Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader of Ismaili Muslims, Dies at 88
His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, known as the Aga Khan IV, passed away at the age of 88 on Tuesday in Portugal, surrounded by his family. The announcement was made by the Aga Khan Foundation and the Ismaili religious community, with further details about his successor to be announced later.
The Aga Khan IV was the 49th hereditary imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and a prominent figure who skillfully blended the spiritual and worldly aspects of life. He took on the role of spiritual leader at the young age of 20, while studying at Harvard University. Over his lifetime, he led the Ismaili community and built a vast philanthropic empire, contributing to hospitals, schools, and housing projects in underdeveloped countries.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Born into the Aga Khan family—a dynasty that dates back over 1,300 years—Prince Karim Aga Khan’s leadership was a turning point for the Ismaili community. He succeeded his grandfather, Aga Khan III, in 1957, a decision made despite the playboy lifestyle of his father, Prince Aly Khan. His grandfather believed that the community should be led by a young man who was “brought up in the midst of the new age.”
The Aga Khan was seen not only as a spiritual leader but also as a business magnate and philanthropist. He skillfully navigated between these roles, balancing his leadership of the Ismaili Muslims with major global business ventures. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), his main philanthropic organization, was key to his legacy. Through this network, he addressed critical issues in healthcare, education, housing, and economic development in impoverished regions such as Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.
Building Bridges Between Islam and the West
While he stayed away from direct political involvement, the Aga Khan worked tirelessly to build bridges between Muslim societies and the West. His focus on Islamic culture, architecture, and education helped to foster greater understanding and respect.
He also established the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, promoting Islamic architecture globally, and supported programs at MIT and Harvard University. His efforts in restoring ancient Islamic structures worldwide further cemented his role as a key cultural advocate.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Leadership
Born on December 13, 1936, in Creux-de-Genthod, Switzerland, Prince Karim Aga Khan was the son of Joan Yarde-Buller and Prince Aly Khan. His birthdate and place, however, are often disputed. Known for his extensive financial empire, the Aga Khan’s wealth is difficult to measure, with some estimates placing it in the billions.
Under his leadership, the Ismaili community was encouraged to tithe 10% of their income, a practice rooted in their spiritual duty. Despite his vast wealth, the Aga Khan believed that wealth, when used responsibly, could be a tool for good in society:
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“We have no notion of the accumulation of wealth being evil. The Islamic ethic is that if God has given you the capacity or good fortune to be a privileged individual in society, you have a moral responsibility to society.”
A Family and Lasting Legacy
The Aga Khan is survived by his three sons and daughter, who will likely continue his work in various capacities. His death marks the end of an era for the Ismaili Muslims, but his contributions to both the spiritual and material worlds will endure for generations.
As the Ismaili community reflects on his leadership, they honor the legacy of a man who helped shape both the future of Islam and the global landscape of philanthropy, development, and culture.
