Sheikh Adeeb Al-Sarraj, a prominent Jerusalemite scholar and mujahid, played a pivotal role in the Palestinian resistance against British colonialism and the Zionist movement. Born in 1891 in the Old City of Jerusalem, Al-Sarraj was deeply rooted in a religious and scholarly family. His father, Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Sarraj, was an imam, instilling in him a strong foundation in Islamic education and moral values.
Adeeb Al-Sarraj's educational journey began in a local school where he studied various religious sciences, including jurisprudence, hadith, and theology. He furthered his studies at the Ahmadi Institute in Acre, mastering the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and deepening his understanding of Islamic jurisprudence. His expertise earned him recognition as a knowledgeable and influential preacher, as noted by historian Ali Safi Hussein.
His political activism ignited during the British Mandate in Palestine. In 1921, Al-Sarraj delivered a powerful sermon at the Dome of the Rock Mosque that galvanized worshipers to confront Zionist aggression. His leadership in protests against Zionist immigration and his involvement in significant events like the Buraq Revolution in 1929 showcased his commitment to the Palestinian cause.
During the Great Palestinian Revolution of 1936, Sheikh Adeeb Al-Sarraj fought valiantly in various battles, including the Battle of Wadi Al-Sarar and the Battle of Hassan. Tragically, he was assassinated by British forces during the conflict, cementing his legacy as a martyr for Palestinian resistance. His contributions to the struggle for freedom and justice in Palestine continue to inspire future generations.