Biography
Ibrahim El-Gohary was born to poor Coptic parents in Qalyub. His father, Youssef El-Gohary, made clothes for living. As a young child, Ibrahim excelled in writing and arithmetic. When he grew up, he began to transcribe religious books and distribute them to churches at his own expense. This action drew the attention of HH Pope John XVIII, who met with Ibrahim and blessed him. The Pope also mediated on Ibrahim's behalf and he became the chief scribe of Master Rizk, another prominent Copt at that time. When Muhammad Abu-'l-Dhahab became ruler of Egypt, Ibrahim El-Gohary became the chief scribe of all Egypt, a position equivalent to that of a Prime Minister today.
Ibrahim had one son named Youssef and one daughter named Demiana. Youssef died at a young age, shortly before his wedding. Demiana died a short time afterwards without having been married.
Ibrahim El-Gohary was very loved by the Egyptians. He was also named The Sultan of the Copts for his great love and attachment to his Coptic identity.
The famous historian Abd al-Rahman al-Jabarti wrote about Ibrahim El-Gohary, saying:
- "He had made Egypt great by his capability which endured for long time. He was one of the great world statesmen with a great decisive mind. He treated everyone according to their abilities, and did things that attracted the hearts and the love of the people to him."
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