Sami Makarem Biography

Background

A world-renowned scholar in the field of Mysticism, Sami Makarem was born in Aytat, in the district of Aley, Lebanon, on April 14, 1931.

His father, the late Sheikh Nassib Makarem (www.nassibmakarem.org), was known to have been one of the greatest master calligraphers of his time. In addition to having been the official calligrapher of the Republic of Lebanon, Sheikh Nassib Makarem was also known for having been the personal calligrapher to several kings and emirs as well.

His mother, Wassila Sleiman Faraj, originally from the village of Abay, in the district of Aley, Mount Lebanon, was also known for her piety and devoutness like her husband, Sheikh Nassib.  In addition, Sheikha Wassila was also famous for her artistic side, as she was a master in the art of needlework who had also participated in various exhibitions winning numerous medals and awards for her artwork.
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When Sheikh Nassib Makarem passed away on June 4, 1971, his death left a sad impact on his son, Dr. Sami Makarem. Not only was Sheikh Nassib a loving and a wise father to Dr. Sami, but he was also his mentor as well.  Having had such a profound inspirational impact on Sami Makarem, this had only lead to Sami Makarem exploring and discovering the artistic side in himself.

Education

Sami Makarem completed his primary and intermediate education at the “Lycée Français de Beyrouth – Mission Laïque Française”, and his secondary studies at the “National College of Souk El Gharb”.

He obtained his Bachelor Degree (BA) in Literature and Philosophy in 1954 and his Master Degree (MA) in Arabic Literature in 1957 from the “American University of Beirut” (AUB).

In 1958, Sami Makarem left for the United States of America to enroll at the “University of Michigan” in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In 1963, he completed his studies and obtained his Ph.D. in Middle Eastern Studies.

Recognitions

Sami Makarem received numerous awards and honors during his career, few of which are listed below:

One of the most recognized honors to have received is the “Honorary Citizen of the city of Houston”, Texas, in the United States of America and the “holder of the Key” to the city of Houston – for his scientific and intellectual achievements – July 8th, 1978.

He was also awarded the following:

• Holder of the Medal of the Arabic Historian from the “Union of Arab Historians”
• Holder of the Shield of “Antelias Cultural Movement” – March 1996
• Holder of the Shield of “The Social Work League” in Beirut
• Holder of the Shield of “The Association of Social Movement”
• Holder of the Shield of the “Ministry of Cultural Affairs” – Lebanon – April 2000
• Holder of the Shield of “Lions Club, Kodmos” – Lebanon – 1998, 1999
• Holder of the “Green Hand” Medal – UNESCO Palace, Lebanon – 2008

His Journey

Sami Makarem first taught Arabic Literature at the “National College of Souk El Gharb”, then afterward, at “Al Sirat College”, in Aley from 1954 to 1957.

In July 1963, he completed his Ph.D. and moved back to Lebanon to teach at the “Lebanese University”.

In 1964, he was appointed to the rank of Assistant Professor at the “American University of Beirut” (AUB) to teach Arabic Literature and Middle Eastern Studies.

In 1970, he was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor at the “American University of Beirut” (AUB), and then to the rank of Full Professor to teach Arabic Literature, Islamic Thought, and Sufism.

During his tenure at the American University of Beirut ” AUB, Sami Makarem held the position of Head of the Department of the “Arabic Literature and Near Eastern Languages Department” twice, from 1975 until 1978 and then from 1993 until 1996.

In addition to his life in academia, Professor Makarem held positions in various organizations, such as:

• Board Member of the “Board of Regents of the Lebanese Foundation for Permanent Peace”.
• Secretary-General of the “Druze Council for Research and Development”.
• Head of the Department for Scientific Studies and Research at the Druze Heritage Foundation.

Sami Makarem was best known for his academic contributions in various fields, including Literature, Poetry, Mysticism, Sufism, History, and Art.

In addition to writing a great number of articles and publications, he presented in various international conferences, produced hundreds of works of art, and published more than 30 books in both English and Arabic.

Having been a writer, a historian, a poet, a thinker, an author, an artist, a philosopher, a teacher, a mentor and surely a symbolic father to many, Sami Makarem was renowned for his depth of character, wide horizons, and intensive and extensive knowledge.

Despite being an octogenarian, Sami Makarem was still teaching part-time at the American University of Beirut “AUB” right up to his passing, at the age of 81 on August 21, 2012.

Mourning Dr. Sami Makarem!

 
AUB mourning Dr. Sami Makarem (AR) Click here

AUB mourning Dr. Sami Makaren (EN) Click here

Message from Nayla Sarrieddine Abou Shakra to Dr. Makarem on his funeral Click here

Al Sharq Al Awsat mourning Dr. Sami MakaremClick here

Dhoha MagazineClick here

Dr. Sami Makarem through his friend’s words Click here