The late Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks epitomised the kind of leader the Ummah in South Africa and indeed internationally needs in today’s times.
Sound knowledge, humbleness, empathy, passion, a principled approach and a sound grasp and understanding of the environment that we live in, were just some of the attributes that Moulana brought to any position that he held.
Moulana Hendricks’ concern for the Ummah in South Africa and internationally is reflected in his willingness to take up challenges and responsibilities for the betterment of Muslims.
I was witness to just one such occasion when, inspite of his many responsibilities, notably as the then President of the Muslim Judicial Council, Moulana willingly accepted the presidency and the responsibility of leading the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC). As the representative of the Islamic Forum in SAHUC, I was privileged to serve as his immediate deputy at the time.
During the period that he served as the President of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council his many remarkable qualities coupled with an open-minded approach, reflected in his willingness to listen and understand all points of view, helped steer the Organisation through some difficult and contentious times.
With the passing of Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks, the Muslim Ummah in South Africa has lost a dedicated and committed servant at a very critical juncture in our history. We will certainly miss him. As the Islamic Forum, we pray that Allah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala) in His Mercy grants forgiveness to Moulana and grants him the highest stage in Jannah. Our condolences to Moulana’s family and we pray that Allah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala) grants them the patience and forbearance to bear this immense loss. Aameen
Ebrahim Vawda – Representative of Islamic Forum on the General Council of SAHUC.