QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
1938
Damanhur, Egypt
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
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.
BRIEF BIO
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.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
1959: Graduated with a BA in English literature from Alexandria University...See More
1964: Received a MA in English and comparative literature from Columbia University.
1969: Earned a PhD in the same field from Rutgers University.
1983-1988: Served as a University Professor at King Saud University, Saudi Arabia.
July 2, 2008: Passed away after a battle with cancer at the Palestine Hospital in Cairo.
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Encyclopedia of Jews, Judaism and Zionism: A comprehensive analytical work on the Middle East crisis, Zionism, and Jewish history.
Political Activism: Played an active role in Egypt's "Kefaya" movement against Mubarak’s rule.
Scholarship in Secularism and Religion: His journey from western secularism to a modern Islamic vision...See More
Literary and Political Writings: Authored more than 30 articles and various books, contributing to the Arabic library...See More
Influence on Contemporary Thought: Recognized as a significant intellectual force in modern-day politics, influencing various generations and political movements.
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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