(Chair, Al Qalam, Bradford)
Mufti Muhammed Zubair Butt
Mufti Muhammed Zubair Butt is a distinguished Islamic scholar with extensive expertise in traditional Islamic sciences and contemporary ethical issues, particularly in the field of Islamic medical ethics. His journey of scholarship began at a young age and has led him to become a leading voice on Islamic law in the UK.
Early Education and Memorization of the Qur’an
Mufti Zubair was born in the UK and committed the entire Holy Qur'an to memory by the age of 16, a remarkable achievement that marked the beginning of his scholarly pursuits. He went on to receive Ijazahs (authoritative licenses) in the ten variant recitations (Qira’at) of the Holy Qur’an at the prestigious Institute of Islamic Education in Dewsbury, UK.
Advanced Islamic Studies
Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Mufti Zubair pursued higher Islamic education at renowned institutions. He studied various traditional Islamic sciences, including:
- Arabic language and literature
- Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)
- Usul al-Fiqh (principles of jurisprudence)
- Hadith (Prophetic traditions)
- Usul al-Hadith (principles of Hadith interpretation)
- Tafseer (exegesis of the Qur'an)
- Usul al-Tafseer (principles of exegesis)
His dedication and scholarly prowess led him to Darul Uloom Karachi, Pakistan, where he completed his Shahaadah al-‘Aalamiyyah (equivalent to a master's degree in Islamic studies) in 1995 under the tutelage of world-renowned Islamic scholars.
Specialization in Fatwa Issuance
In 1997, Mufti Zubair took his scholarship to a higher level by specializing in the issuance of fatwas (Islamic legal edicts). He completed a post-graduate specialization under the esteemed guidance of Shaykh Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani, one of the foremost scholars of Islamic jurisprudence globally. This qualification has made him an authority on Islamic legal matters and a respected Mufti in the UK.
Leadership and Advisory Roles
Currently, Mufti Muhammed Zubair Butt holds the position of Senior Advisor on Islamic Law at the Institute of Islamic Jurisprudence in Bradford. In this role, he provides expert guidance on a wide range of issues, ensuring that Islamic legal rulings align with contemporary challenges while maintaining fidelity to traditional principles.
As Chair of Al Qalam, Mufti Zubair oversees the organization’s efforts in providing ethical and legal guidance to British Muslims. Al Qalam is a highly regarded institution that deals with modern-day fiqh issues, including financial matters, medical ethics, and social responsibilities.
Contributions to Medical Ethics and Health Sector
Mufti Zubair’s contributions to the field of Islamic medical ethics are particularly noteworthy. He serves as a leading authority on matters related to organ transplants, autopsy, and end-of-life care, areas where modern medical practices intersect with Islamic ethical frameworks. As a regular lecturer at the University of Leeds, he speaks on the Ethics of Transplants and Autopsy, shedding light on how Islamic principles can guide healthcare practices in ethically complex situations.
In addition to his academic contributions, Mufti Zubair plays an active role in various health and education-related organizations, serving as a Shariah Advisor and member of several ethical and advisory committees. His input in these fields ensures that Islamic perspectives are considered in decision-making processes that impact the Muslim community.
Public Speaking and Seminar Contributions
Mufti Zubair is a sought-after speaker at seminars and conferences across the UK, particularly on topics related to Islamic medical ethics. His ability to bridge traditional Islamic teachings with contemporary issues makes his talks relevant to both religious scholars and professionals in the medical and legal fields. He frequently contributes to discussions on the ethical dimensions of modern medical practices, providing invaluable insight into how Islamic law can navigate these challenges.
Conclusion
Mufti Muhammed Zubair Butt’s extensive education, deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, and contributions to the field of Islamic medical ethics have made him a highly respected figure in both academic and religious circles. As Chair of Al Qalam and a Senior Advisor at the Institute of Islamic Jurisprudence, he continues to guide the Muslim community through complex legal and ethical issues. His teaching and public speaking engagements, particularly in the field of medical ethics, reflect his commitment to ensuring that Islamic principles remain relevant and accessible in today’s world.