Throughout its history, Makkah has been not only a destination for pilgrims, but also a meeting place for scholars and seekers of knowledge.
Among those scholars was Imam Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi‘i (may Allah have mercy on him).
Al-Bayhaqi, in Manaqib al-Shafi‘i, reports a gathering of his in Makkah in which he gave rulings to people and answered their questions.
The report mentions that Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal and Ishaq ibn Rahawayh attended, and that Imam Ahmad admired the knowledge he heard from al-Shafi‘i.
This is how knowledge was alive in Makkah: studied by scholars, learned by the people, and a meeting point for the different schools of law.
The scene reminds us that one of the greatest things a person can bring back from the journey to Allah’s House is beneficial knowledge that guides them to worship their Lord with insight.
A moment to reflect
A person may travel great distances to perform an act of worship, then return having gained new knowledge that changes the way they live.
Sound knowledge helps sincerity and good deeds, and protects the worshipper from mistakes that come from ignorance.
What do we know, and what do we not know?
- We know: al-Bayhaqi reported the account of Imam al-Shafi‘i’s gathering in Makkah and the scholars who came to it.
- We do not claim: the authenticity of a long supplication attributed to him at the Multazam in some circulating texts; we have not found a reliable origin for it in that wording.
Sources
- Al-Bayhaqi, Manaqib al-Shafi‘i, the report of al-Shafi‘i seen giving rulings to people in Makkah.
- The chain of this report needs review by a specialist before final reliance.
What knowledge do you hope to bring back from Makkah that will benefit you for the rest of your life?