Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari facts for kids

Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari (born 838, died 923) was a very important Persian historian. He was also famous for explaining the Qur'an, which is the holy book of Islam. His most famous books are Tarikh al-Tabari (History of the Prophets and Kings) and Tafsir al-Tabari.

What's in a Name?

Al-Tabari's full name was Abu Jafar Muhammad ibn Jarir at-Tabari. The name "Tabari" means "from the province of Tabaristan". His name also means "father of Jafar" and "son of Jarir". He was named after the Prophet Muhammad.

A Life of Learning

Al-Tabari was born in a town called Amol, in Tabaristan. This area is about 20 kilometers south of the Caspian Sea. He was born in the winter of 838 or 839.

He was a very smart child from a young age. He left his home to study when he was only twelve years old, around the year 850 or 851. Even though he traveled a lot for his studies, he stayed connected to his hometown. He went back to Amol at least two times. The last time was in 903. However, his strong opinions caused some trouble, and he had to leave quickly.

Al-Tabari spent his life learning and writing. He became one of the most respected scholars of his time. His works are still studied by people today.

See Also

• List of historians by continent

In Spanish: Al-Tabari para niños

Images for kids

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  Tomb of al-Tabari in Baghdad, Iraq

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  Bal'ami's 14th century Persian version of Universal History by Tabari

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  Opening lines of the Quran from a Persian translation of Tabari's commentary