Dr. Muhammad Musa Al-Shareef was born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and graduated from the Faculty of Shari`ah, Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic
University, in 1408 A.H. He obtained his M.A. and Ph.D. in the Qur’an and the Sunnah from Faculty of Usul Ad-Din (Theology) – Umm Al-Qura University. He is an assistant professor in the Department of Islamic Studies, King Abdul Aziz University.
One of the important factors in the development and behaviors of the societies of the world today is the impact of role models. Now, more than ever, role models are affecting the lives of all races and classes of people around the world. Because of mediums such as television, radio, telephone and the internet, many role models, such as movie stars, athletes, musicians and politicians, have become quite popular around the world.
However, such role models do not necessarily represent the ideal style of life, practices and beliefs that are wanted for the Muslim. When Muslims look up to sinful or disbelieving people who have been portrayed in the media to be successful and famous, they began to feel inferior to them. Satan may even deceive them into feeling that the reason for the non-Muslims’ worldly success is their following of ways other than Islam.
Musa al-Shareef presents the stories of some of the greatest heroes and role models of Islam. The efforts and sacrifices of these people for the sake of Allah’s religion will show us who we are and what we really are capable of when we have strong belief in Allah.