Born into a well-off liberal family in Egypt, my early life was shaped by the rhythms of a cosmopolitan upbringing. Educated in English private schools, I developed a fascination for sports and traveling, while reading was not initially my strongest suit.
However, I had a keen ear for Arabic poetry, which, unbeknownst to me at the time, would lay the groundwork for a deeper appreciation of language.
My travels, which began at the early age of 11, played a significant role in broadening my horizons. These experiences enhanced my understanding of different cultures and languages, a skill that later proved invaluable.
After completing my education in Egypt, I ventured to the United States to pursue an MBA. There, I met and married a brilliant and beautiful Japanese woman, and together we raised a wonderful daughter.
Professionally, I thrived in the world of finance, passing the CPA exam and co-founding a company that eventually earned a place on the Inc. 5000 list. My work garnered attention, including a feature in Entrepreneur Magazine. Yet, amidst these achievements, an unexpected encounter in Egypt set me on a path I had not anticipated.
During a trip to Egypt, my wife mentioned hearing something that piqued her interest. It turned out to be a Quran recitation, a sound that, despite its omnipresence during my youth, I had never truly paid attention to. This moment marked the beginning of my exploration of the Quran, a journey that would significantly shape my life.
Living in New York, especially in the aftermath of 9/11, I found myself frequently questioned about Islam due to my Egyptian heritage. These inquiries made me realize how little I knew about my own religious roots. Determined to understand more, I turned directly to the source—the Quran. What began as a casual curiosity evolved into a profound journey of discovery.
Despite not being a scholar or holding any formal Islamic diplomas, I embarked on a lifelong project: to translate and contemplate the Quran. My goal has been to remain faithful to the original Arabic text while offering insights that are grounded in an empirical approach, informed by my observations and readings of selected scholars.
This translation is not just a linguistic endeavor; it is a reflection of my personal and spiritual journey. It is an attempt to bridge the gap between the ancient and the modern, the East and the West, and to present the Quran in a way that resonates with both the heart and the mind.
Mohamed Elgayar
Ex-Entrepreneur MBA/CPA
Born in Egypt, Lives in the USA
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