By Abubakar Ismail
I still remember a funny moment from our secondary school days. Our classmate was asked about his role model, but he misunderstood the question and replied, drifting. Everyone burst into laughter—he had thought it meant hobby. Anyway, we were all asked the same question by our English teacher. The only reason I still remember that day is that only my answer and his remain fresh in my memory.
Now, back to my answer. I wasn’t the first to be asked, so I had some time to consider my options. When it was finally my turn, I said: “Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam.” Everyone had to give a reason for their choice, and so did I—though I can’t fully recall my explanation. But that doesn’t matter. Because to this day, I have never regretted my answer, nor have I wished I had chosen someone else. In fact, with each passing day, I realize even more that I made the right choice. And there are a million reasons for that.
If I were to provide a short biography of him, that would have to be another time. However, I would like to recommend a great book I read about him, written by Sheikh Dr. Sani Umar Rijiyan Lemu. It was originally in Arabic, but Alhamdulillah, I recently learned that it has been translated into English. The title is My Days with the Generational Scholar—though I am not entirely sure about the exact English title.
What made him special?
One of the things that made Sheikh Ja’afar exceptional was his eloquence and mastery of language. He had the ability to explain even the most complex topics in the simplest and most concise manner—something his listeners can attest to. He was an outstanding commentator and translator of the Holy Qur’an.But that wasn’t all. He had an incredible ability to communicate with people from all levels of understanding.
His teaching methodology made it easy for everyone—regardless of age, educational background, or social class—to grasp his message.The Prophet (peace be upon him) said in an authentic hadith: “The best of you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”
Learning first, then teaching others. That is exactly what Sheikh Ja’afar dedicated his life to. His Tafseer remains a favorite for many. It was truly remarkable how, in mere seconds, he could navigate through the Qur’an, linking verses together, highlighting their meanings, and revealing connections that an average person might not see. This depth of knowledge was simply breathtaking. To me, this was his most remarkable trait—one in which he had no equal.”The Best of You is He Who Learns the Qur’an and Teaches It.”
Ask any teenager today when Malam Ja’afar passed away. I bet most wouldn’t know, and many might not even be aware that he is no longer alive. Even some adults might still feel as though he is present. I understand that feeling. He had already passed away before I got to know about him, yet what he left behind often makes me feel as though we will meet one day.
His legacy is alive. The rewards of his teachings (we hope) will continue reaching him for generations to come. Through his lessons, countless people—many yet to be born—will, in sha Allah, be guided. Despite my deep admiration for him, I know he is not inimitable. I, too, can learn the Qur’an—one page a week or more, according to my ability—and teach it to someone else. And so can you.
The Prophet’s words about the best among us being those who learn and teach the Qur’an were an open invitation—an invitation to all. If the Prophet didn’t exclude you, why should you exclude yourself? At the very least, teach your children or your younger siblings.A beneficial knowledge shared with someone is among the three things that continue to benefit a person even after they leave this world. I want that for myself, and I believe no reasonable person would reject such a noble pursuit.I hope to live to see a time when every Muslim sees it as an obligation—not a privilege for a select few—to be well-acquainted with the Qur’an.
May Allah forgive Sheikh Ja’afar and all our fellow Muslims who have passed on.
Ameen.
