By Shaikh Ahmad Kutty

With deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss, I received the news of Dr. Rahmeth Shah Khan’s passing. His departure came as a sudden shock, and it brought to mind the moment I first arrived in Toronto in 1972 to pursue my Master’s degree at the University of Toronto. Just weeks after settling in, I found myself delivering Friday Jumuʿah sermons at Hart House, a responsibility I took on at the urging of my dear friend, Dr. Rahmeth Shah. At the time, Rahmeth Shah was working at the university and had taken on the role of organizing the Jumuʿah prayers at Hart House. Little did I know that this initial encounter would lay the foundation for a lasting and deeply cherished friendship.

Our bond grew stronger over the years as Rahmath Shah became an integral figure in the Muslim Students’ Association (MSA) and the broader Muslim community in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). His unwavering dedication to community service, from grassroots initiatives to organizational leadership, earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

Rahmeth Shah was a constant presence at the Jami Mosque (also known as the Islamic Center of Toronto), which is often referred to as the “mother of mosques,” where I had the honor of serving as Imām on two separate occasions. His commitment to the mosque’s spiritual and community activities was exemplary.

He was consistently engaged in organizing events, including coordinating the weekly ICNA ḥalāqahs at the Jāmi Mosque. On numerous occasions, he would invite me to lead tafsīr lessons for the congregation. His presence at the mosque was a pillar of support, and he was tireless in his efforts to foster unity and growth within the community.

Beyond the mosque, Rahmeth Shah was deeply involved in various key organizations within the Muslim community. His contributions to the Muslim Students’ Association, the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), and the Islamic Foundation were immeasurable. As the president of ICNA, he played an instrumental role in many initiatives aimed at strengthening the Muslim community, including the construction of the FalahIslamic Centre, in Oakville—a project that continues to serve as a lasting legacy to his vision and dedication.

Rahmeth Shah’s work extended to his role on the selection committee of the Islamic Foundation, where his leadership and insight were invaluable in guiding the foundation’s work. He worked tirelessly, never missing an opportunity to contribute to the daʿwah efforts of the community, regardless of the challenges he faced. His devotion to serving others was steadfast, and his humility was a defining feature of his character.

One of Dr. Rahmeth Shah Khan’s most significant contributions was the establishment of Jumuʿah prayers at Hart House at the University of Toronto more than 50 years ago. This was a groundbreaking initiative that provided a space for Muslims from various backgrounds to come together in worship and community. The tradition he started has continued to this day, benefiting generations of Muslim students and serving as a testament to his foresight and dedication.

Despite facing physical challenges, Rahmeth Shah never allowed them to hinder his commitment to his faith and community. He continued to attend Jumuʿah prayers and actively participate in community events at both the Islamic Foundation and IIT. I will forever remember the times after I delivered khutbahs at the Foundation or IIT, when RahmathShah would approach me with kind words of encouragement and thoughtful compliments that always left a lasting impression.

With his passing, the Muslim community has lost a true pioneer—an individual whose life was marked by humility, sincerity, and tireless service. Dr. Rahmeth Shah Khan was not someone who sought recognition or attention; instead, he dedicated himself to quiet, impactful work that left a profound and lasting mark on the community. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the projects he helped build, and the ideals he instilled in all of us.

Dr. Rahmeth Shah Khan leaves behind his beloved wife, Nazia Khan, and their five children: Dr. Bilal, Omer, and Usamah Shah Khan, and daughters Safia and Aminah Khan, as well as nineteen grandchildren. His loss leaves an undeniable void, but his memory and the impact of his work will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May Allāh (SWT) grant him the highest place in Jannah, and may He bring comfort to his family during this difficult time. Āmīn.