Practice modes
Languages & Literature
Pakistan
World & History
1058 – 1111
Ihya al-Ulum al-Din, Tahafut al-Falasifa (critique of the philosophers)
Al-Ghazali argued that the philosophers of his day (following Aristotle via Al-Farabi and Ibn Sina) had overreached, making claims — such as the eternity of the world or denying bodily resurrection — that reason alone cannot actually prove and that contradict revealed faith. He ultimately held that certain, experiential knowledge of God is reached not through philosophical argument but through Sufi mystical experience, disciplined by orthodox religious practice.
Persian theologian and jurist who, after reaching the height of academic fame in Baghdad, underwent a profound spiritual crisis, abandoned his position, and spent years as a wandering ascetic.