I am suffering from grief. I am still processing the death of Dr. Maher Hathout who I loved dearly for over 30+ years. For my non-Muslim friends, just know the world has lost an incredible soul. I borrow from something I wrote back in 2013 when a tribute to him was done: Dr. Maher Hathout is a person whose life represents more than can be put in words. But on this occasion allow us to share with you, attempt to encapsulate, just some of what “Dr. Hathout” means to those of us who have been loved and mentored by him throughout the years. Dr. Maher Hathout is many people in one person. He is an inspiring leader, a renaissance intellectual, and a scholar and student of the Quran and Muslim history. He is a passionate visionary, a profound thinker, a poet, an author, a counselor, a spiritual guide, a civic trailblazer, and much more. All these descriptions, and the energy and depth needed to be all of these at once, is without exaggeration. His life and work are an example for all who know him and have been mentored by him. It is characterized by deep faith, tremendous personal sacrifice, penetrating wisdom, breathtaking oratory, seemingly unending stamina, a well of patience with difficult people and difficult situations, and genuine humility. And he is funny. Very funny. He has evoked many a belly laugh from those who listen to his talks, and who work with him in “the movement.” Throughout his life he has bravely spoken truth to power, whether Muslim or non Muslim, fearlessly taking on religious, intellectual, and political Goliaths all in pursuit of truth, justice, and equality. He has garnered the respect and advised U.S. Presidents and Statesmen, and leaders from abroad. He has been the trusted community leader many elected officials turn to in times of uncertainty. His work has touched the lives of many Muslims, opening new vistas for them both on a personal level and at a community level. Simply put, Dr. Hathout is one of those rare persons who does so much in this life, and who we pray God continues to bless him. Indeed, a tribute to him is fitting, and we respectfully pay ours. May God bless Dr. Hathout, and may God guide us all as we strive only in God’s cause. #MaherHathout - Omar Ricci
Posted on: Tue, 06 Jan 2015 18:03:21 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015