Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (1058–1111 CE), also known as Al-Ghazali, was a prominent Persian theologian, philosopher, and mystic of the Islamic Golden Age. Born in Tus, Iran, he studied law, theology, and philosophy in his youth. Al-Ghazali rose to prominence as a scholar and teacher, eventually becoming a leading figure at the prestigious Nizamiyya madrasa in Baghdad.

After experiencing a spiritual crisis, Al-Ghazali underwent a profound spiritual transformation, leading him to abandon his academic career and embark on a journey of self-discovery and devotion to Sufism. During this period, he wrote his magnum opus, "Ihya' 'Ulum al-Din" (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), a comprehensive work on Islamic spirituality, ethics, and jurisprudence.

Al-Ghazali's writings emphasized the importance of inward reflection, sincerity of intention, and spiritual purification in the practice of Islam. He sought to reconcile Islamic theology with philosophy and mysticism, aiming to provide guidance for both scholars and laypeople in their pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.

Al-Ghazali's influence extended far beyond his lifetime, shaping the development of Islamic thought and spirituality for centuries to come. His works remain widely read and studied, and he is revered as one of the greatest theologians and mystics in Islamic history.