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A Revered Scholar Whose Loss Echoed Across the Muslim World

Who Was Dr. Ja’far Sheikh Idris?

Muslim News Staff
23 July, 2025

With the Muslim world still mourning the loss of Dr. Ja’far Sheikh Idris, many are reflecting on his remarkable legacy. Here’s a look at the life and impact of the late Muslim scholar:

Early Life and Traditional Roots

  • Born on June 15, 1931, in Port Sudan, Sudan.
  • Studied in both the modern school system and traditional Qur’anic settings.
  • Learned Qur’an, Hadith, Fiqh, and Arabic under local scholars.
  • Studied Islamic creed (Aqeedah) with Ansar al-Sunnah.

Academic Achievements

  • Earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy in 1970 through a joint program between the University of Khartoum and the University of London.
  • His doctoral thesis, “The Concept of Causality in Islam,” reflected his mission to connect traditional Islamic knowledge with modern philosophical inquiry.

Global Teaching and Leadership

  • Served as Chairman of the American Open University.
  • Directed the Research Center at the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences in America.
  • Taught Islamic Studies at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in the departments of Aqeedah, Da’wah, and Information.
  • Lectured at universities and Islamic centers across the Muslim and Western worlds.

A Lasting Legacy

  • Played a key role in shaping Islamic education in the West.
  • Authored numerous research papers and articles.
  • Mentored a generation of scholars and community leaders.
  • Consulted for leading Islamic organizations worldwide.

Remembered for his clarity of thought, academic rigor, and unwavering commitment to Islamic scholarship, his legacy continues to inspire and guide long after his passing. May Allah have mercy on him and grant him the highest place in Jannah.