PhD Dissertation Defense on Doctrinal Aspects in Sheikh Al-Shaarawi’s Tafsir

The Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the Main Center of the Islamic University of Minnesota held a PhD dissertation defense on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 9:00 p.m. (Makkah time), via Zoom. The dissertation, titled “Doctrinal Aspects in the Interpretation of Names and Attributes in Sheikh Muhammad Metwally Al-Shaarawi’s Tafsir,” was submitted by the researcher Mona Sami Mohammed from the Arab Republic of Egypt.

The defense took place within a rigorous academic framework, with the dissertation analyzing Sheikh Mohammad Metwally Al-Shaarawi’s doctrinal methodology in interpreting the Names and Attributes of Allah, highlighting the scholarly principles and methodological guidelines he applied, and demonstrating its role in reinforcing a balanced understanding of the creed of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama’ah.

The examination committee comprised Professor Dr. Abdelrazeq Al-Bakri, Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies, as supervisor and chair; Professor Dr. Imad Abdo Al-Ajili, Head of the Department of Creed and Contemporary Doctrines, as internal examiner; and Dr. Khalaf Mohammed Metwally, faculty member, as external examiner.

The committee enriched the discussion with precise academic observations and valuable methodological guidance, addressing the dissertation’s scholarly structure, sources, methodology, and contribution to contemporary doctrinal studies. They praised the researcher’s mastery of the subject and the dissertation’s rigorous approach that combined authenticity with critical analysis.

At the conclusion of the defense, the committee commended the academic level of the research, emphasized the importance of the topic in advancing doctrinal and Tafsir studies, and appreciated the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research for its support of scholarly research and encouragement of specialized studies, contributing to the enhancement of the university’s academic and research standards.