Great Muslim Leaders

Great Muslim Leaders presents Islamic-informed alternatives to Eurocentric Christian understandings of education and educational leadership. It does so by interrupting and displacing the West's centuries long dismissive stance and monolithic gaze on Islam by showcasing outstanding diverse Muslim leaders across space and time. Each chapter focuses on a single leader, and includes a biographical sketch; a discussion of their context and activities as a leader; key lessons readers can learn from their leadership, and recommendations that are relevant for teachers and educational leaders. This collection of Muslim leaders, chosen by Muslim scholars, brings to education discourse the breadth of Islamic intellectual history, giving the book a global appeal and facilitating a sharing of innovative and classic ideas across cultures, faith traditions, and national boundaries. Great Muslim Leaders introduces to readers Muslim intellectuals, spiritual leaders, philosophers, poets, artists, activists, scientists, celebrities, politicians, educators, film makers, historical figures, theorists, and academics whose lives have positively shaped their community, society, and the world. Their lived experiences are underpinned by deep spirituality and faith, revealing the significance and import religious belief has on moral and ethical action. The book concludes with seven lessons that cut across the chapters that encapsulate the immense value Islamic spirituality and faith bring to education and leadership.

In recent years many books have been written on Islam and Muslims. However, Great Muslim Leaders: Lessons for Education is a "must read." In this unique, well written and engaging study, Melanie Brooks and Miriam Ezzani demonstrate how faith and spirituality have informed the lives and accomplishments of major Muslim leaders in a broad section of professions. - John L. Esposito, Georgetown University Scholars of leadership ignore spiritual and religious exemplars at their peril. By seeking such exemplars from Islam in such an organic manner, this volume models the central lessons it conveys: promoting pluralism, thoughtfully questioning, critically reflecting, and, most vitally, helping us recognize and embrace the sacred trust of leadership. - Martin Scanlan, Boston College Great Muslim Leaders: Lessons for Education is timely, inspirational and packed with lessons for educators and learners alike. At a time when Islamic education is moving toward renewal, this book will provide much needed insight, real-life lessons and direction. This is a must read for anyone seeking to be enriched by the lives of great Muslim leaders - be they learners, educators or leaders. - Mohamad Abdalla AM, University of South Australia So many popular leadership books tell the same story of a great white American man who overcame obstacles to build an empire. It is refreshing to read this book featuring educational leaders whose Muslim faith is central to their practice and whose work is bigger than themselves. The biographies of these diverse leaders from across the world offer lessons in humility and hope as well as practical tips for other leaders who seek to apply their faith, whether Muslim or not, to a more connected way of being and of leading. -Joanne M. Marshall, Iowa State University