Muhammad Al-Faqih, also spelled Mohammed Faqih or Sheikh Mohammed Faqih, is a contemporary Islamic scholar, reciter, and Imam whose roots trace back to the ancient city of Harar in the Horn of Africa, with his forefathers originally from Yemen. His family later immigrated to East Africa, where they played a significant role in the region’s Islamic history.
He has pursued an extensive education in Islamic sciences and Quranic studies. He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies from the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences in America, located in Fairfax, Virginia. Following this, he further specialized in Quran memorization and recitation, graduating from studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. His chain of transmission (Isnad) in Quranic recitation is notably close to that of the Prophet Muhammad, being only 28 steps removed.
Sheikh Muhammad Al-Faqih is widely recognized for his distinguished and masterful Quran recitation. While his specific primary narration is not always explicitly stated in all public profiles, his recordings are widely available and appreciated for their profound spiritual impact. In addition to his recitation, he is highly regarded as a specialist in Tazkiyah (purification of the soul) and Adab (manners), earning him the moniker “Doctor of Manners.” He is also a premarital and marital counselor.
Throughout his career, Sheikh Muhammad Al-Faqih has served as an Imam in several prominent Islamic centers across the United States. His past roles include serving as Imam at the Islamic Community Center of Laurel in Laurel, Maryland, as an assistant Imam and teacher at the Islamic Association of Raleigh, North Carolina, and as Imam at the Islamic Center of San Diego in San Diego, California. He has also served as Imam at the Islamic Institute of Orange County, known as Masjid Omar AlFarouk. More recently, he joined the Memphis community as the Imam and director of religious affairs of Memphis Islamic Center.
Beyond his imamate duties, Sheikh Mohammed Faqih is an instructor with AlMaghrib Institute, an organization known for providing intensive seminars on various Islamic sciences. He teaches courses such as “The Rules of Engagement: Islamic Code of Ethics” and “Route 114: Sciences of the Quran,” further demonstrating his breadth of knowledge and dedication to Islamic education. His influence extends to working with youth, aiming to cultivate future community leaders.