Ibn al-Musalaya served three Abbasid caliphs over a career at court that lasted for more than sixty years. During these decades of service, he ran the caliph’s chancery and served in high-level administrative roles. He also performed poems at court in honor of the caliphs and visiting dignitaries such as the vizier Nizam al-Mulk.

Key facts about Ibn al-Musalaya’s life:

Born in 1022 (412 ah)

Died in 1104 (497 ah)

Served three Abbasid caliphs (al-Qaʾim, al-Muqtadi, and al-Mustazhir) during a 65-year career

Converted to Islam in 1091 (484 ah)