Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi was born in Rayy (modern-day Iran), a city renowned as a center of learning and culture. While the exact date of his birth remains uncertain, it is estimated to be around 865 CE. Little is known about his early childhood. He was born into a well-respected family that fostered his intellectual curiosity. The culturally vibrant atmosphere of Rayy greatly influenced his future pursuits and the development of his polymathic interests.

Before dedicating himself to medicine, al-Razi explored various fields. He was reportedly a skilled lute player and singer, indicating an appreciation for the arts. He also delved into philosophy, engaging with various schools of thought. Furthermore, he spent a considerable amount of time pursuing alchemy, driven by the ambition to transmute base metals into gold. This period of diverse interests likely honed his observation skills and analytical abilities, which proved invaluable in his later medical career.