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Home > Book Library > English Section > Life Of A'la Hazarat THE LIFE AND WORKS OF THE MUSLIM REVIVALIST, IMAM-E-AHLE SUNNAT, A’LA HAZRAT, ASH SHAH IMAM AHMED RAZA KHAN AL-QADERI (RADI ALLAHU ANHU)
Imam Ahmed Raza's Blessed Birth | His Blessed Name | Illustrious Family History | Imam Ahmed Raza's Piety as a Child | Imam Ahmed Raza's First Lecture | His Intelligence as a Child | Astonishing Events of Childhood IMAM AHMED RAZA'S BLESSED BIRTH Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawaal 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 Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allamah Mawlana 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 boy, who will grow up to be pious and knowledgable. His name will gain prominence from East to West." This was the good news that was given to Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) concerning 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 (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)", Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu). The date of birth of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was extracted by himself from the Holy Quran. "These are they in whose hearts Allah has inscribed faith and helped them with a spirit from Himself." (58:2) The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name of "Mohammed." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, Allamah Mawlana 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 and respect for Sayyiduna Rasulullah (salal laahu alaihi wasallam). The Grand Mufti of Makkatul Mukarramah, Sheikh Hussain bin Saleh Makki (radi Allahu anhu), also gave him the title of "Zia'udeen Ahmed." Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaderi, was the son of Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan, who was son of Allamah Mawlana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Shah Mohammed Azam Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana 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 and settled in Lahore. Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhum), held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan (radi Allahu anhu), after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city. Allamah Mawlana Hafiz Kaazim Ali Khan, the son of Mawlana Mohammed Azam Khan (radi Allahu anhum), was a Tax-collector in the city of Badayun. His son, Allamah Mawlana 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. We have included a very brief history of A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father and grandfather. HIS FATHER: A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father, Hazrat Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), received his education at the hands of his father, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He wrote more than 50 books, among them, "Suroorul Quloob fi Zikri Mouloodul Mahboob", which received a very high distinctive position amongst Islamic literature. The treatise is characteristic in its condemnation of the enemies of Islam, both internally and externally. A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father passed away in 1297 A.H. (1880) when he was 24 years old. HIS GRANDFATHER: One of the greatest Sufis of his time, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born in the year 1224 A.H. He was also a great warrior and fought with General Bakht Khan against English invaders in the year 1834. He received his early education at the hands of Molwi Khaleerur Rahman. At the age of 23, he had already completed his Islamic education, earning certificates of distinction in various fields of knowledge. He passed away in the month of Jamaadi-ul-Awwal in the year 1282 A.H. (1866). A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was at this time only 10 years old. IMAM AHMED RAZA'S PIETY AS A CHILD A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was a child of 4 years when this incident took place. On that particular day, he was dressed in a long Kurta. As he stepped out of his house, a few female prostitutes walked past him. In order to cover his eyes, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) quickly held the bottom of his Kurta with both his hands and lifted the Kurta over his face. When one of the prostitutes saw what he did, she said, "Well! Young man. You covered your eyes, but allowed your Satr to be shown." With his face and eyes still covered, the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied, "When the eyes are tempted, then the heart becomes tempted. When the heart is tempted, then the concealed parts become tempted." So shocked and affected was this woman on hearing such a reply from a child that she lost consciousness. Another incident which happened in the Month of Ramadaan also s hows A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) piety and 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 known 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 50 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 and 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 and 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). IMAM AHMED RAZA'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) and delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted of Ulema. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity and eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child! A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was so gifted and 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 and used to later ask his teachers to test him. Once, his teacher asked him, "Mia! 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." When he was 8 years old, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote a Mas'ala concerning Fara'idh (Fards). When his father looked at the answer, he happily remarked, "If only some adult could answer in this manner." 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 and answers of his father on the side of the page. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) studied this book carefully and 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 and held the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to his heart and said, "Ahmad Raza! You do not learn from me, but you teach me." Professor Dr Ghulam Mustafa Khan, Head of Department: Urdu, Sindh University, Sindh (Pakistan) said: "Allamah Hazrat Ahmed Raza Khan is among the outstanding scholars. His deep learning, intelligence, vision and acumen, surpassed that of great contemporary thinkers, professors, renowned scholars and orientalist. Indeed, there is hardly any branch of learning that is foreign to him." ASTONISHING EVENTS OF CHILDHOOD At the age of 3, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was once standing outside the Raza Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. An "unknown" person, attired in an Arabian garb, approached him and spoke to him in the Arabic language. Those who were present and witnessed this incident heard the young A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) converse with the 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! A Majzoob (one drowned in his love for Almighty Allah) by the name of Hazrat Basheeruddeen Sahib (radi Allahu anhu) used to live at the Akhoon Zada Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. He spoke harshly to anyone who visited him. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wished to meet this Majzoob. One night, at about 11 o'clock, he set off alone to meet him. He sat respectfully for about 15 minutes outside the Majzoob's house. After some time, the Majzoob became aware of him and asked, "Who are you to Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu)." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied that he was the grandson of Hazrat Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). The Majzoob immediately embraced him and took him into his little room. He asked A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) if he had come for any specific matter, but A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said that he had come to ask him to make Dua for him. On hearing this, the Majzoob, for approximately half an hour, made the following Dua: "May Allah have mercy on you, May Allah bless you."
Commencement of Islamic Education | A'la Hazrat's First Fatwa | His Marriage and Blessed Children | Incident pointing to his Immense Knowledge | Branches of Knowledge studied by his Father's Feet | Branches of Knowledge attained without the Assistance of any Teacher | Other Branches of Knowledge attained from Various Ulama 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, and 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'". 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 on 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 Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) knew that it 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' and this which you are reciting now is 'Alif'. 'Alif' is always 'Sakin' and one cannot commence with an alphabet 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'?" Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), out of sheer happiness and excitement, embraced A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) and 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 alike, since they are both empty. Even when writing them together they look very much alike. When it comes to their qualities then 'Laam' is the heart of 'Alif' and 'Alif' is the heart of 'Laam'." Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was in reality opening the doors and the treasures of knowledge and 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 AND 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 and 5 days old at that time. It was also at this time that Salaah became Fard upon me and I began to have great interest in the Laws of Shariah". (Al Ijaazatur Radawiyya) 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 Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He completed his primary education by Janab Mirza Ghulam Qader Baig, by whom he studied the book, "Mizaane Munsha'ab." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) also studied under the guidance of the following luminous personalities : 1. Hazrat Mawlana Abdul Ali Rampuri (radi Allahu anhu), 2. Sheikh-e-Kabeer, Hazrat Allamah Syed Shah Abul Hassan Ahmed Noori (radi Allahu anhu), 3. Sheikh-e-Tariqah, Hazrat Allamah Shah Ale Rasool Mahrahrewi (radi Allahu anhu), 4. Sheikh Ahmed bin Zain-e-Dahlaan Makki (radi Allahu anhu), 5. Sheikh Abdur Rahman Makki (radi Allahu anhu), and 6. Sheikh Hussain bin Salih Makki (radi Allahu anhu) In a letter sent to his illustrious Khalifa, Malakul Ulema, Hazrat Mawlana Zafaruddeen Bihaari, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote, "With the Grace of Almighty Allah, this servant wrote his first Fatawah at the age of 13. It is also at this age that I completed my religious education and gained a certificate 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 I, pg. 12) His father was so amazed and 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) carried this very important duty with absolute dignity and responsibility. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) began answering hundreds of Fatawas daily. He received them in all languages - Arabic, Urdu, Persian, English and many other languages. Professor Dr J.M.S. Baljon, Department of Islamology, University of Leiden (Holland), when commenting about A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) answers to religious enquiries, said: "Indeed, a great scholar I must confess. When reading his Fatawas, I am deeply impressed by the immensely wide reading he demonstrates in his argumentations. Above it, his views appear much more balanced than I expected. You are completely right; he deserves to be better known and more appreciated in the West than is the case at present." HIS MARRIAGE AND BLESSED CHILDREN In the year 1291 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 and 5 daughters. Both his sons became eminent Islamic Scholars and great Awliyah Allah. A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) eldest son, Hujjatul Islam, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Muhammad Haamid Raza Khan Noori Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu) was very much efficient in Arabic and various other religious sciences. His features resembled his illustrious father. Hujjatul Islam (radi Allahu anhu) left this mundane world on the 17th of Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1362 A.H., while in the state of Salaah. His Mazaar Shareef (Blessed Tomb) is in Bareilly Shareef, India. Ghousul Waqt, Huzoor Mufti-e-Azam-e-Hind, Ash Shah Imam Mustapha Raza Khan Noori Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu), the younger son of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) studied primarily under the guidance of his elder brother. He also received education at the blessed feet of his father and earned himself a certificate of proficiency in religious sciences. Huzoor Mufti-e-Azam-e-Hind (radi Allahu anhu) has approximately ten millions Mureeds (Disciples) around the world. He is also regarded as a Mujaddid (Reviver) of Islam of the 15th Century. He left this mundane world on the eve of the 14th of Muharram 1402 A.H. (1981). His Mazaar Shareef is also in Bareilly Shareef. INCIDENTS POINTING TO HIS IMMENSE KNOWLEDGE Speaking about A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) immense knowledge, Dr Sayyid Muhammad Abdullah, Chairman: Department of Encyclopedia of Islam, University of Punjab, Lahore (Pakistan) said: "The scholar is said to be the mind and spokesman of the nation, especially that scholar who derives inspiration, throught and vision form the Holy Quran, and the Holy Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), traditions, a narration of divine knowledge, and exponent of divine scheme. He is the voice of the Creator, a benefactor of mankind. It is not an over statement of exaggeration, but acceptance of truth to say that Ahmad Raza is such a scholar. "He, indeed, is a renowned scholar, great philosopher, eminent Jurist, man of vision, interpreter of the Holy Quran and the Holy Prophet's (peace be upon him) traditions, and a spell binding orator." A few days after the Nikah of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), a certain person came to Bareilly Shareef. He presented a Fatawa of Mawlana Irshaad Hussain Mujaddidi (radi Allahu anhu) to Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) for an answer. The Fatawa bore the signatures of many Ulema. Hazrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), instructed the messenger with the following words: "Go into the room. Moulvi Sahib is there. He will answer your question." The messenger entered the room and only saw A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) sitting there. He returned to Hazrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) and said, "There is no Moulvi Sahib there. All I see in the room is a young lad." Hazrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) told the messenger: "Give the Mas'ala to him and he will answer it." The messenger went to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) and handed him the Fatawa. He studied it and realised that the answer on the Fatawa of Mawlana Irshaad Hussain (radi Allahu anhu) was incorrect. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote the correct answer to the Fatawa and respectfully presented it to his father. His father verified his (radi Allahu anhu) answer as being correct. The very same Fatawa was then taken to the Governor of Rampur. After studying the Fatawa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), the Governor requested the presence of Mawlana Irshaad Hussain Sahib (radi Allahu anhu). When the said Mawlana appeared before the Governor, the Fatawa was shown to him. Mufti Irshaad Hussain Sahib (radi Allahu anhu) humbly acknowledged that his Fatawa was incorrect and that the Fatawa from Bareilly Shareef was the correct answer. The Governor of Rampur then said, "If the Fatawa of Bareilly is correct, then how is it that all the other Ulema verified and endorsed your Fatawa?" Mawlana Irshaad Hussain (radi Allahu anhu) replied, "THEY ENDORSED MY FATAWA BECAUSE I AM PROMINENT, BUT THE TRUE FATAWA IS THE ONE WRITTEN BY THE MUFTI OF BAREILLY." When the Governor learnt that Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was only 20 old, he immediately had the great yearning to meet him. It so happened that A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) once visited Rampur. The Governor went and met A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). The Governor was overwhelmed and as a mark of respect offered him a silver chair to sit on. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) refused to sit on the silver chair saying that the use of silver furniture is Haraam. Feeling ashamed, the Governor requested A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to sit on the bed. While conversing with A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), the Governor commented that since he was so brilliant at such a young age, that A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) should study a few books in Logistics under the supervision of Moulvi Abdul Haq Kheyrabaadi. Coincidently, Moulvi Abdul Haq Kheyrabaadi arrived. They were both introduced to one another. After getting acquainted, he questioned Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the books that he had studied in the field of Logistics. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) told the Moulvi that he had studied the Kitaab, "Kazi Mubaarak." Moulvi Abdul Haq Kheyrabaadi did not believe A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) because he felt that he was too young to study "Kazi Mubaarak". He then, very sarcastically, asked, "Have you studied 'Tahzeeb'?" A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) also answered in a very sarcastic manner by saying, "Is 'Tahzeeb' taught after 'Kazi Mubaarak' at your institution?" After listening to the answers of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), he began questioning him about his qualifications. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said that he preferred teaching, engaging in Fatawa work and writing books. He further asked A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) concernin his field of expertise. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied by saying that HE SPECIALISED IN ANY FIELD THAT WAS NECESSARY AT ANY GIVEN TIME, AND THIS INCLUDED DEBATING THE WAHABIS. When Moulvi Abdul Haq heared this reply from A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), he remarked, "That crazy person from Badayoun is also in this fanaticism." (He was referring to Mawlana Abdul Qaadir radi allahu anhu). On hearing this, Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) became offended and said, "Your father, Mawlana Fadhl-e-Haq Kheyrabaadi (radi Allahu anhu), was the first person to debate the Wahabis, and he was the one responsible for writing a book against Isma'il Delhwi. He called this book 'Al Fatawa Fi Butali Taghwa'." Mawlana Abdul Haq Kheyrabbadi then said, "If, in my presence, you answer me in this way, then it will be impossible for me to teach you." A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied by saying, "I have already decided not to study under you, since for me to study under you will be an insult to the Ulema-e- Ahle Sunnah". Mawlana Mufti Mazharullah said: "Once, I enquired from A'la Hazrat about the holy sacrifice offered by Muslims. He, in his reply, described innumerable kinds of sheep which was a matter of surprise for me. I kept his letter with me. It so happened that Mawlana Kifaayatullah came to see me and by chance he saw the letter. He was astounded and said, 'No doubt his learning and knowledge knows no boundaries'." BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE STUDIED BY 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: 1. TAFSEER OF THE HOLY QURAN 2. TAFSEER OF AHADITH 3. PRINCIPLES OF AHADITH (USOOL-E-HADITH) 4. ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE (ALL FOUR SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT) 5. PRINCIPLES OF JURISPRUDENCE (USOOL-E-FIQH) 6. DIALECTICS 7. QURANIC COMMENTARY 8. PRINCIPLES OF BELIEF 9. PRINCIPLES OF DEBATE 10. ARABIC SYNTAX 11. PRINCIPLES OF RHETORIC 12. LANGUAGE USAGE OF METAPHORS 13. SCIENCE DEALING WITH RHETORIC 14. LOGIC 15. DEBATES 16. PHILOSOPHY AND POLITICS 17. RHETORIC DEVICES 18. PHYSICS 19. MATHEMATICS 20. PHYSICAL ENGINEERING In the book, "Al Ijaazatul Mutay'yanah", on page 22, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) has said the following in connection with the above mentioned 20 branches of knowledge. He says, "I LEARNT THESE TWENTY BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE, PERSONALLY AT THE FEET OF MY FATHER". 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, ASTROLOGY, SCIENCE OF HISTORY, PROSE IN HINDI, PROSE IS PERSIAN, IN-DEPTH STUDY OF ARABIC AND IN-DEPTH STUDY OF PLAIN PERSIAN WRITING. When A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was questioned about his amazing capabilities in solving intricate and confusing Mathematical theories, and as to who his mentor was, he replied, "I DID NOT HAVE A TEACHER IN THIS FIELD. WHATEVER YOU SEE, I ACHIEVED WITHIN THE FOUR WALLS OF MY ROOM. THIS IS INDEED THROUGH THE GRACE OF SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULAH (SALAL LAAHU ALAIHI WA SALLAM)." (Al Mizaan, pg. 342) The above are merely a few branches of knowledge in which A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) reached such great heights of proficiency that he was considered to be the inventor of that branch of knowledge! An example of this is to found in his book, "Ar Raudal Baheej fi Adaabut Takhreej", dealing with the Principles of Chronomatic Recording of Ahadith. Commenting on this, the famous Historian, Mawlana Rahmaan Ali, (M.P. Madya Pradesh) states, "If there are no books to be found on the subject of Chronomatic Recording of Ahadith, then A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) can be considered to be the very inventor of this branch of knowledge". (Tazkerah Ulema-e-Hind, pg. 17) OTHER BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED FROM VARIOUS ULEMA He learnt QURANIC RECITATION, CORRECT RECITATION WITH TAJWEED, MYSTICISM, MYSTICAL INITIATION, ISLAMIC ETHICS, NAMES OF NARRATORS OF AHADITH, BIOGRAPHY OF THE HOLY PROPHET (SALAL LAAHU ALAIHI WA SALLAM), ISLAMIC HISTORY, IN-DEPTH STUDY OF ARABIC AND LITERATURE. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) states: "THESE TEN BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE, I ACHIEVED AT THE FEET OF THE FOLLOWING TEACHERS: SHAH ALE RASOOL MAHRAHREWI, MAWLANA NAQI ALI KHAN, SHEIKH AHMED BIN ZAIN DAHLAAN MAKKI, SHEIKH ABDUR RAHMAN MAKKI, SHEIKH HUSSAIN BIN SALEH MAKKI, SHAH ABUL HASSAN AHMED NOORI (ALAIHIMUR RAHMAH)." Proficiency in over fifty Branches of Knowledge | Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran | Authority in the Field of Ahadith | A Great Jurist of his time | Imam Ahmed Raza's I'lm-e-Jafar | His Knowledge of Philosophy and Science | Knowledge of Astronomy and Astrology | A Mathematical Genius | Contribution to the Field of Poetry 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 SUBJECTS 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? Arab Scholars like Sheikh Ismail bin Khalil and Sheikh Musa Ali Shami (radi Allahu anhuma) commended A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) as the Revivalist of the 14th Century A.H.: "IF HE IS CALLED THE REVIVALIST OF THIS CENTURY, IT WILL BE RIGHT AND TRUE." Commenting on A'la Hazrat's (radi Allahu anhu) reputation and his knowledge, Dr Jamil Jalibi, Vice Chancellor, Karachi University (Pakistan) said: "Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi was an eminent Jurist, leading scholar, scientist, Naa'tia poet, a keen observer of Shariah and a Saint. His crowning scholarship can be imagined by the fact that he had commanding knowledge of about 54 branches of various sciences and humanities. He has contributed valuable works in almost all of them. He left behind more than a thousand treatises." Professor Dr Wahid Ashraf, Baroda University, in Baroda said: "There is no shortage of renowned personalities in the history of Islam who made rich contributions to various fields of knowledge through their divine-gifted qualities of learning, wisdom and insight. Ibn Sina, Umar Khayyam, Imam Razi, Imam Ghazzali, Al Beruni, Farabi and Ibn Rushd are a few rich names that shall always be remembered with pride. Among them, someone is renowned for Philosophy and Medicine, some other famous for Mathematics, another in Astrology, yet another is known for Moral Philosophy. Someone is an expert in Greek Thoughts, etc., BUT THE MOST OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY WAS BORN IN INDIA AND PASSED AWAY IN THE PRESENT CENTURY. HE WAS AHMED RAZA BAREILVI WHO ENJOYED SUCH A COMMAND IN VARIOUS BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE THAT ONLY EXPERTS OF THE SPECIAL FACULTY CAN DISCUSS FULLY AND SUCCESSFULLY." TRANSLATION AND COMMENTARY OF THE HOLY QURAN 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 and Qualities of Almighty Allah and of His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu 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 and compared it with the beautiful translation of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). We have taken Sura 93, Verse 7 as an example: (1) "And he found you lost on the way and he guided thee." Translation by Mohammad Asad (2) "And found thee groping so he showed the way." Translation by Muhammad Ali Lahori Qadiani (3) "And He found you uninformed of Islamic laws so he told you the way of Islamic laws." Translation by Ashraf Ali Thanwi (4) "Did he not find thee erring and guide thee." Translation by Arberry (5) "And saw you unaware of the way so showed you the straight way." Translation by Fatheh Muhammad Jalledhri (6) "And he found thee wandering and He gave thee guidance." Translation by Yusuf Ali Now that we have examined six different translations of Sura 93, Verse 7, let us examine the difference and the uniqueness of the translation of Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu): "AND HE FOUND YOU DROWNED IN HIS LOVE THEREFORE GAVE WAY UNTO HIM" Look at the uniqueness and the cautiousness 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 and personality of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! Due to the vast amount of time A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent in compiling books on Fiqh and 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. Commenting only on the "Bismillahir Rahman nir Rahim", A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) presented such a lengthy lecture on this simple phrase that it was compiled into a complete book and published under the title, "Al Meeladun Nabwiya." Once, during the Urs Shareef of Hazrat Mawlana Shah Abdul Qaadir Sahib (radi Allahu anhu), A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) delivered a lecture on Sura Wad-Duha from 9 a.m. in the morning right till 3 p.m. in the afternoon! This lecture on Sura Wad-Duha alone lasted for 6 hours. After completing his lecture A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "I only wrote 80 percent of the commentary on this Sura and had to leave it aside. Where is there time enough to write the Tafseer of the entire Quran-e-Azeem!" Allamah Ata Muhammad Bindayalwi (radi Allahu anhu), Sarghoda (Pakistan) said: "Hazrat Bareilvi (radi Allahu anhu) has written about a thousand treatises. He exhaustively dealt with every topic he touched, but his most glorious work is his Urdu translation and explanation of the Holy Quran entitled,'Kanzul Imaan'. Indeed, there is no parallel. Real worth of this monumental work can be evaluated by only those scholars who possess vast and deep knowledge of various other translations and explanations of high standard in Urdu. A'la Hazrat kept the same pattern as adopted by the renown writers, but he excelled in the explanation and expansion of the most difficult and complicated subject matter in relatively few simple words." AUTHORITY IN THE FIELD OF AHADITH Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was also a great authority of his time when it came to the subjects of Ahadith and 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 and the reasons behind that Hadith. He wrote many booklets on the topic of Ahadith. One of his books is entitled, "Hajizul Jarain An Jamma Bainas Salaatain," which covered the Ahadith pertaining to "Jamma Bainas Salaatain" or the "Combination of Two Salaahs in one time." Dr Professor Mohiyyuddin, Azhar University, Cairo (Egypt) said: "Renowned scholar, Ahmed Raza Khan, visited Arabia twice to perform Hajj at Makkah and payed homage to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) at Madina. During his stay he visited various centres of learning and had extensive exchange of views with the scholars covering various branches of learning and religious issues. He secured permission from some authentics to quote them in reference to particular Ahadith, and in return, he allowed them to mention his authority in respect of some other Ahadith. "It is an old saying that scholarly talent and poetic exuberance rarely combine in one person, but Ahmad Raza Khan was an exception. His achievements contradicts this diction. He was not only an acknowledged research scholar, but also a great poet." Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He must also be well-versed in and all the other important branches of knowledge, such as Tafseer, Logic, Philosophy, Translating, and many other branches. 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 and received acceptance by the great Ulema of the East and the West. The greatest proof of his position and status in the world of Fiqh can be understood from his answers concerning the Shariat-e-Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), which was compiled into 12 large volumes, comprising of approximately 12 000 pages to form the famous book, "Fatawa Radawiyyah," which is used in every Darul Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today. A renowned theologian and a great Saint of Delhi, Hazrat Mawlana Zayd Abul Hassan Faruqi (radi Allahu anhu), who completed his education at the Al Azhar University, Cairo, acknowledged the unrivalled mastery of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) over Islamic Jurisprudence and other branches of learning in the following words: "None can deny the knowledge of Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan in the field of Fiqh. He was, no doubt, the greatest Faqih (Jurist) of his time." When Sheikh Ismail Khalil, the Curator of the Library at Makkatul Mukarramah, read the Fatawas of Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) he was puffed up with joy and wrote to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu): "By Allah, if Abu Hanifa Nu'man (radi Allahu anhu) would have gone through these Fatawa, undoubtedly, it could have been his heart's delight and granted its writer among his pupils." IMAM AHMED RAZA'S I'LM-E-JAFAR "I'lm-e-Jafar" refers to "The Knowledge and The Art of Prediction." Not all persons are blessed with such knowledge by Almighty Allah. It is a speciality for the Awliyah Allah. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was blessed with the gift of I'lm-e-Jafar. Once, a certain person asked A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the approach of Qiyaamah and the arrival of Imam Mahdi (radi Allahu anhu) in the future. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said that Almighty Allah knows of this and His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is also aware of this fact. After saying this A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) substantiated these facts by quoting many verses of the Holy Quran and Ahadith of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said, "THROUGH A CERTAIN TYPE OF KNOWLEDGE, I FEEL THAT THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT IN 1837 HIJRAH THERE WILL BE NO ISLAMIC GOVERNMENT LEFT, AND IN 1900 HIJRA IMAM MAHDI (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) WILL APPEAR". After hearing this answer, someone asked A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) if he had gained this answer through I'lm-e-Jafar. He replied that he did. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said very sarcastically, "Eat the mangoes. Do not count the trees." There was a King of Rampur whose wife was very sick. He loved her very much and was very attached to her. This King, who was a "Badd Mazhab" (one who does not follow the religion properly), sent a messenger to Bareilly Shareef with a special request. He requested A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to predict the time and place of the death of his wife. The King's wife was, at that moment, not at her house in Rampur, but she was in a place called Nainital. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) told the messenger to tell the King that his wife will die in Rampur in the month of Muharram. When the messenger returned to the King, he gave him the message of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). With this message of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) at the back of his mind, the King tried very hard to keep his wife away from Rampur. He did not want her to be in any way near Rampur. It so happened that rioting broke out in Rampur. It concerned the affairs of the Kanpur Shaheed Ganj Musjid. The Governor summoned the King to meet with him urgently in Rampur. The King decided to go on his own, but his wife insisted on joining him. As soon as they reached Rampur, the King's wife suddenly died. It was also the month of Muharram. The prediction of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) proved to be true!
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was a great Scientist and Philosopher. He understood Science and Philosophy better than anyone in his time. He was a master of Ancient and Modern Sciences. He proved through research that various concepts of the modern day science are illogical and against the theories of the Holy Quran and the Ahadith. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote many books on Science and Physics. One of his famous books, "Fauze Mubeen Dar Harkate Zameen," using the Holy Quran as its guidelines, proves that the earth is not rotating but is stationary. He also proves that the entire Universe is revolving around the earth. Modern theories believe that the earth is rotating on its axis and that all the planets, including the earth, are revolving around the sun. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) also disproved the theories of Scientist such as Galileo Galilei and Sir Isaac Newton. We believe that should this book be translated into the English language by our Scholars who are well-versed in Science and presented to the West, there will have to be a re-think on modern scientific theories! Today, many people in the Western world regard Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) as the "NEGLECTED GENIUS OF THE EAST."
A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) then looked towards the clock and
asked, "What time is it?" Mawlana Ghulam Hussain said,
"Quarter past eleven." Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu
anhu) said, "That means that there is three quarters of an
hour left for twelve o' clock." Saying this, A'la Hazrat (radi
Allahu anhu) walked up to the grandfather clock that was in the
room. With his finger he moved the big needle of the clock until
it was on the twelve, thus showing twelve o'clock. The clock began
to chime. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said, "You said
that it would take three quarters of an hour for the needle to come
to twelve o' clock." The Mawlana Sahib replied, "But you
were responsible for altering the position of the needle."
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, and other branches of Mathematics which are normally handled with great difficulty even by mathematics students today, was like ordinary addition and subtraction to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu)!
Once, Sir Ziaud-deen, 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 Mawlana from the famous Aligarh
University advised Sir Ziaud-deen to visit A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu
anhu) to seek a solution for his mathematical problem. But, Sir
Ziaud-deen, not sounding very confident said, "What will an
ordinary Mawlana like Mawlana 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). Sir Zia'uddeen, was later recorded to have said about A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu): "He was an un-assuming man of pleasant manners and morals, had deep insight in Mathematics, although he was not formerly educated by a teacher. It was an inner divine-gifted inherent knowledge. My query pertained to a theory of knotting problems of Mathematics, but his manner and explanation was spontaneous as if he had already carried out a research in it. Now, there is nobody so well-versed in India. Such a great scholar, I think, there is none. Allah has bestowed upon him such a knowledge, that is amazing. His insight in the fields of Mathematics, Euclid, Algebra and Timings is astonishing. A mathematical problem that I could not solve despite my best of efforts, this learned genius explained in a few moments."
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) spent much of his valuable time writing Poetry. His Poetry mostly consisted of Naath Shareef in praise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Manqabats. In all the Naath Shareefs that was written by A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), it is evident that his heart and soul was drowned in the love of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
His Naaths were written within the boundaries of the Shariah. Every
stanza was filled with pearls of "I'lhaam". "I'lhaam"
is that which is inspired by Almighty Allah into the hearts of the
Awliyah Allah. Just as the Ambiya receive "Wahi" or Revelation,
so do the Awliyah receive "I'lhaam". Each verse and stanza
of his Poetry is the Tafseer (Commentary) of the Holy Quran and
the Hadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
His Poetry was mainly in the Arabic, Urdu, and Persian languages.
SPIRITUAL LIFE Bai'at and Khilafat | Imam Ahmed Raza's Mureeds and Khulafa | Imam Ahmed Raza's First Hajj | Imam Ahmed Raza's Second Hajj | In the Presence of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) | His Love for the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) | Love and Respect for the Descendants of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) | Imam Ahmed Raza's Adherence to the Sunnah | Love for Sayyiduna Ghousul Azam | His Contentment and Abstention from Worldly Activities 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 Mahrerwi (radi Allahu anhu). The incident surrounding the Bai'at (Spiritual Allegiance) and Khilafat (Spiritual Successorship) of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) is as follows: Once Hazrat Mawlana Abdul Qaadir Badayouni (radi Allahu anhu) came to Bareilly Shareef. He invited A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) to go to Mahrera Shareef with him. Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) accepted his invitation and they both set off to Mahrera Shareef. When they arrived at the station in Mahrera Shareef, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "I AM RECEIVING THE SCENT OF MY MURSHID." When they reached the Khanqah-e-Barakaati and entered, Sayyiduna Shah Aale Rasool (radi Allahu anhu) saw A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) and 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 AND BLESSED HIM WITH KHILAFAT AND 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 Moulana Mustapha Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), was also present in this spiritual gathering. He was also a great Awliya Allah and needed no introduction to Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). For the benefit of the others who were present and to make them aware of the exalted calibre and 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 MAHRERA SHAREEF IS THAT IF ANY PERSON COMES HERE, AND AFTER BECOMING MUREED DESIRES TO GAIN KHILAFAT AND I'JAZAT, THEN WE ASK HIM TO PERFORM MUJAHIDA (STRUGGLE IN THE PATH OF ALLAH). WE ALSO GIVE HIM DRIED BREAD TO EAT AS PART OF HIS SPIRITUAL TRAINING. AFTER THIS, IF WE FIND HIM WORTHY ENOUGH, THEN WE GRANT HIM KHILAFAT AND I'JAZAT IN ONE OR TWO SILSILAS, BUT YOU HAVE BLESSED THIS YOUNG MAN WITH KHILAFAT AND I'JAZAT OF ALL THE SILSILAS, AND EVEN COMMANDED HIM TO LOOK AT AND 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 AND KHILAFAT. BUT AHMED RAZA KHAN HAS COME PREPARED FROM ALMIGHTY ALLAH. ALL HE NEEDED WAS A LINK AND 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, Azeemul Barkat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu). A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) possessed immense love for his Peer-o-Murshid and for the family members. He also displayed his love for all those who had contact with them and respected them. Whenever A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) went to Mahrera Shareef to gain blessings from his Peer-o-Murshid, he would remove his shoes at the station and walk bare feet in Mahrera Shareef! Whenever any person or representative from Mahrera Shareef arrived in Bareilly Shareef to deliver a letter or parcel to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu), he would treat that person with great respect and dignity. He addressed the person with words of respect, such as, "Most Respected Representative," and would not allow that person to leave without giving him something to eat. A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) would personally go into the house to bring out food for that person. He even used to carry the dish or plate of food on his head! If this is the respect that A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) showed towards the representatives of his Peer-o-Murshid and his family, one cannot imagine or fathom the respect which he showed towards them personally! IMAM AHMED RAZA'S MUREEDS AND KHULAFA There were many Mureeds (Disciples) and Khulafa (Spiritually Successors) of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu). They have spreaded far and wide over the Indo-Pak and also in all parts of the world. Nearly 35 are in the other parts of the world and 30 in Indo-Pak Sub-Continent. These are the leading ones: 1. Hujjatul Islam, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Muhammad Haamid Raza Khan Noori Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu), 2. Ghousul-Waqt, Mufti-e-Azam-e-Hind, Hazrat Mawlana Mustapha Raza Khan Noori Barakaati (radi Allahu anhu), 3. Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Abdus Salaam Jabalpuri (radi Allahu anhu), 4. Sadrul-Afaadil, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Na'eemuddeen Muraadabadi (radi Allahu anhu), 5. Malikul Ulema, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Sayyid Zafar'uddeen Bihaari (radi Allahu anhu), 6. Mubbalig-e-Azam, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddique (radi Allahu anhu), 7. Sadrus Shariah, Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Mufti Amjad Ali (radi Allahu anhu), 8. Qutbul Madinatul Munawwara, Hazrat Allamah Sheikh Zia'uddeen Ahmed Al Madani (radi Allahu anhu), 9. Burhaan-e-Millat, Hazrat Allamah Burhaanul Haq (radi Allahu anhu), 10. Hazrat Allamah Mawlana Mukhtar Ahmad Siddiqi Meerati (radi Allahu anhu), 11. Sheikh Muhammad Abd al-Hayy (radi Allahu anhu), 12. Sheikh Ahmad Khalil (radi Allahu anhu), 13. Sheikh Ahmad Khudravi (radi Allahu anhu), 14. Sheikh Muhammad bin Abi Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), 15. Sheikh Muhammad Sa'id (radi Allahu anhu), 16. Hazrat Mawlana Sayyid Ahmad Ashraf (radi Allahu anhu), & 17. Hazrat Mawlana Shah Sulayman Ashraf (radi Allahu anhu) The Khulafa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) need no introduction to the Muslim World. Their impact, influence and contribution towards the development of Islamic Culture and Islamic thinking have left its mark in the pages of history. For the sake of attaining blessings and Barakah, we will discuss, very briefly, the lives of three of the famous Khulafa of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu). Sadrush Shariat, Hazrat Allamah Amjad Ali Razvi (radi allahu anhu): He was born in 1296 A.H. and passed away in 1367 A.H. at the age of 71 years. He is author of the internationally renowned book, "Bahare Shariat", which is in 18 volumes. This book contains a volume of information dealing with the Hanafi Law of Fiqh and answers all the 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 Sulaiman Nadwi (a non-Sunni) said the following words concerning Allamah Sadrush Shariat (radi Allahu anhu), "Mawlana Amjad Ali is totally experienced in the field of teaching and 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. Once in Ajmer Shareef, a very critical problem arose among the Muslims which threatened to destroy the Imaan of the innocent Muslims. The Hindu Rajput of India began introducing many new beliefs and false innovations to such an extent that those who were illiterate began following many traditions introduced by the Hindu Rajput. When Allamah Sadrush Shariat (radi Allahu anhu) heard of this, he immediately went to Ajmer Shareef with few of his students. He began teaching and making the Muslims aware of the polytheism and false innovations that they were following. Through his hard efforts, the Imaan of many Muslims were saved and many non-Muslims also accepted Islam. He was blessed with 8 sons and each one of them became great Aalims. His 2 daughters became Aalimas. One of his sons, Muhaddith-e-Kabeer, Hazrat Allamah Zia-ul-Mustapha Qadri and, another, Allamah Baha-ul-Mustapha Qadri are teachers today at their respective Darul Ulooms in India. Allamah Sheikh Zia'uddeen Al Madani (radi allahu anhu): He was one of the most famous Khulafa of A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) who lived in Madinatul Munawwara. Before coming to Madinatul Munawwara he lived for some time in Baghdad Shareef. Allamah Zia'uddeen Madani (radi Allahu anhu) arrived in Madinatul Munawwara in the year 1327 A.H. Here, he made Nikah to a pious lady from a Sayed family. He was a great Aalim, Sufi and 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 Ulema). Some of them are: Hazrat Allamah Sheikh Ahmad Shams Maghribi, Sheikh Mahmoodul Maghribi, Mawlana Abdul Baaqi Farangi, and Allamah Abu Yusuf Nibhaani (radi Allahu Ta'ala anhum ajma'in). He was a great Sheikh-e-Tariqat of his time. He spent day and night giving advice and guidance to the Ummah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He is well-known for his piety and steadfastness in Islam in Damascus, Iraq, Egypt, India, Pakistan, South Africa and many other countries. Allamah Zia'uddeen Madani (radi Allahu anhu) also had many Khulafa and Mureeds throughout the world. He left this mundane world on the 12th of August 1981 in the city of Madinatul Munawwara. His son, Hazrat Allamah Fadhl-ur Rahmaan Al Madani, is presently living in Madinatul Munawwarah Imam Ahmed Raza as the Mujaddid of the 14th Century | A List of known Mujaddids from the first Century | Imam Ahmed Raza's Jihad against the Insulters of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) | A Few Fatawas of the Ulema-e-Haramain Sharifain | Some Titles bestowed upon him by the Noble Ulema of Makkatul Mukarramah | Some Titles bestowed upon him by the Noble Ulema of Madinatul Munawwarah | His Unique Memory IMAM AHMED RAZA AS THE MUJADDID OF THE 14TH CENTURY Undoubtedly, besides being recognised as a great Wali, as the Ghousul Azam and as the Imam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhum) of his time, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was also the Mujaddid (Reviver) of Islam of the 14th Century. He possessed all the conditions of a Mujaddid and his entire life was spent trying to revive the Deen of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). A cloud of darkness had covered most of the world and the false concepts of Polytheism (Shirk) and Innovations (Bid'at) were coming into existence. The Muslims were in a state of confusion. They were surrounded by the cloud of Kufr (Disbelief), Shirk and Bid'at. It is through the Divine Grace of Almighty Allah and the Sadaqah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that the Reviver of the 14th Century, Imam-e-Ahle Sunnat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) shone like the sun. With his bright proofs, he destroyed the darkness of Kufr and revived Islam. Professor Manzoorud'deen Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Karachi said: "The reality is that on reading several books of Imam Ahmed Raza, I have come to the conclusion that through his writings and speeches, the Fatawa (Inquisitions) and hundreds of small and bulky treatises, he had struggled for the revival of Islam, and as a reward he was declared as a Mujaddid of his Century by the Ulema (Scholars of Islam), in particular, the scholars of Makkah and Madina (Haramain Sharifain). . ." A Hadith recorded in Mishkaat Shareef and quoted by Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu) who says that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "VERILY, AT THE END OF EVERY CENTURY, ALMIGHTY ALLAH WILL SEND SUCH A PERSON TO THE UMMAH, WHO WILL REVIVE THE DEEN FOR THE THEM (THE UMMAH)." In other the words, when there comes a period in which there is a shortage of knowledge and a deterioration in following of the Sunnah; when there is an increase in false innovations and ignorance; then Almighty Allah will send a person at the beginning or end of every century who will show the difference between Sunnah and Bid'at. He will refute and destroy false innovations and will fear none but Almighty Allah. He will very bravely and sincerely hoist the flag of Deen-e-Muhammadi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Such a person is known as a "Mujaddid" (Reviver) of Deen. The author of the book, "Siraajum Muneer", has explained who a Mujaddid is in the following words: "In other words, to revive the Deen is to revive those teachings of the Quran and Sunnah that are being destroyed and to give command according to the Quran and Sunnah." Allamah Munaadi (radi Allahu anhu) states:"A Mujaddid is one who separates Sunnah from Bid'ah and one who degrades the status of the Ahle Bid'ah." Why does a Mujaddid come after 100 years? A Mujaddid is sent after every 100 years because after every century the surroundings, the environment, the manner of thinking and ways of the people tend to pass through a massive transformation. It has been stated in the Hadith of Bukhari Shareef that during the latter stages of the Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) physical life, one night, after performing Esha Salaah, he stood up and said, "Should I inform you of the importance of this night? From this night onwards, right up to the end of a 100 years, that person who is alive on the earth (presently) will not be alive." Can their be more than one Mujaddid to a century? Yes. There can be more, and there has already been more than one Mujaddid to a Century. In the Hadith, the Arabic word that is used to explain the coming of the Mujaddid is in the singular tense, but according to the meaning, it is a plural as it has been explained in the Kitaabs of Usool-e-Fiqh. Allamah Mulla Ali bin Sultan Qaari (radi Allahu anhu) who is the Mujaddid of the 11th Century says, "From the words, not only one single person is implied, but the implication is towards a group of people, from amongst whom each one is reforming a single type of knowledge or all types of knowledge in his city." A LIST OF KNOWN MUJADDIDS FROM THE FIRST CENTURY: 1st CENTURY : a. Sayyiduna Imam Umar bin Abdul Aziz (radi Allahu anhu) 2nd CENTURY : a. Imam Hassan Basri, b. Imam Muhammad bin Hassan Shaibani, c. Imam Maalik bin Anas, d. Imam Abdullah bin Idrees Shafi'i (radi Allahu anhuma) 3rd CENTURY : a. Imam Abul Hassan bin Umar, b. Imam Ahmad bin Hambal (radi Allahu anhuma) 4th CENTURY : a. Imam Tahtaawi, b. Imam Isma'eel bin Hammaad Ja'fari, c. Imam Abu Jaafar bin Jareer Tibri, d. Imam Abu Haatim Raazi (radi Allahu anhuma) 5th CENTURY : a. Imam Abu Naeem Isfahani, b. Imam Abul Hussain Ahmad bin Muhammad Abi Bakr-il-Qaadir, c. Imam Hussain bin Raaghib, d. Imam Muhammad bin Muhammad Ghazzali (radi Allahu anhuma) 6th CENTURY : a. Imam Abul Fadhl Umar Raazi, b. Allamah Imam Umar Nasfi, c. Imam Qaazi Fakhrud'Deen Hassan Mansoor, d. Imam Abu Muhammad Hussain bin Mas'ood Fara'a (radi Allahu anhuma) 7th CENTURY : a. Allamah Imam Abul Fadhl Jamaaluddeen Muhammad bin Afriqi Misri, b. Imam Sheikh Shahbuddeen Suharwardi, c. Kwaja Muhi'yuddeen Chishti Ajmeri, d. Imam Abul Hassan Uz'zuddeen Ali bin Muhammad Ibn Atheer, e. Imam Sheikh Akbar Muhi'yuddeen Muhammad ibn Arabi (radi Allahu anhuma) 8th CENTURY : a. Imam Taaj'uddeen bin Ata'ullah Sikandari, b. Kwaja Nizaamuddeen Awliyah Mahboob-e-Ilahi, c. Imam Umar bin Mas'ood Taftazaani (radi Allahu anhuma) 9th CENTURY : a. Imam Hafiz Jallaluddeen Abu Bakr Abdur Rahmaan Suyuti, b. Imam Nooruddeen bin Ahmad Misri, c. Imam Muhammad bin Yusuf Karmani, d. Imam Shamsuddeen Abul Kheyr Muhammad bin Abdur Rahmaan Sakhawi, e. Allamah Imam Sayed Shareef Ali bin Muhammad Jarmaani (radi Allahu anhuma) 10th CENTURY : a. Imam Shahabuddeen Abu Bakr Ahmad bin Muhammad Khatib Qistalaani, b. Imam Muhammad Sharbini, c. Allamah Sheikh Muhammad Taahir Muhaddith (radi Allahu anhuma) 11th CENTURY : a. Imam Ali bin Sultaan Qaari, b. Imam Sheikh Ahmad Sarhindi Mujaddid-e-Alf Thaani, c. Sultaanul Arifeen Imam Muhammad Baahu (radi Allahu anhuma) His Blessed Character | Obedience towards Parents | Respect towards the Superior Ulema | Respect for the Masjid | Love and Respect towards Pilgrims | Care for Children | A Few of Imam Ahmed Raza's Unique Habits | His Mystical Powers Both the inner and outer personality of Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was the same. He never compromised when it came to Shariat-e-Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He used to reprimand anyone who even uttered one word against Shariah. He was the living example of :"LOVE FOR THE SAKE OF ALMIGHTY ALLAH AND HATE FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH." He never hurt the feelings of any good Muslim. He showed a splendid amount of affection towards the poor and orphans. On a certain occasion, A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) was invited to a person's house. Allamah Zafruddeen Bihari (radi Allahu anhu) accompanied him. The host, due to his extreme poverty, could only afford to place a few pieces of bread and some beef before his honourable guests. When Allamah Zafruddeen (radi Allahu anhu) saw the beef on the table, he became very uncomfortable as he knew that A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) never used to eat beef. It did not agree with his health. But, Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) did not object to the food. He sensed what Allamah Zafruddeen (radi Allahu anhu) was thinking about, so he said, "If any Muslim recites the following dua before eating, then no harm will be caused by the food." |
