Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks was a renowned South African Islamic scholar and a prominent leader known for his tireless efforts in the fields of Islamic education, human rights, and social justice. Born on September 16, 1964, in Worcester, South Africa, he served as the President of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) for two terms from 2006 to 2016. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in guiding the organization through pivotal moments in South Africa’s history, strengthening the MJC’s role in addressing socio-political issues affecting both the Muslim community and the broader society.
Hendricks’ leadership extended beyond the MJC; he was a visionary leader recognized for his outstanding oratory skills and dedication to serving the community. He was a member of the MJC Imaarah (senior council), the Director of the Al-Quds Foundation of South Africa, an Executive member of the International Union of Muslim Scholars (IUMS), and a key figure in the World Assembly of Muslim Youth, holding the position of Head of the Southern and Central African Region.
Early Life and Education Moulana Ihsaan’s formative years in Worcester were significantly influenced by his family, particularly his father, Hadjie Salie Hendricks, a revert to Islam whose integrity and faith deeply shaped Ihsaan’s character. After completing his secondary education at Bree River High School in 1980, he enrolled at the Darul Uloom Newcastle in South Africa. He then pursued further studies at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, India, graduating in 1987 from the faculty of Shariah.
Career and Contributions Moulana Ihsaan’s career in Islamic education and leadership began as an assistant Imam at the Worcestor Masjid in 1988. He served in various capacities, including as the Imam at Wellington Mosque, lecturer at the Islamic College of South Africa (ICOSA), and later as a lecturer and Assistant Principal at the Darul Arqam Islamic Institute (DAII), run by the MJC. His linguistic proficiency extended to Afrikaans, English, Arabic, Urdu, and Malayu, making him a versatile scholar and leader.
Moulana Ihsaan was instrumental in establishing several significant projects and institutions. He was the founding trustee of the Muslim Broadcasting Cooperation, which operates as The Voice of the Cape, South Africa’s first Muslim radio station. He also founded the Nurul Hudaa Early Learning Centre, Belhar Islamic Primary School, Sharkireen Educare Centre, and the Al-Quds Foundation office in South Africa.
Advocacy for Palestine One of Moulana Ihsaan’s most defining legacies was his unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He believed that the welfare of Palestine was integral to the Aqeedah (belief) of Muslims and could not be compromised. In 2011, he founded the Al-Quds Foundation office in South Africa, an extension of the vision of the late Shaykh Nazeem Mohammed (R.A). His advocacy work led to his being banned from entering Israel, as the Zionist regime viewed him as a significant threat. Despite this, he continued his activism, leading initiatives like the Africa 1 Aid Convoy to Gaza in 2011 and receiving the “Defender of Masjid al-Aqsa” award in 2008.
At the time of his passing, Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks held several prestigious positions, including MJC Imaarah member, Chairperson of the MJC Halaal Trust Board, National Director of the Al-Quds Foundation, Executive member of IUMS, and Director of the Shaykh Abu Al-Hasain Ali Al-Nadwi Leadership Academy.
Legacy Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks’ contributions to the global Muslim community, his tireless advocacy for justice, and his efforts to foster social cohesion have left a lasting impact. His legacy continues to inspire many, and his lectures and talks remain accessible for those who wish to benefit from his knowledge on muslimcentral.com.