the Jamaa’ at Friday prayer and used to say that not everyone can openly explain themselves. On Monday 14th of Rabi-ul-Awwal 179 AH, Imam Malik (RH) passed away.