Effat University

Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)

GISL125 (1)

Ahmad Dannoui
S22107933
Walaa Oudah
S19105649

Spring 2024 Research paper

Effat University
Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)

Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi

- Abstract:
Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi, or Saladin as commonly known, stands out as a
remarkable figure in Islamic history.
This paper talks about his life, from his humble beginning to his rise as a
leader during the Crusades.
Through studying Salah ad-Din's background, military campaigns,
governance, and lasting impact, we gain insight into his significant
contributions to the medieval Islamic world.

- Introduction:
Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi's story is one of resilience and leadership.
Born in 1137 in Tikrit, Iraq, he rose to prominence during the Crusades,
a pivotal period in Islamic history. Despite facing numerous challenges,
Salah ad-Din's dedication to his faith and people propelled him
forward.
Effat University
Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)

- Early life and background:

Salah ad-Din's upbringing was steeped in Islamic traditions.
Raised in a Sunni Muslim family, he received an education
encompassing theology, law, and military strategy.
In his formative years, he instilled in him values of honor, duty, and
piety.

- Personal Virtues and Characteristics:

Throughout his life, Salah ad-Din was admired for his integrity,
generosity, and sense of honor. He valued loyalty and trustworthiness in
his companions and rewarded those who demonstrated these virtues. His
conduct on and off the battlefield exemplified the chivalric ideals of
medieval Islamic society, earning him respect and admiration from both
allies and adversaries alike.

- Rise of power:
Salah ad-Din's journey to power began with his service in the Zengid
dynasty's military.
His exceptional leadership skills quickly earned him recognition and
advancement. In 1169, he seized control of Egypt, laying the
groundwork for his dynasty.
Effat University
Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)

- Military campaigns:
Salah ad-Din's military campaigns against the Crusaders are well-
documented. His most notable victory came in 1187 with the recapture
of Jerusalem at the Battle of Hattin.
His honorable treatment of adversaries earned him respect, showcasing
his commitment to Islamic principles even in the heat of battle.

- Governance and Administration:

As a ruler, Salah ad-Din implemented reforms aimed at improving
governance and fostering prosperity. He centralized administration,
reformed taxation, and invested in public works projects. His
dedication to justice earned him the admiration of his subjects.

- Legacy:
Salah ad-Din's legacy extends beyond his military conquests. His
reputation as a just ruler and noble warrior endures to this day. His
efforts to unite the Islamic world against external threats laid a
foundation for future generations to build upon.
Effat University
Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)

- Conclusion:
Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi's life serves as an inspiration for leaders and
individuals alike. His unwavering commitment to justice and his people
embodies the ideals of integrity and courage. Through studying Salah
ad-Din's life, we gain insight into the complexities of medieval Islamic
history and the enduring struggle for righteousness.

- Personal opinion:
Exploring Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi's personal life offers a more nuanced
understanding of the man behind the historical figure, revealing the
values and principles that guided his actions and shaped his enduring
legacy.

- References:
-Maalouf, Amin. "The Crusades Through Arab Eyes." Vintage, 1989.
-Eddé, Anne-Marie. "Saladin." Harvard University Press, 2011.
Effat University
Spring 2024
GISL125 (1)
-Lane-Poole, Stanley. "Saladin and the Fall of Jerusalem." Gorgias Press LLC, 2002.
-Cahen, Claude. "The Formation of the Muslim State." Kegan Paul International, 1987.
-Ibn Shaddad, Bahā' al-Dīn. "The Rare and Excellent History of Saladin." Ashgate
Publishing, 2002