Honoring Prof. John L. Esposito Today, I lost not only a dear friend, but one of the greatest scholars and humanitarians of our time. Professor John L. Esposito has returned to his Creator, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of scholarship, compassion, and service. For decades, John dedicated his life to educating, mentoring, and building bridges of understanding in a world too often defined by division. His pioneering contributions to the study of Islam and Muslim-Christian relations transformed the field and inspired generations—students, academics, policymakers, and ordinary people across the globe. He embodied a rare combination of intellectual rigor, humility, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity. It was an honor for me—and for the Center for Islam and Global Affairs (CIGA) at Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University—to recognize his lifelong contributions by awarding him the Lifetime Service Award at our first Ummah Conference in 2017. That moment was but a small reflection of a lifetime devoted to truth, understanding, and service to humanity. I had the privilege of speaking with him recently, and today I find myself reflecting deeply on the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. During the years I was confined to house arrest, from 2008 to 2014, John visited me time and again. His presence brought strength and hope during one of the most difficult chapters of my life. He stood by me with unwavering friendship, encouragement, and moral clarity when it mattered most. I will never forget his visit to Türkiye a few years ago. We prayed together in the Blue Mosque—a moment I will forever cherish. It was also John who spoke passionately to President Erdoğan about my case, advocating for me at a critical juncture. His sincere efforts played an important role in the journey that ultimately brought me to Türkiye. For that, I remain forever grateful. My family and I loved John dearly. We cherish every conversation, every visit, every moment we were blessed to share. He was a man of knowledge, integrity, faith, and immense generosity—a beautiful soul devoted to serving others and uplifting humanity. Truly, he was a man of God. Our hearts are with his beloved wife, Jean, and the entire Esposito family during this painful time. May Allah, the Most Merciful, forgive him, envelop him in His infinite mercy, illuminate his grave, accept his lifelong service, and grant him the highest abode in Jannat al-Firdaws. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall all return. Rest in peace, my dear brother and friend. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May your knowledge remain a continuous charity, benefiting others long after your passing. You built bridges in an age of walls—may we prove worthy of crossing them. In 2021, I had the privilege of sitting down with him for a conversation about his remarkable life, achievements, and the legacy he built. Looking back, I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to record and share his story in his own words. You can watch our conversation here: youtu.be/PRKDKuZqCys?si=k-Zm…