AceHistoryDesk – Sheikh Taj El-Din Hilaly, who led Australia’s Muslim community for nearly two decades, has died in Egypt, aged 82.

Ace Press News From Cutting Room Floor: Published: Oct.07: 2023: ABC History News: TELEGRAM Ace Daily News Link https://t.me/+PuI36tlDsM7GpOJe

Sheikh Hilaly was appointed as the Mufti of Australia in 1988 and stepped down from the role in 2007.

He was also the Imam of Lakemba Mosque in Western Sydney for a record 31 years.

The Lebanese Muslim Association said in a statement that he “carried the weight of the Australian Muslim Ummah (community)”.

“It is with grieving hearts and broken spirits that the Lebanese Muslim Association announces the passing of our beloved Sheikh Taj El-Din Hilali in Egypt earlier today,” the statement read.

Samier Dandan, former president of the Lebanese Muslim Association and associate of the late Imam, said he was a significant figure for the Australian Muslim community.

“The entire community has been shocked by hearing such news because it’s a man that reflected and embodied the spirit of the community,” Mr Dandan said.

Sheikh Hilaly served during a fraught period for the Australian Muslim community, including the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks.

“He described those adversities as a test of will to the community on the true colours and its nature, how it engages with these adversities,” Mr Dandan said.

He was also the centre of controversy on multiple occasions relating to comments he made regarding terrorism and the Holocaust.

The late Imam was also publicly criticised in 2006 for comments he made in a sermon regarding women’s clothing and sexual assault.

Sheikh Hilaly later apologised for those comments.

The Lebanese Muslim Association said the community can express their condolences at an Azza at Lakemba Mosque on Saturday following the 7pm Maghrib prayer.

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