A special gathering was held today in Istanbul to honor the memory of the late Sheikh Abdul Majid al-Zindani, a prominent scholar who dedicated his life to knowledge and the service of Islam. Al-Zindani, who trained thousands of students worldwide, guided the intellectual lives of many teachers, and greatly contributed to spreading the light of Islam, was remembered with respect and prayers for mercy during the program.
The meeting highlighted Al-Zindani’s passion for serving Islam from a young age. It was recounted that, at the age of 18, he took the Holy Qur’an and made a solemn intention: "I will make the first verse I come across the purpose of my life." Upon opening the Mus'haf (physical copy of the Qur'an), he encountered Surah Al-Ankabut (The Spider), Verse 69:
“And those who strive for Us—We will surely guide them to Our paths. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”
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After reading the verse, he reportedly raised his hands in prayer, making this profound supplication: “O Lord, please let half be from me and half from You. I will do my best to reform myself, but I can never do it without Your help.”
A Life Dedicated to Faith and Service
It was stated during the meeting that Al-Zindani’s prayer was accepted, and his life was spent in devotion to faith, the Qur’an, and his cause. The attendees emphasized that the path of service to which he dedicated his life closely resembled that of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi.
Foundational Teachings and the ‘University of Faith’
The program noted that Al-Zindani frequently reminded his students of a crucial principle: “Whoever does not attain faith cannot attain anything.”
Furthermore, the late scholar continually recited and placed Surah An-Nur (The Light), Verse 55 at the center of his mission and understanding of the Da’wah (call to Islam):
“Allah has promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He will surely grant them succession [to authority] upon the earth just as He granted it to those before them and that He will surely establish for them [therein] their religion which He has preferred for them and that He will surely substitute for them, after their fear, security, [for] they worship Me and associate nothing with Me. But whoever disbelieves after that, then those are the defiantly disobedient.”
His decision to name the institution he founded in Yemen as ‘Iman University’ (University of Faith) was hailed at the gathering as an exemplary display of commitment, clearly demonstrating the paramount importance he placed on the service of faith.
The participants concluded by affirming that the legacy of knowledge, cause, and service left by the late Sheikh Abdul Majid al-Zindani continues to impact the Ummah (global Muslim community) today, ending their prayers with the hope:
“May he rest in peace”
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