A Short History

Jamaat Ibad Ar Rahman, Inc. received its charter from the state of North Carolina on February 9th 1981. Under Chapter 55A of the General Statutes, it became a nonprofit organization with the following major purposes:

1) To engage in the religious practices and beliefs of the Islamic faith through moral, educational, cultural and economic development of all members.

2) To provide an organization which will promote and support the Islamic Faith.

3) To engage in any type of business to enhance the economic status of the corporation for lawful and religious employment.

The original incorporators for Jamaat Ibad Ar Rahman, Inc. were Amad Abd-Shakur, Talib Abdullah and Nazeeh Abdul-Hakeem.

Mission Statement

To establish, facilitate and encourage the practice of Islam in Durham and the surrounding area based on the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) according to the methodology of the Salaf Salih (the righteous predecessor) by: Providing a place of worship; Enjoining good and forbidding evil; Educating the Muslims; Propagating Islam to the general community; and Promoting the social, economic and moral well – being of the Muslims.

Noteworthy dates

1981 – Jamaat Ibad Ar Rahman, Inc. received its state charter and federal and state tax-exempt status.

1983 – Masjid Ibad Ar Rahman was opened on Roxboro Street.

1986 – 23 Acres of land was obtained for future use. 15 Acres remain as an alternative site for a new Masjid.

1988 – Existing building was purchased.

1989 – Masjid was opened in new building. The Athaan was called from loudspeakers on top of the building and is still called today.

1990 – Ibad Ar Rahman School was opened. It has been the longest operating Muslim school in North Carolina and has high school graduates.