Meet Shaykh Jamir D. Meah

Assalam ‘Alaykum, peace be upon you! I’m the Assistant Director of Religious & Spiritual Life and Muslim Chaplain at Wesleyan.

Being a young Muslim today is no easy ride. Struggles of faith, practice, culture, belonging, expectations, not to mention peer pressure, social media, and misinformation … the list goes on! Campus life and academics also bring their challenges. I feel you and understand the personal and faith issues many of us experience. As a Muslim chaplain and Islamic scholar, my door is open to you. My approach is to listen, be open and accessible, and hopefully, share wisdom and guidance as we walk together on your journey. Whatever you want to discuss, no matter the difficulty, regardless of faith, identity, and background, or even just for a relaxed chat, everyone is welcome. My goal is to see you thrive, spiritually as well as intellectually.

Seeking answers to the big questions myself, I spent over a decade abroad studying the classical Islamic sciences and spirituality under leading scholars and spiritual giants. Specializing in theology, law, and spirituality, I received traditional (ijaza) and institutional licenses to teach and minister. I have previously served as senior faculty and chaplain at various international institutions. In 2020, in response to the pandemic, I established the Key to the Garden Foundation, an international resource for religious and spiritual guidance, education, and well-being. I’m currently completing my MA in Interreligious and Islamic Studies at Hartford International University (formerly Hartford Seminary) with a specific focus on Muslims in American Religious History. My thesis is on “The Foundations and Framework of Islamic Practical Theology and Spiritual Care.” I emphasize making religion relevant to contemporary contexts and everyday life by bridging intellectual critical inquiry with the practice of ethics and spirituality.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading non-fiction, though I can be found delighting in Sherlock Holmes over a cup of tea. I love sports, especially soccer and basketball, and I’m always looking for an opportunity to play, so feel free to invite me for a game. Most of all, I like nothing more than simply connecting with people and nature. I reside in Connecticut with my wife and three children, one of them being our inquisitive cat, Nala.

You can connect with me via email or simply drop by. I’m at the ORSL office (169 High Street), typically Monday to Friday between 8.30 am to 5 pm. Alternatively, we can chat over a 1on1 on the basketball court! Our space is non-judgmental, confidential, and safe.