QUESTION: What is the ruling of the Ulema of Islam on the
following matter:
Zaid, who is a Muslim and believes in Almighty Allah and
the Prophethood of his beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam),
recites after every Salaah and at other times, the following verses:As
Salaatu Was Salaamu Alaika Ya Rasoolullah
-
"Peace and Blessings upon you, O Messenger of Allah."Or As
Alukash Shafaa'atu Ya Rasoolullah - "I seek
from you Shafaa'at (Intercession), O Messenger of Allah."
I ask the learned Scholars of Islam:
- Are such calls to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu
alaihi wasallam) permitted in Islam?
- What is the ruling of the Learned Scholars concerning
individuals who refer to those who call to the Prophets and Saints as Kaafirs
and Mushriks?
Please enlighten us on this. We pray that you enjoy the
mercy of Allah on the Day of Judgement. Aameen.
Alhamudullilahi wa Kafaa Was Salaatu Was Salaamu alaa
Habeebihil Mustafa wa Aalihi Wa Ashaabihi Oolis Sidqi Was
Safaa
The utterance of the above words are indeed permitted and no
person other than those who are misled would argue with it. For reference on
this matter, we shall consult the following great Jurists of Islam and their
books:-
- "Shifa-us-Siqaam",by Imaam Taqi'udeen Abul
Hasan Subki (radi Allahu anhu),
- "Mawaahibbe Ladunnia", by Imaam Ahmed
Qastalaani (radi Allahu anhu), being the Sharah (Commentary) of
Sahih-ul-Bukhari,
- "Sharah of the Muwaahibbe Laddunnia", by
Allama Zarqaani (radi Allahu anhu),
- "Mutaali-ul-Mussarraat" by Imaam Allama
Faasi (radi Allahu anhu),
- "Sharah of Mishkaat", by Allama Mulla Ali
Qaari (radi Allahu anhu),
- "Ashatul Lamaat", including the books,
"Jazbul Quloob" and "Madaarijun Nubuwat", by Shaikh Muhaqqiq Allama
Abdul Haq Muhaddis Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu),
- "Afdalul Qur'a", which is the "Sharah of
Ummul Qur'a" by Imaam ibn Hajar Makki (radi Allahu anhu).
I will now quote a Hadith, proving that it is permissible to
utter the above mentioned words. This Hadith has been certified authentic by the
following great Scholars of Islam:-
- Imaam Nisaai (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Tirmidhi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam ibn Maaja (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Haakim (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Baihaqi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam ibn Hazeema (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Abul Qasim Tabraani (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Manzari (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Muslim (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu).
- All the above mentioned Scholars of Ahadith,
narrate on the authority of Hazrat Uthman bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu),
that a Sahabi who was blind by birth was taught a special Du'a by the Holy
Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), which he was to recite after
every Salaah.
The Du'a is as follows: Allahumma Inni As Aluka Wa Ata Wajjahu Ilaika Binabiyika Muhammadin Nabiyyir
rahmati Ya Muhammadu Inni Ata Wajjahu Bika ila Rabbi Fi Haajati haazihi lituqda
li. Allahumma Fashaf'fi'u Fiya. "O Allah, I
ask from you, and turn towards you through the Wasila (Medium) of Your Nabi
Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), who is indeed a Prophet of Mercy. O
Muhammad, with your Wasila (Medium) I turn towards Allah for my need so that it
may be bestowed. O Allah, accept the Prophet's intercession for me."
- Imaam Tabraani (radi Allahu anhu), in his
"Muhjam" records the following incident:
A person in dire need visited Ameerul Mu'mineen Hazrat Uthman
Ghani (radi Allah anhu). The Caliph was busy with some other work and he
did not attend to his need. Thereafter, the person went to Hazrat Uthman bin
Haneef (radi Allahu anhu) and complained about the matter. Hazrat Uthman
bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu) ordered the man to perform the Wudhu
(ablution), enter the musjid and to offer two Rakaats of Nafil Salaah. He was
then to recite the following Du'a:Allahumma Inni As Aluka Wa Ata Wajjahu
Ilaika Binabiyina Nabiyyir rahmati Ya Muhammadu Inni Ata Wajjahu Bika ila Rabbi
Fayadiha Haajati wa tazkuru haajataka wa ruh illaya hatta arooha ma'aka. "O Allah, I beg of you and I seek your assistance, with the Wasila
(Medium) of your beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) who is the
Prophet of Mercy. O Muhammad! I turn to Allah with your Wasila so that my needs
be fulfilled."
Thereafter, he was told to mention his need. On completion,
he was told to visit Hazrat Uthman bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu), so that
both could visit the august court of Hazrat Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu).
When he presented himself in front of the great Caliph, he was not only shown
great respect, but his need and wish were also immediately granted. The Caliph,
then addressing the man stated: "In future if you require any favour, come
immediately to me."
After they had left the court of the great Caliph, the man
thanked Hazrat Uthman bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu) for mentioning him to
the Caliph, the latter clearly stated that he had not even approached the
Caliph. He then stated: "By Allah, I saw the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu
alaihi wasallam) teaching the very same Du'a to a blind man. Miraculously, the
blind man then approached us before we could even complete our conversation, and
it appeared as if he had never been blind."
Imaam Tabraani and Imaam Munzari (radi Allahu anhuma)
have both stated that this Hadith is authentic.
- Imaam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu) in his
"Kitaabul Adaabul Mufrad", Imaam Ibnus Sinni and Imaam ibn Bashkool
(radi Allahu anhuma) have recorded that, Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Omar (radi Allahu anhu) once suffered from a cramp. Someone advised him to
remember the person whom he loved the most. The great companion then proclaimed
loudly, "Ya Muhammadah." It is recorded that he was immediately relieved.
- Imaam Nawawi (radi Allahu anhu) in his
commentary of the Sahih Muslim, including in his book, "Kitaabul Azkaar",
records that some individuals were sitting in the company of Hazrat Abdullah ibn
Abbas (radi Allahu anhu), when suddenly one of them suffered from cramps.
The great companion advised the man to remember the person whom he loved the
most. The man proclaimed, "Ya Muhammadah." He was immediately cured.
There are in fact many Ashbaab who narrate incidents of similar incident.
- Substantiating this, Allama Shahaab Khafaaji Misri (radi Allahu anhu) states in his "Naseem-ur Riyaaz" a commentary
of the "Shifa" by Imaam Qaadi Ayaaz (radi Allahu anhu), that it is
an established practice of the people of Medina Shareef to proclaim "Ya
Muhammadah" in times of difficulty and anxiety.
- Hazrat Bilal bin Al Haarith Muzani (radi Allahu
anhu) states: A drought which was known as "Aamur Ramadah" once occurred
during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar Al Farouk (radi Allahu anhu). His
tribe the Bani Muzaina approached him and complained that they were dying of
hunger, and thus requested the Caliph to sacrifice a few sheep. When he told
them that there was nothing left of the sheep, they still insisted. After the
sheep were cut and cleaned they noticed that only red bones were to be seen.
Hazrat Bilal (radi Allahu anhu), seeing this state of affairs, proclaimed
loudly, "Ya Muhammadah", in grief and concern.
He was then blessed with seeing the Holy Prophet (sallal
laahu alaihi wasallam) in his dream, who informed him of future glad tidings
which did occur later on.
- Imaam-e-Mujtahid Sayyidi Abdur Rahman Huzaili Kufi
Masoodi (radi Allahu anhu), was the grandson of Hazrat Abdullah ibn
Masood (radi Allahu anhu). He was also a very great Jurist and a Taabi'in
of high rank. It is stated that he used to wear a long hat with the inscribed
words, "Muhammad, Ya Mansoor."
- This was also confirmed by Imam Hasheem bin Jameel
Az Zaaki (radi Allahu anhu) who was among the great Ulema and
Muhadditheen of the time states: "I saw him (ie, Hazrat Abdur Rahman Masoodi)
place a long hat on his head, with the words inscribed, 'Muhammad, Ya Mansoor'."
- It is recorded in the Fatawa of Hazrat Imaam,
Shaikul Islam, Shahaab Ramli Ansaari whether it was permissible for the people
to invoke the names of Prophets, Saints and Ulema in times of difficulty as they
normally did. The great scholar replied: "Undoubtedly it is permissible to
seek the assistance of great Prophets, Saints and Ulema. They do in fact assist,
even after they have departed from this world."
- Imaam Allama Khairudeen Ramli (radi Allahu
anhu), the illustrious teacher of the scholar who has written the authentic
book on Islamic Jurisprudence, "Durre Mukhtaar", states in his "Fatawa
Khayria": "People who proclaim, Ya Sheikh Abdul Qaadir (are merely
emulating) a call, what, therefore, is the reason for it, not to be
permissible?"
- Sayyidi Jamal bin Abdullah bin Omar Makki
(radi Allahu anhu), in his Fatawa states that he was questioned about those
people who proclaim in times of difficulty, "Ya Rasoolullah, Ya Ali, Ya
Sheikh Abdul Qaadir" as to these proclamations being permissible in Islam.
The great scholar replied: "Yes, these proclamations are permissible, to call
to them is permissible including using their names as Wasilas. This is
permissible in the light of the Shari'ah. Such an act is desirable and approved.
Only those individuals who are stubborn and arrogant would oppose or question
this reality, and they certainly are unfortunate and deprived of the Barakaat
(blessing) of the Awliya Allah."
- Imaan ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu), In his
book, "Oyunil Hikaayat", narrates a strange and amazing incident of three
brothers who were constantly engaged in Jihad (Holy Islamic War). He narrates:
Once, while engaged in Jihad with the Christians of Rome, they were captured and
tortured. The King informed them that if they adopted the religion of
Christianity he would set them free. The brothers refused to do so. Instead they
all proclaimed aloud, "Ya Muhammadah." The King became furious and
ordered two of the brothers to be thrown into boiling oil. After a while, the
youngest escaped from the clutches of his capturers accompanied by the daughter
of the King, whom herself was amazed at the piety of the young Muslim.
Six months later when they were about to be married, the two
martyred brothers amazingly appeared accompanied by a group of Angels. When it
was inquired as to how they had survived they replied: "When you saw us being
thrown into the boiling oil, you indeed saw the truth, yet as we entered the
pot, we entered into the high stages of Jannah."
Imam ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu) states that the
brothers lived in Syria and were extremely famous. Many couplets have been
written in their praise. This incident has been shortened.
Our object is to highlight how beneficial it is to call out
to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). We have seen that the
brothers at a time of extreme perils and danger did not hesitate in calling to
the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). How were they rewarded? Very
clearly they were rewarded with such blessing that the two Shuhada immediately
entered Jannah, while the youngest brother was saved and married the King's
daughter, and the two Shuhada were actually given permission to attend the
marriage of their younger brother accompanied by a group of Angels.
Where are those persons who proclaim that it is Haraam to
call on great Prophets and Saints for assistance? If they firmly believe that it
is Haraam, why have the great scholars clarified this action (of calling to
Prophet's and Saints) as permissible and extremely beneficial?
- Huzoor Pur-Noor, Sayiddina Ghous-e-A'zam (radi
Allahu anhu), states: "If a person in distress or hardships calls out to
me, his hardship will be eradicated. If a person uses my name as his Wasila
(medium) and pleads to Allah, his need will be fulfilled."
The great Saint then goes on to describe a Salaah, which can
be extremely beneficial. He states: "A person should perform two Rakaats of
Salaah, in every Rakaat he should recite eleven times the Sura Faatiha and
thereafter Sura Ikhlaas eleven times. After completing the Salaah, he should
recite the Durood and Salaam upon the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi
wasallam), then remembering me he should proceed eleven steps towards the
direction of Baghdad invoking my name in every step, including mentioning his
need and wish. In this manner (Allah willing) his need and wish will be
granted."
- The above-mentioned medicant has been described
and mentioned by scholars such as, Imaam Abul Hasan Ali bin Jareer, Imaam
Abdullah bin Asad Yafa'ee Makki, Shaikh Mulla Ali Qaari, Moulana Abul Ma'aali
Mohammed Muslimi Qaderi and Shaikh-e-Muhaqqiq Moulana Abdul Haq Muhaddis Dehlwi
(radi Allahu anhum) in their treaties, "Bahjatul Asraar",
"Khulaasatul Mafaakhir", "Nuzhatul Khaatir", "Toh'fa'ee Qaderia"
and "Zubdatul Aasaar", among others. One should also remember that the
great Ulema and Saints attribute extreme authenticity to the mentioned article.
A point to mention about Imam Abul Hasan Noorudeen Ali
(radi Allahu anhu), the author of "Bahjatul Asraar", is that aside
from being a great Sufi, he was also considered to be a great Imaam of Qiraat.
It is reported that he received his spiritual training under the guidance of
Hazrat Sayyidi Abu Swaleh Nasr (radi Allahu anhu), the great grandson of
Hazrat Ghousal Azam (radi Allahu anhu).
Describing the greatness and stature of the book,
"Bahjatul Asraar", Hazrat Abdul Haq Muhaddis (radi Allahu anhu) in
his book, "Zubdatul Aasaar", states that the book is indeed considered to
be extremely authentic and factual in the eyes of the distinguished and esteemed
Ulema and Saints. The book has also been used as a reference on many occasions.
- Imaam Arif Billah Sayyidi Abdul Wahab Sha'raani (radi Allahu anhu), in his book, "Lawaaqi-ul-Anwaar Fi Tabqaatil
Akhyaar", records a strange and miraculous incident.
It is recorded that a Mureed of Sayyidi Mohammed Khawri
(radi Allahu anhu) was once passing through the market, when the foot of the
animal he was riding slipped. In extreme panic he screamed, "Ya Sayyidi
Muhammad, Ya Ghamri!" Co-incidently, in that very market place, the captured
ruler ibn Omar Sa'eed was also passing through. He inquired from the Mureed as
to who was Sayyidi Mohammed. When he was told who he was, he asked permission to
use the name of the Murshid so that he could also be released. As soon as he had
proclaimed the name of the great Wali, the spiritual master appeared and driving
away the capturers, freed the ruler. The Shaikh then blessed the ruler, and
thereafter departed.
- A similar incident is mentioned of Sayyidi
Shamsudeen Mohammed Hanafi (radi Allahu anhu). It is stated that the
great Saint while performing Wudhu removed his sandal and threw it with
tremendous fury and it disappeared into thin air. He then removed his other
sandal and advised one of his Mureeds to retain it until such time that the
first sandal was returned.
After some time a traveller from Syria arrived with the
missing sandal and some gifts for Hazrat Shamsudeen (radi Allahu anhu).
He then narrated that while he was travelling, he was attacked by a highwayman,
who overpowered him and wanted to slit his throat. Under this extreme situation
he called out aloud, "Ya Sayyidi Muhammad, Ya Hanafi." Suddenly, a sandal
appeared from thin air and struck the robber. This Mureed then stated that it
was indeed through the Wasila and power of his Murshid that he had been saved.
- In the very same book it is recorded that when
the Spiritual Master, Hazrat Sayyidi Shamsudeen Hanafi (radi Allahu anhu)
was on his death-bed, he called his Mureeds and said: "If anyone has any wish
or need, he should come to my grave, I will indeed help him in fulfilling it.
Remember between you and me, there is merely a handful of sand, and how can a
mere handful of sand be a screen between a Murshid and his Mureed. If the sand
does become a screen, then the murshid cannot be perfect a Man
(Insaan-e-Kaamil)."
- Incidents of similar nature are recorded by
Hazrat Imaam Abdul Wahab Sha'raani (radi Allahu anhu) in his book,
"Tabqaat-e-Kubra." We shall quote a few.
- Sayyidi Mohammed Farghal (radi Allahu anhu)
states: "I am indeed amongst those Saints who can assist you from the grave.
If, therefore, you have any wish or need come to my grave and facing me, mention
your requirements. I will fulfill them."
- It is recorded that while Hazrat Sayyidi Madeen
Ahmed Ashmooni (radi Allahu anhu) was performing the Wudhu, he suddenly
threw his sandal towards the Eastern side of the city. A year later a man
arrived and described a strange incident. He said: "My daughter was once
walking in the jungle, when an evil man tried to entrap her. She did not at the
time remember the name of her father's Murshid, yet in panic, she screamed, 'O
Murshid of my father, save me!'. Suddenly, a sandal appeared from thin air and
rendered the evil man unconscious." It is stated that the sandal is still in
the possession of the mentioned family.
- Among the excellences of Hazrat Sayyidi Moosa Abu
Imraan (radi Allahu anhu), it is recorded that whenever his Mureeds used
to call to him, he immediately use to assist them, even though the Mureed was as
far away as a year's journey or even more.
- Hazrat Shaikh-e-Muhaqqiq Abdul Haq Muhaddith
Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu), in his famous book, "Akhbaarul Akhyaar"
mentions Shaikh Baha'udeen bin Ebraheem Ata'ullah Al Ansaari Ash Shattari (radi Allahu anhu), who is the author of a very famous book on Tasawwuf
entitled "Risaala Shat'taaria", has recorded in his book a specific type
of Zikr known as "Zikr-e-Kashful Arwah."
The great Saint mentions: "There are two ways of making
the Zikr of 'Ya Ahmed' and 'Ya Muhammad'. The first way is to recite 'Ya Ahmed'
from the right side and 'Ya Muhammad' from the left side, concentrating on the
thought of 'Ya Mustafa.'
"The second method is to recite 'Ya Ahmed, Ya Ali, Ya
Hasan, Ya Husain, Ya Fathima.' This is to be read from all six directions. In
other words, one should begin with 'Ya Ahmed' till the end. Thereafter, the next
name and so on. By performing this Zikr in the specified manner one will obtain
the secrets of Kashful Arwah (Manifestation of the Souls).
"The Zikr of the names of Angels, which is performed in
the same manner and which has the same effect, namely 'Ya Jibraeel, Ya Israeel,
Ya Mikaeel, Ya Izraeel.' This is performed from all four sides and also results
in Kashful Arwah.
"Another method is by reciting 'Ya Shaikh, Ya Shaikh' one
thousand times in the following manner. The person should pronounce the word,
'Ya Shaikh' from the right side of the heart and at the time of pronouncing the
word 'Shaikh' he should concentrate on striking it on the heart. Through this
method, one can also achieve Kashful Arwah."
- Discussing the life and teachings of Hazrat Moulana Jalalludeen Rumi (radi Allahu anhu), Hazrat Sayyidi Noorudeen
Moulana Abdur Rahman Jaami (radi Allahu anhu) writes: At the last
moments, before the passing away of Moulana Rumi (radi Allahu anhu), he
revealed to his Mureeds a startling secret. He said: "Do not be sad at my
passing away, because one hundred and fifty years after the passing away of
Hazrat Mansoor (radi Allahu anhu), his Noor beamed on the soul of Hazrat
Fareedudeen Attar (radi Allahu anhu) and became his Murshid (Spiritual Guide) in
the spiritual world."
Moulana Rumi (radi Allahu anhu) then stated:
"Whatever condition you may be in, remember me, so that I can be your protector
and helper, irrespective of what state I may be in."
He further states: "In this world I have two types of
relationships, one with my body and the other with you, and when, with the Mercy
of Allah I am freed from this contact with my body and the world of loneliness
is exposed to me, I will divert the attention of my soul to you."
- Hazrat Shah Wali'ullah Dehlwi (radi Allahu
anhu), in his book, "Ateebul Ghanum fi Madh-e-Sayyadal Arabi Wal Ajam",
comments on the Quranic verse pertaining to the state of ecstasy in the love for
the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He states:
Wa Salla alaikal laahu Ya Khaira Khalqihi
Wa Ya Khaira Ma'moolin Ya Khaira Wa hibi
Wa Ya Khaira May yurja likashfira zee yatan
Wa man Jooduhu Qad faaqa Joodas sahaa'ibi
Wa anta mujeeri min hujoomi mulimatin
Iza anshabat filqalbi sharral makhaalib
"O Exceptional! Among those who can be depended on.
O Exceptional! Among those who can be depended upon to
eradicate difficulty.
O Exceptional! Among those whose generosity showers more
than rain.
I indeed testify to the fact that at the time when my
heart is engulfed in this dilemma,
You are indeed the one who gives me assistance and
consolation."
Under the same commentary, Shah Wali'ullah (radi Allahu
anhu) states concerning those moments of difficulty in which it is most
necessary to seek assistance from the sacred Soul of the Holy Prophet (sallal
laahu alaihi wasallam). At the beginning of this chapter, he writes: "I
cannot perceive any one besides the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)
who, for the depressed person at times of calamities, will forward a helping
hand."
- The same scholar in his "Madhiyaa Hamziya"
explains: In the august court of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi
wasallam) one should consider oneself insignificant and inferior. With a
broken heart and with total sincerity one should call to the Prophet (sallal
laahu alaihi wasallam) in Du'a. The person will indeed attain Salvation if
he states, "O Rasool of Allah! O Unique among the Creation! I seek your
favour on the Day of Justice. On that Day when there will be a great test, only
you, O Prophet of Allah, would give security from all calamity! I have turned to
you for salvation and have my trust in you."
- Hazrat Shah Wali'ullah (radi Allahu anhu),
records a method for achieving and fulfilling one's needs and wishes in his
book, "Al intibah fi Salasil-e-Awliya". He states: "One should first
perform two Rakaats of Nafil Salaah. After completion he should recite the
following - 111 times Durood Shareef, 111 times Kalima Tamjeed and 111 times
'Shay an Lillah, Ya Shaikh Abdal Qaadir Jilaani'."
- From this book, it has been proven that all the
great Luminaries (to be mentioned), believed in the proclamation of
'Shay an Lillah' as being a valid and a great solution to many unsolved
problems. They
also gave permission to their students and disciples to proclaim it,
without any
hesitation.
The names of some of these great Scholars and Saints are
among others:
- Ustaad and Shaikh-e-Hadith of Shah Wali'ulllah,
Moulana Tahir Madani (radi Allahu anhuma),
- His Shaikh and father, Moulana Ebraheem Kardi (radi Allahu anhu),
- His Ustaad, Moulana Ahmed Kashshaashi (radi
Allahu anhu),
- His Ustaad, Moulana Ahmed Shanawi (radi Allahu
anhu),
- His grand Ustaad, Moulana Ahmed Nakhli (radi
Allahu anhu),
N.B. The above mentioned Scholars are also quoted in
the sequence of Shah Sahebs Salasil-e-Ahadith (orders of Ahadith).
- The Murshid of Shah Saheb, Shaikh Mohammed
Lahoori (radi Allahu anhu), about whom in the book, "Al Intibah",
the title of Shaikh Mu'ammar Thaqqa (the blessed and trustworthy master) is
attributed, this title is also attributed to his Shaikh,
- Shaikh Moulana Abdul Maalik and his Shaikh (radi Allahu anhu),
- Shaikh Bayazeed Thaani and his Murshid (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Moulana Wajeehudeen Alawi (the commentator of the "Hidaayah" and the "Sharhah Waqaya"), including his Murshid
(radi
Allahu anhu),
- Taajul Aarifeen, Shah Mohammed Ghous Gawalyari (radi Allahu anhu).
- All the above Ulema and Awliya have recited the Naade Ali and
the daily recital of "Ya Ali, Ya Ali."
For those wishing to gain more information on this subject, I
(Imam Ahmed Raza) advise them to read the books, "Anhaarul Anwaar" and
"Hayatul Mawaat fi Bayaani Samaa'il Amwaat", both written by A'la Hazrat
Shah Ahmed Raza (radi Allahu anhu).
- Shah Abdul Aziz Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu),
in his book, "Bustaanul Muhaditheen", praises Hazrat Sayyidi Ahmed Zarooq
(radi Allahu anhu), by describing him as follows: "Hazrat-e-Arfa wa
Ah'la, Imaamul Ulema and Nizaamul Awliya (The Highly Exalted Shaikh, Leader of
the Ulema and the Governor of the Awliya). This great Saint is also among the
Abdaal Sab'a (The Seven Magnificent Abdaal) and is an authority amongst the
Sufis. Among his illustrious students are personalities like Imaam Shamsudeen
Lagaani and Imaam Shahabudeen Qastalaani (radi Allahu anhuma). The Saint was a
master in Shari'ah, Haqiqat and all Mystical Facets. Some of his books can be
consulted to gain a better appreciation of his immense qualities."
Shah Abdul Aziz (radi Allahu anhu) further states:
"In brief, the Saint was a man of exceptional attributes, to fully comprehend
his qualities is indeed beyond comprehension."
- Shah Abdul Aziz (radi Allahu anhu), then
quotes two sentences stated by Hazrat Ahmed Zarooq (radi Allahu anhu),
which further highlights his greatness, "I indeed bless my (Mureeds) with
tranquillity during times of difficulty and perplexity, when cruelty and evil
oppresses them and in times of misery and fear. Therefore (during these times)
call to me 'Ya Zarooq', I will immediately come to your assistance."
- Allama Ziyadi, Allama Ajhoori, Allama Dawoodi
(who also happens to be the marginal writer of the "Sharah Minhaat") and
Allama Shaami (radi Allahu anhum), have all prescribed a method for
finding mislaid items. They state: "One should climb on to a high spot and
offer Faatiha for Hazrat Sayyidi Ahmed bin Alwaan Yamaani (radi Allahu anhu).
Thereafter invoking his name one should say, 'Ya Sayyidi Ahmed, Ya ibn Alwaan'."
All praise is due to Allah, in that this servant has compiled
a book in which quotations from the generation of the Sahaba and from the
generations of Ulema and Awliya following them have been mentioned.
As to those who are corrupted and hope to corrupt, we ask
them what are their views on these great scholars and Saints who also believed
that it was permissible to call out to great Saints and Prophets for assistance
with the Harf-e-Nidaa? What will they label such great personalities, which
include among others:
- Hazrat Uthman bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu),
- Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Taqi'udeen Abul Hasan Ali Subki (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Ahmed Qastalaani (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Abdul Azeem Munzari (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Muslim (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Tabraani (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Baihaqi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Tirmidhi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Nisaai (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Nawawi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Shahab Khafaaji (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Bilal bin Haarith Munzani (radi Allahu
anhu),
- Sayyedi Abdur Rahmaan Huzaili (radi Allahu
anhu),
- Shaikul Islam, Shahabudeen Ramli al Ansaari
(radi Allahu anhu),
- Allama Khayrudeen Ramli (radi Allahu anhu),
- Sayyidi Jamal bin Abdullah bin Omar Makki (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Ghousal A'zam, Syed Abdul Qaadir Jilaani
(radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Jalalludeen Suyutwi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Abul Hasan, Noorudeen Ali bin Jareer (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Abdullah bin Asad Yafa'ee Makki (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Mulla Ali Qaari (radi Allahu anhu),
- Moulana Abul Ma'aali Mohammed Muslimi (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Taajul Aarifeen, Sayyidi Abu Bakr Taajudeen
Abdur Razzaq Qaderi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Shah Abdul Haq Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Abu Swaleh Nasr (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Shamsudeen Zahbi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Mohammed bin Mohammed Al Hizri (radi Allahu
anhu),
- Imaam Abdul Wahab Sha'raani (radi Allahu
anhu),
- Sayyedi Mohammed Ghazni (radi Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Shamsudeen Mohammed Hanafi (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Ahmed Kabeer-e-Awliya Badawi (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Mohammed bin Ahmed Farghal (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Madeen bin Ahmed Ashmooni (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Sayyedi Moosa Abu Imraan (radi Allahu anhu),
- Imaam Noorudeen Abdur Rahman Jaami (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Arif Billah, Moulana Jalaalludeen Rumi (radi
Allahu anhu),
- Shah Wali'ullah Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Allama Ziyaad (radi Allahu anhu),
- Shah Abdur Raheem Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu),
- Allama Ajhoori (radi Allahu anhu),
- Allama Shaami (radi Allahu anhu), and
- Sayyidi Ahmed bin Alwaan Yamani (radi Allahu
anhu).
Now what is your opinion about these great Luminaries of
Islam, who so clearly substantiate the belief that it is permissible to call
upon Prophets and Saints for assistance. If you consider them to be Muslims,
then Alhumdulilah, you are on the straight and correct path. On the other hand,
if you consider them disbelievers then all we say is, "May Allah assist you
in seeing the correct path." Aameen.
We would like to categorically state an amazing fact - how
unfortunate is that group which considers Muslims from the generation of the
Ashbaab to the present times as disbelievers and Mushriks (because they call
upon Prophets, Saints and Ulema to help them in times of difficulty). They
cannot be true "Muslims" who respect the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi
wasallam), if this is their belief concerning the Ulema and Saints of his
Ummah.
The question of Disbelief and Belief has very clearly been
explained in the book of Jurisprudence, "Durre Mukhtaar", yet there are
individuals who themselves are misled and hope to deliberately mislead and
confuse the Muslims so that their true state is not revealed.
- The most beautiful proof of calling to the
Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is in the Attahiyaat, wherein
every worshipper salutes and calls unto the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi
wasallam). If by using the Nida, causes one to be guilty of Shirk, then how
is it that it is found in the Salaah?
Some individuals state that, one does not have the intention
of calling to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the
Attahiyaat, rather one is merely conveying a message. This opinion is without
basis. The religion of Islam has never commanded us to recite any Zikr, without
pondering on its meaning. Therefore, when we are reciting the Attahiyaat, we
should not possess this belief, rather we should believe that we are directly
addressing the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and sending
Salaams to him, upon oneself and upon all the pious of the Ummah.
- It is recorded in the books, "Tanweerul
Absaar" and "Sharah Durre Mukhtaar" that, "The intention which one
must possess at the time of reciting the Tashahud is the concentration on the
meaning of this, that is, in other words, one must remember that one is sending
Salaams upon the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and that one is
praising Allah Almighty. One must be assured of the fact that one is sending
Salaams and not merely relaying a message."
- Words of similar effect are also found in the
books of Jurisprudence, "Fatawa Alamgeeri" and "Sharhe Qudoori".
- Allama Hasan Sharanbulaani (radi Allahu anhu),
in his book, "Maraqi-ul-Falah" states: "Numerous Ulema have in fact
clarified this belief. There are some misled individuals who profess that
because Angels are deputized to convey the Salaams to the Holy Prophet (sallal
laahu alaihi wasallam), one should not use the Harf-e-Nidaa. What these
enlightened individuals have forgotten is that twice daily the deeds of the
Ummati are placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
In many authentic Ahadith, it is quite clearly stated that all deeds of the
individual are placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi
wasallam), the deceased family and the deceased parents."
The numerous Ahadith on the above topic, is evident in the
book composed by this servant of Islam entitled, "Saltanatul Mustafa fi
Malakoot-e-Kullil Wara."
- Substantiating this, I will conclude this book by
mentioning a Hadith reported by Hazrat Imaam Abdullah ibn Mubarruk (radi
Allahu anhu), narrated by Hazrat Sa'eed ibn Musayyib (radi Allahu anhu),
who states: "Not a day or night passes by, without the deeds of the Ummati
are being placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
Therefore the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) recognizes his
followers in two ways, firstly by their Alamat (signs) and secondly by their
Amaal (deeds)."
This humble servant of Islam, with the Infinite Mercy of
Allah could have compiled a more lengthy book concerning this issue, however,
this is ample proof for a person possessing qualities of piety, justice and
honesty. Certainly, for those who have Allah's guidance, a single letter is
sufficient.
Ikfina sharal mudilleena Ya Kaafi wa salli ala Sayyidina
wa Maulana Muhammadinish shaafi wa Aalihi Wasahbihi Humaatid Deenis Saafi Aameen
wal Hamdulillahi Rabbil Aalameen.
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