Abdur Razzaq ibn Afifi ibn Atiyyah

Abdur Razzaq ibn Afifi was born in Shanshur, Egypt, in 1905 CE (1323 AH). He received his primary Islamic education in Egypt, studying at Al-Azhar University and becoming well-versed in the traditional Islamic sciences. He later moved to Saudi Arabia, where his exceptional scholarly abilities were recognized, and he was appointed to prominent educational and religious positions.

His most significant role was as the deputy chairman of the Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta, serving alongside Chairman Sheikh Ibn Baz. In this capacity, he participated in the formulation of thousands of official religious rulings (fatwas) that addressed every aspect of Islamic practice for Muslims in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. His influence on these rulings was substantial — while Ibn Baz was the public face of the Committee, Afifi's scholarly rigor and depth of knowledge were essential to the quality and precision of the Committee's output.

Sheikh Afifi was known for his precise methodology, his mastery of the principles of jurisprudence (usul al-fiqh), and his ability to apply classical scholarship to contemporary questions. He taught at the Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University and supervised numerous doctoral dissertations. He also served on the Council of Senior Scholars. He passed away in 1994 CE (1415 AH) in Saudi Arabia, having contributed decisively to the scholarly framework that guides millions of Muslims in their religious practice.