Yousef al-Qaradawi
Islamic scholar, theologian, influential voice in modern Islamic jurisprudence
Yousef al-Qaradawi (born September 9, 1926) is an Egyptian Islamic scholar, theologian, and jurist who has been one of the most influential voices in modern Islamic thought. He founded the European Council for Fatwa and Research and served as the spiritual guide of the Muslim Brotherhood for decades. Al-Qaradawi is known for his prolific writings on Islamic law and ethics, authoring over 120 books that have been translated into multiple languages. His work attempts to bridge classical Islamic jurisprudence with contemporary issues, addressing topics ranging from finance to bioethics. Despite his scholarly contributions to Islamic discourse, he has been a controversial figure, with supporters praising his efforts to modernize Islamic thought and critics questioning some of his theological positions and political affiliations. His career spans over seven decades of religious scholarship and influence across the Arab world and beyond.
Historical Figure
Egyptian
1926
Thinking about the name
Yousef
Arabic origin
“An Arabic transliteration of the prophet Joseph (Yusuf), Yousef is highly revered in Islamic tradition and Middle Eastern culture. The name represents beauty, wisdom, and moral fortitude—Joseph is considered one of the Quran's most beloved figures. Yousef offers a spiritual anchor while feeling contemporary in Western contexts.”