OverviewA writer from Basra whose books explored animals, language and people’s habits.CategoryScholarPeriodBirth date unknown · d. c. 869 CE
Life and settingAl-Jahiz grew up in Basra’s active scholarly and literary world and later spent time in Baghdad. He learned from language scholars and participated in theological debates.Source: TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
Work and legacyHe was associated with Mu‘tazili theology, whose positions were disputed by other Muslim scholars. His major contribution to Arabic prose does not make every theological opinion an agreed Islamic teaching.Source: TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
SourcesOriginal concise biography based on the cited references. Historical reports, later devotional traditions and uncertain dates are distinguished where relevant.TDV Encyclopaedia of Islam
