Shaikh Mohammad Al-Ghazali Al Saqqa

Mohammad Al-Ghazali grew up in a religious home and memorized the Holy Quran in his early life. He studied in Al-Azhar, specializing in religious Guidance, and obtained a Master’s degree in Arabic Language. Within a few years, he became widely recognized as one of the most influential contemporary Islamic thinkers. He was also a zealous defender of Islam and a powerful opponent of extremism within the Islamic world.

After graduation, Al-Ghazali served for a short period as a preacher and Imam, then became an Inspector of Mosques, rising quickly to the positions of a Director of the Departments of Mosques, Daawa, and Guidance, and a Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments in Egypt. He was seconded, at various times, to the Islamic University in Makkah (Saudi Arabia), the College of Sharia in Qatar, and the Emir Abdulqadir Al-Jazairi University in Algiers. He traveled extensively in the Islamic World and was fully aware of Muslim conditions in Islamic countries and throughout the world.

Shaikh Al-Gazali was an intellectual of great caliber, and his thought derived from numerous sources. This was reflected in the depth and breadth of his knowledge. He authored more than 60 books and numerous articles on Islam, and contributed enormously to the interpretation of the Holy Qur’an. His ardent support of Muslim rights, as well as his wisdom and moderation, earned him the respect of millions of Muslims and non-Muslims around the world.

This biography was written in the year the prize was awarded.