Abu al-Hasan Ali Ibn Muhammad Ibn Habib al-Mawardi was born at Basrah in (972 C.E)(362 A.H). He was educated at first in Basrah where, after completion of his basic education, he learned Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) from the jurist Abu al-Wahid al-Simari. He then went to Baghdad for advanced studies under Sheikh Abd al-Hamid and Abdallah al-Baqi.

His proficiency in jurisprudence ethics, political science and literature proved useful in securing a respectable career for himself. After his initial appointment as qadi (Judge), he was gradually promoted to higher offices, till he became the Chief Justice at Baghdad. The Abbasid Caliph al-Qaim bi Amrillah appointed him as his roving ambassador and sent him to a number of countries as the head of special missions.

Al-Mawardi was a great jurist, muhaddith, sociologist and an expert in political science. He was an eminent jurist and his book Al-Hawi on the principles of jurisprudence is held in high repute.

His contribution in political science and sociology comprises a number of monumental books, the most famous of which are Kitab al-Ahkam al-Sultania, Qanun al-Wazarah, and Kitab Nasihat al-Mulk. The books discuss the principles of political science, with special reference to the functions and duties of the caliphs, the chief minister, other ministers, relationships between various elements of public and government and measures to strengthen the government and ensure victory in war.

Al-Mawardi died in (1058 C.E)(448 A.H).