Muhammad Metwally Al Shaarawy, one of the most prominent religious scholars and interpreters of the Holy Qur’an in the modern Islamic world. Born in the village of Dakadous in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt, on April 15, 1911, he was known for his wisdom and simplicity of his style of interpreting the Holy Quran, which made him close to the hearts of people of different cultural and social levels.
Growing up and educating
El Shaarawy grew up in a humble family concerned with religious values and morals. From a young age, he showed a great passion for science and religion, as he completed memorizing the Holy Quran at an early age of no more than eleven. This achievement was the beginning of his journey with science and interpretation.
After completing his basic education, he joined the Zakaziki seminary, where he studied Arabic and Islamic law. Later, he joined Al-Azhar University and specialized in Arabic, which enabled him to delve into legal texts in a distinctive linguistic style.
The beginning of the career
Al-Shaarawy began his career as a teacher at Al-Azhar, where he transmitted his knowledge in a simple and influential manner. He then moved to work outside Egypt in Saudi Arabia, where he served as a professor of Islamic law at um Al-Qura University. This period contributed to the development of his intellectual approach and his communication with a wider audience.
His wisdom and influence
Muhammad Metwally al-Shaarawy was nicknamed the “Imam of the Preachers”, a title that expresses his influential role in the Islamic call. He was distinguished by his wise and simple style that suits all segments, from scholars and intellectuals to simple people. He always based his speech on three basic principles:
- Simplicity in proposition: Colloquial language is sometimes used to illustrate complex ideas, which helped bring religion closer to the general public.
- Tolerance and leniency advocacy: He preached wisdom and good advice, and focused on the positive values in Islam.
- Interpretation of the Qur’an with its spiritual meanings: He believed that the Qur’an addresses both the mind and the soul, which was reflected in his interpretation, which combined the apparent and inner meanings.
His works and achievements
- The famous interpretation of the Holy Quran: Al-Shaarawy’s interpretation of the Holy Quran is his most prominent work and one of the reasons for his wide fame. This interpretation was presented on Egyptian television in weekly episodes, where he interpreted the verses in a manner that combines science and life experience.
- Books and Books: Al-Shaarawy has written many books that dealt with various religious topics, most notably:
- “Thoughts of Shaarawy”: It is a brief interpretation of the Qur’an.
- “Physical Evidence of the Existence of God”: In which Al-Shaarawy discusses issues of belief in God in a rational manner.
- “Isra and Mi’raj”: A book in which Al-Shaarawy explains the spiritual meanings of this great incident.
- Lessons and lectures: He gave lectures and lessons in mosques and universities, focusing on human values, such as mercy, justice, and charity.
Values & Principles
Al-Shaarawy was a symbol of tolerant Islamic morality. Among its most prominent values:
- Humility: Despite his high scientific status, he was close to people and treated everyone with friendliness and respect.
- Optimism: He always called for hope, seeing every adversity as a gift from God.
- Sincerity: He was an example to the world seeking God’s face in every work.
Impact and legacy
- In Egypt and the Islamic world: Al-Shaarawy was able to be a unifying figure for all spectrums of society. His voice was present in every Egyptian and Arab home, where he was able to bring religion closer to people’s daily lives.
- Worldwide: He was influenced by international and Muslim figures in the West, where his lectures and lessons were translated into several languages.
Research and studies about it
- Many academic studies have been conducted on his style of interpreting the Qur’an, focusing on his combination of linguistic and spiritual interpretation.
- His biography was written by many historians who tried to document his career as an inspiration for future generations.
His death and legacy
El Shaarawy died on June 17, 1998, at the age of 87, leaving behind a great legacy of science and advocacy. Many charities and mosques were built in his name, and his work continues to inspire millions around the world.
Muhammad Metwally Al Shaarawy was not just a preacher or interpreter of the Qur’an, but a model for a wise scholar who understood religion for what it really was as a message of mercy and guidance. His life is full of lessons that inspire generations in the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and community service.
