Imam Ahmad Raza Khan

A'la Hadrat' Azeem al-Barkat,

Mujaddid al-Deen al-Millat  

Imam-e-Ahl as-Sunnat

Ash-Shah Imam Ahmad Raza Khan

Al-Qadiri Fadil al-Bareilly 

Radi Allahu ta'ala 'anhu

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem

As Salaatu was Salaamu Alayka Ya Rasulullah


Birth:  Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawaal 1272HIJRI (14th June 1856), at the time of Zuhar Salaah in a place called Jasoli, which is in the city of Bareilly Shareef, India.

A few days before the birth of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu, his father, Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan Radi Allahu anhu, had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allama 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 Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan Radi Allahu anhuconcerning 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 Beloved ProphetSalla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam", Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu .

The date of birth of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was extracted by himself from the Noble Qur'an.
"These are they in whose hearts Allah has inscribed faith and helped them with a spirit from Himself." (58:2)
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Name

The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name of "Muhammad." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahl as-Sunnah Wa Jama'ah, Allama Mawlana Raza Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu, also gave the young child the beautiful name of "Ahmad Raza." It was by this name that he was famously known. Much later in his life, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu added the title "Abdul Mustafa" to his name signifying his great love and respect for Sayyadina Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam.

The Grand Mufti of Makka t'al-Mukarramah, Shaykh Hussain bin Saleh Makki radi Allahu anhu, also gave him the title of "Zia 'al-Din Ahmad."

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Family
ILLUSTRIOUS FAMILY HISTORY

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Al-Qaderi, was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Raza Ali Khan, who was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Shah Muhammad Azam Khan, who was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the s/o of Allama Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan radi Allahu anhum ajma'in.

The great forefathers of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu migrated from Qandhar (Kabul) during the Mogul rule and settled in Lahore. Allama Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhum, held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allama Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan radi Allahu anhu, after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city.

Allama Mawlana Hafiz Kaazim Ali Khan, the son of Mawlana Muhammad A'zam Khan radi Allahu anhum, was a Tax-collector in the city of Badayun. His son, Allama Mawlana Raza Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu, the illustrious grandfather of A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat's radi Allahu anhu father and grandfather.

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HIS FATHER:

A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's father, Hadrat Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu, received his education at the hands of his father, Allama 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's father passed away in 1297 Hijri (1880) when he was 24 years old.

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HIS GRANDFATHER:

One of the greatest Sufis of his time, Allama Mawlana Raza Ali Khan was born in the year 1224 Hijri. 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 Mawlana Khaleer ar-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 Jamadi-Al-Awwal in the year 1282 Hijri (1866). A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhuwas at this time only 10 years old.

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IMAM AHMAD RAZA'S PIETY AS A CHILD

A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadratradi 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 Ramadan also shows A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's piety and fear of Allah. Fasting was not Fard (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 can rise upto to as much as 50 degrees celsius. On that day, the heat of the sun was intense. Hadrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu took his young son, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, into a room where sweets were kept. He closed the door and said, "There, eat the sweets." A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhurespectfully 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 Hadrat Allama Naqi Ali Khanradi Allahu anhu. He then left the room with A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu.
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IMAM AHMAD RAZA'S FIRST LECTURE

Sayyadi A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu stood on theMimbar (Pulpit) and delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted ofUlema. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyadina Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity and eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child!________________________________________

HIS INTELLIGENCE AS A CHILD

A'la Hadrat 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 Hadratradi Allahu anhu answered, "Praise be to Allah that I am a human."

When he was 8 years old, A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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: "Allama Hadrat Ahmad 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."
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ASTONISHING EVENTS OF CHILDHOOD

At the age of 3, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was once standing outside the Raza Masjid 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu converse with the person in pure Arabic. They were surprised. The person who spoke to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was never seen again in Bareilly Shareef!
A Majzoob (one drowned in his love for Almighty Allah) by the name of Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu replied that he was the grandson of Hadrat Raza Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu. TheMajzoob immediately embraced him and took him into his little room. He asked A'la Hadratradi Allahu anhu if he had come for any specific matter, but A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu said that he had come to ask him to make Du'a for him. On hearing this, the Majzoob, for approximately half an hour, made the following Du'a: "May Allah have mercy on you, May Allah bless you."
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COMMENCEMENT OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION 

During A'la Hadrat'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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu began reading the "Alif, Baa, Taa, ..." until he came to the word "Laam Alif" at which point A'la Hadrat 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'". Sayyidi A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, then replied, "I have already read them earlier on. What need is there for me to repeat it?"

Hadrat Allama Raza Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu, who was witnessing this incident, said, "Son! Listen to what your Ustaad is saying." Upon further reflection, Hadrat Allama Raza Ali Khanradi Allahu anhu, realised the reason for the objection of the young A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu. It was because the teacher was teaching A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu the lesson on single alphabets. A'la Hadrat 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!

Hadrat Allama 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhuand made Du'a for him. He then explained the answer to A'la Hadrat 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'."

Hadrat Allama Mawlana Raza Ali Khan radi Allahu anhu was in reality opening the doors and the treasures of knowledge and spiritual insight to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu.

A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was only 4 years old when he completed the recitation Noble Qur'an. Due to the extraordinary intelligence bestowed upon him by AllahSubhanahu wa Ta'ala, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu completed his islamic education at the very young age of 13 years, 10 months & 5 days. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu states that, "I completed my religious education during the middle of the month of Shabaan in the year 1286Hijri. 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 Hadrat 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, Hadrat Allama 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 Hadratradi Allahu anhu also studied under the guidance of the following luminous personalities : 

1. Hadrat Mawlana Abdul Ali Rampuri, Shaykh-e-Kabeer, 

2. Hadrat Allama Sayyad Shah Abul Hassan Ahmad Noori,

3. Shaykh-e-Tariqah, Allama Shah A'le Rasool Mahrahrewi,

4. Shaykh Ahmad bin Zain-e-Dahlaan Makki, 

5. Shaykh Abdur Rahman Makki,

6. Shaykh Hussain bin Salih Makki

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A'la Hadrats first fatawa

In a letter sent to his illustrious Khalifa, 'Malakul Ulema', Hadrat Mawlana Zafaruddeen Bihaari, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu wrote;
"With the Grace of Almighty Allah, this servant wrote his first Fatawa 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 [forbidden] 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 Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu the task of issuing fatawa's (Islamic Verdicts). For many years, thereafter, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu carried this

very important duty with absolute dignity and responsibility.
A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat's Radi Allahu anhu answers to religious enquiries, said: "Indeed, a great scholar I must confess. When reading his fatawa's, 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."
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HIS MARRIAGE & CHILDREN 

In the year 1291 Hijri (1874), A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu married Sayyidah Irshaad Begumradi Allahu anha who was the beloved daughter of Shaykh Fadhl Hussain Sahib. He was 18 years old at the time of his Nikah.
Almighty Allah blessed A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu with 7 beautiful children - 2 sons & 5 daughters.

Both his sons became eminent Islamic Scholars and great Awliyah-Allah. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's eldest son, Hujjat al Islam, Hadrat Allama 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. Hujjat al IslamRadi Allahu anhu left this mundane world on the 17th of Jamadi al-Awwal 1362 Hijri., while in the state of Salaah. His Mazaar Shareef (Blessed Tomb) is in Bareilly Shareef, India.


Ghawth al-Waqt, Huzoor Mufti al-A'zam al-Hind, Ash Shah Imam Mustapha Raza Khan Noori Barakaati Radi Allahu anhu, the younger son of A'la Hadrat 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 million 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 Hijri (1981). HisMazaar Shareef is also in Bareilly Shareef.
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INCIDENTS POINTING TO HIS IMMENSE KNOWLEDGE 

Speaking about A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's immense knowledge, Dr Sayyid Muhammad Abdullah, Chairman of Dept. 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, thought and vision from the Noble Qur'an, & the Most Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa aalihi wa Sallam's 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 Noble Qur'an and the Most Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam's traditions, and a spell-binding orator."
A few days after the nikah of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, a certain person came to Bareilly Shareef. He presented a fatawa of Mawlana Irshaad Hussain Mujaddidi Radi Allahu anhu to Hadrat Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan Radi Allahu anhu for an answer. The fatawa bore the signatures of many Ulema.
Hadrat Allama 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 Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu sitting there. He returned to Hadrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Radi Allahu anhu and said, "There is no Moulvi Sahib there. All I see in the room is a young lad." Hadrat Allama 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu wrote the correct answer to the fatawa and respectfully presented it to his father. His father verified his answer as being correct.

The very same fatawa was then taken to the Governor of Rampur. After studying the fatawaof A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, the Governor requested the presence of Mawlana Irshaad Hussain Sahib Radi Allahu anhu. When the said Mawlana appeared before the Governor, thefatawa 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 fatwa because I am prominent, but the true fatawaa is the one written by the mufti of Bareilly."
When the Governor learnt that Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu was only 20 years old, he immediately had the great yearning to meet him. It so happened that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu once visited Rampur. The Governor went and met A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. The Governor was overwhelmed and as a mark of respect offered him a silver chair to sit on. A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat Radi Allahu anhuto sit on the bed.
While conversing with A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, the Governor commented that since he was so brilliant at such a young age, that A'la Hadrat should study a few books in logistics under the supervision of Mawlana Abdul Haq Khayrabaadi.

Coincidently, Mawlana Abdul Haq Khayrabaadi arrived. They were both introduced to one another. After getting acquainted, he questioned Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhuconcerning the books that he had studied in the field of logistics. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu told the Mawlana that he had studied the Kitaab, "Kazi Mubaarak." Mawlana Abdul Haq Khayrabaadi did not believe A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, he began questioning him about his qualifications. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu said that he preferred teaching, engaging in fatawa work and writing books. He further asked A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhuconcerning his field of expertise. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu replied by saying that he specialised in any field that was necessary at any given time. and this included debating the wahhabis. When Mawlana Abdul Haq heared this reply from A'la Hadrat 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, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu became offended and said, "Your father, Mawlana Fadhl-e-Haq Khayrabaadi 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 Khayrabaadi then said, "If, in my presence, you answer me in this way, then it will be impossible for me to teach you." A'la Hadrat 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-Ahl as-Sunnah".

Mawlana Mufti Mazhar-ullah said: "Once, I enquired from A'la Hadrat 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'."
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BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE STUDIED BY AT HIS FATHER'S FEET

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu became proficient in the following branches of knowledge at the feet of their father:
Tafseer of the Qur'an al karimTafseer of AhadithPrinciples of Ahadith (usul-e-hadith)Islamic Jurisprudence (all four schools of thought)Principles of Jurisprudence (usul-e-fiqh)DialeticsQur'anic CommentaryPrinciples of BeliefPrinciples of DebateArabic SyntaxPrinciples of RhetoricLanguage usage of MetaphorsScience dealing with RhetoricLogicDebatesPhilosophy and PoliticsRhetoric DevicesPhysicsMathematicsPhysical Engineering
In the book, "Al Ijaazatul Mutay'yanah", on page 22, A'la Hadrat 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".

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OTHER BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED FROM VARIOUS ULEMA 

He learnt Qur'anic recitation, the correct recitation with tajweed, myticism, mystical initiation, Islamic ethics, names of narrators of ahadith, seerah [biography] of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, Islamic history, in-depth study of arabic and literature. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu states: "These ten branches of knowledge, I achieved at the feet of the following teachers* ;
Shah Ale Rasul Mahrahrewi, Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, Shaykh Ahmad bin Zain Dahlaan Makki, Shaykh Abdur Rahman Makki, Shaykh Hussain bin Saleh Makki, Shah Abul Hassan Ahmad Noori
*alayhim ar-rahmah
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BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED WITHOUT THE ASSISTANCE OF ANY TEACHER 

A'la Hadrat 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 in persian, in-depth study of arabic and in-depth study of plain persian writing.
When A'la Hadrat 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 Sayyadina Rasoolallah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam." (Al Mizaan, pg. 342)
The above are merely a few branches of knowledge in which A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhureached 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu can be considered to be the very inventor of this branch of knowledge". (Tazkerah Ulema al-Hind, pg. 17)
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PROFICIENCY IN OVER FIFTY BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE

If we study the life of A'la Hadrat 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 Shaykh Ismail bin Khalil & Shaykh Musa Ali Shami Radi Allahu anhum commended A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu as the Revivalist [Mujaddid] of the 14th Century Hijri.: "If he is called the Revivalist of this century, it will only be right and true."

Commenting on A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's 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 wali [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 al Razi, Imam Ghazzali, al Beruni, al Farabi and Ibn Rushd [may Allah be pleased with them all] are just 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 amazed Ahmad Raza Bareilwi Radi Allahu anhu who had enjoyed such a high command in various branches of knowledge, that only experts of the special faculty could discuss fully and with success.
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TRANSLATION AND COMMENTARY OF THE NOBLE QURAN

Many people have translated the Noble Qur'an into the Urdu language, but the translation of the Noble Quran presented by A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu - called "Kanz al-Imaan" - is proven to be the most unique translation in the Urdu language. In his translation one sees that A'la Hadrat 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 Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.

It is said that the translation of the Noble Qur'an by A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu is not merely a literal translation, but is also the commentary of the Noble Qur'an. In the words of Hadrat Sayyiduna Muhaddith al-Azam al-Hind Rahmatullahi alayh,
"It is not only the translation of the Qur'an, it is the Qur'an."

We have taken just one example of a verse from the Noble Qur'an that has been translated by various persons and compared it with the beautiful translation of A'la Hadrat 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 by A'la Hadrat 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 Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam!

Due to the vast amount of time A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu spent in compiling books on fiqhand various other topics, it was not possible for him to compile a complete commentary of the Noble Qur'an. However, a few learned scholars have stated that if all the books of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu have to be brought together then there is a great possibility that a complete commentary of the Noble Qur'an may be compiled. Like his translation of the Noble Qur'an, they have said that his tafseer will also be exceptional.

Commenting only on the "Bismillahir Rahman nir Rahim", A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhupresented 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 Hadrat Mawlana Shah Abdul Qaadir Sahib radi Allahu anhu, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu delivered a lecture on Sura w'ad-Duha from 9 a.m. in the morning right till 3 p.m. in the afternoon! This lecture on the sura alone lasted for 6 hours. After completing his lecture A'la Hadrat 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 thetafseer of the entire Quran al-Kareem!"

Allama Ata Muhammad Bindayalwi radi Allahu anhu, Sarghoda (Pakistan) said:
"Hadrat Bareilvi radi Allahu anhu has written about a thousand treaties. He exhaustively dealt with every topic he touched, but his most glorious work is his urdutranslation and explanation of the Noble Qur'an 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 Hadrat kept the same pattern as adopted by the renowned writers, but he excelled in the explanation and expansion of the most difficult and complicated subject matter in relatively few simple words."
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AUTHORITY IN THE FIELD OF AHADITH 

Imam Ahmad 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 hadithnarrator. 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 Muhiyyuddin, Azhar University, Cairo (Egypt) said:
"Renowned scholar, Ahmed Raza Khan, visited Arabia twice to perform Hajj at Makkah and payed homage to the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam 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."

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A GREAT JURIST OF HIS TIME 

Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Noble Qur'an and the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Noble Qur'an and the Ahadith of Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. 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.

Sayyadi A'la Hadrat 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 Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, which was compiled into 12 large volumes, comprising of approximately 12,000 pages to form the famous book, "Fatawa Radawiyyah," [Fatwa Razviya] which is used in every Darul Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today.

A renowned theologian and a great Saint of Delhi, Hadrat Mawlana Zayd Abul Hassan Faruqiradi 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 Shaykh Ismail Khalil, the Curator of the library at Makkatul Mukarramah, read thefatawas of Sayyadi 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 thesefatawa, undoubtedly, it could have been his heart's delight and granted its writer among his pupils."

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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 [Saints - Freinds of Allah]. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was blessed with the gift of I'lm-e-Jafar.

Once, a certain person asked A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu concerning the approach ofQiyaamah and the arrival of Imam Mahdi alayhis salaam in the future. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu said that Almighty Allah knows of this and His beloved Rasool Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam is also aware of this fact. After saying this A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhusubstantiated these facts by quoting many verses of the Noble Qur'an and Ahadith of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhuthen said;
"Through a certain type of knowledge, i feel that there is a possibility in 1837 Hijrah there will be no Islamic Government left, and in the year 1900 Hijra Imam Mahdialayhis salaam will appear".

After hearing this answer, someone asked A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu if he had gained this answer through I'lm-e-Jafar. He replied that he did. A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu.

With this message of A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu proved to be true!
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KNOWLEDGE OF ASTRONOMY AND ASTROLOGY 

A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu gained great expertise in the field of Astronomy and Astrology.

There was a person by the name of Mawlana Ghulam Hussain Sahib, who used to regard himself as an authority in astrology. Once, Mawlana Ghulam Hussain Sahib visited A'la Hadratradi Allahu anhu. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu asked him, "So! What is the situation of the rain?" After working out the position of the stars, Mawlana Ghulam Sahib drew-up an astronomical table and said,"In this month there will be no rain. It will only rain in the following month." Mawlana Sahib then handed over the astronomical table to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu examined it and said, "All the Power is by Allah. If He pleases, then it may rain now." Mawlana Ghulam Hussain then said, "Are you not observing the astronomical table?" A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu said, "I am observing everything."

A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu then looked towards the clock and asked, "What time is it?" Mawlana Ghulam Hussain said, "Quarter past eleven." Sayyadi A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhusaid, "That means that there is three quarters of an hour left for twelve o' clock." Saying this, A'la Hadrat 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."

On hearing this, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu said, "Almighty Allah is All-Powerful and He may alter the position of the stars whenever he wishes..." A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu had not yet completed his sentence when it began to rain uncontrollaby.
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A MATHEMATICAL GENIUS 

A'la Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu!

Once, Sir Zia al-Din, a famous mathematician, was in a predicament with regards to part of his research in a mathematical field which meant he had to go to Berlin (Germany) to seek a solution to an intricate problem. It so happened that a certain Mawlana from the famous Aligarh University advised Sir Zia al-Din to visit A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu to seek a solution for his mathematical problem. But, Sir Zia al-Din, 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu.

When he arrived in Bareilly Shareef, he immediately went to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu. Presenting the intricate mathematical problem to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu he said, "I am now going to Germany. I will come back for the answer, that is, if you do manage to solve it." As he was speaking, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was busy writing and listening to him at the same time. As Sir Zia al-Din was about to leave, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu handed him a sheet of paper. When Sir Zia al-Din read what was written on this paper, he realised that it contained the solution to his mathematical problem that had him so confused. Sir Zia al-Din then said;
"Today I believe that there is something known as Ilm-e-laduni (inspired knowledge)."

Sir Zia' al-Din, was later recorded to have said the following about A'la Hadrat 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."

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Contribution to the field of poetry 

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu spent much of his valuable time writing poetry. His poetry mostly consisted of Naat Shareef in praise of the Most Beloved Prophet MuhammadSalla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam and manqabats. In all the Naat Shareefs that was written by A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, it is evident that his heart and soul was drowned in the love of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.
His naats 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 theAwliya-Allah. Just as the Ambiya receive "wahi" or revelation, so do the Awliya receive "I'lhaam". Each verse and stanza of his poetry is the tafseer (commentary) of the Noble Qur'an and the hadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. His poetry was mainly in the arabic, urdu, and persian languages.
A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's poetry was compiled to form the famous ; "Hidayake Bakhshish," (Gardens of Forgiveness). This famous naat Kitaab is used throughout the world. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's humble compilations are read by all who wish to express their love for Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.
Mawlana Qari Noor al Hassan, quoting the following stanzas from A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu's poetry:"Mulke Sukhan Ki Shahi Tum Ko Raza MusallamJis Simt Aagaye ho sikhe Bithaa diye hai"
Mawlana Sahib says that there are many illiterate and ignorant people, who look at the above stanzas and accuse A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu of praising himself in his poetry. This, he says, is not true and are mere baseless objections. He further explains.
Hadrat Hassan Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu, the younger brother of Sayyadi A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, would often send his poetry to be corrected to Janaab Daagh Delhwi, who was a famous and distinguished poet of his time. Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu used to take the poetry of Hadrat Hassan Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu to Daagh Delhwi. One day, as he was about to leave for Dehli, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu presented one of his naats to Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu and said, "Ask Daagh Delhwi to rectify thisQalaam." The naat which A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu sent begins with the following stanza:"Unki Mahk ne dil ke ghunche khila diye haiJis Raah chal diye hai kooche basa diye hai."
When Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu reached Delhi and presented the naat to Daagh Delwhi, he looked at it and said, "This does not seem like the poetry of Mawlana Hassan Raza Khan. Whose is it?" Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu replied that it was written by A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu. On hearing this, Daagh Delhwi said ;
"You have brought the qalaam of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu to me for correction! This is the qalaam of such apoet who holds no place for any corrections. But, since it is incomplete, i would  like to write the final verse from my side. Please ask A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu not to change it as I am aware that he does not like anything written in his praise."
After saying this, he wrote the verse:"Mulke Sukhan Ki Shahi Tum Ko Raza MusallamJis Simt Aagaye ho sikhe Bithaa diye hai"
So, to those who accuse A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu of praising himself in his poetry, will find sufficient evidence to prove that it was Daagh Delhwi who inserted that stanza and not A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu !

Commenting on one of A'la Hadrat's poems, His Eminence Muhaddith al-A'zam al-HindKichauchawi radi Allahu anhu said:
"Once I had the opportunity of reciting the 'Qasida-e-Merajia' (A poem by A'la Hadratradi Allahu anhu regarding the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam's Me'raj) in my own style, in a select gathering of men of letters at Lucknow. I then asked them about the literary worth of the poem. Everybody was overwhelmed and they all exclaimed that the language is superb, pure and divine."
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BAI'AT & KHILAFAT

In the year 1294 Hijri, at the age of 22 years, Sayyadi A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu became the mureed (Disciple) of Imam-ul-Asfiya, Sayyad Shah Aal'e Rasool Mahrerwi radi Allahu anhu. The incident surrounding the Bai'at (Spiritual Allegiance) and Khilafat (Spiritual Successorship) of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu is as follows:

Once Hadrat Mawlana Abdul Qaadir Badayouni radi Allahu anhu came to Bareilly Shareef. He invited A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu to go to Mahrera Shareef with him. Sayyiduna A'la Hadratradi Allahu anhu accepted his invitation and they both set off to Mahrera Shareef. When they arrived at the station in Mahrera Shareef, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu said, "I am receiving the scent of my murshid."

When they reached the Khanqah al-Barakati and entered, Sayyidi Shah Aal'e Rasool radi Allahu anhu saw A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu and said, "Come in. I have been awaiting your presence for along time."

Sayyadi Shah Aal'e Rasool radi Allahu anhu immediately made A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu amureed and blessed him with khilafat and i'jazah in all the sufi silsilas.. Thus, A'la Hadratradi Allahu anhu's Pir-o-Murshid (Spiritual Guide) was Hadrat Sayyadi Shah Aal'e Rasool radi Allahu anhu.

Hadrat Sayyadi Abul Hussain Noori Barakaati radi Allahu anhu, who was also the Pir-o-Murshid of Mawlana 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 Sayyidi A'la Hadratradi 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, he asked Hadrat Sayyidi Shah Aal'e 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 khilafatand 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 ?" Sayyidi Shah Aal'e Rasool radi Allahu anhu answered with the following words:
"O people! You do not know Ahmad Raza. Others who come here need to be prepared before gaining i'jazat and khilafat. But Ahmad Raza Khan has come prepared from Almighty Allah. All he needed was a link and this is why I made him mureed."

"I always shed tears 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 Aal'e Rasool!  What have you brought for me ?' Then, I will immediately present Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu  to my creator."

This highly spiritual incident alone explains the status of A'la Hadrat, Azeem al-Barkat, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu.

A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu possessed immense love for his Pir-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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu went to Mahrera Shareef to gain blessings from his Pir-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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat 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 Hadrat radi Allahu anhu showed towards the representatives of his Pir-o-Murshid and his family, one cannot imagine or fathom the respect which he showed towards them personally!
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Imam Ahmad Raza's Mureeds & Khulafa:

There were many mureeds (Disciples) and khulafa (Spiritually Successors) of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. They have spread far and wide over the Indo-Pak and also in other parts of the world. Over 30 are in other parts of the world and 30 in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. These are the leading ones:
1.    Hujjat al-Islam, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Muhammad Hamid Raza Khan Noori Barakati,

2.   Ghawth al-Waqt, Mufti-e-A'zam al-Hind, Hadrat Mawlana Mustapha Raza Khan Noori Barakati,

3.   Hadrat Allama Mawlana Abdus Salaam Jabalpuri,

4.   Sadr al-Afadil, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Na'eem al-Din Muradabadi,

5.   Malik al-Ulema, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Sayyid Zafar'al-Din Bihari,

6.   Mubbalig-e-A'zam, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqi,

7.   Sadr as-Shariah, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Mufti Amjad Ali,

8.   Qutb al Madinat, Hadrat Allama Sheikh Zia' al-Din Ahmed al Madani,

9.   Burhan-e-Millat, Hadrat Allama Burhan ul Haq,

10. Hadrat Allama Mawlana Mukhtar Ahmad Siddiqi Meerati,

11. Shaykh Muhammad Abd al-Hayy,

12. Shaykh Ahmad Khalil,

13. Shaykh Ahmad Khudravi,

14. Shaykh Muhammad bin Abi Bakr,

15. Shaykh Muhammad Sa'id,

16. Alim al-Rabbani Hadrat Mawlana Sayyad Ahmad Ashraf al-Ashrafi al-Jilani,  & 

17. Hadrat Mawlana Shah Sulayman Ashraf al-Ashrafi al-Jilani 

The Khulafa of A'la Hadrat 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 andbarakah, we will discuss, very briefly, the lives of three of the famous Khulafa of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu.Sadr as-Shariat, Hadrat Allama Amjad Ali Razvi Radi Allahu anhu : was born in 1296 Hijri and passed away in 1367 Hijri at the age of 71 years. He is the author of the internationally renowned book, "Bahar-e-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 Hadrat 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 Allama Sadr as-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." Hadrat Allama 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 Allama Sadr as-Shariat Radi Allahu anhu heard of this, he immediately went to Ajmer Shareef with a 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.

Allama Shaykh Zia' al-Din al Madani Radi Allahu anhu : was one of the most famous khulafaof A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu who lived in Madinat 'al-Munawwara. Before coming to Madinat al-Munawwara he lived for some time in Baghdad Shareef. Allama Zia' al-Din MadaniRadi Allahu anhu arrived in Madinat al Munawwara in the year 1327 Hijri. Here, he madenikah to a pious lady from a Sayyad family.He was a great alim, sufi and a wali of his time. He hailed from a very illustrious family. His father was the famous Allama 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 Ahmad Sirhindi Faruqi Radi Allahu anhu, the Mujaddid of the 11th Islamic Century.

With the exception of being the khalifa of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, he also gainedkhilafat from various other Akabireen (Great Ulema). Some of them are: Hadrat Allama Shaykh Ahmad Shams Maghribi, Shaykh Mahmoodul Maghribi, Mawlana Abd'al Baaqi Farangi, and Allama Abu Yusuf Nibhani radi Allahu Ta'ala anhum ajma'in. He was a great 'Shaykh-e-Tariqat' of his time. He spent day and night giving advice and guidance to the Ummah of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. He was well-known for his piety & steadfastness throughout the globe, in particular in Damascus, Iraq, Egypt, India, Pakistan, South Africa. Allama Zia' al-Din Madani Radi Allahu anhu also had many khulafa and mureedsthroughout the world. He left this mundane world on the 12th of August 1981 in the city of Madinatul Munawwara. His son, Hadrat Allama Fadhl-ur Rahman al Madani, is presently living in Madinat ul Munawwara and is following closely in the footsteps of his illustrious father.Allama Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqi Meerati Radi Allahu anhu : was born in the year 1892 and passed away in the year 1954 at the age of 62. He was amongst the most famous khulafa of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. Allama Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqi Radi Allahu anhu was an Islamic Scholar and a holder of a B.A. degree from the University of Meerat (India). He spoke Arabic, Urdu, Persian, English, French, Indonesian, Malaysian and Japanese languages fluently.
In 1951, he toured the world preaching and propagating Islam. He visited America, London, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Europe, Southern Africa, Trinidad, Philippines, Iraq, Holland, Thailand, Ceylon, France, and many other countries. As a result of his efforts, thousands of non-Muslims accepted Islam. Princess Gladys Palmer of Burinia, Merwate Tifinch, the French Governor of Mauritius, Mahifl Donawa, a Minister of Trinidad and Mr F. Gengson, the Christian Minister of Ceylon, were some of the famous personalities who accepted Islam after meeting him.

Allama Mawlana Abdul Aleem radi Allahu anhu was also responsible for establishing variousmasaajids and Islamic Educational Centres throughout the world. Three of the famous masaajids are the Hanafi Masjid in Colombo, the Sultan Masjid in Singapore and the Naagarya Masjid in Japan. He was also the founder of various newspapers and Islamic magazines amongst which are, "The Muslim Digest" (South Africa), "Trinidad Muslim Annual" and the "Pakistani News".During his tour of the world, he met with various western dignitaries and had lengthy discussions with them on Islam. He met the world renowned Irish dramatist and Philosopher, George Bernard Shaw, on 17th of April 1935 during his visit to Mombassa and discussed many religious problems with him. He was very much impressed by Mawlana Abd'al Aleem SiddiqiRadi Allahu anhu and said, "I have been very pleased to make the acquaintance, and it will be the most precious of all memories of this trip of mine." Allama Mawlana Abdul Aleem radi Allahu anhu passed away in Madinat ul Munawwara in 1954 and is buried in 'Jannat ul Baqi'.

Professor Dr Sayyad Jamal al-Din, Director Zaakir Hussain Institute of Islamic Studies and Jaamia Millia, New Delhi, India, said: "Ahmad Raza Khan wrote over a thousand books and booklets which influenced many. He founded a Darul Uloom called Manzar al-Islam in 1904 which was able to draw students from different regions in India. His views were sought on a wide variety of social, religious and political affairs, and he proved guidance to many, including those from established khanqahs. Many of his disciples and khalifas later founded madressas which soon developed into important spiritual centres. Some took up teaching, such as Mawlana Sulayman Ashraf, who headed the Theology Department of the M.A.O. College, Aligarh, while others swelled their ranks of the Pesh Imams in the Mosques."
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IMAM AHMAD RAZA'S FIRST HAJJ

Imagine the condition of that Lover of the Prophet or Aashiq-e-Rasool Salla Allahu Alayhi wa Sallam who is blessed with the opportunity of visiting the Rawza-e-Aqdas [blessed shrine] of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam and placing his eyes on the doorstep of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. This opportunity of performing his first Hajj and Ziyarah was granted to A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu on the 26th of Shawwal 1295 A.H. (1876). He was 20 years of age.One day, after completing his Hajj, he went to perform his Maghrib Salaah before the Maqaam-e-Ibrahim alayhis salaam. Having completed his Salaah, the Imam of the Shafi'iorder of Makkatul Mukarramah, Allama Hussain bin Saleh Kamaal Radi Allahu anhu, approached him. He clutched A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu by his hand and led him to his house. The great Imam then placed his hand on the blessed forehead of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu and said:"Verily, I am observing the Noor of Almighty Allah on this forehead."
Without hesitation, he blessed A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu with the Sanad (Certificate) ofSahih Sitta (Six Compilers of Hadith: Bukhari, Muslim, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawood, Tirmizi and Nisa'i). He also began addressing A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu by the title of "Zia' al -Din" or "The Light or Splendour of Deen."

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was also blessed with the sanads of Ahadith from the Muftis of the Hanafi order in Makka t'ul Mukarramah, Allama Abdur Rahmaan Siraaj and Mufti Shaykh Sayyad Ahmad Dahlaan Shafi'i  Radi Allahu anhum.

It was also during this historical visit that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu informed the Ulema al-Haramain Sharifain concerning the blasphemous and corrupt beliefs of the Ulema-e-Deoband. Having studied A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's books, "Aljaamu Sunnah Li Ahli Fitna" and "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad", which he presented to them, they also gave their verdicts on those who committed blasphemy and those who had written words of disrespect against Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. The verdicts of the Ulema of Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah were compiled to form the famous, "Husaamul Haramain." We have quoted a few of the fatawas from "Husaamul Haramain" later in this book.
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IMAM AHMAD RAZA'S SECOND HAJJ

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu performed his second Hajj in 1323 Hijri. (1905). He was 49 years old.
On the 25th of Dhil-Hajjah, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu once again had the opportunity of meeting the great Imam, Shaykh Saleh Kamaal Radi Allahu anhu. He also met Allama Sayyad Ismae'el Radi Allahu anhu and many other Noble Ulema, who showed great respect towards him.
It was on this occasion that Allama Shaykh Saleh Kamaal Radi Allahu anhu presented A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu with five questions pertaining to I'lm-e-Ghaib (Knowledge of the Unseen). These questions were posed on behalf of the Wahhabi Ulema of Makkatul Mukarramah. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu had to answer these five questions in two days.
In so happened that on the following day, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu contracted a heavy fever. In spite of his illness, he managed to answer all the questions relating to I'lm-e-Ghaib. In fact, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu presented such a detailed answer to the question ofI'lm-e-Ghaib that it turned out to be a complete book on its own. He named this book, "Al Daulatul Makkiyah Bil Maadatil Ghaibiya."
The Learned Ulema of 'Haramain Sharifain' were totally astounded when A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu presented this book to them on time. He completed this book of approximately 400 pages in only 8 hours. It was also in the pure Arabic language. If one totals the numerical values of the Arabic letters in the context of this kitaab, "Al Daulatul Makkiyah Bil Maadatil Ghaibiya," one would discover that they amount to 1323. It was the same year, that is, 1323 Hijri., in which A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu performed his second Hajj!
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IN THE PRESENCE OF THE BELOVED  PROPHET Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam

It was during A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's second visit to the 'Haramain Sharifain' that his aspiration to see the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam became very great. Continuously reciting the Durood Shareef with great veneration and humbleness in front of the 'Rawza-e-Mubarak' of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam, he felt confident of seeing the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam.

It was during the second night of his visit to the doorstep of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam that he was given the opportunity of actually seeing the blessed personality of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam. On that night, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, in a state of total submission, lifted his pen and began writing a naat in praise of Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam. The first line of that naat is:"Wo Soo'e La'la Zaar Phirte hai ..."
The beautiful naat continues praising the Beloved of Allah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam and ends with the following verse:"Koyi Kyu Pooch teri baat Raza, Tujh se kutte hazaar phirte hai"
Here, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu lowers himself to the extremes and addresses himself as the "dog" of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam. At this point, he was given the opportunity of seeing with his naked eyes the beloved personality of the Beloved Noble Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi Sallam standing beside the Rawza-e-Mubarak ..."Ar're Ai Raza tere dil ka pata chala ba mushkilDarre Roza Ke Muqaabil wo hume Nazar to AayaYe na pooch kaisa paaya, Ye Na pooch kaisa paayaTuje humd he khuda ya, Tuje humd he khuda ya"
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Love for the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu spent every moment of his life praising the Beloved ProphetSalla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Rasool Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.

Professor Dr Abdul Wahid Halepota, Chairman, Council of Islamic Ideology, Government of Pakistan, said:"A'la Hadrat Mawlana Shah Ahmed Raza Khan is that ingenious personality of the Indo-Pak Sub-Continent whose academic position and legal insight has general recognition. His multifarious achievements deserve that they should be spread on an international level. His greatest deed is that he beautified the hearts of the Muslims with the love of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam through his academic wonders, sweet speeches and most valuable Naatya Qalaam (Poetry in praise of the Noble Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam)."
Once, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu went into the Raza Masjid in Bareilly Shareef. He was confronted by a majzoob, Hadrat Dhoka Shah Radi Allahu anhu. The majzoob said, "O Ahmed Raza! I see the power of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam only on the earth and not in the skies." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, in turn, replied: "The Power of Huzoor (Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam) is on the earth and in the skies." The majzoob said that he could not see this. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu said, "Whether you see it or not, it is still present." The majzoob, in a highly spiritual state, said, "Go! I have dropped him."

At that moment, Mawlana Mustapha Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu, who was still a child, was playing on the roof of the house. When Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu reached the house, his mother came up to him and said, "You should know better than to argue withmajzoobs. Look! Mustapha Raza has fallen off the roof." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhuenquired as to whether his son had been hurt or not. When he was told that he was not injured, he said, "I am prepared to sacrifice a thousand Mustapha Raza's on the raza (pleasure) of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, but I will not allow one word to be uttered against the dignity of Rasool-e-Akram Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam."
After some time, the majzoob returned and met Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu and said ;"O Ahmed Raza! You are victorious. Oour case was brought up before Sultan al Hind, Hadrat Khawaja Gharib an-Nawaz Radi Allahu anhu. He had passed the verdict on your behalf, and Alhamdulillah, through your blessings, I am now able to see the karam(mercy) of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam even in the skies. "
It has been recorded that Hadrat Mawlana Naee'm al-Din Muradabadi radi Allahu anhu once asked A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu the reason from him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu replied ;"O Mawlana! I am severe upon those people, because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, they should rather make me the target for their insults. I do not have any interest in what they call me. At least, while they are busy insulting me, my Beloved Master, Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam is spared from these insults. "  

The above mentioned incidents clearly highlight the following thoughts of A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu : "If you desire my life, I will sacrifice it. If you desire my wealth I will give it. But, there is one thing that I will never sacrifice, and that is, the love and reverence for the beloved Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam."

Dr Karrar Hussain, Vice Chancellor, Baluchistan University Quetta (Baluchistan) said: "I am impressed by his personality because it was he who gave pivotal role to the love and affection of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam without which, Islam is a body without a soul."

Also commenting on the great love that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu had for Sayyadina Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, Justice Shamim Hussain Qadri, Punjab High Court, Lahore (Pakistan), said: "He was a devotee of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam from the deepest chambers of his heart, and to popularise this attitude is the need of the hour. Love, affection and devotion to the Most Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam's personality is the only solution to the multifarious problems of our temporal life and a solution for the life hereafter."

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Love & respect for the descendants of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam

It is A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu who showed the Muslim world how to respect the descendants or family of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. His entire life is filled such with incidents.
Many are aware of this famous incident. Once, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu was invited to the home of a certain person. In those days, the Ulema were carried in chariots as a means of transport. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was sitting in one of these chariots that was carried by the chariot-bearers. As they proceeded along the way, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu suddenly commanded the chariot-bearers to stop. He immediately alighted from the chariot and asked, "Who is asayyad from amongst you? I am receiving the scent of a sayyad." One of the chariot-bearer's, who was a sayyad, was too scared to speak. Nevertheless, when A'la HadratRadi Allahu anhu further prompted that person to reveal himself, he came forward and admitted that he was sayyad.
With tears in his eyes, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu fell at his feet and began asking for pardon. The sayyad continuously asked A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu to refrain from doing so but, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu continued asking for pardon, by saying, "Please forgive me. What would I do on the Day of Qiyamah [judgement] if the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam asks me concerning this incident, and says to me that I showed disrespect to his family?"The sayyad readily forgave A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. But this Aashiq-e-RasoolSalla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam was yet not satisfied. He commanded the sayyad to siton the Chariot, and placing the chariot on his blessed shoulders, carried the sayyad for the same distance which he had been carried!

Allahu Akhbar! Those who had been witnesses to this incident could not believe that the Imam of the 'Ahl as-Sunnah Wa'h Jama'ah', the 'Mujaddid of Islam' was carrying a chariot-bearer on his blessed shoulders. But to A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, that person that he was carrying was no ordinary chariot-bearer. It was a family of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam!
It has also been stated that a child, who was a sayyad, used to live in the vicinity of Bareilly Shareef. The child used to play in the presence of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhuwhile A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu would be busy writing. Each time that the child ran past the door or came in the presence of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, he would stand up in respect for that child. Even when the child passed the door ten times in a day, then A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu used to stand up ten times in a day in respect for that sayyad child.
When Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu was asked about the Islamic punishment that was to be meted out to a sayyad, he remarked, "Even though a Judge is called upon to declare judgement and punishment upon a sayyad, and the penalty that he has decreed is within the tenets of Islam, he (the Judge), should not have theniyah (intention) that he is punishing the sayyad. Rather, he should think that a small amount of mud has smeared itself on the sayyad's feet, which he is merely washing away". (Al Malfooz Shareef)
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Imam Ahmad Razas adherence to the Sunnah

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu laid great emphasis on the followance of theSunnah of Sayyadina Rasoolulah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam.
The following account clearly describes A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu's great trust and faith upon the Sunnah. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu narrates, "There was once a rumour in Bareilly, that the plague had appeared. Co-incidently, at that moment, my gums became extremely inflamed. It continued to such proportions that it became difficult for me to open my mouth. I also had a high fever, coupled with inflamed glands. The doctor who was called, looked at me closely for a few minutes. He exclaimed that I had the plague. I could not speak at that moment, or else I could have told him that his diagnosis was incorrect and false.
"I was certain that I did not have the plague or any other major disease, simply because I had already recited a du'a as explained by Sayyiduna Rasoolulah Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam who said that if one sees a serious and deadly illness, he should recite the following du'a, which would protect the person from such an illness. I had, therefore, recited this du'a:
'Al hamdu lil laahil lazi aafini mim mab tilaaka bihi wa fad dalni 'ala katheeram mimam khalaqa tafdeelan.'
Whenever I saw a serious illness, I recited this du'a, therefore, I was protected against it, including the plague."Thereafter, with extreme respect, I proclaimed aloud, 'O Allah! Prove that the words of your beloved Habeeb Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam is true, and that the words of the doctor is false'. At that moment a voice on my right advised me to use the miswaak and black pepper. With a little difficulty, I performed brushing with the miswaak and kept the black pepper on my tongue as a tablet. Infinite, indeed, is the Mercy of Almighty Allah! Within a few minutes, I had gained my strength and sent the doctor away by proving that his diagnosis was false and baseless."

A similar incident showing the great trust that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu had in Almighty Allah and His beloved Habeeb Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam is recorded by Mawlana Muhammad Shareef. He says ;

"Once, when A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was returning from Hajj [pilgrimage to Makkah] by ship with his father, there was a great storm. The storm reached such an intensity that the Captain advised the passengers to wear their kafans (shrouds), for he could see no escape from such a storm. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, noticing the concern on the face of his father, inquired as to what had transpired. His father replied, 'My beloved son, I have no concern for myself, rather it is for you that I am sad'. The young A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhureplied, 'O father! If the captain has lost hope then let him do so. We should have complete faith in Allah and His beloved Habeeb, Sayyadina Rasoolullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. In accordance with the commands of the beloved Habeeb Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, when entering this ship, I recited the du'a:
'Subhaanal lazi sakh khara lana haaza wa maa kunna lahu muq rineen wa inna ila Rabbina la mun qalibun'.

Sayyadina Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam has stated that, 'Whosoever, recites this du'a when entering a ship (any mode of transport), that ship would not be destroyed. Therefore, I have absolute certainty that generations may change, yet, this ship would never sink'."

A'la Hadrat, having merely spoken these words, when the captain arrived and began informing the passengers that the storm was subsiding and that there wasn't any need for concern!
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Love for Sayyadina al Ghawth al A'zam Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu possessed immense love for Sultan al-Awliya Sayyadina Ghawth al-A'zam, as-Sayyad Shaykh Abd'al Qadir al-Jilani Baghdadi radi Allahu ta'ala anhu.
His Holiness Hadrat Muhaddith al-Azam al-Hind Radi Allahu anhu reported that in the period when he was given permission to serve in the 'Darul Ifta' at Bareilly Shareef, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu bought sweets (niyaaz) to the value of 11 rupees and made the fatiha of Sayyadina Ghawth al-A'zam Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu. He then distributed the sweets to those who were present. While the sweets were being distributed, those who were present became astonished to see A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu standing up from his chair and kneeling down on to the floor in the tashahud position. They immediately came closer to him too see what had happened. Then only did they realise that the person distributing the niyaaz had dropped a little on the ground, and A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was lifting this piece of niyaaz with the tip of his blessed tongue!This alone will show the great amount of love and respect that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhupossessed for Shaykh Abd 'al-Qadir al-Jilani Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu. It has been stated that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was not only the na'ib (Helper) of Sayyadina Ghawth al-A'zamradi Allahu ta'ala anhu, but he was also the 'Ghawth al-A'zam' of his time. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu also wrote many manqabats in praise of Hadrat Shaykh Abd'al-Qadir al-Jilani radi Allahu ta'ala anhu.
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His contentment and his abstention from worldly activities

It is recorded that A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu had a few acres of land in his possession. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu left the entire maintenance of the land in the responsibility and trust of others. Although A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu received a monthly allowance from his own property, he spent his allowance in the service of guests, of sayyads and in the purchasing of books. There were times when A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was left with only a few pennies in his pockets! But he never inquired about the income that he received from his few possessions. (Al Mizaan, pg. 335)
During the 'Khilafat Movement', Mahatma Ghandi was advised that he should meet with the distinguished Imam Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu. This suggestion was made to Ghandi by people such as the Ali Brothers, Mawlana Qiyaam-udeen and Abd 'al Baari Faranghi. They said that since A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu commanded the respect of the large Muslim populace, it would assist them in their 'Khilafat Movement'.
When A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was told that Ghandhi wished to meet and speak to him, he said,"What would he speak about? Religion or worldly affairs? If it is worldly affairs, what can I partake in, for I have abstained from the world and have no interest in it." (Al Mizaan, pg. 335)

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Mujaddid of the 14th Century
Imam Ahmad Raza as the Mujaddid of the 14th Century

Undoubtedly, besides being recognised as a great wali, as the Ghawth al-A'zam and as theImam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu anhum of his time, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was also themujaddid (Reviver) of Islam of the 14th Century. He possessed all the conditions of amujaddid and his entire life was spent trying to revive the Deen of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.
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 Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam that the Reviver of the 14th Century, 'Imam-e-Ahl as-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 Manzoor al-Din 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 Madinah (Haramain Sharifain). . ."

A hadith recorded in 'Mishkaat Shareef' and quoted by Abu Hurairah Radi Allahu anhu who says that the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam said: "Verily, at the end of every century, Almighty Allah will send such a person to theUmmah, who will revive the deen for 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 al-Muhammadi Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. 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 Noble Qur'an and Sunnah that are being destroyed and to give command according to the Quran al kareem and Sunnah."
Allama Munaadi Radi Allahu anhu states:
"A mujaddid is one who separates sunnah from Bid'ah and one who degrades the status of the Ahl al-Bid'ah."

Question:  Why does a mujaddid come after 100 years? 

Answer:    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 Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam's latter stages of physical life, one night, after performing Isha 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."

Question: Can their be more than one Mujaddid to a century? 

Answer:   Yes. There can be more, and there has already been more than onemujaddid 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. Allama Mulla Ali bin Sultan Qari 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."

________________________________________List of known mujaddids from previous centuries :

1st Century :� Sayyiduna Imam Umar bin Abdul Aziz radi Allahu anhu

2nd Century :� Imam Hasan al Basri,

� Imam Muhammad bin Hasan Shaibani,

� Imam Malik bin Anas,

� Imam Abdullah bin Idris Shafi'i
radi Allahu anhum

3rd Century :� Imam Abul Hassan bin Umar,

� Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal
radi Allahu anhum

4th Century :� Imam Tahtaawi,

� Imam Isma'il bin Hammad Ja'fari,

� Imam Abu Jaafar bin Jareer Tibri,

� Imam Abu Haatim Raazi
radi Allahu anhum

5th Century :� Imam Abu Naeem Isfahani,

� Imam Abul Husain Ahmad bin Muhammad Abi Bakr-il-Qadir,

� Imam Hussain bin Raghib,

� Imam Muhammad bin Muhammad Ghazzali
radi Allahu anhum

6th Century :� Imam Abul Fadhl Umar Raazi,

� Allama Imam Umar Nasfi,

� Imam Qaazi Fakhr al-Din Hassan Mansoor,

� Imam Abu Muhammad Hussain bin Mas'ud Fara'a
radi Allahu anhum

7th Century :� Imam Abul Fadhl Jamal al-Din Muhammad bin Afriqi Misri,

� Imam Shaykh Shahib al-Din Suhrawardi,

� Khawaja Muhi'yuddeen Hasan Chishti Ajmeri,a 

� Imam Abul Hasan Uz'zuddeen Ali bin Muhammad Ibn Athir,

� Shaykh al Akbar Muhi'yuddeen Muhammad ibn Arabi
radi Allahu anhum

8th Century :� Imam Taaj'uddeen bin Ata'ullah Sikandari,

� Khawaja Nizam al-Din Awliya Mahboob-e-Ilahi,

� Imam Umar bin Mas'ud Taftazani
radi Allahu anhum

9th Century :� Imam Hafiz Jallal al-Din Abu Bakr Abdur Rahmaan Suyuti,

� Imam Noor al-Din bin Ahmad Misri,

� Imam Muhammad bin Yusuf Karmani,

� Imam Shamsuddeen Abul Khay Muhammad bin Abdur Rahman Sakhawi,

� Imam Sayyad Sharif Ali bin Muhammad Jarmani
radi Allahu anhum

10th Century :� Imam Shahabuddeen Abu Bakr Ahmad bin Muhammad Khatib Qistalaani,

� Imam Muhammad Sharbini,

� Allamah Shaykh Muhammad Tahir Muhaddith

radi Allahu anhum

11th Century :� Imam Mulla Ali bin Sultan Qaari,

� Shaykh Ahmad Sirhindi Mujaddid-e-Alf Thaani,

� Sultan al-Arif'in Imam Muhammad Bahu
radi Allahu anhum

12th Century :� Allama Mawlana Imam Abul Hasan Muhammad bin Abdul Haadi Sindhi,

� Imam Abdul Ghani Taablisi,

� Shaykh Ahmad Mulla Jeewan
radi Allahu anhum

13th Century :� Imam Abdul Ali Luckhnowi,

� Imam Shaykh Ahmad Saadi Maaliki,

� Allama Imam Ahmad bin Ismaeel Tahtaawi,

� Allama Shah Abdul Aziz Muhaddith-e-Delhwi
radi Allahu anhum

14th Century:� Imam-e-Ahl as-Sunnat, Qami-e-Bid'at, Mujaddid-e-A'zam, A'la Hadrat as-Shah Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Barelwi Radi Allahu anhu

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Imam Ahmad Raza's Jihad against the insulters of Sayyadina Rasoolallah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu spent much of his time also refuting those who insulted the dignity of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. He left no stone unturned in safe-guarding the dignity and integrity of Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, in spite of being personally attacked by the misguided. These personal attacks did not bother him in the least bit!

Allama Abdul Hamid, Vice Chancellor of al Jamia al-Nizamiyya (Hyderbad, India), said:"Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan was a 'Sword of Islam' and a great commander for the cause of Islam. He may justifiably be called : ''An Invincible Fort that helped to defend the basic Tenets and Ideas of the Ahl as-Sunnat w'al Jama'at.'' It is on accord of his untiring efforts, that due respect and regard for the Beloved Messenger of Allah, Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam and other Sufis and Saints of Islam is still alive in the Muslim Society. His opponents had to mend their ways. No doubt he is the Imaam (Leader) of the Ahl as-Sunnah. His written and compiled works reflect immense depth and vision."Justice Allama Mufti Sayyad Shuja'at Ali Qadri Radi Allahu anhu, Shariah Court, Government of Pakistan (Islamabad), said: "He was pious like Ahmad bin Hambal and Shaykh Abd'al Qadir al-Jilani Radi Allahu ta'ala anhum. He had true acumen and insight of Imam Abu Hanifa and Imam Abu Yusuf. He commanded the force of logic like Imam Razi and Imam Ghazzali, bold enough like Mujaddid Alf Thaani and Mansoor Hallaj to proclaim the truth. Indeed, he was intolerant to non-believers, kind and sympathetic to devotees, and the affectionates of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam."

The adversaries of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu levelled many accusations and tried desperately in defending their kufr statements. After much proofs, when it became absolutely clear to A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu that certain misguided individuals were not prepared in withdrawing their Kufr statements and making towbah, and in order to protect Islam, he passed kufr fatawas against those persons. We should remember that he passed the "fatawa-e-takfeer" (Kufr Fatawa) against those persons who insulted the status and dignity of Almighty Allah and His Rasool Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. He passed the 'Fatawa-e-Takfeer' on persons such as Ashraf Ali Thanwi, Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi and Khalil Ahmad Ambetwi and others because, through their writings, it was evident that they had insulted the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.

We will quote some of the following blasphemous statements that were made by them:

In page 51 of "Baraahin Qatia", Khalil Ahmed Ambetwi says:

"After looking at the condition of Satan and the Angel of Death, it can be gained that they possess a great depth of knowledge and this has been proven from Qur'an and Ahadith. To prove such knowledge for Fakhr-e-A'lam (Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam) without proof from the Qur'an al kareem and Ahadith, but from common sense, is a false thought. If, to do so is not a Shirk, then in which category of faith does it fall?"

In page 6 of "Hifzul Imaan", (Printed in Mazahirul Uloom), Ashraf Ali Thanvi says:

"If Knowledge of the Unseen refers to partial knowledge, then what speciality is there in Nabi Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. Such knowledge is possessed by Zaid and Amr (any Tom, Dick and Harry), every child, insane people and all types of animals."

In page 5 of "Tahzeerun Naas", (Published in 'Makhtaba Fayz Nazd' Jami Masjid, Deoband), Qasim Nanotwi says:

"Prophets are superior to their followers only in Knowledge, but in good deeds, followers sometimes seem equal and occasionally even become superior to them."

In Part 2, page 12 of "Fatawa Rasheedia", (Published 'Makhtaba Rasheedia' Jami Masjid, Delhi), Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi says:

"The word 'Rahmatul lil A'lameen' is not a speciality of Rasool Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. But other Prophets, Saints and great Ulema are also cause for mercy unto the worlds, even though Rasool Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam is the highest of them all. Therefore, to use this word on others, is also permissible."

If one examines the original books that were written by such persons, one will find other similar disrespectful statements found in their writings.

A'la Hadrat's Radi Allahu anhu cautiousness in declaring a person a kaafir is to be noted in many of his books. In his book, "Subhaanus Subooh", he academically destroys the arguments of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi. Yet, at the end of the book, A'la Hadrat says, "The Ulema have not termed this individual as a kaafir, therefore, one has to be careful."

Once again, refuting the arguments of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi and a few of his "infamous" followers in another book, "Al Kaukabatush Sha'haabiya", A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu says, "In our opinion (the opinion of Islam), to term a person a Kaafir and to control one's tongue is an act of extreme precaution and analysis."

In another treatise entitled, "Sallus Suyooful Hindiya", A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu states: "There is indeed a difference between accepting words of Kufr and branding a person aKaafir. We have to be extremely careful. We have to remain silent. If there is the minutest possibility that he is still a Muslim, we should fear terming that person a Kaafir."

In his book, "Subhaanus Subooh", Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu says, "We do not give any comment on the Kufr of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi, simply because Sayyiduna RasulullahSalla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam has warned us against terming the 'Ahle Qibla' asKaafirs. (It is only possible) to term a person a Kaafir if his Kufr becomes clear as the sun and the minutest indication does not remain that he is a Muslim." (Tamheed-e-Imaan, pg. 42-43)

From the above statements, we clearly see how careful A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was, in terming a person a Kaafir. He was merely fulfilling his duty as a conscientious and responsible Muslim. The fault was indeed of those individuals, who even after being warned, remained steadfast in their own beliefs and words of Kufr.

As we have already stated earlier, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu sent many of the blasphemous and insulting statements to the Ulema of 'Makkatul Mukarramah' and 'Madinatul Munawwarah' for clarification. They did not hesitate in passing the 'fatawa of kufr' against such people who insulted Almighty Allah and the Most Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam.
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Fatwas of Ulema-e-Haramayn
A Few fatawas from the Ulema-e-Haramain Sharifain

First Fatwa
"All Praise is due to Allah, the Master of the Worlds, Who has made the Ulema-e-Shariat-e-Muhammadi Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam the freshness of this world. By manifesting truth and guidance, and filling cities and heights, and by siding the religion of Sayyidul Mursaleen Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallamthey saved the society of Huzoor Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam from violation and (with their bright proofs) they destroyed the heresy of those who were misled.

"After sending praise and salutations, I have seen that which that learned person and professional teacher has purely written. It is a struggle on behalf of the religion of Muhammad Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. In other words, my brother and my respected Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu, who in his book, "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad" has refuted the evil leaders of the false sects and false beliefs. Such people are worse than all evil, wicked and seditious people. Our author, in his book, has summarised and stated the names of those wrongdoers, who due to their wrong doings, are soon to become the worst and the lowest amongst the infidels.

"May Almighty Allah grant him (Imam Ahmed Raza) great reward for unveiling the wickedness and wrongness. May Allah accept his efforts and place his most high honour into the hearts of all people."
He has said this with his tongue and his writing has given an order. He is hopeful in gaining all he wishes from his Creator.
MUHAMMAD SAEED BIN BAABSEEL - Mufti of the Shafi'i Order in Makkah radi Allahu anhu

SECOND FATAWA

"All Praise is for Allah Who is One. After Praise, I have heard of this bright and evident book. I have realised that our leader and most learned sea of great wisdom, Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu has made obvious the wrongs of those who have come out of Deen, those who walk on the path of the infidels and the wicked ones, in his book "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad." From among their corrupt beliefs, not one of them did he leave un-examined.

"O! Readers, it is essential for you to hold on to this Kitaab which it's author has written with great swiftness. You will find in this book bright and evident proof in refutal of these groups. Especially those individuals who intend to undo the objective which is already bound. Who are these individuals who are known as Wahhabis? From amongst them is "Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani" who has claimed Prophethood, and the other ones who have come out of Deen and insulted the dignity of the Beloved ProphetSalla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam are Qasim Nanotwi, Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, Khalil Ahmad Ambetwi and Ashraf Ali Thanwi and all those who follow their ways.

"Almighty Allah grant Imam Ahmed Raza Khan great reward for he has given cure and has answered his decree which is in his book, "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad", in which are also the decrees of the Ulema of Makkah and Madina. Due to the corruption and trouble, it has become necessary for them as they (the misguided) are spreading corruption on this earth. They and all those on their path.

"May Almighty Allah execute them where they behave arrogantly. May Allah give Imam Ahmed Raza glad tidings and shower His blessings upon him and his children amongst those who will speak truthfully until Qiyamah. Ameen."

One in need of forgiveness from his Powerful Creator.
MUHAMMAD BIN ABDUS SALAAM DAGHISTANI - Mufti Madinatul Munawwara radi Allahu anhu

THIRD FATAWA

"All Praise is due to Almighty Allah Who has shown the path to those whom He has guided and with His Justice, misguided him who he has left, and granted the Believers an easy path to gain advice. He has opened their hearts to bring faith in Almighty Allah and bear witness with their tongues and keep sincerity with their hearts and follow that which Allah and His Books have shown.

"Peace and Salutations upon him whom Allah has sent as a mercy unto the worlds, and upon him sent down His Clear Kitaab in which is the bright explanation of everything and to terminate the wrongness of the disbelievers. This Nabi Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam whose proof and arguments are clear, has made it obvious from his practices. Salutations upon his family for they are guides, and upon his Companions who have made the Deen firm and beneficent, and upon their followers until Qiyamah, especially, the four 'A'ima-e-Mujtahideen' and those Muslims who are their followers.

"After Praise and Salutations, I put my sight on the book of a learned person on this earth. He has widened the path of knowledge and, in it (the book) made obvious every interpretation and utterance in his clearly convincing and sufficient arguments. He is Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu on whose name is "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad."

"May Almighty Allah protect his life and always keep him happy. Now, that which is in refutal of those people, cursed and evil Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani, who is the Dajjal Khazzab of the last decade. Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi and Khalil Ambetwi and Ashraf Ali Thanwi, degrading and insulting Nabi Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. Then, it is no doubt that they are kaafirs and those who have the power to execute them, then it is necessary for them to do so, to give them the death sentence.''

This has been said by the servant of Allah.
MUHAMMAD BIN HAMDAAN MAHSARI - Servant at Musjid-e-Nabawi radi Allahu anhu
________________________________________Some titles bestowed upon A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu by the noble Ulema of Makkah t'ul Mukarramah

1. 'A coolness for the eyes of the Ulema'2. 'A Beloved and accepted slave of Almighty Allah'3. 'The Seal of Great Islamic Research Scholars'4. 'A Leader of Ulema'5. 'The Mujaddid of this Century'

These titles are recorded in the books, "Al Fuyuzaatul Makkiya", "Hisaamul Haramain" and "Ad Daulatul Makkiya."
________________________________________Titles from Madina

Some titles bestowed upon A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu by the Noble Ulema of Madinah t'ul Munawwarah
1. 'The Leader among Imams'2. 'The Leader among mystics'3. 'The Pride of Great preceding Ulema & the Leader of future Ulema'4. 'The Mujaddid of this Ummah'5. 'A Judge among Islamic Judges'6. 'The Imam among scholars of Hadith'7. 'The Destroyer of Bid'at and the Upholder of Sunnah'8. 'The Mujaddid of this Century'

These titles are recorded in the books, "Al Fuyuzaat al-Makkiya", "Hisaam al-Haramain", and "Ad Daulat al- Makkiya."
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His Unique Memory

On one occasion A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu went to Pillibit Shareef and their he stayed with Muhaddith al-Surat, Hadrat Mawlana Wasi Ahmad Sahib radi Allahu anhu. Before leaving for Bareilly Shareef, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu requested to borrow a kitaab called "Uqoodul Arya" from him. As there was only one copy of the book he gave A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhuthe book and said, "After studying the book, please return it as these are the only fewkitaabs that I have for fatawa writing."
A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was supposed to depart from Pillibit Shareef that night, but since he had been invited at another person's home, he stayed one more night in Pillibit Shareef. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu spent the entire night studying this kitaab, which consisted of numerous volumes.
The following morning, before leaving for the Railway Station to meet A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu, Hadrat Muhaddith al-Surat radi Allahu anhu found that the kitaab that he had lent A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu had been returned. He thought that A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was angry and displeased with him for asking him to return the kitaab quickly. He immediately went to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu and asked for pardon. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhusmiled and then said, "That is not the reason for returning the kitaab. I stayed one more night, so I studied the book and, therefore, did not find the need to take it with me."
When Hadrat Muhaddith al-Surat radi Allahu anhu heard this he was surprised and exclaimed, "You have studied this book in one night!" A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu replied, "Insha-Allah, for the next 3 months I will not need to look at the book to find any statements, and as for the essence of the book, Insha-Allah, I will not forget it in my lifetime." He then said, "The book did not have a table of contents. I have drawn up one for you."
A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu was intially not a Hafiz al-Qur'an. Once, someone wrote a letter to A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu and addressed him as "Hafiz". When A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu saw this, he became depressed for he felt that he was not worthy of such a title. He immediately decided to become a Hafiz of the Noble Qur'an.
How did he become a Hafiz al-Qur'an? It has been stated that in the time period from Wudhutill the time of Jama'at, Hadrat Allama Sadr ash-Shariat radi Allahu anhu would recite oneSipara. A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu would listen to it and, thereafter, recite the same Siparain the Taraweeh Salaah. He continued this routine for 30 days, and by the end of the month of Ramadan, A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu became a complete Hafiz of the glorious Qur'an al Hakeem!
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Character

Both the inner and outer personality of a A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was the same. He never compromised when it came to 'Shariat-e-Mustafa' Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. 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 tremendous amount of affection towards the poor and orphans as the following story clearly shows. On one certain occasion, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was invited to a person's house. Allama 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 Allama Zafruddeen Radi Allahu anhu saw the beef on the table, he became very uncomfortable as he knew that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu never used to eat beef. It did not agree with his health. But, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu did not object to the food. He sensed what Allama Zafruddeen Radi Allahu anhu was thinking about, so he said, "If any Muslim recites the following du'a before eating, then no harm will be caused by the food."
After completing the meal and, as they were departing, Allama Zafruddeen Radi Allahu anhu questioned the host about his reason for inviting A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu to his house in such a time of poverty. The host very confidently replied that although he was in such a state, he was sure that by A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu presence in his home, his home would be blessed with barakah and Mercy from Almighty Allah.

Heres another story on the character and personality of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. Once, a young boy went to see A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu at his home. He said, "Huzoor! You are invited to my house tomorrow morning." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu lovingly asked the boy, "What will you be feeding me?" The boy, undoing a knot at the bottom of his kurta, happily replied, "Look! I have brought some  Dhall and chillies." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu said, "Very well then. I shall come tomorrow."
The following morning, Hajee Kifaayatullah Radi Allahu anhu accompanied A'la HadratRadi Allahu anhu to the boy's house. As they entered the house, Hajee Kifaayatullah commented, "Huzoor! This is the home of a musician." Just then the boy appeared to wash their hands. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu asked him, "Where is your father and what is his occupation?" Before the boy could answer, the boy's mother, from behind the pardah, respectfully said, "Huzoor! My husband passed away and he used to be a musician, but before his death he repented. Now, all that I have is this young boy who works to support us." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu then made  Du'a-e-Barakah and sat down to eat. After eating he said, "If I would receive such sincere invitations daily, then I will definitely accept them."
Professor Dr Mukhtarud'deen Arzoo, Dean of the Department of Arabic, Muslim University Aligarh, said:"His affection and hate was for the sake of Allah. Believers in Almighty Allah were his friends, and non-believers his enemies. Followers of Allah and His last Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam were close and dear to him. He was not unkind to his personal opponents. He was never harsh to them, but he never spared the enemies of Islam. The entire life of A'la Hadrat was illuminated with the glorious observance of 'Sunnat-e-Nabwi' Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam."

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Obedience towards Parents

After the demise of his father, Hadrat Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan Radi Allahu anhu, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu inherited all his properties. Although he was the sole owner and beneficiary of these properties, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu never spent a single cent of this wealth without first seeking the permission of his blessed mother. Even if he wished to buy akitaab for study purposes he asked permission from his mother!

When A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu wished to fulfill his heart's desire of being present in front of the 'Rawdah-e-Anwar', the Blessed Tomb of Sayyiduna Rasulullah Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, he first sought the permission of his blessed mother. She immediately granted him permission by saying: "Bismillahi Khuda Hafiz."
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Respect Ulema
Respect towards the superior Ulema

While studying the life of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, it is difficult not to comprehend that he was, towards the enemies of Islam, an example of "Ashidda'aoo alal kuffar" - 'harsh upon the kufaar'. Towards the pious Muslims he was the shining example of "Ruhhamaoo bainahuma"  - 'caring towards each other'.
A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu always showed immense love and respect towards the Ulema of the 'Ahl as-Sunnah wah Jama'ah'. He had a liking towards Allama Abdul Qaadir Badayouni Radi Allahu anhu. Concerning the 'Ulema-e-Haq', A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu always praised them with the following words;"These Ulema are such that if they had to enter a barren town, then it turns into a bright City, and when they depart from the City, it becomes a barren town again.''
Hadrat Mahdi Hassan Barkaati Radi Allahu anhu, the Sajjada-e-Nashin of 'Sarkaar-e-Kilan' Mahrerah Shareef states, "When I used to go to Bareilly Shareef, Huzoor A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu would personally bring out the food for me, and he would also wash my hands. Once, while washing my hands, he requested me to give him my ring and bangle which were made of gold. I immediately presented them to him. Later, I departed to Bombay (Mumbai). When I returned to Mahrerah Shareef, my daughter informed me that there was a parcel for me from Bareilly Shareef. I opened the parcel and found enclosed the ring and bangle. There was also a note in it which A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu wrote presenting the jewels to my daughter."

Subhan-Allah! Look at the respect and wisdom that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu showed towards his superiors. He practised upon the law of "Amr bil Ma'roof Wa Nahi Anil Munkir" that is - '' forbidding that what is not proper and practising that what is good'' - and the same time showing great respect towards Hadrat Mahdi Hassan Barkaati Radi Allahu anhu.
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Respect for the Mosque

Once, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was performing I'tikaaf in the masjid in Bareilly Shareef. It was a cold winter's night with very heavy rain. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu went to perform his wudhu. In order not to allow the masjid floors from becoming wet, he placed the blanket that he was wearing on to the masjid floor by folding it four times to soak in the water. He then made his wudhu on the blanket. Thus, he did not allow one drop of water to fall in the masjid. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu then spent the entire night shivering in the cold since he did not have a blanket to cover himself with because it was damp with water.
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Love and respect towards pilgrims

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu always showed great respect to pilgrims (Haji's). He made it his duty to meet with the Haji's when they arrived from the 'Haramain Sharifain'. Whenever he would meet a Haji, the very first question he used to ask was, "Did you visit the mazaar[shrine] of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam?" If the answer he received was in the affirmative, then he would kiss the feet of the Haji. If the Haji replied that he did not, then A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu would show his dissatisfaction and would end his conversation with that person.
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Care for Children

Hadrat Allama Zafruddeen Bihari alaihir rahmah states that while he was still a student in Bareilly Shareef, he and many others used to spend their Eid in Bareilly Shareef. They did not go home to their families as they lived far from the madrassa. But, he says that Eid was always spent joyfully because A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu used to treat them like his very own children. He used to also give them "Eidi" (spending money) on that day.

When Muffasir-e-Azam-e-Hind, Hadrat Ebrahim Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu, who is the father of 'Tajush Shariah', Hadrat Allama'h Mufti Mohammed Akhtar Raza Khan Al Azhari, was born, his grand-father, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, out of great joy, invited all the students of 'Madrassa Manzar e Islam' to a meal. Before preparing the meal, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu asked each group of students as to what they enjoyed eating. Accordingly, he prepared the meals for them - fish and rice for the Bengali students; 'Firini, Zarda and Biryani' for the Bihari students; and sheep for the Punjabi and other foreign students.

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu loved and cared for children. He always made them feel comfortable around him. He never shouted or scolded at them unnecessarily. If any child did something wrong, he would gently explain to that child their error and show them the right path. He always returned the Salaam of little children.
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Unique Habits

A few of Imam Ahmad Raza's Unique Habits� He never kept any ordinary book on the books of Ahadith.� He would be displeased if anyone spoke out unnecessarily while he explained theAhadith.� He did not prefer anyone to sit with one leg onto the lap of the other leg.� He would usually sit with both knees erect.� He would sit in the position of tashahhud from the beginning to the end in a 'Mehfil-e-Milad' Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam which sometimes lasted for 5 or 6 hours.� He would never chew paan during a lecture.� On hearing the name "Muhammad", he would immediately say "Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam."� He would never laugh out aloud.� He slept in the position of the Arabic form of the word "Muhammad".� He would never spit or stretch his feet in the direction of the Qibla.� He always did everything form the right-hand-side.
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His mystical powers

Without any exaggeration, an entire book on the karaamats (miracles) of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu can be compiled. In this time, the greatest karaamat that any person can display is his followance of Shariat-e-Mustapha Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam. A'la HadratRadi Allahu anhu never fell short of this in any way. We also wish to state that, in reality, the mere existence of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was a miracle on its own. However, for the sake of attaining blessings, a few or his araamats are being quoted for the benefit of his lovers.
Janaab Amjad Ali was a resident of Bhasouri. He was a dedicated mureed of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. Once Amjad Ali took his rifle and went out hunting. While he was hunting, a stray bullet from his rifle accidentally hit a passer-by, killing him. Amjad Ali was later arrested for murder. He was tried and then sentenced passed on him - death by hanging.

A few days before his execution, a few members of his family came to visit him. With the mere thought of his execution, they began to weep bitterly. He smiled at them and said ;"Go home and do not weep. I will return on the day of my execution. My Pir-o-Murshid, Imam Ahmad Raza Radi Allahu anhu has stated that he has released me.''
On the night of his execution, his mother went to visit him. Thinking how near the time of his execution had come, she began to weep out of fear. But Amjad Ali's faith in the words of his 'Pir-o-Murshid' was very strong. He asked his mother to go home and to stop worrying. He told her that through the Will of Almighty Allah, he will return home in a little while to have breakfast with her. Being visibly shaken, she returned home.

The time had finally arrived. Amjad Ali was escorted to the gallows to be hanged. The noose was put around his neck. The authorities asked him if he had any final request. Very calmly, he replied, "There is no need to request anything. My time of death has not yet arrived." The authorities were baffled by his composure. Nevertheless, they decided to proceed with the hanging. As they were about to hang him, the authorities received a telegram. The telegram stated that due to the crowning of Queen Elizabeth, a certain number of prisoners were being released. Amjad Ali Sahib's name was on that list! He was immediately released. As promised he went home to have breakfast with his mother. In this karamat [miracle] of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, not only was Amjad Ali pardoned but, many other prisoners were freed.
Once, a women came crying to A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. She reminded him that he had once made Du'a for her to bear a child and through his Du'a a male child was born. She told him that the child had now passed away and she could not bear this loss. She cried and begged A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu to bring the child back to life.

A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu went to her home. He noticed that the child was lying on a bed and was covered with a sheet. In the meantime, the mother of the child continuously asked A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu to bring the child back to life. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu removed the sheet from the face of the child, placed his blessed hands over the child's eyes and commanded the child, "Son! Wake up and listen to that which your mother is saying." All of a sudden, the child began to cry. All those present were astonished. They thanked A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu abundantly. He humbly smiled and said, "I did not do anything. He was asleep. All I did was wake him up."
There lived a certain person in Bareilly Shareef who had very false concepts concerning ulema, awliya and 'Pir-o-murshid' and 'mureed' relationships. One of his friends, who was on his way to meet A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, asked this person to accompany him and meet A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. He also suggested that by discussing his false concepts and beliefs with A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, he will be shown the right path. While discussing whether or not to go, that person with the false concepts, saw a vendor selling fresh sweetmeats. He said, "First buy me some sweetmeats then I will go with you." His friend agreed to buy it for him on the way back home.

Nevertheless, after much convincing he agreed to accompany his friend to the house of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. They entered his blessed house and sat there. Amureed arrived and brought some sweetmeats. It was the procedure in the court of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu that those persons with beards would get two shares, and those without beards would receive only one share as they were still taken as children.

The mureed who was responsible for distributing the sweetmeats only gave one share to the person who had misconceptions about awliya and ulema. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, who was present there and witnessed the entire incident, commanded the mureed to give that person two shares. The mureed remarked, "Huzoor! He has no beard. He should get one." A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu replied, "Give him two. He desires to have two." When the person heard this he immediately repented and became the mureed of A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu. His desire was to receive two shares and he realised that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was even aware of the thoughts in his heart.
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Works of Imam Ahmad Raza

Earlier in this page, we learnt that A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu gained proficiency in more that fifty branches of knowledge. With this, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu wrote many books on various aspects of Islam. A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu was a genius writer. He wrote numerous books and treatises in arabic, persian, and urdu on diversified topics.
To date, it has not been fully ascertained as to exactly how many books he wrote, for in doing so, requires research and many personnel. There has risen, over the past years, many Islamic scholars in the Indo-Pak Sub-Continent and in other parts of the world, who are making serious attempts in studying or translating the works of this great mujaddid of Islam.
In 1887, at the age of 30 years, he had completed 75 books and treatises. In 1909, at the age of 43 years, this number increased up to 500. However, it has been estimated that the number of books written by A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu exceed on more than 50 branches of knowledge. Apart from these contributions, he had written annotations and commentaries on more than 150 books pertaining to various branches of learning.

Professor Dr Muhammad Hassan, Shaykh al-Adab, Islamia University, Bhawalpur, said: "Mawlana was a prolific writer. He wrote a large number of treatises. It is due to the fact that his head and heart had surging waves of knowledge which were hard to restrain."
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Books & Literature

From the many books that were written by A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu, a table of 549 have been classified. The table is as follows:

Topic on which books was written & amount of books :

Tafseer of the Quran -

11 Aqaa'id (Belief) -

54 Hadith and Principles of Ahadith -

53 Fiqh, Principles of Fiqh,

Dictionary of Fiqh Faraa'idh and Tajweed -

214 Tassawwuf, Wazifas, Morals -

19 Reviews of Books - 40 Language,

Arabic Grammar, Dictionaries,

HistoryPoetry and Special Benefits,

Travelling - 55 Inspired Knowledge (Ja'far) - 11 Logarithms - 8 Astronomy, Astrology - 22 Mathematics, Geometry - 31 Philosophy, Sciences, Logistics - 7 Algebra - 4

Total amount of books recovered = 549

The names of a few books written by A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu have been listed below:

Fatawa Radawiyyah (12 volumes, approx. 12, 000 pages)

Husaamul Haramain

Ad Daulatul Makkiya Bil Madatul GhaibiyaAl Mu'tamadul MustanadAl Amn o wa UlaAlkaukabatush ShahabiyaAl IstimdaadAl Fuyoozul MakkiyahAl Meeladun Nabawiyyah

Kanz al Imaan (translation of Noble Qur'an)

Fauze Mubeen Dar Harkate ZameenHidayake BakhshishSubhaanus SuboohSallus Say yaaful HindiyaAhkaame ShariatAz Zubdatuz ZakkiyaAbna ul MustaphaTamheede ImaanAngote Choomne ka Mas'ala

Professor Abdul Shakoor Shad, Kabul University, Afghanistan, said: "The research works of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan are worth presenting. There is due need that Historical and Cultural Societies of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran together with other such institutions keep all his writings duly catalogued in their libraries."
His Divinely bestowed intelligence was such, that when A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhucompleted a quarter of any given book at the feet of a teacher, he used to study and memorize the remainder of the book by himself. It is recorded that he completed an Arabic commentary on the book, "Hidaayatun Nahw", on Arabic Syntax, when he was only 8 years old!
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Organisations and Institutes spiritually affiliated to Imam Ahmad Raza

In the year 1904, A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu founded "Darul Uloom Manzare Islam" in Bareilly Shareef. This great religious institution has thus far served the Muslim world impeccably. Each year, a large number of students graduate from this institution as Fadhils,Aalims, Hufaaz and Qur'ra.

Many of the ulema of South Africa are also students of Madrassa 'Manzare Islam'. To name a few :- 

Mawlana Abdul Hadi Al Qadiri; 

Mawlana Abdul Hamid Palmer Al Qadiri; 

Mawlana Ahmad Muqaddam Al Qadiri; 

Qaari Ahmad Khalil Razvi; 

Mawlana Sayyad Muhammad Husain Al Qadiri; 

Mawlana Muhammad Khan Al Qadiri Barkaati;

 Mawlana Ghulam Mu'hiyyuddeen Jaafar; 

Mawlana Zainul Abedeen Al Qadiri Razvi; 

Mawlana Muhammad Mustaqeem Al Qadiri;

Mawlana Muhammad Afthab Razvi; 

Mawlana Nazir Farouk Razvi.

With the exception of Madrassa Manzare Islam, there are also scores of institutes and organisations world-wide that are spiritually affiliated to A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu .

A few of them are listed below:
Jaamia Nooria Radawiyah (Bareilly Shareef) - India Madressa Mazhare Islam (Bareilly Shareef) -

India Razvi Darul Ifta (Bareilly Shareef) -

India Raza Academy (Mumbai) -

India Idara Tahqeeqaat-e Imam Ahmad Raza - Pakistan Raza Masjid -

London, UK Raza Academy -

London, UK Imam Ahmad Raza Academy -

S. AfricaSunni Razvi Centre - Mauritius - S. AfricaMuhibbane Raza-e-Mustapha -

S. AfricaJamia Razvia (Lahore) -

PakistanJamia Razvia Zia al-Uloom (Rawalpindi) -

PakistanDarul Uloom Imam Ahmad Raza - India

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Comments by the Noble Ulema of Makkah t'al Mukarraamah

Ustad Ulema al-Haram, Allama Sa'eedullah Radi Allahu anhu :
"My respected brother, who is striving in the path of Nabi Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam, is a perfect teacher, in other words, Hadrat Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu, may Almighty Allah grant him great reward, and accept his endeavour, and may Almighty Allah build his respect into the hearts of the people of knowledge."Ameen.
Allama Mufti Muhammad Saleh Kamal Radi Allahu anhu :
"The learned person on this earth, the sea of great knowledge, the coolness of the eyes of the Ulema-e-Haq, is Mawlana Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu. Salutations upon the Prophet Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa 'aalihi wa Sallam and all the spiritual guides, especially Hadrat Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu. May he always be protected." Ameen.

Aftaab al-Uloom, Allama Sheikh Ali bin Siddiqi Kamal Radi Allahu anhu :
"Our leader and bright star, the sharp blade on the throats of the Wahabis, our respected teacher, our famous leader, is Hadrat Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu. May Almighty Allah grant him tranquillity and keep him victorious over his opposition."Ameen.

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Comments by the Noble Ulema of Madinatul Munawwarah

Mufti Taaj' al-Din Ilyaas Hanafi Radi Allahu anhu : "That famous and professional Aalim, Mawlana Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu is from amongst the 'Ulema-e-Hind'. May Almighty Allah grant him great reward and success. May Almighty Allah grant him barkah in his life and destroy all those false sects through his blessing." Ameen.
Shaykh Malikiya, Allama Sayyad Ahmad Juz'iri Radi Allahu anhu :"May Almighty Allah brighten up the lives of the Muslims through (the Sadaqa of) Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu. May Almighty Allah increase his age and allow all his future generations to be amongst the Ahle Jannah." Ameen.
Allama Khaleel bin Ebrahim Kharbooti Radi Allahu anhu :
"May Almighty Allah grant the Muslims benefit forever through the blessings of this 'Kaamil Faadhil,' Allama Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu. 'O Allah! Give glad tidings to Islam and Muslims." Ameen.
Allama Mawlana Umar bin Hamdaan Radi Allahu anhu :
"Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu is that great Aalim, great philosopher and such a great researcher that his research baffles the mind. May Almighty Allah protect him and always keep him pleased." Ameen.

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Comments by the Noble Ulema of the Indo-Pak sub-continent

Sayyidina Shah Aale Rasool Radi Allahu anhu:
"On the day of Qiyamah, when Almighty Allah asks me concerning what I had brought for Him from earth, then I will present Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Radi Allahu anhu."
Hadrat Sayyad Shah Abul Husain Ahmad Noori Radi Allahu anhu: "A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu is the brightness and the torch of the Khandaan-e-Barakaati."
Hadrat Allama Shaykh Sayyad Ali Hussain Shah ''Ashrafi Miya'' Kichauchawi Radi Allahu anhu:"My path of shariah and tariqah is that which is the path of Huzoor Purnoor, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu ."
Hadrat Mawlana Mu'eenuddeen Sahib Radi Allahu anhu:"Phira hoo me us gali se Nuzhat ho jis me gumra sheikh o kaazi Raza e Ahmad Usi me samjunga muj se Ahmad Raza ho Raazi."
Hadrat Allama Naee'muddeen Muradabadi Radi Allahu anhu: "The expertise that Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Radi Allahu anhu possessed in fiqh was such that great ulema of the East and West were humbled before him."
________________________________________Imam Ahmad Raza in the Eyes of Others

Justice Mufti Sayyid Shujaat Ali Qadri alaihir rahmah, Shariah Court, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad (Pakistan):

"A'la Hadrat's appearance is such a commanding stature in terms of knowledge and action that every man of letters considers it an honour and pride to write about him. This worthless man also has the honour of opportunity and has contributed some write-ups and articles of A'la Hadrat. My first compilation in Arabic, entitled 'Mujaddid-al-Mata' has been published and distributed the world over, and this practice is going on regularly and steadily.

"All the men of letters know that A'la Hadrat was born in such a period when the Muslim Ummah was being threatened by different fitnah (sedition) from all sides. Among all the prevalent sedition, the most dangerous and harmful was one which meant to infect non-Muslim elements in the beliefs of the 'Ahle Sunnat.'

"A'la Hazrat performed incomparable services to safeguard the beliefs of the Ahle Sunnat. He wrote several books for the rejection of shirk (Polytheism) and for the dissuasion from the bid'ats (innovations in Deen causing divergences). He safe-guarded the status of Nabuwat (Prophethood), Sahabiyat (Companionship), Ahl al-Bait (the Members of the Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam's family) and wilayat (the Friendship with Allah the Magnificent). He published crushing and silencing articles against the criticism brought forward by the atheists, heretics and apostates against the revered Mystics of Islam and Islamic Mysticism. As far as my study is concerned, A'la Hazrat always had good opinion about all the Muslims, and took all Muslims as Muslims, did not scratch and touch the people's beliefs, and did never scold unreasonably or speak rubbish to others. However, if someone committed any mistake in writing or speech, he invited him repeatedly to the Truth. This is the method which is called the good conduct of the Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam. May Allah the Magnificent favour us through the benevolence of the Ahl-Ullah (Friends of Allah)."

Ziya-ul Masha'ikh, Allama Muhammad Ibrahim Farooqi Mujad'didi alaihir rahmah:

"No doubt that Mufti Ahmed Raza Khan Bareilvi was a great scholar. He had the insight in the norms of Muslim conduct and behaviour and stages of spiritual transcendentalism (tariqah). His competence as regard to exposition and explanation of the Islamic thought; his approach to the inner knowledge deserves high praise, and his contribution in Islamic Jurisprudence will always be remembered in respect of their relevance to the basic principles of Ahl-al Sunnah Wal Jama'at. Finally, it is not an exaggeration to state that his research works shall always serve as a beacon light for those who traverse this faith."

Professor Muhammad Rafi'ullah Siddique, Director of College Education, Hyderabad, Region - Hyderabaad (India): 

"Let the thought of recollecting minds recall the circumstances of Muslims in 1912 when Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan appealed to the Ummah to control conspicuous consumption and save money to use for productive purposes. Now, everywhere the governments are emphasising the need for austerity to solve the multifarious economic problems. Will the men of vision not realise the far sightedness of the late A'la Hadrat Barelvi? J.M. Keynes was awarded the highest title for the same proposition and exposition which Mawlana Barelvi had disclosed at least 24 years before him. Alas! Muslims did not pay heed to his advice."
Professor Preshan Khattak, (Former Chairman) Pakistan Academy of Letters, Government of Pakistan:

"Imam Ahmed Raza's personality needs no introduction to Muslims of the Indo-Pakistan. Such a rare encyclopedic person is born after a long awaiting period. He served as a search- light for his own people and proved a strong rock for the powers of persecution and cruelty. Nobody can doubt his knowledge and greatness. The BelovedProphet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam has declared academic differences as sources of blessing and goodness for the evolution of the Deen of Islam and civilisation. This has opened new vistas of thinking and has helped in creating more vastness and comprehension in the Deen of Islam in order to cope with the need of the changing time. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi has completed an important role for the evolution of the Islamic thinking in the Sub- Continent. It is not easy to present and interpret Islamic teachings in the present age without making use of his writings and views."

Professor Dr Ayub Razvi, Head of Department Urdu, Urdu College, Pakistan, Karachi:

"The learned Mawlana Ahmad Raza Khan (1856-1921) was a famous scholar, Jurist, Mathematician, Writer and Genius. He had special insight in Mathematics. There is no parallel to his expertise in Jurisprudence."
Dr Ilahi Bakhsh Ali Awan, Peshawar (Pakistan):
"Various aspects of his personality are very impressive and valuable. His real contributions in different fields are so comprehensive and exhaustive that men of thought and vision find it difficult to pin point the most attractive and impressive aspect of his intellectual personality which is so vast in every direction that sight is lost in wilderness."

Dr Muhammad Tahir Malik, Chairman, Department of Islamic Learning, University of Karachi (Pakistan): 

"After a thorough study of many books and treatises of Imam Ahmed Raza, I have concluded that he gives much importance to the teacher, book, paper and school, etc. in the articles allied to Education. In our present day education system, a teacher is no more estimated than a salaried servant, and the book is regarded as a collection of letters and works. From our teaching institutions, the respect of the book and teacher has faded away. This is why the restrictions of a teacher and pupil have been reduced to nothing at our schools, colleges and universities''

"Today, to ignore or to forget the books of knowledge, gifted by theses teachers has become a common practice. One sees often the pupils dancing for pleasure on the teachers promenade and playing with their turbans. Why is this? The answer outlined by Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi is that our ideology of education is lacking in high and sacred values. The Imam Sahib says, 'Keep in vies (striving) the bonds of your teachers. If respect is given to the paper, the book and the school, this undesirable situation can not happen'."
Dr Ghulam Yahya Anjum, Department of Comparative Religions, Hamdard University, New Delhi:

"Imam Ahmed Raza Khan is an outstanding personality among 20th century renowned scholars of Islam. Very few can claim his eminence because if someone has some similarity with him in certain particular fields, he lacks significant achievement in some other field in which Imam Ahmed Raza is leading."
Dr Hassan Raza Khan Azami, Patna:

"A study of the 'Fatawa Razvi' (Judicial Opinions) of A'la Hadrat, has revealed his multi-dimensional personality to me.

As a Jurist his discussion reflects his reach of imagination, deep insight, wisdom, sagacity and unparallel scholarly talent. I found him a great historian, that goes on quoting numerous historical references to support his view point in the matter under consideration. He appears to be an expert in Arabic grammar and diction alongside being an inspiring naatia poet. He is observed as a great scholar of Ahadith, when he mentions logical interpretation of the Ahadith that he quotes. After a deep study of his works, one finds in him not only a renowned Jurist, a great Logistician but also an outstanding Physicist, Astronomer, Mathematician, Philosopher, Philologist and Geographer whose expertise covers the minutest of details of the subject."

Professor Wasim Barelvi, Rohailkand University, Bareilly, U.P (Dawn, Karachi, May 13 1992):
Indian poet, Wasim Barelvi, speaking at a function in his honour on Monday night, emphasised the need for fresh research on Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi and other Muslim scholars of the Sub-Continent, particularly those from Bareilly. Eulogising Allama Ahmed Raza Khan, Professor said that his services as a pioneer of a religious school is known to everybody, but his achievements as a writer have not yet been properly highlighted.

He said that a research work on Allama Ahmed Raza Khan compiled in Rohailkand under his supervision has made revelations regarding the writings of Allama Barelvi. This research work is likely to challenge the history of urdu prose as it proves that Allama Barelvi should be counted as one of the pioneers of urdu prose, and as one of the great writers who spread modern thought in the Sub-Continent."

Justice Naeem-ud'deen, Supreme Court of Pakistan:
"Imam Ahmad Raza's grand personality, a representation of our most esteem ancestors, is history making, and a history uni-central in his self.

"You may estimate his high status from the fact that he spent all his lifetime in expressing the praise of the great and auspicious Beloved Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, in defending his veneration, in delivering speeches regarding his unique conduct, and in promoting and spreading the Law of Shariah which was revealed upon him for the entire humanity of all times. His renowned name is 'Muhammad' Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, the Prophet of Almighty Allah.

"The valuable books written by a encyclopaedic scholar like Imam Ahmed Raza, in my view, are the lamps of light which will keep enlightened and radiant the hearts and minds of the men of knowledge and insight for a long time."

A Western Scholar, Dr Barbara D. Metcalf, Department of History, Barkley University, United States of America:
"He was outstanding from the very beginning on account of his extra- ordinary intelligence. He enjoyed a divine gift of deep insight in Mathematics. It is said that he solved a mathematical problem for Dr Zia-ud'deen for which the learned Mathematician was intending to visit Germany. Ahmed Raza himself was a towering figure, revered for his extra-ordinary memory, mental agility, and intellectual capacity, and honoured as a mujaddid and a Shaikh. Guarded in his relation to the British Government, he sought above all to guard what he saw as correct practice and make religion vital in the personal life of Muslims of his day."

The Poet, Allama Doctor Iqbal: 

"I have carefully studied the decrees of Imam Ahmed Raza and thereby formed this opinion; and his fatawa bear testimony to his acumen, intellectual calibre, the quality of his creative thinking, his excellent jurisdiction and his ocean-like Islamic knowledge. Once Imam Ahmed Raza forms an opinion he stays firm on it; he expresses his opinion after a sober reflection. Therefore, the need never arises to withdraw any of his religious decrees and judgements. With all this, by nature he was hot tempered, and if this was not in the way, then Shah Ahmed Raza would have been the Imam Abu Hanifa of his age.
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Imam Ahmad Raza in the Eyes of the Opposition

Abul ala Maudoodi: "I have great respect in my heart for the knowledge and status of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu. He has great foresight over the knowledge of Deen and even his opposition are forced to accept this fact."

Ashraf Ali Thanwi: "I have great respect in my heart for Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu. He calls uskaafirs, but he says this only on the basis for his love for the Prophet Salla Allahu 'alayhi wa Sallam and not out of any other reason."

Mui'nuddeen Nadwi:"The late Ahmad Raza Khan radi Allahu anhu in this present time was "the person of knowledge". His every fatawa, be it in support or refutal of anyone, is worthy of being studied."