Renowned Saudi Hanafi Scholar Mufti Muhammad Umar Shafiq Hijazi Visits MMERC, Mumbai

EC News Desk
22/07/2026

Mumbai: A renowned Saudi scholar and eminent Hanafi jurist Mufti Muhammad Umar Shafiq Hijazi, who resides in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, visited Markazul Ma’arif Education & Research Centre (MMERC), Mumbai today. He was warmly received by the management, faculty members, and students of the institution.

Addressing the students, Mufti Hijazi spoke on the true essence and purpose of knowledge. He emphasized that real knowledge is that which leads a person to the recognition of Allah, and this is the knowledge of the Qur’an. All other branches of learning, despite their importance and usefulness, are essentially disciplines and skills, whereas the knowledge of divine revelation is what enlightens the heart and guides human life.

Highlighting the significance of language in conveying the message of Islam, Mufti Hijazi referred to the well-known incident of Zayd ibn Thabit (RA), whom the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged to learn the language. He explained that this demonstrates the vital role of language in communicating Islam effectively and reaching people in a manner they can understand.

Mufti Yahya Muin, a young Islamic scholar actively engaged in various educational and religious initiatives in Mumbai also addressed the students. He remarked that one of the greatest responsibilities of contemporary scholars is to present Islam to the younger generation (Gen Z) in a language and style they can easily comprehend. According to him, effective communication is indispensable for preserving the relevance of Islamic teachings in the modern world.

At the end of the speech, a student asked how one could maintain complete focus on a particular task. Responding to the question, Mufti Yahya Muin explained that sustained concentration depends on two essential principles: first, a genuine desire and strong commitment to achieve the goal; and second, avoiding everything that distracts the mind from the intended objective. He added that these two qualities form the foundation of consistency and success in both religious and worldly pursuits.

The visiting delegation also included Mufti Usama, Haji Rais, and Khalil Bhai, who accompanied Mufti Hijazi during the visit.

The visit proved to be an enriching experience for the students, offering valuable insights into the true purpose of knowledge, the importance of language in Islamic outreach, and the qualities required for academic and personal excellence. Such interactions with distinguished scholars continue to inspire students to pursue knowledge with sincerity, wisdom, and a deeper sense of responsibility, said M. Burhanuddin Qasmi, Director MMERC, Mumbai.