Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Islamic world mourns the loss of Shaykh Rabee’ al-Madkhali a renowned Saudi Salafi scholar and founder of the Madkhalism movement, who passed away today at the age of 92. The news of his death was confirmed by close associates and widely shared across social media platforms, with tributes and condolences pouring in from scholars, students, and followers globally.
A Life Dedicated to Islamic Scholarship
Born in 1933 in Al-Jarra, a village in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region, Shaykh Rabee’ al-Madkhali rose to prominence as a leading figure in the Salafi movement, known for his extensive contributions to hadith studies and his staunch defense of Tawḥīd (Islamic monotheism) and Sunnah. A graduate of the Islamic University of Madinah, where he studied under luminaries such as Shaykh Abdul Aziz bin Baz and Shaykh Muhammad Nasiruddin al-Albani, al-Madkhali became a professor and a prolific author, penning numerous works on Islamic creed, methodology, and critiques of deviant ideologies.
His teachings emphasized strict adherence to the Qur’an and Sunnah, earning him both admiration and controversy. As the founder of Madkhalism, a Salafi sub-movement, he advocated for loyalty to Muslim rulers and criticized groups like the Muslim Brotherhood, which he viewed as promoting innovation (bid’ah) and division within the ummah. His fatwas and writings significantly influenced Salafi communities worldwide, particularly in Saudi Arabia, Libya, and Yemen.
Health Challenges and Final Days
Shaykh Rabee’ al-Madkhali had been battling health issues in recent months, with reports in February 2025 indicating his admission to intensive care due to complications from diabetes. Despite his condition, he continued to inspire his followers through recorded messages and writings until his final days. His passing was announced on July 10, 2025, with posts on X from accounts such as @One_Dawah and @FarisHammadi expressing condolences and praising his lifelong dedication to Islamic scholarship.
Legacy and Impact
Shaykh Rabee’ leaves behind a complex legacy. Supporters hailed him as a “mujahid of the Sunnah,” crediting him with safeguarding Islamic orthodoxy against ideological deviations. His works, including The Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allah and The Dangers of the Muslim Brotherhood, remain influential in Salafi circles. His website, rabee.net, and associated platforms like abukhadeejah.com have served as repositories of his teachings, disseminating his lectures and fatwas to a global audience.
However, his outspoken critiques and fatwas also sparked controversy. Some, as reflected in posts on X, accused him of contributing to division among Muslims and supporting policies that led to the arrest of individuals in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries. These criticisms highlight the polarizing nature of his influence, particularly within the broader Islamic community.
Tributes and Condolences
Following the announcement of his death, prominent scholars and students expressed their grief. “Shaykh Rabee’ al-Madkhali was a defender of the Sunnah, unwavering in his commitment to Tawḥīd,” wrote @IKON1436 on X. “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannah-tul-Firdous.” Others, like @JamaludinSheikh, echoed similar sentiments, praying for his mercy and paradise.
The Saudi government has not yet released an official statement, but the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is expected to organize a funeral prayer in Madinah, where al-Madkhali spent much of his life teaching. His death marks the end of an era for the Salafi movement, which continues to shape religious discourse in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
A Polarizing Figure
While many mourn his loss, others on social media platforms expressed mixed sentiments. Posts on X, such as those by @AbuTankeel and @i26no, described his passing as “wonderful news,” citing his controversial fatwas and perceived role in regional tensions. These reactions underscore the divisive impact of his scholarship, particularly among those who viewed his teachings as overly rigid or politically aligned.
Looking Ahead
Shaykh Rabee’ al-Madkhali’s death comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant social and economic transformation under Vision 2030, including reforms to its labor market and religious discourse. His passing raises questions about the future direction of the Salafi movement and its influence in the Kingdom and globally. Scholars and students are likely to continue his legacy through institutions like the Islamic University of Madinah and online platforms, ensuring his teachings endure.
The global Muslim community now reflects on the contributions of a scholar who shaped contemporary Salafi thought while navigating the challenges of his polarizing legacy. As funeral arrangements are made, his followers and critics alike acknowledge the profound mark he left on Islamic scholarship.
For updates on funeral arrangements and official statements, visit the Ministry of Islamic Affairs website or follow verified sources.
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