Imad Enchassi is the founder, imam and president of the Islamic Society of Greater Oklahoma City. He also serves as the chair of Islamic Studies at Oklahoma City University, and as visiting professor at Phillips Theological Seminary and Saint Paul School of Theology. Enchassi was featured in the 2019 short documentary, “Mercy,” and is the author of Cloud Miles: A Remarkable Journey of Mercy, Peace and Purpose.
1. What story, verse or passage from your faith tradition’s sacred texts has significantly influenced / shaped your life?
“Repel Hate with Love” (41:34 Quran).
The verse speaks about repelling hate with love, bad with good, and, by doing so, you gain a friend out of a perceived enemy.
2. Who are three people (other than your family) who have shaped your life and worldview? And why?
Ms. Rahma, a Christian nun that took care of me as a child. I have named every organization I have started after her. Rahma means Mercy in Arabic.
Muhammad Ali. I met him when I was 10 years old, and he shaped my passion for social justice.
Imaginary woman, by the name of Lady Liberty. She shaped my passion for empathy for other immigrants like me and made me feel welcome in America.
3. List three of your “desert island” books, movies or TV shows.
The Qur’an, “Malcolm X” the movie, and “Prince Among Slaves,” also a movie.
4. What is one of the most critical issues people are facing today?
Distance from God. Consequently, there is a lack of loving oneself and others.
5. What are a few of your hobbies?
Lecturing and teaching, going to the gym, and taking long walks with my wife.
6. If you could freeze your life into an already-lived 10 seconds, what would they be?
I would freeze the moment I became a U.S. citizen after living as a refugee my entire life.
7. Our tagline at Good Faith Media is, “There’s more to tell.” What’s your “more to tell”?
I’m a five star chef. Many people do not know this about me. I enjoy cooking, but not cleaning.
Reflection and resources at the intersection of faith and culture through an inclusive Christian lens.
