Dr. Yasir Qadhi

Qadhi, born in Houston, Texas to Pakistani parents, is a renowned Muslim scholar and theologian, deeply committed to the pursuit of Islamic knowledge and academic excellence. His educational journey began with a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Houston, where his involvement with the MSA and giving khutbahs and lectures inspired him to leave engineering and studying Islam. In 1995, he began his ten-year stint at the Islamic University of Madinah, where he finished a diploma in Arabic, a BA in Hadith Studies, and an MA in Islamic Theology.

Qadhi returned to America to further enrich his knowledge by earning a PhD from Yale University, where his dissertation focused on the scholarly contributions of Ibn Taymiyyah, a prominent medieval Islamic thinker. This rigorous academic foundation informs his roles as the Dean of The Islamic Seminary of America and a resident scholar at the East Plano Islamic Center in Texas. Previously, he served as the dean of the AlMaghrib Institute and was a member of the religious studies department at Rhodes College.

Recognized as one of the most influential Muslim scholars in the United States, Qadhi is a prolific author and speaker, addressing contemporary issues facing the Muslim community through his books and lectures. His name regularly appears on The 500 Most Influential Muslims list. As the chairman of the Fiqh Council of North America, he is dedicated to guiding Muslims in applying Islamic jurisprudence within modern contexts, bridging classical Islamic teachings with the needs of today's world.

Beyond his academic and spiritual leadership, Qadhi enjoys scuba diving, exploring the beauty of Allah’s creation beneath the seas. He also harbors a passion for collecting Islamic coins, particularly from the Sassanid and Umayyad eras, reflecting his profound connection to Islamic history and civilization. This hobby not only deepens his understanding of historical contexts but also enhances his appreciation of the intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage of the Muslim world