Why was Ibn Taymiyyah given the title "Shaykh al-Islam" to the exclusion of other scholars who preceded him, especially since the questioner believes there were those more knowledgeable than him, and are there two scholars, each bearing the title "Ibn Taymiyyah"?

The title "Shaykh al-Islam" bestowed upon Ibn Taymiyyah stems from the breadth of his knowledge and the greatness of his impact. It is a well-deserved title for him, and others have also been given this title. Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar pointed out that Ibn Taymiyyah's fame with the title "Shaykh al-Islam" remains on pure tongues, and none deny it except one ignorant of his stature. This title is not denied to him, nor to those among the people of knowledge and virtue who deserved it. Many of the Al Taymiyyah family were known for their knowledge and virtue.