Muhammad Al Subayyil also spelled Muhammad Al-Sabil or Mohammed Al Subayyil was a highly respected Quran reciter and Islamic scholar from Saudi Arabia.
Born in 1924, he was a prominent figure in the religious landscape of Saudi Arabia. He graduated from the College of Sharia at Umm al-Qura University in Mecca. He primarily recited in the Hafs ‘an Asim narration. Digital Quranic archives feature numerous recordings of his complete Quranic recitations and various individual surahs. His recitation style was generally described as clear, precise, and authoritative, reflecting his deep understanding of the Quran.
Sheikh Muhammad Al Subayyil held the prestigious position of Imam and Khateeb (preacher) of the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Mecca for many years, a role that placed him among the most revered religious figures in the Islamic world. He also served as a judge in the Grand Court of Mecca and was a member of the Council of Senior Scholars in Saudi Arabia. He passed away in 2013, leaving behind a significant legacy of Quranic recitation and Islamic scholarship. Muhammad Al Subayyil also spelled Muhammad bin Abdullah Al-Sebail or Mohammad Al Subail, was a highly respected Quran reciter, scholar, and Imam from Saudi Arabia.
He was born in 1924 in Al Bukayriyah in the Al-Qassim Province, Saudi Arabia. He memorized the Quran at a young age and received his religious education from prominent scholars including his father, Sheikh Abd al-Rahman al-Kuraides, Sheikh Saadi Yassin, and Sheikh Abdullah bin Humaid. He was proficient in the Hafs ‘an Asim narration. Digital Quranic archives feature numerous recordings of his complete Quranic recitations and various individual surahs. His recitation style was characterized by clarity, solemnity, and a distinct Saudi accent, making it recognizable to many.
Sheikh Muhammad Al Subayyil held very significant positions within Saudi Arabia’s religious establishment. He served as an Imam and preacher of the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca for an impressive 44 years, from 1385 AH (1965 AD) until 1429 AH (2008 AD). He also served as the President of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques (Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi) and was a member of the Council of Senior Scholars and the Islamic Fiqh Assembly. He authored 27 books and undertook over 100 advocacy trips outside the Kingdom, visiting more than 50 countries.
He passed away on December 17, 2012, at the age of 87-88, leaving behind a profound legacy as a dedicated servant of the two holy mosques and a respected scholar.