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Portrait of Abdel-Wahab El-Messiri

Abdel-Wahab El-Messiri

Prominent Scholar on Zionism, Palestine

Friend of PalestineNot Palestinian, and stood with Palestine
Born
1938
Born in
Damanhur, Egypt
Read Abdel-Wahab’s story2 videosAsk about Abdel-Wahab

Why Abdel-Wahab is here

Abdel Wahab El-Messiri is renowned for his extensive scholarship on Zionism, Judaism, and the Palestinian cause. His work, particularly his eight-volume "Encyclopedia of Jews, Judaism and Zionism," is a seminal contribution to understanding the complexities of the Middle East conflict and the history of Zionism.

Their story

El-Messiri was an Egyptian scholar, author, and coordinator of the opposition organization Kefaya. He graduated with a BA in English literature, received a MA and PhD in English and comparative literature, and held academic positions in various universities. His shift from western secularism to a modern Islamic vision marked his intellectual journey. He was involved in political movements and activism, significantly influencing various generations and contributing to the intellectual landscape of the Arab World.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Abdel-Wahab’s path.

  1. 1959

    Graduated with a BA in English literature from Alexandria University.

  2. 1964

    Received a MA in English and comparative literature from Columbia University.

  3. 1969

    Earned a PhD in the same field from Rutgers University.

  4. 1983-1988

    Served as a University Professor at King Saud University, Saudi Arabia.

  5. 2008

    July 2, 2008

    Passed away after a battle with cancer at the Palestine Hospital in Cairo.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Encyclopedia of Jews, Judaism and Zionism

    A comprehensive analytical work on the Middle East crisis, Zionism, and Jewish history.

  2. Political Activism

    Played an active role in Egypt's "Kefaya" movement against Mubarak’s rule.

  3. Scholarship in Secularism and Religion

    His journey from western secularism to a modern Islamic vision.

    Watch

  4. Literary and Political Writings

    Authored more than 30 articles and various books, contributing to the Arabic library.

    Watch

  5. Influence on Contemporary Thought

    Recognized as a significant intellectual force in modern-day politics, influencing various generations and political movements.

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Abdel-Wahab in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Scholarship in Secularism and Religion↗

  • 02Literary and Political Writings↗

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