The Blessed name Muhammad appeared in the heavens and earth long before Nabi Aadam (alayhis-salaam) was created. Hazrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) narrates that Hazrat Aadam (alayhis salaam) saw the name of Our Master on every tree in Jannah, as well as on the tree of Sidratul Muntahaa. He also saw it written on the Arsh of Allah, as part of the kalimah Laa Ilaaha Illallah Muhammadur Rasoolullah.
When Nabi Aadam came down to earth, he felt uncomfortable and distraught in his new environment. Allah Ta’ala sent Jibreel to recite the Azhaan in his presence as a means of solace. In the Azhaan, the name Muhammad was mentioned twice. He asked Jibreel who ‘Muhammad’ was, and the latter replied: “This is the last Messenger in your progeny.”
An army of Muslims travelled to India for Jihad. They passed through a forest and came across a unique tree that had a red leaf. On this leaf, in white writing, was the kalimah LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAH MUHAMMADUR RASOOLULLAH.
Another group of Mujaahideen passed through a village of idol-worshippers. They came across a strange rose tree that bore black roses of unique fragrance. On these roses, in white script, the following was written: LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAH MUHAMMADUR RASOOLULLAH. ABUBAKR AS-SIDDEEQ. UMAR AL-FAROUQ. The narrator says that he though this was man-made, so he opened a rose that had not yet blossomed. To his amazement, the exact same words were inscribed inside this rose, as well as on several others.
Ibni Marzooq writes in his commentary on Al-Burdah that, ‘once we were caught up in a severe storm off the coast of India. After some turbulence and turmoil, our battered vessel ended up on an island. Exploring this island we came across a beautiful smelling red rose, and these words were inscribed on it in yellow writing:
The Key to entry into Eternal Paradise, from The Rahman and Raheem, is: LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAH MUHAMMADUR RASOOLULLAH.’
Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (radhiyallahu anhu) narrates that one day, whilst the Sahaaba were sitting around the Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi was sallam, a bird flew past and dropped an almond inside a shell. The Messenger of Allah picked it up and broke open the shell. He showed the Sahaaba the whole kalimah written unmistakeably on the almond inside.
All the above reports, and many more similar to these appear in Seeratul-Halbiyyah, volume 1.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
The Holy Name Muhammad
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Umar radhiallahu anhuma
The Muslims had been in Madinah only a year when the kuffar of Makkah led a big army against them. The enemy plan was to wipe out Islam before it could strike roots. Islam was, therefore, facing the gravest challenge of its brief history. On the outcome of the coming encounter hung the fate of the new faith.
The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was fully alive to the grim implications. He set about meeting the challenge. He had no more than three hundred and thirteen fighting men. He led them to Badr putting his trust in Allah. As this small force was about to leave, a number of youngsters also joined it. In the inspection of his troops before the march, these lads were told to stay behind. One of these lads was Abdullah, son of Hazrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu). He was only ten but wanted very much to fight for the cause of Allah. It was with a heavy heart that he obeyed the order to stay back in Medina.
EARLY TRAINING
The call for Islam has been ringing in the ears of the Meccan kuffar for three years when Abdullah was born. However, his father thus far kept his ears shut against the truth. But before long Umar was a changed man. He happened to hear verses of the Quran and the miracle took place. The natural pull of Islam had its full effect on Umar’s keen, sensitive mind. So far he had opposed Islam. Now he saw his mistake, he used all the weight of his strong personality to make amends for the mistake.
Young Abdullah got his early training in a home that was saturated with the true spirit of Islam. He entered the fold of Islam when only a small child. He grew under the care of a father who was noted for strict observance of the commandments of Allah. This made a special mark on his character. He became devoted to the master and as unbending in the declaration of truth as his great father. These characteristics mark Abdullah out as one of the noblest sons of Islam.
ABDULLAH THE GOOD
Abdullah was still a child when he had to flee to Medina. Tender age kept him from taking part in the battles of Badr and Uhad. But by the time the battle of the trench was fought, Abdullah was a young man of fifteen. He gave an excellent account of himself in the critical days of the siege. From then on, he fought for the cause of Islam in every battle that occurred during the lifetime of the master.
Abdullah was only a lad when he saw a dream that had far reaching effects. He was sitting in the mosque, after offering the prayer. Suddenly his eye lids closed. He saw two angels came down the sky. They carried him away to a beautiful place.
Abdullah narrated the dream to his sister, Hafsa (radhiyallahu anhaa), one of the wives of the Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). She told the Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) about it. He said, “Abdullah is a good man . At night he should spend as much of his time in prayer as he is capable of.”
Abdullah eagerly accepted the suggestion. He started a life long night vigil. He hardly slept at night, spending most of the time in earnest prayer. All night long he wept and sobbed for the forgiveness of Allah. Such was his devotion to his Master that he spent the greater part of the day in his company. By such extreme piety he justified the title of ‘good’ conferred on him by Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).
Abdullah struck to this pattern of life to the last breath. After Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had passed away, he started weeping whenever someone talked about the Messenger of Allah. The same thing happened when he passed the historic sites where his beloved Master had fought the forces of evil. Tears streamed from his eyes when he recited the Holy Quran. In short Abdullah was an embodiment of the fear of Allah. People knew him as Abdullah, the good.
TORCH BEARER OF KNOWLEDGE
Deep piety and closeness to Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) gave Abdullah an insight in to the true sprit of Islam. He could tell from personal knowledge the opinion of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) on most problems of life and the true significance of the various verses of the Holy Quran. People started turning to him for guidance ever since he came to Medina. The companions came to look upon him as a leader of faith. He lived for sixty years after the death of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).
Thursday, August 7, 2008
A Legacy of Roohaniyat
Born: 28 Zul Qadah 1384 (1 April 1965)
Passed away: 3 Safar 1428 (22 February 2007)
Compiled by: Hafiz Cassim Paruk sahib (khalifa of Hazrat Haji
Muhammad Farouq sahib RA)
GLIMPSES INTO THE LIFE OF HAZRAT DR MUHAMMAD SAABIR SAHEB Rahmatullahi alaihi
INTRODUCTION
Time has witnessed the passing away of great personalities and our hearts are grieved at the demise of Hazrat Dr Muhammad Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi; may Allah Ta’ala elevate his soul and grant him worthy recompense for the selfless manner in which he showed concern for the Ummah, Aameen! Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi would always reflect on the sublime manner adopted by our spiritual mentor Shafeequl Ummah Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Farooq Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi. The essence of the ta’leemaat (teachings) of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi was:
Perfect moderation in behaviour and action.
Obedience to the Sunnah
Imparting the teachings of Deen through absolute compassion
Extreme humility.
Undoubtedly, the manner of Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb’s (rahmatullahi alayhi) spiritual instruction was as compassionate as that of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi. When we discuss the life of Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi, we invariably compare and discuss the life of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi; the similarities in approach leave us astonished at the unique bond that existed between Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi and our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi.
LOVE FOR THE SHEIKH
One of the most outstanding features of the life of our Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi was the intense and immense love for our Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi. He reminded himself and others of this great bounty of guidance for the Ummah to the extent that he attributed every part of his teaching to the blessings of our Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi. It was mentioned time and again that even Hazrat him self was amazed at the fine points being discussed and with tears in his eyes; he always said: “This is all the barkat of Hazratwala rahmatullahi alayhi”. Another point worthy of mention is the importance he attached to meeting with the associates of Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alayhi, whom he would respectfully visit, offer hope and encouragement and seek advice on numerous matters.
We have witnessed the close bond he had with Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi where, by merely sitting with him, the lessons were revived. Also, we were astounded that immediately after the sad demise of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi, Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi took on the responsibility in such a manner that he mended our broken hearts and gave us courage and direction. No doubt, this was the perfection of sincerity of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi.
LOVE OF ALLAH TA’ALA
Amongst the major themes of his life was to guide the saalik to the love of Allah Ta’ala and ensure that we not be misled by the deviate opinions of our base desires (nafs). A beautiful incident he shared with us in Sukkur, where the joy was so apparent on his noble countenance, about Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi went to a village to give a talk and after the lecture, a clean shaven person immaculately dressed, with many followers, comes and congratulates Hazrat on the amazing discourse. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi is further shocked when this person requests that he opens his mouth; Hazrat assessed that this person looks refined and would not spit into my mouth. This clean shaven person puts a piece of mithai in Hazrat’s mouth. Upon exchanging formalities, it transpired that he was the mureed of Hazrat Haaji Imdaadullah Makki rahmatullahi alaihi and he spoke glowingly and lovingly of his Sheikh. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi assessed that this person has been misled due to working on his opinions rather than emulating the teachings of Hazrat Haaji Imdaadullah rahmatullahi alaihi. At this juncture, Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi remained silent.
After some time, Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi was invited to the same locality and this clean shaven “sufi” is once again present with the garland of flowers proudly saying that they were blessed at the grave of Hazrat Moulana Abdul Quddoos Gangohi rahmatullahi alaihi. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi does not put on the garland of flowers but holds it in his hand; addresses the clean shaven “sufi” as to who he is spiritually linked to. Very elegantly he mentions the name of Hazrat Haaji Imdaadullah rahmatullahi alaihi. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi then leads him on and asks that if a person is used to adorning himself with exquisite fragrances and he then is offered something lowly; what would his reaction be? The clean shaven “sufi” responded that not only is this unacceptable but if the cheap fragrance is applied, this will give him a headache. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi then said: “My dear friend, Hazrat Moulana Abdul Quddoos Gangohi rahmatullahi alaihi presently perceives the beautiful fragrances of Jannah and you offer a lowly fragrance in the form of this garland; are you not then inconveniencing the blessed inmate of the grave?
This struck a responsive chord and respectfully, this clean shaven “sufi” departed with a startling lesson in respect and recognition. A few months later, Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi visits the same village and notices a person with an immaculate countenance dressed according to the Shariah. This pious servant of Allah Ta’ala asked Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi whether he recognises him to which Hazrat responds in the negative. Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi is then reminded of the previous meetings and his subsequent reformation. The main point, however, is that this person told Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi that his method of islaah captured his heart. We can safely say that our beloved Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi encapsulated the teachings of our elders in general and our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi in particular, imparted the temperament of islaah so compassionately that a person’s reformation was being made and he was not aware of the filth and evil being expelled from within.
ROAD TO ATTAINMENT
Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi said that two factors: love (for Allah) and the corresponding actions, are vital factors for success. He explained that we have some lands full of weeds; either we take out each weed individually, then prepare the soil, thereafter plant the seeds and anticipate the growth of the crops. This will take a lifetime. The easier option is that we light a fire which will result in all the weeds being eradicated in minutes. Also, we do not require fertiliser because the burnt out weeds and debris that remain act as fertiliser. The seeds are then put in the ground and the crops are realised within a short space of time. In a similar manner, the road to Allah Ta’ala is attainable very easily by putting fire to everything (of the world) besides Allah. Once that happens, our hearts will become fertile to guidance and the corresponding actions of obedience will follow. Subhanallah! What a beautiful and easy prescription! Another point worthy of mention is that our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi always reminded us to take the easier option to reach Allah Ta’ala. The object is primarily to rid ourselves of frustration.
ASPECT OF RESPECT
Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi left behind a legacy of respect which was unparalleled amongst his contemporaries. Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi once, before relieving himself, took out his pen and gave it to his servant and said that mention of the pen is found in the Qur’aan; our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi never took his pen to the toilet because of respect and I am but emulating this act so that I too can attain respect.
To many, this may seem trivial and inconsequential but, because of the sheer awareness of Allah Ta’ala, this heightened from of respect consumed these personalities and propelled them towards greater dimensions. May Allah Ta’ala bless us with some part of the respect shown by our beloved Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alayhi – aameen.
Another beautiful incident related by Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi and re-emphasised by our Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi was when Hazrat Moulana Rasool Khan Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi, a Khaleefa of Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alaihi, intended making hijrat to Pakistan. Hazrat Moulana Rasool Khan Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi had a very old clay urn which was worn out but he respectfully put it amongst his possessions. He was told that this urn is very old and can be replaced in Pakistan. Hazrat Moulana rahmatullahi alaihi replied that this urn has been made with the blessed soil of Deoband; so he will take it with him at all costs. With great care he looked after it and after a period of time the urn broke and Hazrat Moulana rahmatullahi alaihi cried excessively because of the nisbat (link) is had with Deoband. Hazrat Moulana rahmatullahi alaihi thereafter accumulated all the pieces and put them into a new urn so that the blessings of Deoband remained!
We have witnessed on many occasions that Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi, whenever the name of Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi was written in any kitaab, he would lovingly kiss the name of his Sheikh, put the name of his Sheikh to his eyes, onto his head and thereafter clasp the kitaab close to his chest. Tears would flow from the eyes giving testimony to the pangs of separation. On numerous occasions, Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi mentioned that when he is given the taufeeq of making dua for our elders, his Imaan becomes fortified. Need we say more!
FEAR OF ALLAH TA’ALA
Always discussed frequently in his discourses, Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi explained that the lack of fear is generally attributed to the love of the world and heedlessness. A beautiful example we learnt was of Hazrat Zaahir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi who was a Khaleefah of Hazrat Thaanwi rahmatullahi alayhi. This gentleman was an engineer in Pakistan. Once an arms manufacturing company tried to sell to the Pakistani army a fleet of ships that were defective. They offered him a bribe to pass the deal. Hazrat Zaahir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi responded that he is being watched. Numerous attempts were made to lure him to accept the bribe but he always responded that he is being watched. The director of the company then called him personally to his office and told him that nobody is here watching us and presented a suitcase full of dollars. Hazrat Zaahir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi once again replied that he is being watched. The director in frustration tells him that with the exception of us, nobody is here – what is the meaning of this? Hazrat Zaahir Engineer Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi said: My Allah Ta’ala is watching each and every action of mine.
To attain the fear of Allah Ta’ala, we need to meditate on His anger and the subsequent result of our actions. Hazrat explained that just as a robber will abstain from stealing because of the fear of being caught, the child fears being rebuked and stays away from mischief, the driver abstains from driving fast and recklessly because he is wary that he may be fined for his negligence; in exactly the same manner, everybody requires to instil the awareness of Allah Ta’ala in their personalities so that the fear of accountability severs the root of all evil and one is propelled towards the obedience of Allah Ta’ala.
This was the concept instilled into our hearts by our Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alayhi. We make duaa to Allah Ta’ala that we too, are blessed with a similar type of awareness and concern, Aameen.
WINNING YOUTHS’ HEARTS
Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi shared his experience with this servant on his visit to the United Kingdom where there was a youngster who was not only disrespectful but downright rebellious. The means of communication was closed and the distance between the father and son was growing. Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi asked to meet the youngster who abruptly responded that he does not wish to meet him. Hazrat adopted a strategy of humility and went to the youngster and told him: “What’s wrong? I have done you no wrong? Why don’t you want to meet me?. This baffled the youngster and slowly, he came for short periods just to assess our Hazrat Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi. After a few hours, he came and started discussing the issue of football and ascertained the sentiments of Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi regarding the sport. Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi told him that instead of watching the game, rather become involved and achieve fitness which will benefit the health. Furthermore, the youngster made Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi make duaa for his football team! Thereafter, it transpired that this youngster was 17 para Haafiz but he was being deprived of Deen due to a lack of concern and love. Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi mentioned that this youngster read Quran very immaculately. The last day, with tears in his eyes, the youngster tells Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi that he loves him. Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi responded likewise. Understand the tolerance of Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi when the youngster then asked as to how Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi will remember him. They agreed that they would sign their names on their respective arms so that the love can grow greater. The manner of approach of Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi left one astounded. Again he shared this with this servant that Allah Ta’ala had inspired him to work according to this plan.
GOOD THOUGHTS
A destructive trait in the path of sulook is the entertaining of evil thoughts with regard to others. Our Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi stressed that not only is it not permissible to talk ill of a fellow Muslim, it is sinful to talk ill of a kaafir, it is also sinful to talk ill of the next man’s possessions or his means of conveyance. Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi had on numerous occasions mentioned that this is such a destructive trait that it destroys a person’s good deeds. Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi further advised that if you cannot talk good of another, it is best that you remain silent instead of becoming a pauper.
DETESTING EXCESSIVE LAUGHTER
We had been rebuked on many occasions with regard to excessive laughter by our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi who warned us that our hearts become hard and blocked towards hidayat. Furthermore, this vile habit destroys the concern for the Hereafter. Once, on journey, we went swimming and Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi heard us joking and laughing. He commented that whilst Islam does not forbid relaxation but our Deen despises laxity and negligence of Allah Ta’ala. He added that by the tone of your voices, we detected a barrier and warned that we should always be on guard. Needless to say that this lesson had become embedded in the hearts of those that were present.
LOOKING AFTER THE HEARTS OF LADIES
It was always the noble habit of Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi to personally express his gratitude to the ladies for their services for the spiritual family of our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi. He always reminded us that the blessings of the visitors sustain itself for 40 days.
HALAAL SUSTENANCE
Hazrat Aarifi (Dr Abdul Hayy) rahmatullahi alaihi would, before taking any morsel, contemplate that he is eating the food to attain strength in his ibaadat. A thought-provoking incident was related by Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb (rahmatullahi alayhi) about a young man, recently married, who complained of the grief caused by his wife. Hazrat (rahmatullahi alayhi) made duaa but the problem increased to the extent that there was direct confrontation with Shariah Hazrat (rahmatullahi alayhi) asked as to which family the wife came from and, after investigation, it transpired that her father was involved in interest. Hazrat (rahmatullahi alayhi) advised the young man that, because his wife was nurtured through haraam, she would never be able to think straight.
Our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi always warned that if sustenance is attained in a lawful manner, Allah Ta’ala will give a person the good fortune of spending it in halaal avenues, whereas if sustenance was attained unlawfully, the avenues of expenditure will also be haraam.
TILAAWAT OF QUR’AAN
We noticed that upon awakening, Hazrat Dr Saabir Saheb rahmatullahi alaihi seldom engaged in any discussion prior to him finishing the tilaawat of the Qur’aan. This was a great lesson for all of us in that he showed by example that we require to give our spiritual rooh sustenance. We also learnt from Hazrat rahmatullahi alaihi that the punctuality on tilaawat ensures the safety of a person’s Imaan. Our Hazrat Shafeequl Ummah rahmatullahi alaihi advised us that due to the duties towards the creation of Allah Ta’ala, our Akaabir could not fulfil completely their ma’moolaat. However, in three things there was no compromise:
Tahajud Salaah
Tilaawat of the Qur’aan
Excessive Darood Shareef
Monday, July 7, 2008
Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi Rahimahullah
Hakimul Ummat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi was born on 5 Rabiuth-Thaani 1280 A.H. in the village of Thana Bowan, situated in the North of India, between Delhi and Saharanpur. He lost his mother at a tender age and was brought up by his father in a fairly affluent background. His father took great pains in teaching Moulana and his younger brother discipline and good character. From a young age he had a great desire for namaaz. Even whilst playing he used to imitate the namaazis; e.g. he gathered all his friends shoes, placed them in a line, put one shoe in front of the line and expressed his happiness that the shoes were performing namaaz.
He also had a great desire to give lectures. On his way to the shops he used to enter any masjid, ascend the mimbar and deliver a khutbah. At the age of 12 he began performing tahajjud and other nafl salaats and wazifahs. His desire for Deen was initiated by his initial ustaad Hazrat Moulana Fateh Muhammed Saheb (rahmatullahi alayh)
After learning the basic kitaabs by his uncle and Moulana Fateh Muhammed he proceeded to Deoband to complete his studies and qualified at the tender age of 19 or 20 years. From his student days he became famous for his intelligence and sharp wittedness. He never wasted his time in futile play and amusement. He had such a burning desire to obtain knowledge that he learnt certain kitaabs which he could not study during class times, from his ustaads while they were performing wudhu.
Moulana Thanwi’s ustaads were all great luminaries of their time. The most important amongst them was Hazrat Moulana Muhammed Yaqub Saheb from whom he achieved the greatest amount of knowledge and spiritual benefit.
He learnt qiraat from the well-known Qari Muhammed Abdullah Saheb Muhajir Makki and mastered it to such an extent that it became difficult for the listener to distinguish between the recitation of the student and the teacher.
After qualifying, he spent 14 years in Kanpur teaching, writing and propagating to the people. During this period thousands of students quenched their thirst at this “ocean of knowledge”. Although Moulana was still very young, the people of Kanpur respected and honoured him tremendously, and it was during this period that he became famous. His discourses were greatly appreciated and were being printed in the form of booklets. Very few scholars in the history of Islam have had so many of their discourses reproduced in print.
During his student days in Deoband he desired to take bay’at at the hands of Moulana Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi. The latter refused, saying that this would be harmful to his studies. Moulana Thanwi then wrote a letter to Hajee Imdadullah in Makkah urging him to make Moulana Gangohi accept the pledge of bay’at. Hajee Imdadullah instead, by means of a letter, himself accepted bay’at from Moulana Thanwi nad made him his mureed (disciple). When Moulana Thanwi accompanied his father for haj one year after qualifying, he renewed his pledge at the hands of Hajee Imdadullah. After his return from Hijaz, he continued teaching and propagating while his desire for zikr intensified. He used to deliver lectures while standing for five to six hours, continuously.
In 1315 A.H. he left Kanpur and on the advice of his spiritual mentor Hajee Imadadullah, returned to Thana Bowan. This was all part of the divine plan of the Creator so that the Khanqah of Hajee Imdadullah would once again be populated. This was the termination of the first phase of his life, which was devoted more to Deeni education. The second phase, which began with his return to Thana Bowan, was devoted more to imparting spiritual benefits to the masses. Moulana has written books in every field of knowledge, such as, tafseer, tasawwuf, fiqh, hadith, and tajweed. All his works total more than a thousand. The voluminous work on hadith titled I’laa-us-Sunan (Elevation of the Sunnah) was written under his guidance. Regarding this kitaab (I’laa-us-Sunan), he said that if this madresa had accomplished no other work besides the writing of this book, that in itself would have been be a magnificent achievement, for it is such a unique work. Few homes are without the Bahisti Zewar and Munajaat e Maqbool, two of Moulana Thanwi’s more famous books. His tafseer Bayanul-Quraan is unparalleled in its style. The erudite Moulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA), used to say that after reading Bayanul-Quraan I developed a desire to read Urdu books. (Bayanul-Quran was written in Urdu) Although Moulana wrote such a large number of books, yet he did not earn a cent from them. All his work was solely for the pleasure of Allah. He gave open permission to anyone to re-print his books. Some of his works have been through hundreds of editions.
On 20 Jamadul Awwal 1346 AH whilst performing Fajr Salaat he was inspired with the effects of certain a’maal. It dawned upon him that if Muslims practiced these acts, their calamities could be overcome. Consequently Moulana gathered 25 principles and had them printed in a booklet he named Hayatul-Muslimeen— The life of Muslims (which is also available in English). Although Moulana had written over 1000 books, yet he said: “I never considered any of my books as being a means of salvation for me. However, with regards to Hayatul-Muslimeen, I have a strong feeling it will be a means of my salvation. I regard it as the earning and capital of my entire life.”
Due to his outstanding service for Deen, Hazrat Thanwi was given the titles Hakimul Ummat (The Sage of The Ummat) and Mujaddid-e-Millat (Reformer of the Islamic Nation). He passed away on 16 Rajab 1362 A.H. (20 July 1943) and was buried in Thana Bowan.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Mi'raaj: A Scientific Miracle
With the arrival of Rajab, our year’s seventh month, memories of the Miraj are once again rekindled. This article provides some important information on this great event, one that could aptly be described as a “scientific miracle”. There are two terms used for this event. One is israa, the other is mi’raj. Israa means to journey by night, and thus refers to the journey Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) undertook from Makka to Baitul-Maqdis (Jerusalem).
Mi’raj means to ascend, and refers to the ascension of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) from Baitul-Maqdis up to the seven heavens and beyond. All this occurred, not in one night, but in a small portion of the night. Ponder the verse in which israa is mentioned: “Glory be to That Being Who took his slave on a journey during a portion of the night, from Musjidul-Haraam to Musjidul-Aqsaa...” (Surah 17, aayat 1) The Holy Quran uses the term ‘a portion of the night’, but does not define the duration of that ‘portion of the night’. Reason for this is that the miraculous journey was completed within an infinitesimal portion of the night.
Why do we call it a scientific miracle? A miracle is something that defies the law of nature; a happening that goes against logic and reasoning. The mi’raj in that sense, is undoubtedly a miracle, because the human mind cannot fathom how the physical body is able to ascend to immeasurable heights in such an infinitesimal duration of time. Being scientific implies that it is related to science, for transcending the boundaries of the earth’s atmosphere in today’s times is most definitely a scientific event. This epic journey is a miracle because it confounds every theory in science and logic, and that is what miracles are intended to do; to defy reason, to confound critics, to silence sceptics, and to compel the observer towards acceptance of a greater force. If a miracle conforms to scientific reasoning and logic, I believe it ceases to remain a miracle. There is a saying in arabic which translates: “When the reason is known, amazement ceases.” If one hears that a certain man flew through the skies, the initial reaction to such news is one of incredulity. Even in this modern day and age, people will respond with scepticism to such a bold claim. But if it is explained that the man was seated in an aeroplane or an airship, all disbelief and amazement ceases, for people accept that this is logically and scientifically possible.
As long as we maintain that this happening was miraculous in nature, it cannot be interpreted in a scientific light or else it loses its Divine Weight. The night after Mi’raj, when Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) broke the news this journey to the people of Makka., the initial reaction was one of disbelief. Had this been considered a dream or a purely spiritual transportation, the kuffar of Makka would not have reacted to this information with rejection and disbelief. This in itself proves that one, Mi’raj was a physical journey, and two, that it happened in a miraculous way, confuting the logic and reasoning of man.
The Mi’raaj was a physical and spiritual journey, hence the reason for the kuffar of Makka rejecting this episode.
On this night one of the greatest gifts of Allah Ta’ala was granted to the Ummah, and that is the five daily salah. May Allah Ta’ala make every Muslim a regular and punctual Namaazi, aameen.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal rahimahullah
The Imams of the four Mazh-habs
IMAM AHMAD BIN HAMBAL
NAME: ABU ABDULLAH AHMAD BIN MUHAMMAD BIN HAMBAL SHAIBANI
BIRTH: He was born in Baghdad in Rabiul Owwal 164 A.H.
His father died while Imam Ahmad was still an infant. He grew up in Baghdad, in search of knowledge of Deen. His surname was taken from his grandfather, Hambal.
RANKING: He was a hafiz of hadeeth, i.e. he specialised in the memorising of thousands of ahadeeth. He began his search for knowledge in earnest at the age of sixteen.
He later on became the Imam of his time in hadeeth. After the Asr namaaz he would stand against the foot of the minaret and people would surround him to ask questions on hadeeth. The answers would flow from his lips without and hesitation. He remained standing like this until the Magrib namaaz.
He would never speak in the lessons of his Ustaads, reasoning that man has one tongue and two ears, so he should do more listening than talking. He had natural humility, which could be seen in every movement of his. He only married at the age of forty, since he wanted to devote his youth to the study of Deen.
He compiled his mazh-hab mainly from the Hadeeth of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, He would take much from the Mazh-hab of Imam Shafi'ee. His mazh-hab spread in Syria, Iraq, Najd (eastern Arabia), and Hijaz (Arabia proper), especially in the reign of King Saud.
One of his famous books is the Musnad lmam Ahmad, a compilation of over 40,000 ahadeeth.
In the year 220 A.H. he was imprisoned and flogged on the orders of Khaleefa Mamoon for maintaining the belief that The Quran is the un-created word of Allah. The Khaleefa and his supporters wanted him to believe that The Quran is the created word of Allah.
HIS TEACHERS AND STUDENTS: Among those who taught him was Imam Abu Yusuf, the student of Imam Abu Haneefa. He also learnt from Ulema throughout the Islamic empire at that time. He was very close to Imam Shafi'ee, and was considered to be the greatest of Imam Shafi'ee's Baghdadi students.
Some of those who learnt from him were great figures like Imam Bukhari and Imam Muslim.
HIS FEATURES: He was very handsome, of medium built, and used to favour the application of henna dye on his beard. In spite of this there were still strands of black hair in his beard.
HIS DEATH: He died in Baghdad in 241 A.H. and was buried in the cemetery known as Baabu Harb.
Note: Out of these famous four Aimma, two have the most following, viz. Imam Abu Haneefa and Imam Shafi'ee.
Allama Shi'raani has disclosed a vision in which he learnt that the last of the mazh-habs that will remain towards the end of this world will be that of Imam Abu Haneefah. And Allah Knows Best.
MAY ALLAH GRANT US THE BARKAT AND SPIRITUAL BENEFITS OF THESE GREAT AAIMMA ARBA'AH, AMEEN.
Monday, May 5, 2008
A Sahaabi Jinn
A SAHAABI JINN OF RASOOLULLAH sallallahu alaihi wa sallam
Hasan narrates that once we came to Abur-Rahaa Al Ataaridi and asked him if he had any knowledge of the Jinn who took the bay’ah (pledge) of Islam from Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam. He smiled and said: “Indeed, I shall tell you what I saw and what I heard in this regard.” He then went on to narrate a fascinating story. “We were on a journey when our caravan stopped at the time of noon. We put up our tents to gain some respite from the stifling afternoon heat.
As I lay in my tent, I was suddenly confronted by a snake that appeared very agitated and distressed but it never threatened me. I picked up a jug and began sprinkling some water on the snake. No sooner had I done this when it became completely calm and relaxed. But the moment I stopped sprinkling water on it, it started its agitation and restlessness once again. Every time I sprinkled water on it, the snake calmed down, and when I stopped, it would resume its erratic behaviour. I was absolutely intrigued by this strange scene, so I told my companions to delay their departure so that I could monitor the snake’s behaviour.
By Asr time I noticed that the snake lay very still, and on further inspection I realised that it had died. My instinct told me that this was a special snake, so I took great care in wrapping its dead body in a clean cloth and gave it a decent burial. Later that day our caravan moved on. Our next stopover was only the following day.
We stopped at a very isolated oasis in the desert. As we were busy setting up our camp and preparing for salaah, suddenly a loud voice from the surrounding bushes called out to us. This is what the voice shouted:
“Salaam upon you all, not once, not twice, not even a thousand times, but much more than that!” I replied: ‘Wa alaykum salaam. And who are you?’ The voice replied: “We are Jinn. May Allah grant you barakaat, for you have done a favour to us which we cannot repay.” I then asked: “And what favour did we do for you”? The Jinn replied: “The snake that died was one of us (Jinn) and he was the last surviving Jinn who had taken the pledge of Islam from Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).” (Extracted from the book Hawaatiful-Jinn)