The Biography of Awliya Allah: Inspiring Stories of Spiritual Masters
Hazrat Haji Ali Shah Bukhari | Biography of Hazrat Haji Ali Shah Bukhari
Hazrat Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, also known as Qutb-e-Zamaan and Shaah-e-samundar, was a revered spiritual figure. He was once moved by the plight of a poor woman who had accidentally dropped the oil she was carrying. Deeply empathetic, Hazrat Haji Ali guided her to the spot where the oil had spilled and miraculously extracted the oil from the ground by pressing it with his finger. This incident left him troubled, as he dreamt that the Earth was reproaching him for causing it pain by pressing it forcefully.
Seeking solace, Hazrat Haji Ali sought permission from his mother and left his hometown of Bukhara with his brother. They embarked on a journey and eventually arrived in Mumbai, India. Finding peace in the city, he sent his brother back and sought forgiveness from his mother through a letter.
For many years, he resided in Mumbai, engaging in divine worship, spreading Islamic teachings, and imparting knowledge to people.
Some of Hazrat Haji Ali’s notable sayings include:
- “Fear Allah, and you will have no fear of anything else.”
- “Life passes like clouds. Therefore, engage in good deeds as long as you live.”
During his pilgrimage to Makkah, Hazrat Haji Ali passed away. Before his demise, he instructed his companions to wrap his body in a shroud, place it in a casket, and immerse it in the sea. He requested that wherever his body reached the shore, the locals should bury him.
As per his wishes, Hazrat Haji Ali Shah Bukhari was laid to rest on a hill between the sea in Mumbai, known as Worli.
In 834 Hijri (1431 A.D.), Haji Usman Rangikar constructed the Dargah (shrine) and mosque in his honor.
His annual Urs (death anniversary) is observed on the 16th of Rabi-ul-Awwal.
May Allah, through the intercession of His beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the blessings of Hazrat Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and all the revered Awliya Allah, grant everyone complete love for the Prophet, protect their faith, inspire them to perform righteous deeds, and bestow success in this world and the hereafter. Amen.
Hazrat Imam Shaikh Badr-ud-deen Ahmad Sirhindi
Hazrat Imam Shaikh Badr-ud-deen Ahmad Sirhindi, also known as Shaykh Ahmad Sirhindi, was a prominent Islamic scholar and Sufi saint. He is widely recognized as the Mujaddid-e-Alfe ṡaani (Reviver of the Second Millennium) and Imaam-e-Rabbaani (Spiritual Leader of the Time).
Here are some key details about his life and contributions:
Birth and Lineage: Hazrat Imam Shaikh Badr-ud-deen Ahmad Sirhindi was born on 14th Shawwal 971 Hijri (4th June 1564 CE) in Sirhind, which is now in present-day Punjab, India. His father’s name was Hazrat Shaikh Abdul Ahad bin Zain-ul-Aabideen.
Education: He received his initial education from his father and became a Hafiz of the Qur’an at a young age. Later, he traveled to Sialkot, where he studied various disciplines such as Hadith, Fiqh, Tafseer, and other sciences. He also acquired knowledge from eminent scholars like Hazrat Allama Kamaal-ud-deen and Hazrat Shaikh Maulana Ya’aqoob Surfi Kashmiri.
Spiritual Journey: At the age of 17, he received spiritual authorization (Ijaazat) in the Qadri, Suhrawardi, and Chishti Sufi orders. Hazrat Sayyed Shaikh Sikandar Kaithali granted him the blessed mantle (Khirqa) of Hazrat Ghauṡ e aazam Abdul Qaadir Jilani. Hazrat Imam Sirhindi went on to become a spiritual guide and mentor to numerous disciples.
Beliefs and Contributions: Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi firmly believed that there is no valid path other than the path of Islamic Sharia. In 988 Hijri (1581 CE), when Mughal Emperor Akbar attempted to syncretize all religions into Deen-e-Ilāhi, Hazrat Imam Sirhindi strongly opposed it and emphasized the superiority of Islam. He corresponded with the Mughal Emperor through letters (khat) to dissuade him from his erroneous beliefs.
Writings and Works: Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi authored numerous books, some of which include:
- Risaala Isbat-ul-Nabuwwat
- Tauheed-e-Shuhoodi
- Mobada-o-Ma’ad
- Ma’arif-e-Ladqiya
- Makashifaat-e-Ghaibia
- Risaala Telilia
- Risaala Basilsila-e-Ahadees
- Sharah Rubaeyat e Hazrat Khwaja Baaqi Billāh
Miracles (Karamat): Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi was attributed with several miracles during his lifetime. Two notable incidents include:
- During Ramadan, ten of his disciples invited him for Iftar, and he miraculously appeared simultaneously at each of their homes to join them for the meal.
- Once, a person requested him to pray for his seriously ill relative. Hazrat Imam Sirhindi replied that it was inappropriate to pray for the health of someone who had already passed away. Later, the person discovered that his relative had indeed passed away around the same time as the conversation took place.
Descendants: Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi had seven sons and three daughters. His sons were named Muhammad Saadiq, Muhammad Saeed, Muhammad Maasoom, Muhammad Eisā, Muhammad Farrukh, and Muhammad Ashraf,. Muhammad Saadiq, Muhammad Saeed, Muhammad Maasoom, Muhammad Eisā, Muhammad Farrukh, Muhammad Ashraf, and Muhammad Saalih. Many of his descendants have also played significant roles in the spread of Islam and Sufism.
Legacy and Influence: Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi’s teachings and writings had a profound impact on Islamic theology and Sufism. He advocated for the revival of the Islamic faith and the purification of Muslim society from any deviations or syncretism. His emphasis on the strict adherence to Sharia and the spiritual dimensions of Islam made him a prominent figure in the history of Islamic thought.
Hazrat Imam Sirhindi’s opposition to the imperial policies of Akbar and his defense of orthodox Islamic beliefs earned him the title of Mujaddid-e-Alfe ṡaani (Reviver of the Second Millennium). He is revered by Muslims, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, as a highly respected scholar, saint, and spiritual guide.
The influence of Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi’s teachings can be seen in the establishment of the Naqshbandi Mujaddidi order, which traces its spiritual lineage back to him. This order has had a significant impact on the propagation of Islamic spirituality in South Asia and beyond.
Moreover, his writings continue to be studied and revered by scholars and seekers of knowledge. His works delve into topics such as Islamic theology, Sufism, spirituality, and the relationship between the divine and human beings.
Hazrat Imam Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi’s contributions to Islamic thought and his unwavering commitment to the preservation and propagation of orthodox Islamic teachings have left a lasting legacy. His teachings serve as a source of guidance and inspiration for Muslims around the world, promoting a deep understanding of Islam and the importance of spiritual purification in one’s journey of faith.
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini (may Allah have mercy upon him) was known by several titles, including Banda Nawaaz, Gaisu Daraaz, Shehanshaah-e-Deccan, and Wali al-Kabeer as-Saadiq.
He was born on the 4th of Rajab, 720 Hijri (1320 A.D.) in Delhi. His father’s name was Hazrat Sayyed Yousuf Husaini, also known as Sayyed Raaja bin Sayyed Ali. He belonged to the Husaini lineage.
His ancestors resided in Herat, and Hazrat Abul Hasan Jundib (may Allah have mercy upon him) brought his family from Khurasan to Delhi. His father, Hazrat Khwaja Nizaam-ud-deen (may Allah have mercy upon him), was a disciple of Hazrat Abul Hasan Jundib.
In the time of Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq, around 725 Hijri (1325 A.D.), his family migrated to Daulatabad (Devgiri).
In 731 Hijri (1330 A.D.), his father passed away, and Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini received his upbringing and fundamental education from his grandfather. At the age of 15, he traveled to Delhi to seek education from Hazrat Khwaja Naasir-ud-deen Chiraag e Dehli (may Allah have mercy upon him). He also acquired knowledge from Hazrat Kethli, Hazrat Taaj-ud-deen Bahaadur, and Qaazi Abdul Muqtadir. He pursued education in Delhi, Mewath, Gwalior, Chander, Aircha, Chatra, Chanderi, Miandhar, Baroda, and Khambaya, covering subjects such as Qur’an, Nahw (grammar), Hadith, Fiqh, Tafseer, Kalaam, Philosophy, and Tasawwuf.
On the 16th of Rajab, 736 Hijri (March 1, 1336 A.D.), he became a disciple (mureed) of Hazrat Naasir-ud-deen Chiraagh e Delhi (may Allah have mercy upon him). His spiritual guide instructed him to acquire comprehensive knowledge, and thus he studied Usool-e-Bizoori, Risaala Shamsia, Kashaf, Misbah, and Qadoori.
In 757 Hijri (1356 A.D.), Hazrat Naasir-ud-deen Chiraagh e Dehli (may Allah have mercy upon him) granted him the khilaafat (spiritual succession). On one occasion, while carrying his spiritual guide’s litter with other disciples, Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini’s long hair got entangled in the litter. He experienced immense pain but endured it silently out of his love and reverence for his guide. When Hazrat Khwaja Naasir-ud-deen (may Allah have mercy upon him) learned about this incident, he became pleased and said, “The disciple of every master with long hair has become a Gaisu Daraaz. By Allah, he is not disobedient.” Hence, Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini became known as Gaisu Daraaz.
After the demise of his spiritual guide in the month of Ramadan, 757. Hijri (1356 A.D.), Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini continued to spread the teachings of Islam and Sufism. He became known as Banda Nawaaz, which means “the helper of devotees” or “the benefactor of servants.” This title was given to him due to his immense compassion, generosity, and assistance to those in need.
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini settled in Gulbarga (now in Karnataka, India) and established a khanqah (spiritual center) there. His khanqah became a place of spiritual guidance, where people from all walks of life would come to seek his blessings, advice, and teachings. He emphasized the importance of piety, devotion, and following the path of righteousness.
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini was known for his miracles and spiritual blessings. It is said that he had control over the elements and could perform acts beyond the ordinary. He was renowned for his ability to heal the sick, console the distressed, and guide individuals on their spiritual journey.
His teachings were based on love, tolerance, and unity among all people, regardless of their background or faith. He promoted harmony and understanding between different religious communities and worked towards fostering a peaceful coexistence.
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini passed away on the 17th of Shawwal, 825 Hijri (1422 A.D.) in Gulbarga. His tomb, known as the Dargah of Khwaja Banda Nawaz, is located in Gulbarga and is considered a sacred site for devotees. It continues to attract people from various parts of the world who seek his blessings and spiritual guidance.
Hazrat Khwaja Sayyed Sadr-ud-deen Abul Fatah Muhammad Husaini’s teachings and legacy have had a profound impact on the lives of his followers and continue to inspire people to this day. He is revered as a great saint and spiritual guide, known for his devotion to Allah, his compassion for humanity, and his unwavering commitment to spreading the message of love and peace.