Gaza Boy Given Honorary Title of Sheik
AP
Date: 06-02-05
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Devout Muslims from around the Gaza Strip have been flocking in recent months to mosques to hear the religious lectures of a 13-year-old boy who has memorized much of the Quran by heart, followers said Wednesday.
Wearing the red and white "imama" head covering and long robe of observant Muslims, Amjad Abu Sadio preaches weekly to dozens of worshippers. He has spoken at 40 mosques in Gaza so far.
Abu Sadio said he has memorized 75 percent of the Quran, earning the honorary title of sheik. He hopes one day to study and earn a degree to qualify for the official title of sheik.
The boy stood Wednesday at the front of a mosque in Gaza City, speaking in a loud and unwavering voice and gesturing with animation.
"I discovered my ability to give speeches when I was at school and present a paper in front of the students," Abu Sadio told Associated Press Television News. "After that, my family, friends and school encouraged me to present it in front of people in the mosques."
It is not uncommon for boys who know portions of the Quran by heart to be called "sheik." But Muslims must study for years and receive a degree in Islamic law before they become official sheiks.
Abu Sadio's teacher, Sheik Ismail Kahloot, said that the boy is determined to be one of the best sheiks in Gaza someday.
Abu Sadio takes free Islamic classes offered by the Palestinian Authority. The Palestine Charitable Association sponsors the boy by driving him around to the mosques where he gives his lectures.
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