Nur-ud-Din Zanki: Translated by Mufti Abdullah Moolla

“The Rightly Guided Khalifah”

Nur-ud-Din Zanki: The Rightly Guided Khalifah is a detailed biography of one of the most respected and influential leaders in Islamic history.

The Just King (Al Malik Al Adil) Nur-ud-Din Mahmud ibn ‘Imad ad-Din Zanki Al-Ayyubi was renowned for his justice, piety, and unwavering commitment to the Shari‘ah, to the extent that some historians regarded him as the sixth of the Rightly Guided Caliphs.

This work presents Nur-ud-Din as a ruler who combined political authority with deep spiritual discipline. He was known for his ascetic lifestyle, devotion to worship, and generosity in charity. He supported scholars and people of righteousness, established madrasahs throughout the lands of Sham, and dedicated his rule to the service of Islam and the Muslim community.

The book also explores Nur ad-Din’s decisive role in Islamic history. He dismantled the Fatimid state, strengthened the foundations of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah in Egypt and Sham, and successfully repelled the Second Crusade. His leadership laid the groundwork for future victories, including the rise of Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, one of his most prominent students and successors.

Authored by the esteemed scholar Imam Badr-ud-Din ibn Qadi Shuhbah (d. 874 AH), this is the first independent work devoted entirely to the life of Nur-ud-Din Zanki. The biography brings together historical accounts of his justice, mercy, steadfastness, and lasting legacy, making it an essential read for students of Islamic history and leadership.

Translated into English by Mufti Abdullah Moolla, this edition makes an important classical biography accessible to contemporary readers.