Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh Passes Away

Saudi Arabia has announced the passing of its Grand Mufti, Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, who died on the morning of Tuesday, 23 September. The official announcement conveyed condolences using the Islamic phrase: “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” (Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return).

The news was confirmed by the Saudi Royal Court and reported by international media, including Gulf Times.

Upon his passing, King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed deep sorrow. In a royal statement, they extended their condolences to Sheikh Al-Sheikh’s family, the people of Saudi Arabia, and the broader Muslim community.

The statement noted:“With the passing of Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia and the entire Muslim world have lost a distinguished Islamic scholar, who dedicated his life to the service of Islam and Muslims.”

Funeral Arrangements

• Riyadh Funeral: His Janazah prayer will be held after the Asr prayer at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
• Absentia Prayers: Following the King’s directive, absentia Janazah prayers will be conducted at Masjid al-Haram, Masjid an-Nabawi, and other mosques across Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh made remarkable contributions to Islamic education and Da’wah (religious outreach) throughout his life:

• Hajj Sermons: Delivered the Hajj khutbah (sermon) continuously for 35 years from 1981. He retired from this role in 2016 due to old age.
• Academic and Religious Leadership: Served on the university academic council and as Imam at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque, delivering Friday sermons (Khutbah Jumu’ah).
• Arafat Khateeb: Acted as one of the preachers at Jabal Namirah, the historic Arafat prayer site.

Early Life and Education

• Born: 30 November 1943, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
• Lost his father before the age of eight
• Memorised the Quran in childhood
• Lost vision in one eye at age 20 but continued studies in Shariah and Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)

Sheikh Abdul Aziz authored numerous books and collections of fatwas on Shariah, Fiqh, Islamic creed (Aqidah), halal and haram rulings, and social-religious questions. His scholarly works continue to guide Muslims globally.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to Islamic scholarship, guidance, and service to the global Muslim community. His teachings, writings, and sermons remain influential across the Muslim world.

Sources: Arab News, Gulf News