Talking With Teachers With Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali Talking With Teachers: Season 5-Episode 4: Shaykh Kifani Ibrahim Cisse
Jul 21, 2025
Shaykh Kifani Ibrahim Cisse, a public speaker, teacher, mentor, and poet with a rich background in both Christianity and Islam, shares his transformative journey from a Lutheran church to embracing Islam. He reflects on the spiritual legacy of Sheikh Hassan Cisse and discusses the interplay between faith, hip-hop, and social media. Cisse also delves into the importance of resilience in race and culture, the challenges Muslims face in America, and profound insights on suffering and personal growth within the context of spirituality.
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Christianity Led to Islam
- Shaykh Kifani Ibrahim Cisse grew up deeply involved in Christianity, especially Lutheran catechism.
- His doubts about Christian doctrines led him on a spiritual quest that eventually brought him to Islam.
Dance Led to Islam
- Shaykh Kifani entered Islam influenced by a Muslim dance partner and the call to prayer.
- He embraced the tariqah and moved to Senegal for deep Islamic studies.
Family Roots and School Experience
- His family migrated from Mississippi and Louisiana to Michigan for work opportunities.
- He attended Lutheran school in Detroit and was well integrated despite being one of few African Americans.
