Ibn Taymiyyas Approach to Ahlulbayt (AS)

The virtues and merits of Ahlulbayt, peace be upon them, is an issue which Muslims especially Sunnis concede not to mention several books written by scholars in this regard. The term Ahlulbayt refers to the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him and his family, Imam Ali, Sayyidah Fatimah, Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain, peace be upon them. There are many verses and traditions which make reference to the virtues and excellences of the household of the Prophet (S), and most of the Sunni scholars have accepted them. However, among them someone called Ibn Taymiyya has a different opinion. Although in some cases he has praised the household of the Prophet (S), he has denied their virtues and great attributes using other methods. At times, he has even criticized and insulted them. This study first seeks to examine Ibn Taymiyya's view about Ahlulbaty (AS). Thereupon, it criticizes his opinions and elaborates on Sunni scholars' reaction.