even if an ordinary layman from some distant land were asked, “Who in this age is the most ascetic, the most complete in shunning worldly excess, and the most zealous in seeking the Hereafter?” he would answer, “I have never heard of anyone like Ibn Taymiyyah….” (1)

Among what he recorded about the Shaykh’s selflessness, despite his poverty:
“…He—may Allah be pleased with him—while so fiercely turning away from the world, renouncing it, living in poverty, and taking only the barest share of it, would still put others before himself with whatever of it might come to hand, whether little or much. He never belittled a small amount such that it kept him from giving it in charity, nor did he regard a large amount so highly that it deterred him from assisting others with it. He would give in charity until, finding nothing left, he would remove part of his own clothing—items he himself needed—and send them to the poor. From his own provisions he would retain only a meagre loaf, or two at most, and yet still prefer others over himself….” (2)

Concerning his humility, he wrote:
“I have neither seen nor heard of anyone among the people of his time like him in this regard. He would humble himself to young and old, to rich and poor alike. He would draw near to a righteous poor man, honour him, reassure him, and converse with him in a most pleasant manner—more so than he did with the wealthy. Indeed, he would sometimes serve him personally and help carry his belongings, mending his heart and seeking thereby nearness to his Lord.

He never wearied of someone who sought a legal ruling or posed a question. Rather, he would turn to him with a cheerful face and gentle demeanour, remain with him until the questioner himself took leave, and never embarrass or repel him with harsh words. Instead, he would answer him, make him understand, and gently distinguish right from wrong with kindness and openness….” (3)

And regarding his dress and appearance, he wrote:
“May Allah be pleased with him—he was moderate in both clothing and outward look; he did not wear luxurious garments…”