The Birth of Mujadid ,Ala Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza khan (rah)
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawaal 1272 A.H. (14th June 1856), at the time of Zohar Salaah in a place called Jasoli, which is in the city of Bareilly Shareef, India.
A few days before the birth of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), his father, Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who interpreted this dream by saying: "This is a sign that you are going to be the father of a child, a boy, who will grow up to be pious and knowledgable. His name will gain prominence from East to West."
This was the good news that was given to Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the birth of none other than the "emerald from amongst the Treasures of Almighty Allah", the "sweet-scented rose from the fragrant garden of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)", Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
The date of birth of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was extracted by himself from the Holy Quran.
"These are they in whose hearts Allah has inscribed faith and helped them with a spirit from Himself." (58:2)
Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) was the man who kept Sunni Islam alive in the twentieth century when it was threatened by the West, and also from within by modernists and wahabism.
The World Islamic Mission joins the worldwide sunni brotherhood in remembering this great personality especially during the month of Safar, the month of his auspicious wisaal. Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Quran, "O people of faith, if you help the Din of Allah, Allah will help you and you will be established." (Sura Muhammad - 7) Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih), a person who feared Allah Ta'ala helped the Din of Allah Ta'ala till his last breadth. Political changes started to take place in 1920 in the Idian sub-continent. The Muslim intelligentsia was influenced by Imam Ahmad Raza. The opposition started a well organized propaganda against Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) and succeeding in swaying the illiterate Muslims. They were kept back in the dark about the true literary, intellectual and spiritual accomplishments of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan.
Throughout his life and in all of his writings Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) reminded Muslims of their sunni heritage. He gave the same message which had existed for centuries and, by providing the proof from the Holy Qur'an and hadith, he reconfirmed what our forefathers had always believed. This was the belief of the majority of Sunni Muslims of the world, universally referred to as the Ahle Sunnat wal Jama'at. The opposition, in order to try and discredit Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) coined the term "Barailwih" when referring to the people having the belief of of Ahle Sunnat. In fact, they make up 85 percent of all Muslims. Bareilly is a town in Utter Pradesh (U.P.), India where Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) lived. He became the torch bearer of the Ahle Sunnat belief. There are millions of sunni Muslims around the world who has never heard the term "Barailwih", yet they hold the same universal belief as Imam Raza. One can only, therefore conclude that Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) did not invent a new ideology but merely revived the belief of the Awliya and Ulama of the past. This is why most ulama (Islamic scholars), Arab and non-Arab, refer to him as the Reviver of Islam. The ulama of Haramain Sharifain told the truth that. "When we remember Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) we remember the Prophet (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam)." The fact is, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) was totally devoted to the ways of Prophet Muhammad (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam). Friends and foes attest to his absolute subordination to the Prophet (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam).
We present to you here the final wishes of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih):
Imam Ahmad Raza'a final advice before his demise
Nothing with photos of living objects should be near me when my Ruh (Soul) leaves.
Recite Sura Yaseen and Sura Ra'ad beside me.
Recite Durood in abundance.
Keep those who are weeping away from me.
Give my Ghusl according to the Sunnah.
Either Mawlana Haamid Raza or Allamah Amjad Ali should perform my Janaza Salaah. (radi Allahu anhum)
Do not delay my Janazah.
When taking my Janazah, recite "Kaabe ke Badru Duja".
Do not read anything in my praise.
Place me softly in the grave.
My grave should be dug according to my height.
My Kafan should be according to the Sunnah.
The food of my Fatiha must be given to the poor.
Haamid Raza must give a fair share of everything to Chothe Mia (Huzoor Mufti Azam Hind). If not, my Rooh will be displeased. (radi Allahu anhum)
All of you must remain steadfast on Din. Do not leave the path of Shariah. Stay on the Din on which I was.
Wisaal of Imam Ahmad Raza
The brightly shining sun of Bareilly Shareef, The Coolness of the Eyes of the Ulama, The Mujaddid of the Century, The Imam Abu Hanifa of his time, The Ghaus-ul-Azam of his time, The Sweet-scented Rose from the Fragrant Garden of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) left this mundane world on Friday, the 25th of Safar 1340 A.H. (28 October 1921) at 2.38 p.m.. It was the exact time of the Juma Azaan.
The date of the Wisaal of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was actually deduced by himself from the Holy Quran four months and twenty days prior to his passing away: "And there shall be passed around them silver vessels and goblets." (76:15)
Dream of a Saint
At the time of the demise of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), a wali(saint) from Syria, dreamt of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) while he was in the Baitul Mukaddas(Jerusalem). In his dream, the saint saw many Sahaba-Ikraam (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in) seated around the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). All of them seemed to be waiting for someone. The saint says that, in his dream, he asked, "Ya Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! Whose presence is being awaited?" The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied, "Ahmad Raza Khan." The blessed saint then asked, "Who is Ahmad Raza Khan?" The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) answered, "An a'lim from Bareilly." When this saint awoke, he immediately journeyed from Syria to Bareilly Shareef to meet A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), but to his dismay, he learnt that A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) had already departed from this world.
His Blessed Name
The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name of "Mohammed." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), also gave the young child the beautiful name of "Ahmed Raza." It was by this name that he was famously known. Much later in his life, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) added the title "Abdul Mustafa" to his name signifying his great love and respect for Sayyiduna Rasulullah (salal laahu alaihi wasallam).
The Grand Mufti of Makkatul Mukarramah, Sheikh Hussain bin Saleh Makki (radi Allahu anhu), also gave him the title of "Zia'udeen Ahmed."
Illustrious Family History
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaderi, was the son of Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan, who was son of Allamah Mawlana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Shah Mohammed Azam Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in).
The great forefathers of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) migrated from Qandhar (Kabul) during the Mogul rule and settled in Lahore. Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhum), held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan (radi Allahu anhu), after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city.
Imam Ahmed Raza’s (rah )First Lecture
Sayyiduna 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 the Minbar (Pulpit) and delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted of Ulema. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasulullah . He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasulullah . 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 Hadrat (radi 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: "Allamah Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan is among the outstanding scholars. His deep learning, intelligence, vision and acumen, surpassed that of great contemporary thinkers, professors, renowned scholars and orientalist. Indeed, there is hardly any branch of learning that is foreign to him."
Astonishing Events of Childhood
At the age of 3, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was once standing outside the Raza Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. An "unknown" person, attired in an Arabian garb, approached him and spoke to him in the Arabic language. Those who were present and witnessed this incident heard the young A'la 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!
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawaal 1272 A.H. (14th June 1856), at the time of Zohar Salaah in a place called Jasoli, which is in the city of Bareilly Shareef, India.
A few days before the birth of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), his father, Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who interpreted this dream by saying: "This is a sign that you are going to be the father of a child, a boy, who will grow up to be pious and knowledgable. His name will gain prominence from East to West."
This was the good news that was given to Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the birth of none other than the "emerald from amongst the Treasures of Almighty Allah", the "sweet-scented rose from the fragrant garden of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)", Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
The date of birth of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was extracted by himself from the Holy Quran.
"These are they in whose hearts Allah has inscribed faith and helped them with a spirit from Himself." (58:2)
Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) was the man who kept Sunni Islam alive in the twentieth century when it was threatened by the West, and also from within by modernists and wahabism.
The World Islamic Mission joins the worldwide sunni brotherhood in remembering this great personality especially during the month of Safar, the month of his auspicious wisaal. Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Quran, "O people of faith, if you help the Din of Allah, Allah will help you and you will be established." (Sura Muhammad - 7) Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih), a person who feared Allah Ta'ala helped the Din of Allah Ta'ala till his last breadth. Political changes started to take place in 1920 in the Idian sub-continent. The Muslim intelligentsia was influenced by Imam Ahmad Raza. The opposition started a well organized propaganda against Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) and succeeding in swaying the illiterate Muslims. They were kept back in the dark about the true literary, intellectual and spiritual accomplishments of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan.
Throughout his life and in all of his writings Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) reminded Muslims of their sunni heritage. He gave the same message which had existed for centuries and, by providing the proof from the Holy Qur'an and hadith, he reconfirmed what our forefathers had always believed. This was the belief of the majority of Sunni Muslims of the world, universally referred to as the Ahle Sunnat wal Jama'at. The opposition, in order to try and discredit Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) coined the term "Barailwih" when referring to the people having the belief of of Ahle Sunnat. In fact, they make up 85 percent of all Muslims. Bareilly is a town in Utter Pradesh (U.P.), India where Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) lived. He became the torch bearer of the Ahle Sunnat belief. There are millions of sunni Muslims around the world who has never heard the term "Barailwih", yet they hold the same universal belief as Imam Raza. One can only, therefore conclude that Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) did not invent a new ideology but merely revived the belief of the Awliya and Ulama of the past. This is why most ulama (Islamic scholars), Arab and non-Arab, refer to him as the Reviver of Islam. The ulama of Haramain Sharifain told the truth that. "When we remember Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) we remember the Prophet (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam)." The fact is, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih) was totally devoted to the ways of Prophet Muhammad (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam). Friends and foes attest to his absolute subordination to the Prophet (Salalaahu alahi wa Sallam).
We present to you here the final wishes of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Rahmatullah alaih):
Imam Ahmad Raza'a final advice before his demise
Nothing with photos of living objects should be near me when my Ruh (Soul) leaves.
Recite Sura Yaseen and Sura Ra'ad beside me.
Recite Durood in abundance.
Keep those who are weeping away from me.
Give my Ghusl according to the Sunnah.
Either Mawlana Haamid Raza or Allamah Amjad Ali should perform my Janaza Salaah. (radi Allahu anhum)
Do not delay my Janazah.
When taking my Janazah, recite "Kaabe ke Badru Duja".
Do not read anything in my praise.
Place me softly in the grave.
My grave should be dug according to my height.
My Kafan should be according to the Sunnah.
The food of my Fatiha must be given to the poor.
Haamid Raza must give a fair share of everything to Chothe Mia (Huzoor Mufti Azam Hind). If not, my Rooh will be displeased. (radi Allahu anhum)
All of you must remain steadfast on Din. Do not leave the path of Shariah. Stay on the Din on which I was.
Wisaal of Imam Ahmad Raza
The brightly shining sun of Bareilly Shareef, The Coolness of the Eyes of the Ulama, The Mujaddid of the Century, The Imam Abu Hanifa of his time, The Ghaus-ul-Azam of his time, The Sweet-scented Rose from the Fragrant Garden of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) left this mundane world on Friday, the 25th of Safar 1340 A.H. (28 October 1921) at 2.38 p.m.. It was the exact time of the Juma Azaan.
The date of the Wisaal of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was actually deduced by himself from the Holy Quran four months and twenty days prior to his passing away: "And there shall be passed around them silver vessels and goblets." (76:15)
Dream of a Saint
At the time of the demise of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), a wali(saint) from Syria, dreamt of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) while he was in the Baitul Mukaddas(Jerusalem). In his dream, the saint saw many Sahaba-Ikraam (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in) seated around the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). All of them seemed to be waiting for someone. The saint says that, in his dream, he asked, "Ya Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! Whose presence is being awaited?" The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied, "Ahmad Raza Khan." The blessed saint then asked, "Who is Ahmad Raza Khan?" The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) answered, "An a'lim from Bareilly." When this saint awoke, he immediately journeyed from Syria to Bareilly Shareef to meet A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), but to his dismay, he learnt that A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) had already departed from this world.
His Blessed Name
The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name of "Mohammed." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), also gave the young child the beautiful name of "Ahmed Raza." It was by this name that he was famously known. Much later in his life, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) added the title "Abdul Mustafa" to his name signifying his great love and respect for Sayyiduna Rasulullah (salal laahu alaihi wasallam).
The Grand Mufti of Makkatul Mukarramah, Sheikh Hussain bin Saleh Makki (radi Allahu anhu), also gave him the title of "Zia'udeen Ahmed."
Illustrious Family History
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaderi, was the son of Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan, who was son of Allamah Mawlana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Shah Mohammed Azam Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in).
The great forefathers of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) migrated from Qandhar (Kabul) during the Mogul rule and settled in Lahore. Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhum), held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan (radi Allahu anhu), after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city.
Imam Ahmed Raza’s (rah )First Lecture
Sayyiduna 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 the Minbar (Pulpit) and delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted of Ulema. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasulullah . He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasulullah . 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 Hadrat (radi 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: "Allamah Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan is among the outstanding scholars. His deep learning, intelligence, vision and acumen, surpassed that of great contemporary thinkers, professors, renowned scholars and orientalist. Indeed, there is hardly any branch of learning that is foreign to him."
Astonishing Events of Childhood
At the age of 3, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was once standing outside the Raza Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. An "unknown" person, attired in an Arabian garb, approached him and spoke to him in the Arabic language. Those who were present and witnessed this incident heard the young A'la 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!
__________________
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of
Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam). He brightened the
hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall
Allaho alaihi wasallam).
The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity and eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child! Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was only 4 years old when he completed the recitation of the Holy Quran.
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) states that, "I completed my religious education during the middle of the month of Shabaan in the year 1286 A.H. I was 13 years, 10 months and 5 days old at that time.
It was also at this time that Salaah became Fard upon me and I began to have great interest in the Laws of Shariah". In a letter sent to his illustrious Khalifa, Malakul Ulema, Hazrat Maulana Zafaruddeen Bihaari, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) wrote, "With the Grace of Almighty Allah, this servant wrote his first Fatawah at the age of 13.
For many years, thereafter, Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) carried this very important duty with absolute dignity and responsibility. Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) began answering hundreds of Fatawas daily. He received them in all languages.
The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity and eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child! Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was only 4 years old when he completed the recitation of the Holy Quran.
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) states that, "I completed my religious education during the middle of the month of Shabaan in the year 1286 A.H. I was 13 years, 10 months and 5 days old at that time.
It was also at this time that Salaah became Fard upon me and I began to have great interest in the Laws of Shariah". In a letter sent to his illustrious Khalifa, Malakul Ulema, Hazrat Maulana Zafaruddeen Bihaari, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) wrote, "With the Grace of Almighty Allah, this servant wrote his first Fatawah at the age of 13.
For many years, thereafter, Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) carried this very important duty with absolute dignity and responsibility. Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) began answering hundreds of Fatawas daily. He received them in all languages.
In the year 1291 A.H. (1874), Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) married.
He was 18 years old at the time of his Nikah.
Almighty Allah blessed AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) with 7 beautiful children - 2 sons and 5 daughters.
Both his sons became distinguished Islamic Scholars and great Awliyah Allah.
His sons were Hujjatul Islam Maulana Hamid Raza Khan and Ghausul Waqt Huzoor Mufti Azam Hind (radi Allahu anhum). AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) became proficient in the following branches of knowledge at the feet of his father:
Tafseer of the Holy Quran, Tashreeh of Ahadith,
Principles of Ahadith (Usool-e-hadith),
Islamic Jurisprudence (All Four Schools of Thought),
Principles of Jurisprudence (Usool-e-fiqh),
Dialectics,
Quranic Commentary,
Principles of Belief,
Principles of Debate,
Arabic Syntax,
Principles of Rhetoric,
Language Usage of Metaphors,
Science Dealing with Rhetoric, Logistics,
Debates,
Philosophy and Politics,
Rhetoric Devices,
Physics,
Mathematics,
Physical Engineering.
In the book, "Al Ijaazatul Mutay'yanah", on page 22, Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) has said the following in connection with the above mentioned twenty branches of knowledge.
He was 18 years old at the time of his Nikah.
Almighty Allah blessed AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) with 7 beautiful children - 2 sons and 5 daughters.
Both his sons became distinguished Islamic Scholars and great Awliyah Allah.
His sons were Hujjatul Islam Maulana Hamid Raza Khan and Ghausul Waqt Huzoor Mufti Azam Hind (radi Allahu anhum). AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) became proficient in the following branches of knowledge at the feet of his father:
Tafseer of the Holy Quran, Tashreeh of Ahadith,
Principles of Ahadith (Usool-e-hadith),
Islamic Jurisprudence (All Four Schools of Thought),
Principles of Jurisprudence (Usool-e-fiqh),
Dialectics,
Quranic Commentary,
Principles of Belief,
Principles of Debate,
Arabic Syntax,
Principles of Rhetoric,
Language Usage of Metaphors,
Science Dealing with Rhetoric, Logistics,
Debates,
Philosophy and Politics,
Rhetoric Devices,
Physics,
Mathematics,
Physical Engineering.
In the book, "Al Ijaazatul Mutay'yanah", on page 22, Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) has said the following in connection with the above mentioned twenty branches of knowledge.
He says, "I learnt these twenty branches of knowledge, personally at the feet of my father".
He learnt Quranic Recitation,
Correct Recitation with Tajweed,
Mysticism,
Mystical Initiation,
Islamic Ethics,
Names of Narrators of Ahadith,
Biography of the Holy Prophet (Salal Laahu Alaihi Wa Sallam),
Islamic History,
In-depth Study of Arabic and Literature. (This being another 10 branches of knowledge from various other ulama)
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) also learnt Arithmetic,
Algebra, the Twelve Branches of Mathematics,
Modern Astronomy,
Science of Inheritance,
Science of Prosody,
Astronomy,
Science of History,
Prose in Hindi,
Prose is Persian,
In-depth Study of Arabic and In-depth Study of Plain Persian Writing.
When Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was questioned about his amazing
capabilities in solving intricate and confusing Mathematical theories, and as to
who his mentor was, he replied, "I did not have a teacher in this field. Whatever
you see, I achieved within the four walls of my room.This is indeed through the
Grace of Sayyiduna Rasoolulah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam)." If we study the life
of AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu), we will discover that his proficiency in various
subjects total over fifty four branches of knowledge.
He learnt Quranic Recitation,
Correct Recitation with Tajweed,
Mysticism,
Mystical Initiation,
Islamic Ethics,
Names of Narrators of Ahadith,
Biography of the Holy Prophet (Salal Laahu Alaihi Wa Sallam),
Islamic History,
In-depth Study of Arabic and Literature. (This being another 10 branches of knowledge from various other ulama)
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) also learnt Arithmetic,
Algebra, the Twelve Branches of Mathematics,
Modern Astronomy,
Science of Inheritance,
Science of Prosody,
Astronomy,
Science of History,
Prose in Hindi,
Prose is Persian,
In-depth Study of Arabic and In-depth Study of Plain Persian Writing.
When Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was questioned about his amazing
capabilities in solving intricate and confusing Mathematical theories, and as to
who his mentor was, he replied, "I did not have a teacher in this field. Whatever
you see, I achieved within the four walls of my room.This is indeed through the
Grace of Sayyiduna Rasoolulah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam)." If we study the life
of AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu), we will discover that his proficiency in various
subjects total over fifty four branches of knowledge.
Many people have translated the Holy Quran into the Urdu language, but the
translation of the Holy Quran presented by Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) -
called "Kanzul Imaan" is proven to be the most unique translation in the Urdu
language.
In his translation one sees that Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) used only those
words in his translation that are worthy for the Attributes and Qualities of
Almighty Allah and of His beloved Rasool (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It is said that the translation of the Holy Quran by Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) is not merely a literal translation, but is also the commentary of the Holy Quran.
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allaho anhu) was also a great authority of his time in subjects of Ahadith and Usool-e-Ahadith.
He knew the names of almost every Hadith narrator. When he was questioned
concerning details of a certain narrator, he was able to give a complete biography of the narrator.
When he studied any Hadith he was able to explain the type of Hadith, it's benefits and the reasons behind that Hadith.
Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam). He must also be well-versed in and all the other important branches of knowledge, such as Tafseer, Logic, Philosophy, Translating, and many other branches of knowledge.
Sayyiduna AalaHazrat (radi Allaho 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.
translation of the Holy Quran presented by Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) -
called "Kanzul Imaan" is proven to be the most unique translation in the Urdu
language.
In his translation one sees that Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) used only those
words in his translation that are worthy for the Attributes and Qualities of
Almighty Allah and of His beloved Rasool (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It is said that the translation of the Holy Quran by Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) is not merely a literal translation, but is also the commentary of the Holy Quran.
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allaho anhu) was also a great authority of his time in subjects of Ahadith and Usool-e-Ahadith.
He knew the names of almost every Hadith narrator. When he was questioned
concerning details of a certain narrator, he was able to give a complete biography of the narrator.
When he studied any Hadith he was able to explain the type of Hadith, it's benefits and the reasons behind that Hadith.
Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam). He must also be well-versed in and all the other important branches of knowledge, such as Tafseer, Logic, Philosophy, Translating, and many other branches of knowledge.
Sayyiduna AalaHazrat (radi Allaho 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-Mustafa (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam), which was compiled into 12 large volumes, comprising of approximately 12 000 pages to form the famous book,
"Fatawa Radawiyyah,"
which is used in every Darul Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today.
The opportunity of performing his first Hajj and Ziyaarah was granted to Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho 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 (alahis salaam).
Having completed his Salaah, the Imam of the Shafi'i order of Makkatul Mukarramah, [b]Allamah Hussain bin Saleh Kamaal (radi Allaho anhu), approached him. He clutched Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) by his hand and led him to his house. The great Imam then placed his hand on the blessed forehead of Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) and said: "Verily, I am observing the Noor of Almighty Allah on this forehead."
"Fatawa Radawiyyah,"
which is used in every Darul Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today.
The opportunity of performing his first Hajj and Ziyaarah was granted to Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho 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 (alahis salaam).
Having completed his Salaah, the Imam of the Shafi'i order of Makkatul Mukarramah, [b]Allamah Hussain bin Saleh Kamaal (radi Allaho anhu), approached him. He clutched Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) by his hand and led him to his house. The great Imam then placed his hand on the blessed forehead of Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) and said: "Verily, I am observing the Noor of Almighty Allah on this forehead."
Without hesitation, he blessed AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) with the Sanad (Certificate) of Sahih Sitta (Six Compilers of Hadith:
Bukhari,
Muslim,
Ibn Majah,
Abu Dawood,
Tirmizi
and Nisa'i).
He also began addressing AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) by the title of "Zia'uddeen" or "The Light or Splendour of Deen."
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was also blessed with the Sanads of Ahadith from the Muftis of the Hanafi order in Makkatul Mukarramah, Sayyiduna Allamah Abdur Rahmaan Siraaj and Mufti Sheikh Sayyid Ahmad Dahlaan Shafi'i (radi Allahu anhuma).
At the age of 49, Aala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allaho anhu) performed his second Hajj in 1323 A.H. (1905).
He was 49 years old. On the 25th of Zil-Hajj, Sayyiduna Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho
anhu) once again had the opportunity of meeting the great Imam, Sheikh Saleh
Kamaal (radi Allaho anhu). He also met Allamah Sayyid Ismae'el (radi Allaho anhu)
and many other noble Ulama, who showed great respect towards him.
Bukhari,
Muslim,
Ibn Majah,
Abu Dawood,
Tirmizi
and Nisa'i).
He also began addressing AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) by the title of "Zia'uddeen" or "The Light or Splendour of Deen."
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) was also blessed with the Sanads of Ahadith from the Muftis of the Hanafi order in Makkatul Mukarramah, Sayyiduna Allamah Abdur Rahmaan Siraaj and Mufti Sheikh Sayyid Ahmad Dahlaan Shafi'i (radi Allahu anhuma).
At the age of 49, Aala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allaho anhu) performed his second Hajj in 1323 A.H. (1905).
He was 49 years old. On the 25th of Zil-Hajj, Sayyiduna Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho
anhu) once again had the opportunity of meeting the great Imam, Sheikh Saleh
Kamaal (radi Allaho anhu). He also met Allamah Sayyid Ismae'el (radi Allaho anhu)
and many other noble Ulama, who showed great respect towards him.
It was on this occasion that
Allamah Sheikh Saleh Kamaal (radi Allaho anhu) presented AalaHazrat
(radi Allaho anhu) with five questions pertaining to I'lm-e-Ghaib
(Knowledge of the Unseen).
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) had to answer these five questions in two days. In so happened that on the following day, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) contracted a heavy fever. In spite of his illness, he managed to answer the questions relating to I'lm-e-Ghaib.
In fact, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) presented such a detailed answer to the
questions of I'lm-e-Ghaib that it turned out to be a complete treatise on its own.
He named this book, "Ad Daulatul Makkiyah Bil Maa da til Ghaibiya." The Learned Ulama of Haramain Sharifain were totally astounded when Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho 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 classical Arabic language.
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) had to answer these five questions in two days. In so happened that on the following day, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) contracted a heavy fever. In spite of his illness, he managed to answer the questions relating to I'lm-e-Ghaib.
In fact, AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) presented such a detailed answer to the
questions of I'lm-e-Ghaib that it turned out to be a complete treatise on its own.
He named this book, "Ad Daulatul Makkiyah Bil Maa da til Ghaibiya." The Learned Ulama of Haramain Sharifain were totally astounded when Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho 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 classical Arabic language.
It was during AalaHazrat's (radi Allaho anhu) second
visit to the Haramain Sharifain that his aspiration to see the Holy
Prophet (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) became very great.
Continuously reciting the Durood Shareef with great veneration and humbleness in front of the Rauza-e-Shareef of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam), he felt confident of seeing the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It was during the second night of his visit to the Court of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) that he was given the opportunity of actually seeing the blessed personality of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) spent every moment of his life praising the Holy Prophet (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam). Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Rasool (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It has been recorded that Hazrat Maulana Naee'muddeen Muradabadi once asked
AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) the reason from him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) replied, "O Maulana! I am severe upon those people, because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) they should rather make me the target for their insults. I do not have any interest in what they are calling me. at least, while they are busy insulting me, my Beloved Master, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) is spared from these insults."
Continuously reciting the Durood Shareef with great veneration and humbleness in front of the Rauza-e-Shareef of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam), he felt confident of seeing the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It was during the second night of his visit to the Court of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) that he was given the opportunity of actually seeing the blessed personality of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) spent every moment of his life praising the Holy Prophet (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam). Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Rasool (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
It has been recorded that Hazrat Maulana Naee'muddeen Muradabadi once asked
AalaHazrat (radi Allaho anhu) the reason from him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam).
Aala Hazrat (radi Allaho anhu) replied, "O Maulana! I am severe upon those people, because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) they should rather make me the target for their insults. I do not have any interest in what they are calling me. at least, while they are busy insulting me, my Beloved Master, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allaho alaihi wasallam) is spared from these insults."