Fudayl ibn Iyad

Fudayl ibn Iyad ibn Masud al-Tamimi al-Khurasani (105–187 AH) was one of the most famous ascetics and scholars of his era. Born in Khorasan, he reportedly led a group of bandits in his youth before experiencing a moment of spiritual transformation when he heard Quranic recitation, leading to his complete repentance. He relocated to Makkah where he became one of the leading scholars, sitting with Sufyan ibn Uyaynah and teaching Imam al-Shafi'i. He was known for his extreme piety, weeping, and powerful exhortations on the Day of Judgment. Harun al-Rashid visited him and was moved by his directness.