Siraj Wahhaj facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Siraj Wahhaj
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| Born |
Jeffrey Kearse
March 11, 1950 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Islamic scholar |
| Spouse(s) | Wadiyah Wahhaj |
Siraj Wahhaj (Arabic: سراج وهّاج) was born as Jeffrey Kearse on March 11, 1950. He is an African-American imam, which is a leader in the Muslim faith. He leads the Al-Taqwa mosque in Brooklyn, New York. He also leads The Muslim Alliance in North America (MANA). He used to be the vice-president of the Islamic Society of North America.
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Siraj Wahhaj: A Life of Faith and Community
Siraj Wahhaj is a well-known American Muslim leader. He has worked to build strong communities. He is known for his efforts to help people. He has also promoted understanding of Islam.
Early Life and Spiritual Journey
Siraj Wahhaj was born Jeffrey Kearse in Brooklyn, New York. His mother was a nurse. His father worked as a dietitian at a hospital. Growing up, he went to church often. As a teenager, he became a Sunday school teacher. This was at a Baptist church.
In 1969, he left school. He joined a group called the Nation of Islam. During this time, he changed his name to Jeffrey12x. He later said that he felt "other than [him]self" during this period. He realized that some of his beliefs were not right. He learned that pride should not lead to putting others down.
In 1975, the leader of the Nation of Islam, Elijah Muhammed, passed away. Jeffrey's beliefs began to change. He decided to become a Sunni Muslim. This was encouraged by Muhammad's son, Warith Deen Mohammed. Mohammed helped members move towards traditional Islam. Jeffrey then changed his name again to Siraj Wahhaj. This new name means "bright light" in Arabic. In 1978, he was chosen to study Islam for four months. He studied at the Umm al-Qura University in Mecca, a holy city.
Building a Community and Helping Others
In 1981, Siraj Wahhaj started a mosque. It was in a friend's apartment in Brooklyn. Soon, the community bought an old clothing store. This building became Masjid at-Taqwa. Siraj Wahhaj leads daily prayers there. He also gives the Friday sermon. He teaches Islamic studies and Arabic. He also offers advice for married couples.
In 1988, he worked with the local police. He led the Muslim community in an anti-drug patrol. This effort was praised by the New York City Police Department. It also gained attention from news around the world.
In 1991, Siraj Wahhaj made history. He became the first Muslim to give an opening prayer. This prayer was at the United States House of Representatives. This is a very important part of the U.S. government.
Family Life
Siraj Wahhaj has eight children. As of May 2023, their ages range from 31 to 51.
