أحمد الرفاعي

Ahmad al-Rifa'i (RH)

512–578 AH · 1118–1182 CE

Sufism & Theology Shafi'i Sufism Fiqh

Founder of the Rifa'i order, known for his humility and compassion.

Ahmad al-Rifa'i was a Shafi'i jurist and Sufi who lived in the marshes of southern Iraq. He was known for extraordinary humility and gentleness, caring for the sick, the poor and even stray animals.

The Rifa'iyyah order, named after him, became one of the most widespread Sufi orders, especially in Iraq, Egypt, Syria and the Ottoman lands. Later followers became known for dramatic practices that he himself is not reported to have taught.

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