The Achievement of Saladin

Abstract

This study examines the biography of Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, going beyond his image as a military leader, and questioning whether his achievements stemmed from personal ambition or other moral motives. It draws upon a number of resources, such as the writings of Ibn al-Athir, Baha al-Din Ibn Shaddad, Imad al-Din al-Isfahani, as well as the reports and letters issued by Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi's secretary, al-Qadi al-Fadil. The study argues that Saladin's success was not based on his military or administrative genius, but rather on his virtuous character and his ability to inspire and unite Muslims. He succeeded in mobilizing the necessary forces to confront the Crusaders. The study concludes that Saladin's greatest achievement was an ethical one, as he sought to revive Islamic unity in a time of fragmentation, setting before his eyes a goal loftier than personal power.