IN 704 – A Newly Translated Correspondence of Ibn Taymiyya Regarding Ibn ‘Arabi [French]

• EN 704 – Two Correspondences of Ibn Taymiyya Regarding Ibn ‘Arabi

The book EN 704 – Two Correspondences of Ibn Taymiyya Regarding Ibn ‘Arabi gathers three essential texts connected to the historic session held in 704 AH, during which several scholars examined the writings and ideas of Ibn ‘Arabi. This meeting offered a rare and direct insight into the controversial doctrine of monism (al-ittihâd, wahdat al-wujûd) and its theological implications. These authentic documents provide the reader with a clear and valuable perspective on major medieval Islamic debates.

• Ibn Taymiyya’s Analysis and His Critique of Mystical Doctrines

The first two letters, written by Ibn Taymiyya, present a rigorous study of Ibn ‘Arabi’s concepts. He highlights the problematic aspects of monism and pantheism (al-hulûl) and explains why these ideas contradict the authentic creed of Tawhîd. Through these correspondences, Ibn Taymiyya demonstrates both his scholarly precision and his deep sense of responsibility toward the Muslim community.

• A Third Insight: Ibn Shaykh al-Hazzâmiyyîn’s Letter

The third correspondence comes from ‘Imâd ad-Dîn Ibn Shaykh al-Hazzâmiyyîn, a close disciple of Ibn Taymiyya. Through an exhortative and sincere tone, he encourages students to remain attached to the truth and to avoid mystical deviations. His testimony sheds light on the human and intellectual bonds uniting the scholars of this era, reinforcing the doctrinal significance of EN 704 – Two Correspondences of Ibn Taymiyya Regarding Ibn ‘Arabi.

• Biographical Notes and Historical Annexes

The book includes concise biographies of the scholars who attended the 704 AH session, detailing their backgrounds and contributions. Two additional historical annexes enrich the work: one on the Mamluk sultans and one summarizing the refutation of monism, offering a clear contextual understanding of the political and intellectual environment of the time.

• A Recommended Complement: The Biography of Ibn Taymiyya

To further explore the life and influence of this exceptional scholar, readers may consult the work Biography of Ibn Taymiyya – An Exceptional Figure. It details his childhood, teachings, struggles, imprisonment, and the great scholars he trained, such as Ibn al-Qayyim, Ibn Kathîr, and al-Dhahabî.

• An Essential Work for Understanding Classical Theological Debates

Thoroughly documented yet accessible, EN 704 – Two Correspondences of Ibn Taymiyya Regarding Ibn ‘Arabi is an essential reference for anyone wishing to understand Ibn Taymiyya’s positions, the controversies surrounding Ibn ‘Arabi, and the major doctrinal debates that shaped classical Islamic thought.