By Daniel Edu
Islamic scholarship has a rich history, and in the contemporary era, several prominent Islamic scholars have emerged who hold considerable influence within the global Muslim community. These scholars have contributed significantly to the understanding of Islamic thought and practice. Here are the top 5 influential Islamic scholars in the world today:
1. **Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips**
– Born as Dennis Bradley Philips in Kingston, Jamaica.
– Resides in Qatar and is a Canadian Islamic teacher, speaker, author, and founder of the International Open University.
– Established the Islamic Online University in Qatar in 2001.
– Author, translator, and commentator on more than 50 Islamic books.
– Known for his appearances on various national and satellite television channels, promoting Islamic teachings.
2. **Nouman Ali Khan**
– Pakistani-American Islamic speaker and Arabic instructor.
– Founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies.
– Recognized as one of the 500 most influential Muslims worldwide.
– Born in Germany, grew up in Saudi Arabia and later moved to New York.
3. **Mufti Ismail ibn Musa Menk**
– Zimbabwean Islamic scholar of Indian descent.
– Grand Mufti of Zimbabwe’s Muslim community and leads the fatwa department for the Council of Islamic Scholars of Zimbabwe.
– Recognized as one of the 500 Most Influential Muslims globally.
– Known for his international motivational speeches promoting peace and understanding.
4. **Khalid Yasin**
– American Islamic preacher residing in Manchester, England.
– Converted to Islam in 1965 and has been involved in spreading Islamic teachings worldwide.
– Known for his charismatic preaching style but has faced accusations of promoting radical Islam.
5. **Yusuf Estes**
– American Islamic preacher who converted to Islam in 1991.
– Served as a Muslim chaplain for the United States Bureau of Prisons.
– Honored as the Islamic Personality of the Year at the Dubai International Holy Quran Award ceremony in 2012.
– Founded Guide US TV, an Internet and satellite TV channel broadcasting Islamic programs.
These scholars represent a diverse range of backgrounds and have made significant contributions to Islamic education, propagation, and scholarship. They continue to impact and influence the global Muslim community through their teachings and advocacy.
