personalities

Numan bin Thaabit bin Zuta bin Mah was the full name of Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah). In the year 80 A.H., he was born in Kufa, Iraq. He belonged to the Taabi'ins' pious period (Successors of the Sahabas).

He had the opportunity to interact with prominent Sahaba in his youth, including Sayyiduna Abul Tufail Amir bin Wathilah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in), Sayyiduna Anas bin Maalik, and Sayyiduna Sahl bin Saad. Being raised as a businessman, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) immediately developed a passionate interest in Islamic studies.

He attended Sayyiduna Hammad Basri's (radi Allah anhu) Fiqh courses before starting his Hadith research. At Kufa, he studied under eminent professors. He studied at Basrah under the tutelage of two outstanding Taabi'ie scholars who had studied Hadith with the Sahaba. He studied under Sayyiduna Ata bin Abi Rabah and Sayyiduna Ikramah at Makkatul Mukarammah and Madinatul Munawwarah (radi Allahu anhuma). Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) actually had a lot of tutors. According to some historians, Muhammad studied Hadith with nearly 4,000 masters. Among of his prominent professors were: Sayyiduna Imam Baaqir, Sayyiduna Imam Jafer Saadiq, Sayyiduna Ali, Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah, Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar, Sayyiduna Aqabah bin Umar, Sayyiduna Safwaan, Sayyiduna Jabir and Sayyiduna Abu Qatadah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) was 40 years old when he started teaching after Sayyiduna Hammad Basri (alaihir rahmah) went away. He traveled far and rose to great fame. Students from all across the Muslim world gathered to hear him speak and participate in discussions and interviews. He taught Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) as well. Caliph Mansur ascended to power at the age of 56, following the Abbasids' 132 A.H. destruction of the Ummayad dynasty. Imam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) was detained because he objected to the Caliph's brutal execution of the Ahle Bait. The Imam was given a position as a judge by the Caliph, but he turned it down. He received 30 beatings from a stick by Caliph Mansur.

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) passed away during Salaah in the month of Rajab 150 A.H. Caliph Mansur had given the order to poison him. Six times, he offered his Janaza Salaah, with 50,000 participants each time. Once he was buried, people continued to visit and pray for him for 20 days. He was in his 70s. A Mazaar (Tomb) was constructed for him in 459 A.H. by Alp Arslan, the Seljuki sultan. He is interred in an Iraqi tomb not far from Baghdad.

Around 980 pupils were left behind by Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah). The most well-known of them being:

A. Sayyiduna Qadi Abu Yusuf, B. Sayyiduna Imam Muhammad, and C. Sayyiduna Imam Zufur (alaihir rahmah)

Trading was how Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) supported himself. He gave 20 gold pieces to the needy every Friday in sacrifice for his parents' eternal souls. Using the Wudu he prepared for the Esha Salaah, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) conducted the Fajr Salaah for 40 years (ie. he did not sleep after the night prayer). He completed the Hajj 55 times. Every day and every night he used to recite the entire Holy Quran. Because of his extreme piety, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah) fasted every day for 30 years (except for the 5 forbidden days). He frequently read the Holy Quran in one or two rakaat. He refused to accept any gifts from anyone.

He was dressed in low-class attire. I once laughed, and I repent it, remarked Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah). He didn't say much but thought a lot. It is stated that he read the Holy Quran seven thousand times at the location where his soul was stolen.

Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) was born in 93 A.H. He was born in the period of the Ummayyad Dynasty. His full name is Maalik bin Anas.

Great Hadith scholars were the grandfather and uncle of Imam Maalik (radi Allahu anhu). Ahadith were taught to Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) by his uncle Sayyiduna Abu Suhail Nafi (alaihir rahmah). The Imam was an avid student when he was young.

Several eminent professors were among Imam Maalik's (alaihir rahmah) students. The majority of them were outstanding Taabi'i intellectuals who studied with the Sahaba. Several of his instructors had previously worked at Masjidun Nabawi. He received instruction from Sayyiduna Abu Radim Nafi Abdur Rahman on how to read the Holy Quran (alaihir rahmah). Moreover, he received his Hadith instruction from Sayyiduna Nafi, Sayyiduna Jafer Saadiq, Sayyiduna Mohammed bin Yahya Ansaari, Sayyiduna Abu Haashim Salmah, Sayyiduna Yahya bin Said, and Sayyiduna Hishaam bin Urwah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

Several eminent scholars sat in Imam Maalik's company to learn Ahadith and other Islamic legal topics as a result of his renown, which spread far and wide (radi Allahu anhu). 1300 students were seated at his feet. They imitated his "MUWATTA" exactly. Imam Maalik's "Muwatta" is a compilation of Ahadith (radi Allah anhu). Several of his students imitated the Muwatta, with Sayyiduna Yahya bin Yahya Al Masmudi, Sayyiduna ibn Wahab Abu Mohammed Abdullah, and Sayyiduna Abi Abdullah Abdur Rahman (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in) being among the most well-known.

His instructor, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (alaihir rahmah), even said that Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) should sit in his study circle because of his high esteem and respect for him. When he listened, Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) enjoyed hearing his students read aloud. He used to observe kids taking notes while seated in a high chair.

A Great "Muhaddith," he (A Scholar of Hadith). He chose his Hadith with great care, and after carefully scrutinizing them, he used to record them in his Muwatta.

He was not hesitant to issue a "Fatawa" (Legal Islamic Judgment) as a jurist, even if it went against the Caliph. He once received a beating for it.

In the year 179 A.H., he passed away on the 11th of Rabi-ul-Awwal. Age-wise, he was 86. At Madinatul Munawwarah's Janatul Baqi, Imam Maalik (alaihir rahmah) is laid to rest.

When residing in Madinatul Munawwarah, he never wore shoes. In this fortunate metropolis, he never used the restroom or sat on a horse. He always left the city to use the restroom. Invoking the possibility that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) may have passed by, touched, or seen it, he would kiss old structures and the ruins of ancient foundations. He loved Sayyiduna Rasoolullah very much (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Mohammed bin Idris Al Shaafa'ee, also known as Imam Shaafa'ee, was a member of the Quraish clan and was born around 150 A.H.

He moved from Palestine, where he was raised, to Makkatul Mukarramah when he was ten years old. He had a great memory and was quite clever. At the age of 7, he memorized the whole Holy Quran. He had remembered Imam Maalik's complete Muwatta by the time he was 15 years old (alaihir rahmah). Before turning 20, he studied Islamic law under Sayyiduna Muslim bin Khalil al Zanji and Sayyiduna Sufyaan bin Uyayana, two of Makkatul Mukarramah's muftis (radi Allahu anhuma). He was also taught by Imam Maalik bin Anas (alaihir rahmah).

Imam Shaafa'ee (alaihir rahmah) pleased the Iraqi Governor of Madinatul Munawwarah to the point that he convinced him to become an Administrator. Imam Shaafa'ee (alaihir rahmah) was deported to Iraq because he was at odds with government authorities. Haroun Rasheed was present, and he was greatly pleased by Imam Shaafa'ee (alaihir rahmah). Imam Mohammed Ash Shaybaani (alaihir rahmah), who was a student of Imam Abu Yusuf (alaihir rahmah), who was a student of Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa, was his current teacher while he studied Islamic law (alaihir rahmah). As a result, Imam Shaafa'ee (alaihir rahmah) attained the status of master of the Shaafa'ee and Hanafi Schools of Fiqh.

He delivered a talk in the Haram Shareef in Makkatul Mukarramah before traveling to Egypt. These lectures were extremely helpful to Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah), who was a student at the time at Makkatul Mukarramah. After spending three or four years in Baghdad, Imam Shaafa'ee (alaihir rahmah) eventually traveled to Egypt. He had just turned 50.

Scholars from all over the world traveled to Egypt to study under his tutelage. The Sayyidunas Rabi bin Sulayman, Abu Yacoob Al Ruwayta, and Abu Ebraheem bin Yahya Al Muzani (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in) were his well-known students.

"Kitaabul Umm" and "Ar Risaalah" are the two notable volumes on Islamic Fiqh authored by him.

On the final day of Rajab in the year 204 A.H. in Egypt, some stories claim that he suffered grievous injuries at the hands of someone going by the name of Fityan, while other reports state that he died of a natural disease. In 608 A.H., the Ayyubid Sultan Maalik Al Kaamil constructed a Mazaar for him.

Imam Abu Abdullah Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah) was born in Marw on the 20th of Rabi-ul-Awwal 164 A.H. 

Sayyiduna Mohammed (alaihir rahmah), who was his father, was an Iraqi Mujaahid and a fighter. Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah) was a brilliant young man who was highly motivated to advance his Islamic knowledge. He started reading Hadith literature at the age of 16. He reportedly knew about a million Ahadith off by heart. He gained notoriety as a jurist.

His mentors included Imam Shaafaee, Sayyiduna Bishar bin Al Mufaddal, Sayyiduna Ismail bin Ulayyah, Sayyiduna Jarir bin Abdul Hamid, and Sayyiduna Yahya bin Said (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

The most well-known of his students were Sayyiduna Abul Qasim Al Baghwi (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in), Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Al Alhram, and Sayyiduna Hambal bin Ishaaq.

A extremely devout scholar, Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah) dedicated his entire life to the study of hadith and fiqh. He refused to eat in the homes of anyone who worked for the government. He used to refuse to take charity, although being quite impoverished and occasionally going without food, declaring that he had complete confidence in Almighty Allah.

Kitaabul A'maal, Kitaabut Tafseer, Kitaabul Naasikh wal Mansookh, Kitaabul Zahid, Kitaabul Masaa'il, Kitaabul Fadaa'il, and Kitaabul Mansiq are among his most well-known works.

His "MUSNAD," a kitab in which he compiled between 50 000 and 70 000 Ahadith, is his most well-known work.

In the latter years of his life, Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah) was imprisoned and tortured by the merciless rulers who turned against him because of their pagan beliefs and practices. When the Imam refused to adopt the "Mu'tazalis'" (a corrupt sect) teachings, Caliph Mutasim Billah beat him so severely that his joints dislocated. He spent 30 months imprisoned in a Baghdad jail with cumbersome chains. He was again beaten till he passed out for continuing to reject the corrupt Mu'tazali Sect's doctrines.

The Caliph Mutasim apologized and freed the Imam on the 25th of Ramadan in the year 221 A.H. out of concern for the wrong he had done. Except for the Mutazalis, Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (alaihir rahmah) forgiven everyone. In the year 241 A.H., he died.

He name was Abd al-Qadir. "Abu Muhammad" was his given name (father of Muhammad). A few of his well-known aliases are Muhyi'd-Din, al-Ghawth al-A'zam, Sultan al-Awliya, and Ghaus-e-Paak. Through both his mother's (al-Husaini) and father's sides, he was a progenitor of the Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) (al-Hasani). (Imam Hasan and Imam Husain, radi Allahu anhuma, are the grandsons of the Prophet Muhammad, sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). His mother was Sayyidah Ummul Khair Faatima (radi Allahu anha), and his father was Sayyid Abu Saleh Moosa (alaihir rahmah).

A place called Neef, which is located in Gilan, is where Sayyiduna al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) was born, according to reliable narrations (Persia). Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) was born in Bashteer, according to Imam Yaaqoot Hamwi (alaihir rahmah). The majority of historians concur that Bashteer and Neef were really two names for the same location. Al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qadir (alaihir rahmah) is referred to as al-Jilani since he was born in Gilan. Al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) directly states in his "Qasida-e-Ghausia" the following on his place of birth: "I am a citizen of Jeel and my name is Muhyi'd-Din and the flag of my exaltedness is set solid on mountains."

ALHIR RAHAM, SAYYIDI ABDULLAH SOOM'EE He was al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-maternal Jilani's grandfather (alaihir rahmah). He was a really kind, sincere, patient, and modest man. His house functioned as a haven for the needy, the underprivileged, and the orphaned.

He belonged to Jilan's grand Mashaa'ikhs. He was regarded as a great "Sahib-e-Karamah," which means that he worked many miracles that were witnessed by thousands of people, many of whom afterwards joined his spiritual organization and became his disciples. A couple of his followers, or mureeds, once traveled to Samarkand for business. Thieves halted them. They shouted his name for help right away. They were startled to discover him standing next to them, speaking to the robbers while in a condition of Jalaal, stating, "Our Allah is Pure and free from Defects. Bandits in 0' Keep your distance from my disciples. The robbers dispersed after hearing these comments, leaving the Mureeds uninjured and safe. Following this occurrence, Sayyidi Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) was located by the mureeds.

When the disciples returned to Jilan and told the locals about this experience, they were informed that during that time period, the great Saint (Wali) of Allah had not been seen leaving the city of Jilan.

SAYYIDAH AISHA ZAAHIDA (radi Allahu anha): She was al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-maternal Jilani's aunt (alaihir rahmah). She was a very compassionate and devout woman. Her whole life was dedicated to remembering the Almighty Allah. She was well known for her devotion and sincerity in Ibadah among the Jilan residents. They used to regularly approach her in times of harship and ask her to do du'a.

Jilan experienced a serious food and water shortage once due to a protracted drought. Jilan's residents prayed in vain to Allah, the Almighty, for rain. They turned to Sayyidah Aisha Zaahida (radi Allahu anha) at that point and asked her to do a rain prayer. She stepped into her modest home's courtyard after hearing their request and started sweeping the dust into one corner. After sweeping was complete, she really said, "O Allah! I was tasked with sweeping up the dust. Now all that is required of You is the scattering. As soon as she finished speaking, ominous clouds started to build and rain started falling, ending Jilan's protracted drought. She spent her entire life in Jilan City. May Allah grant her wonderful cemetery His Compassion (qabar). Aameen.

SAYYIDAH UMMUL KHAIR FAATIMA & SAYYIDI ABU SAALEH (radi Allahu anhuma): They were Al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-blessed Jilani's parents (alaihir rahmah).

Sheikh Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) was an exceptionally devout and modest individual. He was also an expert in jihadi tactics, which is why the name "Jangi Dost" was given to him. Another outstanding Aabida and Zaahida was Sayyidah Ummul Khair Faatima (radi Allahu anha).

The flame of Imaan will be rekindled in our hearts after reading the incident that led to the marriage (Nikah) of these two great individuals and the birth of Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah), and we will also be able to comprehend the lofty status of Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) through the greatness and purity of his parents.

It has been reported that Sayyidi Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) spent the majority of his time at Mujahida throughout his formative years (Striving in the path of Allah). He once performed Ibadah next to a river. He had gone three days and three nights without eating, therefore he felt the need to eat. He was having this idea when he noticed an apple floating in his direction down the river. He took the apple by dipping his hand into the water. Following his consumption of the apple, he had a thought regarding the fruit's provenance. While the apple was floating in the river, he reasoned that it had to belong to someone, and that he had eaten the apple without the owner's consent. He started exploring the river's bank right away in search of the apple's origin.

He traveled for a while before reaching an orchard. He noticed an apple tree there. The tree's limbs were dangling over the river. Apples were dropping from the tree and being swept downstream by the river as they did so. When he saw this, he knew right away that the apple he had just eaten originated from this tree. He entered the orchard and inquired about the orchard's owner. He was informed that Sayyidi Abdullah Soom'ee was the property's owner (alaihir rahmah). He went to the proprietor and told him about the event involving the fruit. He then begged Sayyidi Abdullah Soom'ee to pardon him for his error (alaihir rahmah).

Sayyidi Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) knew right away after hearing Sayyiduna Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) that he was no ordinary young guy. He had no doubts about his status as the Almighty Allah's chosen servant.

He received forgiveness from Sheikh Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) for eating the apple. Yet, he explained, there was a catch. The requirement was that Sayyidi Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) maintain the orchard and carry out Mujahida for ten years there. This stipulation was happily accepted by Sheikh Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah).

He spent ten years working in the orchard and also became a mujahid. He sought forgiveness from Sayyiduna Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) after ten years had passed. He accepted without hesitation when Sheikh Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) urged him to serve for an additional two years. He returned to Sayyiduna Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) after these two years had gone and requested forgiveness. He was granted forgiveness by Sheikh Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) with one final stipulation. He said, “O’ Abu Saaleh! I have a daughter whose feet are paralysed, her hands are crippled,and she is deaf and blind. I would like for you to marry her.”

Sayyidi Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) even accepted this requirement, despite the fact that the majority of people would have rejected it. He entered his room after the Nikah to meet his bride for the first time. He was shocked to see a lovely, regular woman seated in his room. He believed that there had been a mix-up and that the wrong woman should not have been in his room. He quickly left the room and entered Sheikh Abdullah Soom'ee's presence (alaihir rahmah). after seeing him. Do not be afraid, Sheikh Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah) stated while grinning. She is my daughter, not someone else. All the characteristics I described to you about her are accurate. Because she has never done anything against Shari'ah, I claimed she was disabled. I said that she was deaf because she had never heard a word against the Shari'ah and that she was blind because she had never seen an Ghair Mahram.

When Sayyidi Abu Saaleh (alaihir rahmah) heard these remarks, he realized that throughout the twelve years he had spent serving Sayyidi Abdullah Soom'ee (alaihir rahmah), not a single moment had been wasted.

Al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) was descended from these two upright servants of the Almighty Allah and followers of the Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

SAYYIDUNA JUNAID AL-BAGHDADI, SHEIKH-UL-MASHAA'IKH (alaihir rahmah): He predicted the arrival of al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani in the following way while living two hundred years before him:

In a moment of spiritual ecstasy, Sheikh Junaid al-Baghdadi (alaihir rahmah) said: "His foot is on my shoulders, his foot is on my shoulders." His disciples questioned him about these comments once he had recovered spiritually. "I've heard that a great Saint will be born at the end of the fifth century," he declared. Abdul Qaadir will be his name, while Muhyid-Din will be his title. He will live in Baghdad and be born in Jilan. Sheikh Junaid al-Baghdadi (alaihir rahmah) exclaimed in a state of spiritual ecstasy, "His foot is on my shoulders, his foot is on my shoulders." Once his spiritual condition had improved, his disciples questioned him about these remarks. He said, "I've heard that at the end of the fifth century, a great Saint would be born. His name will be Abdul Qaadir, and his title will be Muhyid-Din. He was born in Jilan and will reside in Baghdad. He will one day declare, "My foot is on the shoulders of all the Awliya Allah," in response to Allah's command. I witnessed his perfection while I was still in my spiritual state, and these words just came out of nowhere.

IMAM HASSAN ASKARI (alaihir rahmah): According to Sheikh Abu Muhammad (alaihir rahmah), before he passed away, Imam Hassan Askari (alaihir rahmah) gave Sayyiduna Imam Ma'roof Karki (alaihir rahmah) his Jubba (Cloak) and ordered him to give it to al-Ghawth al-A'zam She (alaihir rahmah). Sayyiduna Junaid al-Baghdadi (alaihir rahmah) received this cloak from Sheikh Imam Ma'roof Karki (alaihir rahmah), who then gave it to Sheikh Danoori (alaihir rahmah). From there, it was handed on until, in the year 497 A.H., Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) received it (Makhzanul Qaaderiah)

SHEIKH ABU BAKR BIN HAW'WAAR (alaihir rahmah): He was a notable Mashaa'ikh of Baghdad who lived before the reign of al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah).

There are seven Aqtaab (High-Ranking Awliya) of Iraq, he once declared when seated in his majlis:

1. Sheik Ma’roof Karki (alaihir rahmah),

2. Sheikh Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal (alaihir rahmah),

3. Sheikh Bishr Haafi (alaihir rahmah),

4. Sheikh Mansoor bin Amaar (alaihir rahmah),

5. Sayyiduna Junaid al-Baghdadi (alaihir rahmah),

6. Sheikh Sahl bin Abdullah Tastari (alaihir rahmah),

7. Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir Jeeli (alaihir rahmah). 

From the aforementioned Ulama, he acquired knowledge of Qirah, Tafseer, Hadith, Fiqh, Shari'ah, and Tareeqah. He did well in each of these areas as well.

His mentor in the subject of Adab was Allama Abu Zakariyah Tabrezi (alaihir rahmah), a notable Aalim of the time. Other Kitaabs, including "Tafseerul Quraan Wal E'raab," "Sharah Qasaa'idul Ashr," and "Sharah Diwaan Abi Tamaam," were also written by him.

In the field of Fiqh and Usool-e-Fiqh, his teachers were:

1. Sheikh Abul Wafa bin Aqeel Hambali,

2. Abul Hassan Muhammad bin Qaazi Abul Ulaa,

3. Sheikh Abul Khataab Mahfooz Hambali, and

4. Qaazi Abu Sa’eed Mubaarak bin Ali Makhzoomi Hambali (radi Allahu anhum) 

In the field of Hadith, he attained knowledge from the following Ulama:

1. Sayyidi Abul Barkaat Talhaa Al Aaqooli,

2. Abul Ana’im Muhammad bin Ali bin Maimoon Al Farsi, 3. Abu Uthmaan Ismaeel bin Muhammad Al Isbihaani,

4. Abu Ghaalib Muhammad bin Hassan Al Baaqilaani,

5. Abu Muhammad Jaafar bin Ahmad binil Husaini,

6. Sayyidi Muhammad Mukhtaar Al Haashmi,

7. Sayyidi Abu Mansoor Abdur Rahmaan Al Qaz’zaaz,

8. Abul Qaasim Ali bin Ahmad Ban’naan Al Karghi, and

9. Abu Taalib Abdul Qaadir bin Muhammad bin Yusuf (radi Allahu anhum) 

Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) graduated from Jamia Nizamia after putting in a lot of study time. Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani was the most erudite and devout Aalim in existence at this time period (alaihir rahmah).

HARDSHIPS SUFFERED WHILE STUDYING: He endured a great deal of difficulty while studying in Baghdad, and the city's way of life put him to the test. "The difficulty and hardships that I endured in Baghdad during my studies were so great that if they had to be placed on a mountain, then even the mountain would split in two," Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) used to say.

In addition, he used to say: "When the trials and challenges became intolerable, I would lie on the road and repeatedly repeat the verse from the Holy Quran, "And without a doubt there is ease with shortages, without a doubt there is ease with shortages. Making takraar of this Ayah was how I used to experience immense serenity and tranquility.

After classes ended, he used to stray into Baghdad's forests and jungles, where he would spend the entire night in the Zikr of the Almighty Allah. Regardless of the season or the weather, he did this. He would lie down on the ground with a boulder as his pillow whenever he started to feel weak and exhausted. He would put on a little hat and a thin cloak during these Zikr nights. He used to walk toward the Euphrates River when he was hungry and eat any vegetables he could find there. He always said that living this way gave him much pleasure and brought him closer to the Almighty Allah.

PATIENCE DURING A SEVERE DROUGHT: Once, while he was studying, a severe drought hit the city of Baghdad. People in Baghdad were dependent on any grain they could find as a result of the dire circumstances there. They started eating plants and tree leaves when there was no more grain to be had. Al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) used to go out in quest of food at this time as well. But if he spotted others looking for food, he would leave empty-handed and head back to the city since he didn't think it was right to impose by bothering those who, in his opinion, needed food more than he did.

He hadn't eaten for many days at this point. He was compelled to travel to Baghdad's "Sooqur Raihaanain" market in quest of food because of his extreme hunger. He was too weak and exhausted to stand when he entered the market due to his hunger. He pulled himself gently in its direction after spotting a neighboring mosque. As soon as he entered the mosque, he sat down against one of the walls to support his now-weak and exhausted body. He rested there for some time. Suddenly he observed someone walking into the mosque.

The individual took a seat in a corner and unwrapped a package containing bread and fried meat. The guy then started eating this dinner, according to the occurrence, which was related by Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah). "The intensity of my hunger was so intense that every time the person took a morsel of food to his mouth, my mouth would open impulsively with his and I would wish that I myself had something to eat," Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) states. Do not be impatient, al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) commanded his nafs when this kept happening. Put your confidence and trust in Allah, the Almighty. He no longer felt this way following his statements.

After a while, this individual unexpectedly visited Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) and offered him food. The guy politely declined, but Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) insisted. Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) eventually gave in and ate with him. The one inquired al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) about himself while he was eating. He informed him that he was from Jilan and had come to Baghdad in order to learn. The other responded that he was also from Jilan and inquired if he was familiar with Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah). My name is Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani, the sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) replied.

The man, who had tears in his eyes, approached Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) and begged for forgiveness because he had mishandled the faith that had been placed in him after hearing this. Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) enquired as to the meaning of the stranger's statement. The stranger said, "When I was leaving Jilan, I encountered an elderly woman who handed me eight dirhams in exchange for my giving them to her son Abd al-Qaadir, who is pursuing his studies in Baghdad. Abd al-Qadir, please! I was eating food purchased with the eight Dirhams your mother had given you. Due to my inability to locate you despite my best efforts, my stay in Baghdad was made larger.

Due to this, I ran out of money, so I had to spend some of your money to buy the meals we ate out of sheer desperation. Abd al-Qadir, please! You fed me, not I, as opposed to the reverse. Please pardon me for misusing what was entrusted to me (Amaanah).

Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) held the stranger close to his heart and complimented him on his sincerity and honesty. He then bid the visitor farewell after giving him the last of the food and a fraction of the eight Dirhams.

This episode amply demonstrates Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-(alaihir Jilani's rahmah) concern for the needs of others over his own. Despite his desperate need in the situation, he showed empathy for this stranger's situation. Even this one act of selflessness serves as a lesson in proper conduct.

A LION OF ALLAH: Sheikh Abdullah Salmi (alaihir rahmah) reports that Sheikh Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani (radi Allahu anhu) told him the following incredible story:

The Great Ghawth recalled: "Once, while I was studying in Baghdad, I went for several days without eating. When I arrived at a small street called "Qat'eeya Sharfiya" one day, I was in this condition. There was a mosque nearby that had previously been vacant. I used to spend time alone there reviewing my courses for the next day. I encountered a stranger on the way to Mohalla Qat'eeya who gave me a piece of paper and instructed me to take it to a specific store. Surprised, I followed his instructions. I presented the piece of paper to the store owner when I arrived, who saved it and gave it to me along with some roti and halwa (sweets).

I entered the Musjid, where I used to review my lectures, with this roti and halwa. After sitting for a bit, I made the decision to eat some bread and halwa when I noticed a piece of paper next to the wall. The words "Almighty Allah has stated in one of the previous Books that the Lions of Allah have no desire for the pleasures of this world" were scrawled on it as I picked it up. Food-related desires and pleasures are for the elderly and frail, who rely on them to build up their strength for Ibadah. My entire body shook in terror of Allah as I read this, forcing every hair on my body to stand on end. I instantly overcame the urge to eat and instead read two Rakahs of Salaah before leaving the mosque without taking a meal. ”

GET TO KNOW A HOLY SERVANT OF ALLAH: In Baghdad Shareef, it was customary for students to gather in the local community of "Baaqooba" around harvest time and approach the local farmers to request some grain from their crop. People back then treated pupils with the utmost respect and cheerfully provided them grain.

The students of Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-class Jilani's once insisted that he travel with them to the village of Baaqooba (alaihir rahmah). He went with them to the village since he didn't want to let them down. Al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) learned that Shareef Baaqoobi, a righteous servant of Allah, lived in the village when they arrived there. In order to receive his blessings, Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) made the decision to meet this pious servant.

Shareef Baaqoobi knew that Al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) was the Qutb-e-Zaman the moment he saw him. He exclaimed, "0, my son! Those who pursue Allah's will do not extend their hands to anyone else. You appear to be one of Allah's chosen servants. It is inappropriate for you to ask the Baaqooba population for grain.

"From that day on, I never accompanied anyone on such travels and I never demanded anything from anyone again," Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) says.

A COMBINATION OF UNSEEN HELP: O Abd al-Qaadir! The Voice from the Unknown called to the Great Ghawth (alaihir rahmah) as he was studying in the bush one day. You haven't eaten in days, and you spend the majority of your time studying. Get anything on credit by going to someone. It is the Ambiya's Sunnah.

Al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) said that he could not accept anything on credit because he lacked the means to pay back the credit when he heard this. Do not be concerned about this, the voice said. Repaying your credit is Our responsibility.”

He went to a store and asked the clerk for some food on credit after getting this message. "I would like for you to give me one and a half rotis (slices of bread) daily on credit, and you should pardon my credit if I die before I can return it," he stated.

When he heard these words from Al-Ghawth al-A'zam, the shopkeeper, who was a devout servant of Allah, started to cry (alaihir rahmah). "Take everything you wish to take from my shop whenever you wish to do so," he replied.

He started eating one and a half rotis of bread every day after that. Al-Ghawth al-Azam (alaihir rahmah) started to worry about the debt he due as the days flew so quickly. The same Voice from the Unknown spoke to him one day when he was lost in this thought, saying: "O Abd al-Qaadir! Travel to a specific location, and give the merchant anything you discover there. Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah) traveled to the location to which he had been ordered. He discovered a chunk of gold there. By giving the shopkeeper this piece of gold, he was able to settle his debt.

RECEIPT OF SPIRITUAL INFORMATION: Al-Ghawth al-A'zam (alaihir rahmah) continued to pursue in-depth spiritual knowledge after finishing his academic work. Almighty Allah provided him with the chance to follow the teachings of Sheikh Ham'maad bin Muslim Ad Dab'baas in order to fulfill this spiritual thirst (alaihir rahmah). He belonged to Baghdad Shareef's elite Masha'ikh class.

According to Sheikh Abd al-Qaadir al-Jilani (alaihir rahmah), there was a time in Baghdad when fitna and fasaad were prevalent (trouble). He made the decision to leave Baghdad Shareef for a more tranquil setting since he did not want to be a part of this.

"I made the decision to leave Baghdad owing to the inappropriate circumstances, and I was on my way out of Baghdad when from the Unseen, some enormous strength pushed me so hard that I fell to the ground," recounts Al-Ghawth al-A'zam Sheikh (alaihir rahmah). Then, I overheard a voice from the unseen telling me not to leave. Through you, Allah's creation will profit. I said, "What do I have to do with the people?" after hearing this. My only concern is safeguarding my Deen (Imaan). The Voice immediately said, "No, no, it is crucial that you stay here. No evil will befall your Imaan (Deen)."

The Muslim Revivalist of the 14th Century, Imam-e-Ahle Sunnah, Azeemul Barkat, A’la Hadrat, Mujaddid Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaaderi Barakaati (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu). 

WHO IS IMAM AHMED RAZA KHAN (RADI ALLAHU TA’ALA ANHU)?

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), popularly known as “A’la Hadrat” in the Islamic world, was born on the 10th of Shawaal 1272 A.H. (14 June 1856) in Bareilly Shareef, India. His father, Moulana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), and illustrious grandfather, Moulana Rida Ali Khan (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), were great Awliya and celebrated theologians recognized as such by academic circles of the entire sub-continent.

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) received his Sanads (Certificates of Proficiency) in Fiqh, Tafseer, Usool-e-Fiqha and Sihah Sitta (Six Authentic Books of Ahadith) from the learned Ulema of his period, including learned Arab Scholars from Makkatul Mukarramah.

A’la Hadrat (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) achieved the status of a versatile scholar and obtained a high distinction in over 50 branches of learning pertaining to the Ancient Sciences, Modern Sciences, Oriental learning, Islamic Jurisprudence, Tassawuf, and numerous other branches.

On his visit to Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah, Imam Ahmed Raza Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) was treated with great dignity and was conferred the title of “Imam-e-Ahle-Sunnat” by eminent Ulema. He was also hailed as the Mujaddid “Revivalist” of the Century. Deadly opposed to fanatical extremism, he expounded the pure teachings of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah. He acted as a shield against those who wanted to assault the principles of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah.

As a devout Sufi, A’la Hadrat (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) was awarded the Ijaazah and Khilafat (Certificate of Spiritual Successorship) in the Qaaderiya Silsila (Order), as well as in 13 other branches of Sufism. His Sheikh-ut-Tareeqah (Spiritual Master) was the celebrated Grand Master, Sayyid Sha Ale-Rasool Ahmadi Al-Qaaderi Al Barkaati (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) of Mahrerah Shareef, India.

As an author, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) has left to his credit more than a 1 000 (thousand) books on 50 different subjects ranging from Tafseer, Logic, Grammar, Literature, Islamic Jurisprudence, Education, Sociology, Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics, History, Science of History, Engineering, Biographies, Philosophy, Mysticism to Persian, Arabic, Urdu and Hindi Literature.

A’la Hadrat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) left behind many students and Khulafa (Spiritual Successors) who have achieved world-wide prestige for their contributions towards Islam and some, for their exemplary missionary activities. Among them were A’la Hadrat’s (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) two sons, Hujjatul Islam, Moulana Sha Haamid Raza Al-Qaaderi Barkaati Noori and Mufti-e-Azam-e-Hind, Moulana Sha Mustapha Raza Al-Qaaderi Barkaati Noori (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhuma); Muballigh-e-Islam, Moulana Abdul Aleem Siddique Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), Sadrush Sharee’ah Moulana Amjad Ali Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), Malikul Ulema Sayyid Sha Zafruddeen Behari (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), Sayyidain Kareemain Abul Barkaat Sayyid Ahmed and Abul Hasanaat Sayyid Muhammad (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhuma), Ustaazul Ulema Moulana Sha Ahmed Mukhtaar Siddique Meerati (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu), Qutbe Madina Sheikh Ziauddeen Ahmed Siddique Al-Qaaderi Madani (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) – to name, but a few.

A’la Hadrat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) passed away on Friday, the 25th of Safar 1340 A.H. (28 October 1921), when the Mu’azzin was calling “Hayya alal Falaah” in the Azaan of Jummah Salaah. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi Raaji’un.

All in all: Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaaderi (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) was a multi-dimensional scholar, orator, teacher, author, spiritual leader and true servant of Islam. It can justifiably be said that the mission of A’la Hazrat (radi Allahu Ta’ala anhu) has become a world-wide movement which is gaining popularity day-by-day.