THE LIFE AND CAREER OF SHEIKH AHMED WATAR

Abstract

The study of Islamic scholars plays a vital role in understanding the intellectual and spiritual heritage of Muslim communities. This research focuses on the life and career of Sheikh Ahmed Watar, a prominent Islamic scholar, educator, and Mufti from Eastern Hararge, Ethiopia. Despite his immense influence almost over six decades, his life and works have not been thoroughly documented in structured, scholarly research. This study argues that Sheikh Ahmed Watar’s contributions to Islamic education and scholarship are not only significant but also deserving of greater recognition for their profound impact on religious learning in the region. The research examines key aspects of Sheikh Ahmed Watar’s life, including his family background, education, and his 56-year career as an Islamic educator. It highlights his innovative approach to training Sheikhs, Imams, and Muazzins through a tailored program initiated in 2012, which addressed the specific needs of the Eastern Hararge community. As a Mufti, Sheikh Ahmed Watar issued fatwas that provided guidance on matters ranging from personal conduct to complex legal issues, demonstrating his pivotal role in shaping religious and social discourse. He wrote a manuscript named as Taqriir, a detailed commentary on foundational Islamic books such as Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and the Sunan collections. This work exemplifies his meticulous scholarship, offering definitions of specialized hard terms, critical evaluations of hadith authenticity, and guidance on the reliability of sources. Although unpublished, Taqriir remains an invaluable resource for the preservation and dissemination of Islamic knowledge. The argument put forth in this research is that the scholarly neglect of Sheikh Ahmed Watar’s contributions has obscured a crucial chapter in the history of Islamic education. Employing a historical research method, the study draws on diverse sources, including primary, secondary, and oral evidence. Qualitative data analysis was used to critically evaluate these sources, ensuring a comprehensive and unbiased portrayal of Sheikh Ahmed Watar’s life and career. The findings not only reveal his family and educational background but also his substantial impact on Islamic education. By presenting a structured and detailed account of Sheikh Ahmed Watar’s life and work, this study contributes to filling a significant gap in the biography of Muslim scholar in Ethiopia.