According to Rahyafte(the missionaries and converts website):Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood was born in 1942 in the United Kingdom. Her given name, Margaret Marcus, underscores her Western upbringing. She grew up in a non-Muslim family and converted to Islam during her youth. This conversion marked the beginning of her profound journey into the faith.
Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood is a British author and educator renowned for her extensive writings on Islam and Islamic education. Her works encompass a wide array of topics within Islamic studies, including Islamic history, ethics, spirituality, and educational methodologies. Her life’s journey and contributions to Islamic literature have made her a respected figure within the field.
Early Life and Education:
Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood was born in 1942 in the United Kingdom. Her given name, Margaret Marcus, underscores her Western upbringing. She grew up in a non-Muslim family and converted to Islam during her youth. This conversion marked the beginning of her profound journey into the faith.
Conversion and Deepening Faith:
After her conversion to Islam, Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood embarked on a quest for knowledge. She delved into the study of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and spirituality. Her strong commitment to learning and her deepening faith led her to embrace a more traditional and conservative interpretation of Islam.
Contributions to Islamic Education:
Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood’s passion for education led her to become an educator herself. She began teaching Islamic studies and Islamic education in schools in the United Kingdom. Her experience as a teacher allowed her to understand the unique challenges of imparting Islamic knowledge to young students in a Western context.
Recognizing the need for accessible and comprehensive educational resources, Maqsood turned her attention to writing. She authored a series of books that aimed to provide clear and concise explanations of various aspects of Islam. These books covered topics such as Islamic history, ethics, spirituality, and the practical application of Islamic teachings in contemporary life.
One of her notable works is “Islam: Beliefs and Teachings,” which offers a comprehensive overview of the fundamental tenets of Islam. Her books are known for their accessibility and are widely used in Islamic schools and educational programs.
Advocacy and Interfaith Work:
In addition to her contributions to Islamic education, Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood has been involved in interfaith dialogue and advocacy. Her efforts have been directed toward fostering greater understanding and cooperation between different faith communities.
Legacy:
Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood’s dedication to Islamic education and her prolific writings have left a lasting legacy. Her works continue to be valuable resources for both Muslims and non-Muslims seeking to understand Islam’s teachings, ethics, and history. Her commitment to education and interfaith dialogue exemplifies the importance of fostering mutual respect and understanding in an increasingly diverse world.
