Sharawi, Shaykh Muhammad Mutawali al-

Sharawi, Shaykh Muhammad Mutawali al-

Etymology and Translation

• Arabic: الشيخ محمد متولي الشعراوي (Ash-Sheikh Muhammad Mutawalli Ash-Sharawi)
• Turkish: Şeyh Muhammed Mutavalli el-Şaravi

Biography and Contributions

Shaykh Muhammad Mutawali al-Sharawi (1911 – 1998) was a celebrated Egyptian religious scholar, prolific writer, and educator. He is particularly known for his contributions to Quranic exegesis (tafsir) and his impactful presence in Islamic education.

Early Life and Education

Born in Daqahlia Governorate, Egypt, al-Sharawi began his religious education at a young age. He studied at the Al-Azhar University, one of the most prestigious institutions of Islamic learning, where he cultivated his deep understanding of the Quran, Hadith, Islamic Law (Sharia), and other related fields.

Public Service and Ministry

In 1976, al-Sharawi was appointed as the Egyptian Minister of Endowments. However, he resigned after one year in 1978 to focus on scholarly and educational endeavors and maintained a cautious distance from political engagements.

Major Works and Publications

Al-Sharawi authored numerous vital works in Islamic scholarship, some of his notable contributions include:

1. Tafsir al-Sharawi (تفسير الشعراوي): A leading lexicographical exegesis of the Quran, making its meanings accessible to average Muslims.
2. The Great Fatwas (Al-Fatawa Al-Kubra): A comprehensive collection covering 400 varied religious and legal issues.
3. Other Religious Books: A multitude of publications on various Islamic subjects reflecting his scholarly depth and approachable style.

Legacy

Al-Sharawi’s interpretation sessions often aired on TV, turning him into a household figure across the Arab world. His weekly Quran interpretation sessions, broadcasted on Egyptian and other Arab television channels, continued to engender religious education even posthumously. His lectures and rational articulation of faith contributed immensely to grassroots Islamic education and modern-day relevance of Quranic tenets.

Key Attributes

• Engaging Public Speaker: Recognized for his powerful logic, clarity, and capacity to make complex religious concepts accessible.
• Educator Extraordinaire: Formed a direct connection with ordinary Muslims, promoting a deeper understanding of the Quran.
• Substantial Influence: Created significant works still revered in the field of Islamic Theology and Law.

Recommend Readings for Further Study

1. “Tafsir Al-Sharawi”: In-depth commentary on the Quran elucidating its meanings.
2. “Ash-Sharawi Speaks to Women” by Ghada Mexican: Offers insights into his perspective on women’s issues in Islam.
3. “Principles of Tafsir by Al-Sharawi”: A summarization useful for understanding the methodology of the science of Tafsir.

Takeaways and Conclusion

Shaykh Muhammad Mutawali al-Sharawi remains a seminal figure in modern Islamic scholarship. His ability to combine profound theological insights with an approachable teaching method made him a beloved and influential figure in the Arab world. His works continue to educate and inspire, reinforcing timeless religious principles in contemporary society.

Al-Sharawi’s legacy exemplifies the potent blend of deep knowledge, clear communication, and a genuine dedication to the spiritual uplifting of the Muslim community, serving as an exemplar for future generations of Islamic scholars.