Blog

'Khawatir' is the plural form of the Arabic word 'khaatir' (thought or reflection). This blog is intended to be a collection of my edited thoughts, typically on Islamic spirituality and pastoral theology.

All posts are accessible to all. Nevertheless, subscriptions are highly appreciated.

Me

My name is Abdul-Malik Merchant. I’m a Muslim, husband, father, and son of a Blackamerican convert to Islam.

I completed my undergraduate seminary studies — specializing in Islamic culture —at Umm al-Qura University in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. After nearly ten years of studying and living abroad, in 2016 I returned to the US, taking a leadership position at New England’s largest Masjid as the Associate Imam (under Sh. Yasir Fahmy’s auspices), primarily focusing on spiritual care and counseling. Then, in 2019, I served as the Muslim Chaplain of Tufts University and the Essex County Sheriff’s Department. In these roles, I offered mentorship and support, taught students and inmates, and coordinated programs and activities related to Muslim life in their facilities.

In the Spring of 2020, I completed a Master of Theological Studies at Boston University’s School of Theology, concentrating on practical theology. I was awarded the Tisch Faculty Fellowship and Boston Bridges Fellowship upon graduation. Now, I currently serve as a board member of the Muslim Wellness Foundation in addition to my primary role as an Imam and Lead Chaplain at All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS).

If you are interested in counseling, you can schedule an appointment at www.SuhbaConsulting.com.

Please remember my family and me in your prayers.