Escape from the Madrasa: The Life, Ideas, and Works of Imam al-Ghazālī is a scholarly work by Iranian academic and historian Abdolhossein Zarrinkoub. The book presents a comprehensive study of Abū Hāmid al-Ghazālī, one of the most influential figures in the history of Islamic thought. It explores his biography, intellectual development, and scholarly contributions. Through the lens of al-Ghazālī’s personal journey, the author offers a historical and philosophical framework for understanding broader transformations in the Islamic intellectual world. The work also contextualizes the scholarly environment, political structures, and cultural atmosphere of his time, while assessing the enduring impact of his ideas on later generations.

Subject

The book traces the key stages of al-Ghazālī’s life—from his early years and madrasa education to his academic career, interactions with political authorities, spiritual crisis, and eventual turn to Sufism. Zarrinkoub carefully analyzes the evolution of al-Ghazālī’s intellectual outlook and the historical conditions that shaped it. Special attention is given to his contributions in the fields of kalām (Islamic theology), philosophy, logic, jurisprudence (fiqh), and Sufism, highlighting the progression of his ideas across these disciplines. His major works and methodological approaches are evaluated within the larger context of Islamic intellectual history.

Themes

Knowledge and Epistemology

Al-Ghazālī’s approach to knowledge, his process of skeptical inquiry, and his embrace of mystical epistemology are explored in detail. The author emphasizes his pursuit of certain (yaqīnī) knowledge and the balance he sought between rational investigation and spiritual unveiling (kashf).

Inner Crisis and Spiritual Transformation

The book details the period of intellectual and moral crisis that led al-Ghazālī to withdraw from public academic life. This withdrawal marked a major turning point in both his personal and intellectual trajectory, ultimately guiding him toward Sufism.

The Relationship Between Reason and Revelation

A central theme is al-Ghazālī’s critical engagement with Greek philosophy and its perceived tension with Islamic theology. His critique of philosophical methods and his defense of religious knowledge are analyzed within their epistemological and theological contexts.

Society and Ethics

The book examines al-Ghazālī’s ethical views, his sense of personal responsibility, and his vision for social reform. These are discussed in connection with political theory and public morality.

The Legitimacy of Sufism

Zarrinkoub investigates al-Ghazālī’s theoretical justification for Sufism, its integration with other Islamic sciences, and its presentation as a valid and essential component of Islamic life.

Impact Through Major Works

The book systematically evaluates the content, goals, and historical influence of al-Ghazālī’s most significant works—including Iḥyāʾ ʿUlūm al-Dīn, al-Munqidh min al-Ḍalāl, and Tahāfut al-Falāsifah—demonstrating their central role in shaping classical and post-classical Islamic thought.