Salahuddin Yusuf ibn Ayyub ( 1137 – 4 March 1193), commonly known as Salahuddin, was the founder of the Ayyubi dynasty.
He was born into a Kurdish family, he became the first sultan to rule over both Egypt and Syria. As a pivotal figure in the Third Crusade, he led the Muslim military campaign against the Crusader states in the Levant. During his reign, the Ayyubid empire expanded to include Egypt, Syria, Upper Mesopotamia, Hejaz, Yemen, and Nubia.
He is renowned not only in Islamic history but globally as one of the most illustrious conquerors and rulers. Born in 1138 in a city in Iraq, his empire extended over Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, and various other cities. His reputation for bravery, generosity, and wisdom earned him respect from both Muslims and Christians alike. Known as the conqueror of Baitul Maqdis (Jerusalem), Salahuddin famously reclaimed the city after defeating the combined European forces.
Salahuddin’s generosity extended even to his enemies. For instance, when a Christian woman’s three-year-old child was kidnapped, she came to him in tears. Moved by her plight, Salahuddin financed the search for the child, ultimately returning the child to the mother.
Wherever Salahuddin went, he focused on building universities, hospitals, and inns. The remnants of these institutions in Egypt and Iraq still bear witness to his contributions. He was not only a formidable warrior but also a man of great compassion. Historian Ibn Shaddad recounts that when the English king Richard the Lionheart fell ill, Salahuddin sent him fruits as a gesture of goodwill.
Many Christians, once hostile to him, were awed by his generosity and kindness, even when they were dying of hunger and thirst.
Salahuddin passed away in 589 AH (1193 AD) and was buried near the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. He ruled for 20 years, and historians note that his death was a profound loss for the Muslim world, rivaled only by the grief felt after the passing of the Caliphs of Rashidun.
Even the contemporary English poet Lynn Poole praised Sultan Salahuddin, highlighting the distinction between him and other rulers. While many monarchs commanded respect due to their power and status, Salahuddin earned it through his love for the people and genuine care for their well-being.
By:- BADRUDDUJA AMJADI TULSIPURI
TEACHER:- JAMIA AMIRUL MINAIYA MEENA NAGAR, CIRCULAR ROAD GONDA 271002 U.P
