Turkish Amb. Mourns Passing of Sheikh Abdul Basit Abdul Samad’s Son

The Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen expressed his deep sorrow over the death of Essam Abdul Basit, the son of the legendary Qur’an reciter Sheikh Abdul Basit Abdul Samad, whose voice continues to resonate in the hearts of Muslims worldwide.

In a heartfelt statement shared in Arabic, Ambassador Şen said he received the news of Essam’s passing “with great sadness,” offering his sincere condolences to the bereaved family.

“I ask Almighty God to envelop the deceased with His vast mercy and to grant patience and solace to his noble family and loved ones,” the ambassador wrote.

Ambassador Şen also paid tribute to the late Sheikh Abdul Basit, describing him as an “immortal figure who left a profound mark on the hearts of young Turkish Muslims during the 1970s.” He highlighted how the Sheikh’s recitations, “filled with love for God,” captivated listeners and nurtured spiritual growth among generations.

“May God have mercy on him and make his abode in Paradise, in the highest gardens,” Şen concluded.

Şen reflected on the enduring spiritual bond between the Turkish and Egyptian peoples through the recitation of the Qur’an al-Karim, noting the profound influence of Sheikh Abdul Basit on Turkish Muslims since the 1970s.

“In Turkey, we have a deep respect and appreciation for the Egyptian tradition of Qur’anic recitation, and in particular, for Sheikh Abdul Basit,” Şen said. “My generation, including myself, grew up listening to and drawing inspiration from his recitations. Many of today’s Turkish leaders also grew up admiring and being spiritually influenced by Sheikh Abdul Basit Abdus Samad.”

The ambassador emphasized that the family of Sheikh Abdul Basit holds a special place in the hearts of Turks, and announced that he will be meeting with Mr. Tarek Abdul Basit, the brother of the deceased, at the Turkish Embassy in Cairo.

“The family of Sheikh Abdul Basit is dear to us,” Şen added. “I will, insha’Allah, attend the Ta'ziyah to offer condolences in person. May Allah have mercy upon his soul. Ameen.”