Al-Safadi

Al-Safadi (also transliterated as as-Safadi or al-Safadi) refers to several historical figures of Arab and Muslim scholarship and leadership. The most prominent individual known by this name is:

• Salah al-Din Khalil ibn Aybak al-Safadi (1297-1363): A renowned Mamluk historian, geographer, and literary figure. He is best known for his multi-volume biographical dictionary, al-Wafi bi'l-Wafayat (The Complete Biographies), a comprehensive collection of biographies covering individuals from various fields and spanning different periods. This work is a valuable resource for understanding Mamluk society, culture, and politics. He also authored other significant works including literary anthologies and studies of rhetoric and prose.

The nisba (surname) "al-Safadi" indicates that the individual's origin or association is with the city of Safad (also spelled Safed or Tzfat), located in present-day northern Israel. The city has a rich history and was a significant center of Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), as well as an important administrative and commercial center during the Mamluk period.

Other individuals might have carried the same nisba, indicating a connection to Safad. Therefore, context is important when encountering the name "Al-Safadi" to determine the specific person being referenced.