Personal Info
- Country of residence: Palestine
Information
Raja bin Haywa Al-Kindi, also known as Ibn Jarul, Ibn Jazal, or Ibn Jandal Abu Nasr Al-Kindi Al-Azdi, was a renowned jurist and calligrapher hailed as one of the esteemed Tabi'in. His lineage traced back to his grandfather, Jarul bin Al-Ahnaf, a distinguished companion of significance. Some sources also attribute to him the nickname Abu Al-Miqdam.
Born and raised in Beit Shean, Palestine, Raja's upbringing reflected his Christian roots, as his family witnessed the conquest of Palestine and the pivotal engagement of Omar ibn al-Khattab with its people, following the acquisition of the keys to Jerusalem. However, Raja embraced Islam alongside his family at the age of fifteen, receiving early education under the guidance of the esteemed companion Moaz ibn Jabal.
Raja's scholarly pursuits extended to the narration of hadith, as he transmitted teachings from notable figures such as Muadh bin Jabal, Abu Darda’, Ubadah bin al-Samit, and others. His narrations were esteemed and transmitted by various scholars, including Makhul, Al-Zuhri, Qatada, and many others.
In addition to his scholarly endeavors, Raja played a significant role in supervising the intricate details of Islamic decorations and inscriptions inside the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. His expertise as a calligrapher and jurist earned him renown, prompting Abd al-Malik bin Marwan to appoint him as a minister and advisor. He continued to serve in advisory capacities under subsequent rulers, including Suleiman bin Abd al-Malik, advocating for the appointment of Omar bin Abdul Aziz as ruler after him.
Raja's lineage can be traced through Khanzal bin Al-Ahnaf bin Al-Samat bin Imru’ Al-Qais bin Amr bin Muawiyah bin Al-Harith Al-Akbar bin Muawiyah bin Thawr bin Murta’ bin Muawiyah bin Kinda.
His contributions to scholarship, governance, and the adornment of Islamic monuments solidified Raja's legacy as a pivotal figure in the cultural and intellectual landscape of his time.
They said about him
Matar Al-Warraq said : I have not seen a better Syrian than Raja bin Haywah, and whenever Ibn Aoun mentioned someone he admired, he would mention Raja bin Haywah, and he also said: Three people I have never seen as if they met and reached out to one another: Ibn Sirin in Iraq, Qasim bin Muhammad in Hijaz, and Raja bin Haywah in the Levant.
Ubaid bin Abi Al-Sa’ib said: My father told us: “I have not seen anyone with better moderation in prayer than Raja’ bin Haywa.”
Damra said on the authority of Rajaa bin Abi Salamah: “There is no man from the people of the Levant whom I would like to follow more than Rajaa bin Haywa.”
Ibn Saad said : “He was trustworthy, knowledgeable, and very virtuous.”
From his sayings
“Whoever does not befriend anyone except one who has no faults, his friend will be few, and whoever is not satisfied with his friend except by being loyal to him, his discontent will last, and whoever blames his brothers for every sin, his enemies will increase.”
“How good is Islam and how beautiful it is decorated with faith, and how good faith is and how beautiful is piety, how good is piety and how beautiful it is with knowledge, how good knowledge is and how beautiful it is forbearance, and how good is forbearance and how beautiful it is with kindness.”
Raja bin Haywa Al-Kindi played a pivotal role in the construction of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, as detailed by Imam Ibn Katheer. When Caliph Abd al-Malik sought to rebuild Jerusalem, he entrusted Raja bin Haywa and Yazid bin Salam, his master, with the task. Abundant resources were provided, including funds and skilled workers gathered from various regions.
Raja and Yazid meticulously oversaw the project, sparing no expense to ensure its magnificence. The dome was constructed with meticulous attention to detail, adorned with colored marble and outfitted with two types of coverings—one for winter and another for summer. Elaborate curtains were hung, and servants attended to the mosque with various perfumes, creating an ambiance of luxury and grandeur.
The splendor of the Dome of the Rock was unmatched, captivating visitors from far and wide. Its allure was such that pilgrims returning from Jerusalem carried the scent of musk, perfume, and incense with them for days. The beauty and opulence of the structure surpassed any other building of its time, drawing people's attention away from the Kaaba and Hajj.
In addition to his architectural achievements, Raja bin Haywa provided valuable counsel to Muslim leaders. He advised Sulaiman bin Abdul Malik on matters of succession, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of the Muslim community. His sincere advice and wisdom earned him respect and admiration among his peers.
Raja bin Haywa Al-Kindi passed away in the year 112 AH, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, leadership, and architectural brilliance. Ibn Hibban recognized him as a devout worshiper, ascetic, and jurist of the Levant, underscoring his enduring influence and significance.
Source
Achievements and Awards
- Years in active
: From
To