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Imam Abu Hanifa (R.A), one of the most influential Islamic scholars and jurists in Islamic history, died in the year 150 Hijri, which corresponds to 767 CE. His death occurred in Baghdad during the early Abbasid era, under the rule of Caliph Abu Ja'far Al-Mansur.

Abu Hanifa's full name was Nu‘mān ibn Thābit, and he was the founder of the Hanafi school of jurisprudence — the most widely followed legal school in the Sunni Muslim world. His death marked the end of a significant chapter in Islamic legal thought but laid the foundation for centuries of scholarly work that would follow.

Imam Abu Hanifa was well known for his sharp intellect, deep piety, and independent reasoning (ijtihad). He lived during a politically tense time, especially during the transition from Umayyad to Abbasid rule. He famously refused to accept official judicial positions under both dynasties, particularly declining the post of Chief Judge offered by Caliph Al-Mansur. His refusal led to his imprisonment, and historical reports suggest he may have been subjected to torture during his final days. Some accounts indicate he died in prison or shortly after being released, though these details are debated.

Despite political difficulties, Imam Abu Hanifa’s students carried forward his legacy. Among them were scholars such as Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Muhammad al-Shaybani, who systematized and documented the Hanafi fiqh.

The Hanafi school is known for its rational approach to Islamic law, emphasizing analogical reasoning (qiyas) and juristic preference (istihsan) in addition to the Quran and Hadith. The year 150 Hijri, therefore, is not only the year of Imam Abu Hanifa’s death but also a milestone in the development of Islamic legal tradition.

His grave is located in the Al-Adhamiyah district of Baghdad, which remains a site of historical and spiritual significance to this day.