Mufti Taqi Usmani Honoured Among World’s Top Muslim Figures
Renowned Pakistani scholar Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani has been ranked as the second most influential Muslim in the world. The recognition comes from the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC) in Jordan. Its annual publication, The 500 Most Influential Muslims, highlights individuals shaping Muslim thought, leadership, and society worldwide.
This year’s edition places Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the top. Mufti Usmani follows him in second place for his impact on Islamic jurisprudence, education, and finance. His influence continues to grow through his scholarly work, which guides religious and financial institutions across the Muslim world.
Global Leaders Feature in the 2025 List
The RISSC list includes a wide range of political and spiritual figures. Notable names are Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Burkina Faso’s President Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
From Pakistan, several personalities have been recognized for their national and international influence. These include Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief General Asim Munir, Imran Khan, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, Dr. Umar Saif, Malala Yousafzai, and journalists Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman and Hamid Mir.
Their inclusion shows Pakistan’s continued importance in the global Muslim community, both in politics and in intellectual leadership.
Scholar’s Lifelong Work Recognized
Mufti Usmani has spent his life teaching, writing, and guiding financial and religious reform. He served as a judge at Pakistan’s Federal Shariat Court and helped develop Islamic banking systems that are now used in many countries.
Over the decades, he has written dozens of books on Islamic law and spirituality. His works are taught in seminaries and universities across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In recent years, he has also voiced strong opinions on national governance and social ethics, earning wide respect for his balanced approach.
Because of his wide-reaching scholarship, Mufti Usmani is seen not only as a religious teacher but also as a moral guide for modern Muslim societies.
Public Reaction and Wider Debate
The announcement of the rankings sparked lively discussion online. Many Pakistanis celebrated Mufti Usmani’s recognition as a source of national pride. Scholars and students praised his role in promoting peaceful and ethical interpretations of Islam.
However, others used the occasion to debate how influence is measured in Muslim societies. They questioned whether religious, political, or cultural leadership should weigh more in determining global influence. Despite differing opinions, most agree that such rankings encourage reflection on moral and intellectual leadership in the Muslim world.
Broader Context of the Global Muslim List
The 500 Most Influential Muslims report has been published every year since 2009. It evaluates leaders from politics, religion, science, education, and media. The 2025 edition once again highlights the strong global presence of Pakistani scholars and leaders.
Through this recognition, Mufti Taqi Usmani’s work stands as a reminder of how faith-based knowledge and ethical guidance can influence modern life. His contribution continues to inspire Muslims seeking wisdom, balance, and progress in a rapidly changing world.
