Sheikh Jamil Hamami: A Legacy of Service to Jerusalem
Sheikh Jamil Abdul Rahim Hamami, known as Abu Hamza, was a prominent figure in the advocacy and education sectors of Jerusalem. Born on November 15, 1952, in Ma'an, Jordan, he dedicated his life to serving the Palestinian community until his passing on September 10, 2023, at the age of 71. His family roots trace back to Nablus, and he spent much of his life in Jerusalem, where he became a respected scholar and community leader.
Sheikh Hamami's educational journey began in Jerusalem, where he completed his schooling before pursuing higher education at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, graduating with a degree in Sharia in 1977. He later attended Ain Shams University and Al-Quds University, furthering his studies in Islamic sciences. His commitment to education led him to establish the Iman Schools in Jerusalem, which grew from a small kindergarten to a significant educational institution serving over two thousand students across multiple branches.
Contributions to Education and Advocacy
Throughout his life, Sheikh Hamami was deeply involved in teaching, preaching, and community organization. He was a key figure in several initiatives aimed at preserving Islamic education and culture, notably opposing the introduction of the Israeli curriculum in his schools. His work extended to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, where he served as an imam and played a crucial role in various legal and social organizations, including the House of Hadith and the Islamic Sciences and Culture Committee Association.
In addition to his educational endeavors, Sheikh Hamami was politically active, aligning with the Muslim Brotherhood and later becoming a leader within Hamas. His activism led to multiple arrests by Israeli authorities, reflecting his commitment to Palestinian rights and national dialogue. He participated in reconciliation efforts between Hamas and Fatah, demonstrating his dedication to unity among Palestinian factions.
Sheikh Hamami was also an accomplished author, publishing works on Islamic teachings and the political landscape in Palestine. His legacy continues through the institutions he founded and the countless lives he influenced in Jerusalem.
