Ramadan in Old Cairo
For many Egyptians, thinking of Ramadan in Cairo also means thinking of Sheikh Muhammad Jibreel. For many years he led the Tarawih and night prayers at the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, the oldest mosque in Africa, in historic Old Cairo. In the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially the nights in which Laylat al-Qadr is sought, the mosque, its courtyards and the surrounding streets filled with worshippers standing together behind him.
A voice full of emotion
Jibreel's recitation is murattal – even and easy to follow – but with strong emotional force. His voice is bright, clear and carries far. In verses of warning and of mercy it becomes moved, and at times you can hear that he himself is overcome. For many people it was exactly this feeling that drew them to the mosque: here the Quran is not only recited but lived.
Known for his supplications
His supplications (du'a) are also known far beyond Egypt, especially the qunut prayer and the supplication for completing the Quran (du'a khatm al-Quran). Many people know recordings of them and listen to them during the nights of Ramadan.
Travels and recordings
Alongside his work in Cairo, Sheikh Jibreel has been invited to many countries to lead prayers and recite. His complete murattal recording of the Quran is widely available and popular for reading along and repetition.
What you can take from him as a learner
- Emotion and clarity: he shows that emotional recitation can still be clear and correct.
- Du'a from the heart: listen to his supplications not just as sound but pay attention to the words – many come from the Quran and the Sunnah and are well suited to your own prayers.
- Experiencing community: his Tarawih recordings convey the feeling of praying together with thousands – a beautiful motivation for your own Ramadan.
What remains
Sheikh Muhammad Jibreel has shaped the nights of Ramadan for generations of Egyptians. His recitation reminds us that the Quran can be the heart of a community. May Allah preserve him and accept his service.