Harmonizing Discursive Worlds: The Life and Times of Abu Al-Hasan Al-Harrali (D. 638/1241)

Abstract

This dissertation explores the intellectual and spiritual legacy biography of Abu al-Hasan al-Harrali (d. 638/1241), a Sufi-oriented polymath from the Maghrib who remains obscure in the Euro-American academy despite his considerable influence on a variety of fields within the Islamic tradition. Utilizing primary biographical, prosopographical, and annalistic sources, the present study identifies the various legist, theological, and mystical circles in which Harrali moved, including networks of teachers, associates, and students spread out across various political and social environments of the 12 and 13 century Arabic-speaking Islamic world.