The great saladin

Today, 25 Jumada al-Thani 1446 AH, marks a fascinating historical anniversary. Approximately 882 years ago, on this very date in 564 AH (1169 CE), Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, widely known as Saladin, ascended to power as the first Sultan of Egypt. This pivotal moment in Islamic and world history came after he successfully consolidated his authority following the decline of the Fatimid Caliphate.

Saladin, of Kurdish origin, is celebrated not only for his military acumen but also for his leadership, statesmanship, and chivalry. His rise to power in Egypt set the stage for his eventual unification of Muslim territories in the Levant, leading to his famous role in the Crusades. He is best remembered for recapturing Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187 CE after the decisive Battle of Hattin, an event that earned him a legendary status among both Muslims and Christians for his magnanimity toward his defeated enemies

This anniversary offers a moment to reflect on the legacy of Saladin, whose vision and leadership reshaped the political and cultural landscape of the medieval Islamic world.