Meet Your Muslim Family Consultant

Imam Shaker Elsayed, born in 1951 in Cairo, Egypt, is a distinguished Egyptian-American Islamic scholar, educator, and spiritual leader. He has significantly impacted the Muslim community in the United States through his extensive work in education, leadership, and family counseling.

Imam Shaker completed his undergraduate studies in economics and did his independent Islamic studies with Alazhar-educated scholars in Cairo, demonstrating early on his commitment to both secular and religious education. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Houston, where he engaged in graduate studies in educational administration and educational psychology. This diverse academic background provided him with a unique perspective on educational leadership and the psychological aspects of community building.

Over the past four decades, Imam Shaker has held several pivotal roles that have allowed him to nurture and guide the Muslim community. His career began as an imam in various cities across the United States, including Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia, where he became a prominent community figure at the Dar Al-Hijrah mosque. His tenure as Imam was marked by his deep commitment to addressing the needs of his community through proactive leadership and spiritual guidance.

In addition to his role as an Imam, he served as the Secretary General of the Muslim American Society from 1997 to 2004, where he played a crucial role in developing MAS national strategic plan which moved the organization from a limited closed organization to become an open educational and nationally recognized advocacy and community development and service organization. His leadership extended to the educational sector as well, where he took on responsibilities as a K-12 school principal and a director of education at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), serving the North American Muslim communities in developing full-time Islamic schools. These positions underscored his dedication to Islamic education and his ability to integrate religious teachings with modern educational practices.

Imam Shaker’s scholarly contributions include recording a simplified English translation of the Quran, facilitating a broader understanding and accessibility of its teachings. His academic and religious knowledge has made him a respected figure in the Muslim and interfaith communities. His contributions are most noted in educational and community conferences and seminars, where he emphasizes the relevance of Islamic teachings in contemporary life and societal contexts.

The cornerstone of Imam Shaker’s service has been his commitment to family counseling. He established the Muslim Family Consulting service to provide targeted support and guidance to Muslim families and individuals, drawing on his mastery of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Through more than 35,000 family consultation sessions, he has helped approximately 12,000 families navigate the complexities of modern life by staying true to Islamic principles. His courses and seminars on marriage and divorce under Islamic law are particularly noted for their practical applications and deep insight.

Imam Shaker’s extensive experience and empathetic approach to community service make him a pivotal resource for families seeking guidance. His work not only addresses the spiritual and religious needs but also fosters psychological well-being and community cohesion, reflecting his comprehensive view of Islamic leadership in a multicultural society.