Abdurrahman as-Sadi

Abdurrahman ibn Nasir as-Sa'di (1889-1956 CE / 1307-1376 AH) was a Saudi scholar born in Unayzah, Qasim, who became one of the most respected religious authorities in the Arabian Peninsula. He studied under local scholars and through extensive self-study, mastering the Islamic sciences with particular depth in tafsir, fiqh, and theology. He served as imam and teacher in Unayzah for most of his life.

As-Sa'di's most celebrated work is Taysir al-Karim ar-Rahman fi Tafsir Kalam al-Mannan (Facilitating the Understanding of the Generous Lord in the Interpretation of the Speech of the Benefactor), commonly known as Tafsir as-Sa'di. This tafsir is distinguished by its clarity, focus on practical guidance, and accessible language that makes Quranic interpretation understandable to both scholars and laypeople. He also authored al-Qawa'id al-Hisan li-Tafsir al-Quran on principles of Quranic interpretation; Bahjat Qulub al-Abrar on selected hadith; al-Qawl as-Sadid Sharh Kitab at-Tawhid on creed; and Manhaj as-Salikin, a concise manual of Hanbali fiqh.

As-Sa'di was known for his gentle character, his concern for the common people's understanding of Islam, and his balanced approach to religious issues. He was the primary teacher of Muhammad ibn al-Uthaymeen, who became one of the most influential scholars of the late 20th century. His tafsir has been translated into numerous languages and remains one of the most widely read and recommended Quran commentaries for general readers in the Muslim world.