A Poster from Maktaba-tul-Madina
HIS POSITION IN THE SILSILA: Sheikh-ul-Islam wal Muslimeen, Aayat min Aayatillah, Has'saan-e-Zamaan, Burhaan-ul-Auliyah, Haami-e-Sunnat, Qaami-e-Bid'at Mujaddid-e-Deen-o-Millat A'la Hazrat Ash-Shah Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Qaadiri Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu) is the thrity ninth Sheikh of the Silsila Aaliyah Qaadiriyah Barakaatiyah Razviyah Nooriyah.
HIS BIRTH: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawwal 1272 A.H. (14th June 1856), at the time of Zohar Salaah in a place called Jasoli, which is in the city of Bareilly Shareef, India. A few days before the birth of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), his father, Allamah Maulana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allamah Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who interpreted this dream by saying: "This is a sign that you are going to be the father of a child, a male, who will grow up to be pious & knowledgeable. His name will gain prominence from East to West."
This was the good news that was given to Allamah Maulana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) concering the birth of none other than the "emerald from amongst the Treasures of Almighty Allah", the "sweet-scented rose from the fragrant garden of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)", Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
HIS BLESSED NAME: The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name "Muhammad." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al-Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahle Sunnah Wal Jamaah, Allama Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), also gave the young child the beautiful name of "Ahmed Raza." It was by this name that he was famously known. Much later in his life, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) added the title "Abdul Mustafa" to his name signifying his great love & respect for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).
ILLUSTRIOUS FAMILY HISTORY: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaadiri, was the son of Allamah Maulana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Maulana Raza Ali Khan, who was son of Allamah Maulana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Maulana Shah Mohammed Azam Khan, who was the son of Allamah Maulana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the son of Allamah Maulana Sa'eedullah Khan (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in). The great forefathers of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) migrated from Qandhar (Kabul) during the Mogul rule & settled in Lahore. Allamah Maulana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hazrat held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allamah Maulana Sa'adat Yaar Khan (radi Allahu anhu), after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city. Allamah Maulana Hafiz Kaazim Ali Khan, the son of Maulana Mohammed Azam Khan (radi Allahu anhum), was a Revenue Officer in the city of Badayun. His son, Allamah Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), the illustrious grandfather of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), did not serve in the Government. It was from this generation that the heads of the family began to adopt Tassawuf as their way of life.
HIS PIETY: Another incident which happened in the Month of Ramadaan also shows A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) piety & fear of Allah. Fasting was not Fardh (obligatory) upon him because he was still a child, but on that day he intended to keep fast. It should be knwon that for a little child to keep fast in India during the summer season was very difficult. The average temperature on a summer's day rises to approximately 45 degrees Celsius. On that day, the heat of the sun was intense. Hazrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) took his young son, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), into a room where sweets were kept. He closed the door & said, "There, eat the sweets." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied that he was fasting. His father then said, "The fasting of children is always like this. The door is closed & no one is looking. Now you may eat." On hearing this, the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) respectfully said, "Through Whose command I am fasting, He is Seeing me." On hearing this answer from a little child, tears began to flow from the eyes of Hazrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He then left the room with A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu).
HIS FEATURES: He was a very handsome personality. He had very beautiful eyes, a broad forehead which eyes, a broad forehead which always shone brightly, a bright & handsome face, firm nose, a very beautiful voice, a broad chest filled with the knowledge & wisdom of Deen, beautiful feet which were firm on the Seeraat-e-Mustaqeem.
A'LA HAZRAT'S FIRST LECTURE: Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) delivered his first lecture at the age of 6 years. It was during the glorious month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) stood on the Mimbar (Pulpit) & delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted of Ulama. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity & eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child!
HIS INTELLIGENCE AS A CHILD: A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was so gifted & intelligent that there was no need for him to study beyond the fourth Kitaab of his course under the tutorship of any of his teachers. He studied the remaining Kitaabs by himself & used to later ask his teachers to test him. Once, his teacher asked him, "Mian! Are you a Jinn or a human being? It takes me much time to teach a lesson, but it does not take you much time to learn the same lesson." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) answered, "Praise be to Allah that I am a human."
At the age of 10, when he was studying the Kitaab, "I'lm-us-Thuboot", under the guidance of his father, he noticed a few objections & answers of his father on the side of the page. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) studied this book carefully & wrote such a well-explained footnote that even the need for an objection was ruled out. His father came across his research on that objection. He was so delighted that he stood up & held the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to his heart & said, "Ahmad Raza! You do not learn from me, but you teach me."
AN ASTONISHING EVENT DURING CHILDHOOD: At the age of 3, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was once standing outside the Raza Masjid in Bareilly Shareef. an "unknown" person, attired in an Arabian garb,a pproached him & spoke to him in the Arabic language. Those who were present & witnessed this incident heard the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) converse with this person in pure Arabic. They were surprised. The person who spoke to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was never seen again in Bareilly Shareef!
COMMENCEMENT OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION: During A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) "Bismillah Kwaani" or "Commencement of Islamic Education" a very strange incident occurred. His respected teacher asked him to read the Tasmiyah & then told him to read "Alif, Baa, Taa, ..." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) began reading the "Alif, Baa, Taa, ..." until he came to the word "Laam Alif" at which point A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) became silent. When his teacher asked him once more to read "Laam Alif", he remained silent. The teacher instructed him, "Say, 'Laam Alif", he remained silent. When his teacher asked him once more to read "Laam Alif", he remained silent. The teacher instructed him, "Say, 'Laam Alif". Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), then replied, "I have already read them earlier on. What need is there for me to repeat it?"
Hazrat Allamah Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who was witnessing this incident, said, "Son! Listen to what your Ustaad is saying." Upon further reflection, Hazrat Allamah Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), realised the reason for the objection of the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). It was because the teacher was teaching A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) the lesson of single alphabets. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) felt that how was it possible that a complete word like "Laam Alif" should be found in such a lesson that only dealt with single alphabets!
Hazrat Allamah Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) knew that is was a very delicate matter that could not be understood by a child. Nevertheless, he explained, "Son! It is true that which you are thinking of. But the "Alif" which you had earlier read, in reality, is "Hamza" & this which you are reciting now is which is "Sakin". Therefore, it is for this reason that the alphabet "Laam" is brought before the "Alif"."
When A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) heard this answer, he replied, "If that be the case, then any other alphabet could be joined to the "Alif". Why the "Laam"?" Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), out of sheer happiness & excitement, embraced A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) & made Dua for him. He then explained the answer to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) in the following brilliant manner: "In looking at them they both appear to be very much a like, since they are both empty. Even when writing them together they look very much a like. When it comes to their qualities then "Laam" is the heart of "Alif" & "Alif" is the heart of "Laam". Hazrat Allamah Maulana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was in reality opening the doors & the treasures of knowledge & spiritual insight to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu).
A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was only 4 years old when he completed the recitation of the Holy Quran. Due to the extraordinary intelligence bestowed upon him by Almighty Allah, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) completed his Islamic education at the very young age of 13 years, 10 months & 5 days. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) states that, "I completed my religious education during the middle of the month of Shabaan in the year 1286 A.H. I was 13 years, 10 months & 5 days old at that time. It was also at this time that Salaah became Fard upon me & I began to have great interest in the Laws of Shariah". (Al-Ijaazat-ur-Razviyya)
A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) gained his basic knowledge at home. He later continued his studies under the guidance of certain noted teachers. He studied under his father, Hazrat Allamah Maulana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He completed his primary education under the tutorship of Janaab Mirza Ghulam Qadir Baig. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) also studied under the guidance of the following luminous personalities:
- Hazrat Maulana Abdul Ali Rampuri (radi Allahu anhu)
- Sheikh-e-Kabeer, Hazrat Allamah Syed Shah Abul Hussain Ahmed Noori (radi Allahu anhu)
- Sheikh-e-Tariqah, Hazrat Allamah Shah A'le Rasool Marehrvi (radi Allahu anhu)
- Sheikh Ahmed bin Zain-e-Dahlaan Makki (radi Allahu anhu)
- Sheikh Hussain bin Salih Makki (radi Allahu anhu)
A'LA HAZRAT'S FIRST FATAWA: In a letter sent to his illustrious Khalifa, Malik-ul-Ulama, Hazrat Maulana Zafarud'din Bihari, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote, "With the Grace of Almighty Allah, this servant wrote his first Fatwah at the age of 13. It is also at this age that I completed my religious education & gained a cerificate of proficiency in this field. On this day, a question was put forward to me as to whether milk, if reaching the belly of a child, would prove fosterage or not? I replied that even if milk reached the child's belly, either through the nose or mouth, fosterage would be proven, therefore, making it Haraam upon the child to marry this women". (Al-Malfooz, Part 1 pg. 12)
His father was so amazed & delighted by this in-depth reply that he assigned the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) the task of issuing Fatawahs (Islamic Verdicts). For many years, thereafter, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) fulfilled this very important duty with absolute dignity & responsibility. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) answered hundreds of Fatawas daily. He received them in all languages - Arabic, Urdu, Persian, English & many other languages.
HIS MARRIAGE & BLESSED CHILDREN: In the year 291 A.H. (1874), A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) married Sayyidah Irshaad Begum (radi Allahu anha) who was the beloved daughter of Sheikh Fadhl Hussain Sahib. He was 18 years old at the time of his Nikah.
Almighty Allah blessed A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) with 7 beautiful children - 2 sons & 5 daughters. Both his sons became distinguished Islamic Scholars & great Auliyah Allah. His sons were Hujjat-ul-Islam Maulana Hamid Raza Khan & Ghaus-ul-Waqt Huzoor Mufti-e-Azam Hind (radi Allahu anhum).
BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED AT HIS FATHER'S FEET: A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) became proficient in the following branches of knowledge at the feet of his father: Tafseer of the Holy Quran, Tashreeh of Ahadith, Principles of Ahadith (Usool-e-Hadith), Islamic Jurisprudence (All Four Schools of Thought), Principles of Jurisprudence (Usool-e-fiqh), Dialectics, Quranic Commentary, Principles of Belief, Principles of Debate, Arabic Syntax, Principles of Rhetoric, Language Usage of Metaphors, Science Dealing with Rhetoric, Logistics, Debates, Philospohy & Politics, Rhetoric Devices, Physics, Mathematics, Phsyical Engineering. In the book, "Al-Ijaazat-ul-Mutay'yanah", on page 22, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) has said the following in connection with the above mentioned twenty branches of knowledge. He says, "I learnt these twenty branches of knowledge, personally at the feet of my father".
OTHER BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED FROM VARIOUS ULAMA: He learnt Quranic Recitation, Correct Recitation with Tajweed, Mysticism, Mystical Initiation, Islamic Ethics, Names of Narrators of Ahadith, Biography of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), Islamic History, In-depth Study of Arabic & Literature. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) states: "These ten branches of knowledge, I achieved at the feet of the following teachers: Shah A'le Rasool Marehrvi, Maulana Naqi Ali Khan, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Zain Dahlaan Makki, Sheikh Abdur Rahman Makki, Sheikh Hussain Bin Saleh Makki, Shah Abul Hussain Ahmed Noori (alaihimur rahmah)."
BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED WITHOUT THE ASSISTANCE OF ANY TEACHER: A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) learnt Arithmetic, Algebra, the Twelve Branches of Mathematics, Modern Astronomy, Science of Inheritance, Science of Prosody, Astronomy, Science of History, Prose in Hindi, Prose in Persian, In-depth Study of Arabic & In-depth Study of Plain Persian Writing.
When A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was questioned about his amazing capabilities in solving intricate & confusing Mathematical theories & as to who his mentor was, he replied, "I did not have a teacher in thie field. Whatever you see, I achieved within the four walls of my room. This is indeed through the Grace of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)." (Al-Mizaan Pg. 34)
PROFICIENCY IN OVER FIFTY BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE: If we study the life of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), we will discover that his proficiency in various subjscets total over fifty four branches of knowledge. Is it possible today, to find an Islamic scholar or even a non-Muslim professor, scientist, educationist or a Nobel Prize owner who possesses such qualifications? Definitely not!
TRANSLATION & COMMENTARY OF THE HOLY QUR'AN: Many people have translated the Holy Quran into the Urdu language, but the translation of the Holy Quran presented by A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) - called "Kanzul Imaan" is proven to be the most unique translation in the Urdu language. In his translation one sees that A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) used only those words in his translation that are worthy for the Attributes & Qualities of Almighty Allah & of His beloved Rasool (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). It is said that the translation of the Holy Quran by A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) is not merely a literal translation, but is also the commentary of the Holy Quran. In the words of Hazrat Sayyiduna Muhaddith-e-Azam Hind (radi Allahu anhu), "It is Not Only the Translation of the Quran, it is the Quran."
We have taken just one example of a Verse from the Holy Quran that has been translated by various persons & compared it with the beautiful translation of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). We have taken Surah 93, Verse 7 as an example:
- "& he found you lost on the way & he guided thee." Translation by Mohammad Asad
- "& found thee groping so he showed the way." Translation by Muhamamd Ali Lahori Qadiyani
- "& He found you uninformed of Islamic laws so he told you the way of Islamic laws." Translation by Ashraf Ali Thanvi.
- "Did he not find thee erring & guide thee." Translation by Arberry
- "& saw you unaware of the way so showed you the straight way." Translation by Fateh Muhammad Jalledhri
- "& he found thee wandering & He gave thee guidance." Translation by Yusuf Ali
"& He Found You Self Engrossed In His Love Therefore Gave Way Unto Him"
Look at the uniqueness & that cautioun that is present in this translation of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu)! He abstained from using those words that may cause any disrespect to the dignity & personality of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)!
Due to the vast amount of time A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent in compiling books on Fiqh & various other topics, it was not possible for him to compile a complete commentary of the Holy Quran. However, a few learned scholars have stated that if all the books of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) have to be brought together then there is a great possibility that a complete commentary of the Holy Quran may be compiled. Like his translation of the Holy Quran, they have said that his Tafseer will also be exceptional.
AUTHORITY IN THE FIELD OF AHADITH: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was also a great authority of his time in subjects of Ahadith & Usool-e-Ahadith. He knew the names of almost every Hadith narrator. When he was questioned concerning details of a certain narrator, he was able to give a complete biography of the narrator. When he studied any Hadith he was able to explain the type of Hadith, it's benefits & the reasons behind that Hadith.
A GREAT JURIST OF HIS TIME: Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Holy Quran & the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Holy Quran & the Ahadith of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). He must also be well-versed in & all the other important branches of knowledge, such as Tafseer, Logic, Philosophy, Translating & many other branches of knowledge. Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was regarded as the greatest Jurist of his era. He was totally proficient in the field of Fiqh & received acceptance by the great Ulama of the East & the West. The greatest proof of his position & status in the world of Fiqh can be understood from his answers concerning the Shariat-e-Mustafa (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), which was compiled into 12 large volumes, comprising of approximately 12,000 pages to form the famous book, "Fatawa Razviyah," which is used in every Dar-ul-Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today.
HIS KNOWLEDGE OF PHILOSOPHY & SCIENCE: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was a great Scientist & Philosopher. He understood Science & Philosophy better than anyone in his time. He was a master of Ancient & Modern Sciences. He proved through research that various concepts of the modern day science are illogical & against the theories of the Holy Quran & the Ahadith. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote many books on Science & Physics. One of his famous books, "Fauze Mubeen Dar Harkate Zameen," using the Holy Quran as it's guidelines, proves that the earth is not rotating but is stationary.
A MATHEMATICAL GENIUS: A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was also a great Mathematician. He used to solve the most difficult mathematical problems in a short space of time. His authority in the field of mathematics will leave modern-day mathematicians wide-mouthed. Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Logarithms & other branches of Mathematics which are normally handled with great difficulty even by mathematics students, seemed like ordinary addition & subtraction to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu)!
Once, Sir Zia'uddin, a famous Mathematician, was in a predicament with regards to part of his research in the mathematical field. He had to go to Berlin in Germany to seek a solution to this intricate problem. It so happened that a certain Maulana from the famous Aligarh University advised Sir Zia'uddin to visit A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to seek a solution to hsi mathematical problem. But, Sir Zia'uddin, not sounding very confident said, "What will an ordinary Maulana like Maulana Ahmed Raza be able to solve? He hasn't even gone out of his city to gain knowledge, so it is obvious that his knowledge is very limited." Nevertherless, after some convincing, he agreed to visit A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). When he arrived in Bareilly Shareef, he immediately went to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). Presenting the intricate mathematical problem to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) he said, "I am now going to Germany. I will come back for the answer, that is, if you do manage to solve it." As he was speaking, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was on his way to the Masjid. Before entering the Masjid, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) answered his problem. When Sir Zia'uddin read what was written on this paper, he realised that it contained the solution to his mathematical problem that had him so confused. Sir Zia'uddin then said, "Today, I believe that there is something known as I'lm-e-laduni (inspired knowledge)."
CONTRIBUTION TO THE FIELD OF POETRY: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) spent much of his valuable time writing Poetry. His Poetry mostly consisted of Naat Shareef in praise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) & Manqabats. In all the Naat Shareef's that were written by A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), it is evident that his heart & soul was drowned in the love of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) poetry was compiled to form the famous, "Hadayiq-e-Bakhshish," (Garden of Forgiveness). This famous Naat Kitaab is used throughout the world. A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) humble compilations are read by all who wish to express their love for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).
BAI'AT & KHILAFAT: In the year 1294 A.H., at the age of 22 years, Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) became the Mureed (Disciple) of Imam-ul-Asfiya, Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool Marehrvi (radi Allahu anhu). The incident surrounding the Bai'at (Spiritual Allegiance) & Khilafat (Spiritual Successorship) of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) is as follows: Once Hazrat Maulana Abdul Qaadir Badayouni (radi Allahu anhu) came to Bareilly Shareef. He invited A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to go to Marehra Shareef with him. Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "I am receiving the scent of my murshid." When they reached the Khanqah-e-Barakaati & entered, Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) & said, "Come in. I have been awaiting your presence for a long time." Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (radi Allahu anhu) immediately made A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) a mureed & blessed him with Khilafat & I'jazat in all the sufi Silsilas. Thus, A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) Peer-o-Murshid (Spiritual Guide) was Hazrat Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (radi Allahu anhu).
Hazrat Sayyiduna Abul Hussain Noori Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu), who was also the Peer-o-Murshid of Maulana Mustafa Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), was also present in this spiritual gathering. He was also a great Wali & needed no introduction to Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). For the benefit of the others who were present & to make them aware of the exalted calibre & status of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), he asked Hazrat Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (radi Allahu anhu) a question. He asked, "Huzoor! the ritual here at Marehra Shareef is that If any person comes here & after becoming mureed desires to gain khilafat & I'jazat, then we ask him to perform mujahida (struggle in the path of Allah). We also give him dry bread to eat as part of his spiritual training. After this, If we find him worthy enough, then we grant him Khilafat & I'jazat in one or two Silsilas, but you have blessed this young man with khilafat & I'jazat of all the Silsilas & even commanded him to look at & verify all the Kitaabs which you have written. Why is this so?"
Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (radi Allahu anhu) answered with the following words: "O People! you do not know Ahmed Raza. Others who come here need to be prepared before gaining I'jazat & Khilafat, but Ahmed Raza Khan has come prepared from Almighty Allah. All he needed was a link & this is why I made him mureed."
"I always teared through the fear of Almighty Allah that if on the day of qiyamah, he questioned me concerning what I had brought for him from the world, then I would have no answer. But, today, that fear no longer exists. If on the day of qiyamah the Almighty asks, "O Aale Rasool! What have you brought for me?" then I will immediately present Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) to my Creator." This highly spiritual incident alone explains the status of A'la Hazrat, Azeem-ul-Barkat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
A'LA HAZRAT'S MUREEDS & KHULAFA: There were many Mureeds (Disciples) & Khulafa (Spiritual Successors) of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). They have spread far & wide over the Indo-Pak & in all parts of the world. Nearly 35 are in other parts of the world & 30 in the Indo-Pak Sub-Continent.
These are the leading ones: Hujjat-ul-Islam, Hazrat Allamah Maulana Muhammad Haamid Raza Khan Noori Barakaati, Ghaus-ul-Waqt, Mufti-e-Azam Hind, Hazrat Maulana Mustafa Raza Khan Noori Barakaati, Hazrat Allamah Maulana Abdus Salaam Jabalpuri, Sadr-ul-Afaadil Hazrat Allamah Maulana Na'eemuddin Muraadabadi, Malik-ul-Ulama Hazrat Allamah Maulana Sayyid Zafar'uddin Bihaari, Mubaaligh-e-Azam Hazrat Allamah Maulana Abdul Aleem Siddique, Sadr-ush-Shariah Hazrat Allamah Maulana Mufti Amjad Ali, Qutb-ul-Madina-tul-Munawwara Hazrat Allamah Sheikh Zia'uddin Ahmed Al-Madani, Burhaan-e-Milaat Hazrat Allamah Burhaan-ul-Haq, Hazrat Allamah Maulana Mukhtar Ahmad Siddiqui Meerati, Sheikh Muhammad Abd al-Hayy, Sheikh Ahmad Khalil, Sheikh Ahmad Khudravi, Sheikh Muhammad bin Abi Bakr, Sheikh Muhammad Sa'id, Hazrat Maulana Sayyid Ahmad Ashraf & Hazrat Maulana Shah Sulayman Ashraf (may Allah be pleased with them all).
The Khulafa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) need no introduction to the Muslim World. Their impact, influence & contribution towards the development of Islamic Culture & Islamic thinking have left it's mark in the pages of history. For the sake of attaining blessings & Barakah, we will discuss, very briefly, the lives of two of the famous Khulafa of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
Sadr-ush-Shariat, Hazrat Allamah Amjad Ali Razvi (radi Allahu anhu)
He was born in 1296 A.H. & passed away in 136 A.H. at the age of 71 years. He is author of the internationally renowned book, "Bahar-e-Shariat", in eighteen bulky chapters. This book contains a volume of information dealing with the Hanafi Law of Fiqh & answers questions pertaining to it. It is presently a "Handbook" of all Muslim institutions. This Khalifa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was one of the Head Advisers of the Department of Islamic Deeniyat at the Aligarh Muslim University. Moulvi Sulayman Nadvi (a non-Sunni) said the following words concerning Allamah Sadr-ush-Shariat (radi Allahu anhu), "Maulana Amjad Ali is totally experienced in the field of teaching & he is well-versed in solving the new needs of the classroom."
Hazrat Allamah Amjad Ali (radi Allahu anhu) also propagated Islam to the non-Muslims. He spent much of his time teaching. He was blessed with 8 sons & each one of them became great Aalims. His 2 daughters became Aalimas. One of his sins, Muhaddith-e-Kabeer, Hazrat Allamah Zia-ul-Mustafa Qadri is one of the greatest scholars in the Muslim world today.
He is without doubt an example of his illustrious father. He is a personality that knows in memory, approximately sixty thousand Hadith of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Hazrat Muhaddith-e-Kabeer is the Former Principal of Al-Jami'at-ul-Ashrafiyah Mubarakpur & also the rector & founder of the well recognised Jaamia Amjadia in Ghausi. He has also established a Dar-ul-Uloom for girls, by the name of "Kulyat-ul-Banaatil Amjadia". He has been blessed with great knowledge & wisdom. He is presently recognised as one of the most learned persons in the field of Hadith & Fiqh. Allamah Baha-ul-Mustafa Qadri another son of Allama Sadr-ush-Shariah (radi Allahu anhu). He thought for many years at the most famous Dar-ul-Uloom in the world, Madrassa Manzar-e-Islam, which has been established by A'la Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He is currently the Principal of Al-Jamiat-ur-Raza which is the world renowed Dar-ul-Uloom that is being constructed by Huzoor Taaj-ush-Shariah Allamah Mufti Mohammed Akhtar Raza Khan Qaadiri Azhari Qibla in Bareilly Shareef.
Qutb-e-Madina Allamah Sheikh Zia'uddin Al-Madani (radi Allahu anhu)
He was one of the most famous Khulafa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) who lived in Madina-tul-Munawwara. Before coming to Madina-tul-Munawwara he lived for some time in Baghdad Shareef. Allamah Zia'uddin Madani (radi Allahu anhu) arrived in Madina-tul-Munawwara in the year 1327 A.H. Here, he made Nikah to a pious lady from a Sayyid family. He was a great Aalim, Sufi & Wali of his time. He hailed from a very illustrious family. His father was the famous Allamah Abdul Hakim Siyalkoti (radi Allahu anhu), a powerful Islamic Scholar of his time, who gave the title of "Mujaddid-e-Alf Thaani" to Imam Rabbani, Imam Ahmed Sarhindi Faruqi (radi Allahu anhu), the Mujaddid of the 11th Islamic Century. With the exception of being the Khalifa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), he also gained Khilafat from various other Akaabireen (Great Ulama). Some of them are: Hazrat Allamah Sheikh Ahmad Shams Maghribi, Sheikh Mahmood-ul-Maghribi, Maulana Abdul Baaqi Farangi & Allamah Abu Yusuf Nibhaani (radi Allahu Ta'ala anhum ajma'in). He left this mundane world on the 12th of August 1981 in the city of Madina-tul-Munawwara. His son, Hazrat Allamah Fadhl-ur-Rahmaan Al-Madani, was also living in Madina-tul-Munawwarah & followed closely in the footsteps of his illustrious father. He too recently passed away in the Holy City of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).
A'LA HAZRAT'S FIRST HAJJ: The opportunity of performing his first Hajj & Ziyaraah was granted to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) on the 26th of Awwal 1295 A.H. (1876). He was 20 years of age. One day, after completing his Hajj, he went to perform his Maghrib Salaah before the Maqaam-e-Ibrahim (alaihis salaam). Having completed his Salaah, the Imam of the Shafi'i order of Makkah-tul-Mukarramah, Allamah Hussain bin Saleh Kamaal (radi Allahu anhu), approached him. He clutched A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) by his hand & led him to his house. The great Imam then placed his hand on the blessed forehead of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) & said: "Verily, I am observing the Noor of Almighty Allah on this forehead." Without hesitation, he blessed A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) with the Sanad (Certificate) of Sahih Sitta (Six Compilers of Hadith: Bukhari, Muslim, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi & Nisa'i). He also began addressing A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) by the title of "Zia'uddin" or "The Light or Splendour of Deen." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was also blessed with the Sanads of Ahadith from the Mufti's of the Hanafi order in Makkah-tul-Mukarramah, Sayyiduna Allamah Abdur Rahmaan Siraaj & Mufti Sheikh Sayyid Ahmad Dahlaan Shafi'i (radi Allahu anhuma).
It was also during this historical visit the Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) informed the Ulama-e-Haramain Sharifain concerning the blasphemous & corrupt beliefs of the Ulama-e-Deoband. Having studied A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) books, "aljaamu sunnah li ahli fitna" & "al-mu'tamad-ul-mustanad", which he presented to them, they also gave their verdicts on those who committed blasphemy & those who had written words of disrespect against Almighty Allah & his Beloved Rasool (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The verdicts of the Ulama of Makkah-tul-Mukarramah & Madina-tul-Munawwarah were compiled to form the famous book, "Hussam-ul-Haramain."
A'LA HAZRAT'S SECOND HAJJ: At the age of 49, A'la Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) performed his second Hajj in 1323 A.H. (1905). He was 49 years old. On the 25th of Zil-Hajj, Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) once again had the opportunity of meeting the great Imam, Sheikh Saleh Kamaal (radi Allahu anhu). He also met Allamah Sayyid Isma'il (radi Allahu anhu) & many other noble Ulama, who showed great respect towards him. It was on this occasion that Allamah Sheikh Saleh Kamaal (radi Allahu anhu) presented A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) with five questions pertaining to I'lm-e-Ghaib (Knowledge of the Unseen). These questions were posed on behalf of the wahabi Ulama of Makkah-tul-Mukarramah. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) had to answer these five questions in two days. It so happened that on the following day, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) contracted a heavy fever. In spite of his ilness, he managed to answer the questions relating to I'lm-e-Ghaib. In fact, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) presented such a detailed answer to the questions of I'lm-e-Ghaib that it turned out to be a complete treatise on it's own. He named this book, "Ad-Daulat-ul-Makkiyah Bil Maadatil Ghaibiya." The Learned Ulama of Haramain Sharifain were totally astounded when A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) presented this book to them on time. He completed this book of approximately 400 pages in only 8 hours. It was also in the classical Arabic language. If one totals the numerical values of the Arabic letters of the title of this book, "Ad-Daulat-ul-Makkiyah Bil Maadatil Ghaibiya," one would discover that they amount to 1323. It was the same year (1323 A.H.) in which A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote this book.
IN THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY PROPHET (sallallahu alaihi wasallam): It was during A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) second visit to the Haramain Sharifain that his aspiration to see the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) became very great. Continuously reciting the Durood Shareef with great veneration & humbleness in front of the Rauza-e-Shareef of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), he felt confident of seeing the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). It was during the second night of his visit to the Court of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) that he was given the opportunity of actually seeing the blessed personality of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). On that night, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), in a state of total submission, lifted his pen & began writing a Naat in praise of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The first line of that Naat is: "Wo Soo'e La'lazaar Phirte hain..." The beautiful Naat continues praising the Beloved of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) & ends with the following verse: "Koi Kyun Pooche teri baat Raza, Tujhse kutte hazaar phirte hain" (O Raza, why should anyone ask about your condition. A thousand dogs like you wander in these blessed streets). Here, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) lowers himself to the extremes & addresses himsself as the "dog" of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). At this point, he was given the opportunity of seeing with his naked eyes the beloved personality of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) standing beside the Rauza-e-Mubaarak.
HIS LOVE FOR THE HOLY PROPHET MUHAMMAD (sallallahu alaihi wasallam): A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent every moment of his life praising the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Almighty Allah & His Rasool (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). It has been recorded that Hazrat Maulana Naee'muddin Muradabadi once asked A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) the reason from him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied, "O Maulana! I am severe upon those people, because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), they should rather make me the target for their insults. I do not have any interest in what they are calling me. At least, while they are busy insulting me, my Beloved Master, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is spared from these insults." The above mentioned incident clearly highlights the following thoughts of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu): "If you desire my life, I will sacrifice it. If you desire my wealth I will give it. But, there is one thing that I will never sacrifice & that is the love & reverence for the beloved, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)."
LOVE & RESPECT FOR THE DESCENDANTS OF THE HOLY PROPHET (sallallahu alaihi wasallam):
ADHERENCE TO THE SUNNAH:
LOVE FOR HUZOOR GHAUS-UL-AZAM (radi Allahu anhu):
A'LA HAZRAT AS THE MUJADDID OF THE 14TH CENTURY:
A'LA HAZRAT'S JIHAD AGAINST THE INSULTERS OF SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULLAH (sallallahu alaihi wasallam):
SOME TITLES BESTOWED UPON HIM:
HAAFIZ-UL-QURAN:
HIS BLESSED CHARACTER:
A FEW KARAAMATS (MIRACLES) OF A'LA HAZRAT:
WORKS OF A'LA HAZRAT:
COMMENTS BY SUPPORTERS & ADVERSARIES:
WISAAL:
MAZAAR SHAREEF:
Mazar Shareef of Aala Hazrat, Imam-e-Ahle Sunnat, Mujahid al-Deen al-Millat, Ash-Shah Ahmed Raza khan Qadri Barkati (radi Allahu anhu)
- Academic Services
- Alahazrat As a Mujaddid
- Writing & Work of Imam Ahmad Raza
- Imam Ahmed Raza Demise
- Imam Ahmed Raza impact in world today
- Selection from Al-Malfozaat-e-Imam Ahmed Raza
- Ancestral Tree of Alahazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan
- A List of the names of 228 books of Alahazrat
- Birthday of Alahazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Al Qadri
- 92 Pearls of Wisdom by Alahazrat
- Primary & Tertiary Education of Alahazrat
- Spiritual Life
- Blessed Qualities of Alahazrat
- Imam Ahmed Raza in the Eyes of Others
- References Alahazrat personalities
- Various Fatawas of Alahazrat
- In defence of Alahazrat Imam Ahmed Raza
- Spiritual Allegiance & Successorship
- Alahazrat Ke Tajdeedi Karnamay - Urdu
- The Sacred Knowledge of Alahazrat
- Who is Imam Ahmad Raza Khan? (ARABIC)
- Imam Ahmad Raza Mystery in Hadith Sciences
No comments:
Post a Comment