Islamic University of Minnesota Mourns Passing of Sheikh Al-Huwaini

The Islamic University of Minnesota, the main center, has mourned the passing of the renowned scholar and hadith expert Sheikh Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini, who passed away on Monday, the 17th of Ramadan 1446 AH, corresponding to March 17, 2025. The university prays that Allah grants him vast mercy and dwells him in Paradise.

In the official statement of condolence issued by the university, it stated: "The loss of scholars is a gap in Islam, but our hope in Allah is that He will provide the Ummah with individuals who carry the banner of knowledge and uplift it."

In addition to the official condolence, the Vice President of the university and the head of the main center, Dr. Omar Ahmed Al-Maqrami, expressed his sadness over the loss of Sheikh Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini in a post on his personal Facebook page. Similarly, the university president, Professor Walid bin Idris Al-Meneesi, shared a certificate he had written about the late scholar, which was issued on Tuesday, the 15th of Dhul-Hijjah 1436 AH, corresponding to September 29, 2015, and published in the book "Heritage of Loyalty: Words, Testimonies, and Research Dedicated to Sheikh Abu Ishaq Al-Huwaini."

The certificate praises the sheikh’s prominence, stating: "When you see him, you see in his face the radiance that the Prophet prayed for the people of hadith. When you hear him, your soul is motivated toward righteous deeds." Dr. Al-Meneesi also highlighted the love people had for the sheikh and his positive impact on their hearts.

It is noteworthy that the book "Heritage of Loyalty" was published by Dar Ibn Al-Jawzi in Dammam and sheds light on various aspects of Sheikh Abu Ishaq al-Huwaini's life. The book includes a brief biography, testimonies from scholars, poetry, and valuable research about his knowledge and contributions to the field of hadith.

The late scholar, Abu Ishaq Hegazy bin Mohammed bin Youssef bin Sharif Al-Huwaini, was born in the village of Huwain in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate in 1956. He was distinguished by his scholarly achievements, having authored numerous books in the science of hadith, in addition to his well-known da'wah efforts through Friday sermons and television programs.