Religious Autobiography: Al-Munqidh mina al-Ḍalāl as an Example

This study examines the autobiographical nature of Abū Ḥamid Al-Ghazālī's well-known autobiography, Al-Munqidh mina al-Ḍalāl, or shortly Munqidh, as known in the West. The article places Al-Ghazālī's autobiography within the tradition of autobiographical writing in classical Arabic, particularly religious and mystical autobiographies. Special focus is given to the notion of ‘conversion' as it is the main plot and theme of the autobiography. The study also aims to show that this autobiography is better understood in light of modern research which emphasizes that this genre, especially in medieval ages, was not only partially shaped by certain values and purposes in the moment of composition, but also was significantly crafted to achieve specific purposes and values.