Egypt’s religious and academic circles mourned on Tuesday the passing of Dr. Ahmed Omar Hashem, a prominent scholar of Hadith, member of Al-Azhar’s Council of Senior Scholars, and former president of Al-Azhar University, who passed away early Tuesday after a long and distinguished career devoted to serving Islam and promoting its values of moderation and enlightenment.
Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb led the tributes, describing the late scholar as one of the most distinguished Hadith scholars of the modern era. In a statement, the Grand Imam said Dr. Hashem’s sermons, writings, and lectures will remain enduring sources of knowledge and guidance for students and researchers worldwide. He extended his sincere condolences and sympathy to the family of the deceased and to Al-Azhar’s scholarly community.
Minister of Awqaf Dr. Osama Azhari also mourned the passing of Dr. Hashem, praising his lifelong dedication to the service of the Prophet’s Sunnah and his pivotal role in spreading the principles of moderate Islam. Azhari described the late scholar as a symbol of wisdom, eloquence, and patriotism, and a mentor to generations of scholars and preachers who benefited from his vast knowledge and leadership.
Dr. Ahmed Omar Hashem leaves behind a rich intellectual and spiritual legacy, having played a key role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and reinforcing Al-Azhar’s mission as a beacon of tolerance, faith, and scholarly excellence.
