(Senior Lecturer, Al Balagh Academy, UK)
Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah
Shaykh Muhammad Mustaqeem Shah is a seasoned Islamic scholar and academic with an illustrious background in both traditional Islamic sciences and contemporary legal studies. As a senior lecturer at Al Balagh Academy, Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah brings decades of teaching experience and profound knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and interfaith dialogue. His diverse educational and professional experiences make him a unique and valuable contributor to Islamic education and outreach, both in the UK and internationally.
Traditional Islamic Scholarship: Foundations at Darul Uloom Karachi
Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah’s journey in Islamic scholarship began at one of the most prestigious Islamic institutions in the world, Darul Uloom Karachi, Pakistan. Under the tutelage of world-renowned Islamic scholar Shaykh Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani, Shaykh Mustaqeem completed the Shahaadah al-‘Aalamiyyah in 1995, a degree recognized globally as one of the highest certifications in Islamic sciences. His training involved rigorous studies in:
- Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence): The understanding and application of Islamic law.
- Usul al-Fiqh: The principles of Islamic jurisprudence, focusing on the methodology of deriving legal rulings.
- Hadith: The study of the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), including both Hadith literature and Usul al-Hadith (the principles of Hadith interpretation).
- Tafseer: The exegesis of the Qur'an, focusing on its meanings and applications.
- Arabic language and literature: Mastery of classical Arabic, enabling him to engage deeply with foundational Islamic texts.
During his time at Darul Uloom, Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah was awarded an Ijazah in Hadith from Shaykh Mufti Taqi Usmani, an endorsement that authorizes him to transmit and teach Hadith. This honor reflects the depth of his knowledge in the prophetic traditions and his ability to impart this knowledge to students.
Academic Qualifications in Law and Chaplaincy
In addition to his robust training in Islamic sciences, Shaykh Mustaqeem pursued advanced studies in secular law, earning an LL.B Hon’s (Shariah & Law) from the International Islamic University Islamabad in 2001. His legal studies provided him with an in-depth understanding of Shariah within a modern legal framework, equipping him to navigate the intersection of Islamic law and contemporary legal systems. This expertise is especially beneficial for students looking to understand Islamic jurisprudence in modern contexts.
In 2002, Shaykh Mustaqeem further expanded his legal knowledge by completing a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in International Business Law at the University of Hull, UK. His studies in international business law reflect his interest in applying Islamic legal principles in global economic contexts, particularly concerning ethics in finance, trade, and commerce.
Shaykh Mustaqeem also holds a Chaplaincy Certificate from the Markfield Institute of Higher Education, which he earned in 2004. His training in chaplaincy prepared him for pastoral care and spiritual guidance, a role he would later fulfill in his professional career.
Chaplaincy and Interfaith Work
Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah’s contributions to Islamic education extend beyond the classroom. From 2005 to 2010, he worked as a Muslim Chaplain at Caledonian University in Glasgow, where he provided spiritual support and guidance to Muslim students and staff. His role as a chaplain allowed him to engage with the Muslim community on a personal level, addressing their religious and spiritual needs in an academic setting.
Shaykh Mustaqeem’s involvement in interfaith dialogue is equally noteworthy. As a member of the Scottish Interfaith Council from 2005 to 2011, he played a significant role in promoting understanding and cooperation between different religious communities in Scotland. His work in this area highlights his commitment to fostering peaceful relations and mutual respect among people of diverse faiths.
Teaching at Al Balagh Academy
Currently, Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah serves as a Senior Lecturer in Islamic Sciences at Al Balagh Academy, where he teaches various courses on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Hadith studies. His expertise in both traditional Islamic sciences and modern legal frameworks enables him to offer students a well-rounded understanding of Islamic law, its principles, and its applications in contemporary society.
At Al Balagh Academy, Shaykh Mustaqeem is known for his engaging teaching style, which combines deep scholarly insights with practical applications. His courses often explore how classical Islamic knowledge can be applied to address modern-day issues, making his teachings highly relevant to today’s Muslim communities.
Professional Expertise and Interests
Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah’s areas of expertise include:
- Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh): Specializing in both classical and modern interpretations of Islamic law.
- Hadith studies: Teaching Hadith literature with a focus on Usul al-Hadith, or the methodology of Hadith interpretation.
- Usul al-Fiqh: The principles of Islamic jurisprudence that guide the derivation of legal rulings.
- Tafseer: The interpretation and explanation of the Qur'an.
- Islamic legal theory: Understanding how Islamic legal principles interact with modern law.
- Interfaith dialogue and chaplaincy: Promoting peaceful coexistence and spiritual care within diverse communities.
