A'LA HADRAT, IMAM-E-AHLE SUNNAT, MUJADDID-E-DEEN-O-MILLAT, ASH SHAH IMAM AHMED RAZA KHAN MUHADDITH BAREILWI AL-QAADIRI (RADI ALLAHU ANHU)-8
Al Malibari
HIS PERSONALITY, CHARACTER AND HABITS
HIS CHARACTER
Both the inner and outer personality of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was the same. He never compromised when it came to Shari'at-e-Mustapha (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam). He used to reprimand anyone who even uttered one word against Shari'ah. He was the living example of: “Love for the sake of Allah Ta'ala and hate for the sake of Allah Ta'ala.”
He never hurt the feelings of any good Muslim. He showed a splendid amount of affection towards the poor and orphans. On a certain occasion, A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza was invited to a person's house. Allama Zafruddeen Bihari (Alaihir Rahmah) 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 saw the beef on the table, he became very uncomfortable as he knew that Imam Ahmed Raza never used to eat beef. It did not agree with his health. But, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) did not object to the food. He sensed what Allama Zafruddeen (Alaihir Rahmah) 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 (Alaihir Rahmah) questioned the host about his reason for inviting A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) 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's presence in his home, his home would be blessed with Barakah and Mercy from Allah Ta'ala.
Once, a young boy went to see Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) at his home. He said, “Huzoor! You are invited to my house tomorrow morning.” A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan 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.” Imam Ahmed Raza said, “Very well then. I shall come tomorrow.”
The following morning, Hajee Kifaayatullah accompanied A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (Alaihir Rahmah) 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. Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) asked him, “Where is your father? 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.” Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) 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.”
ADHERENCE TO THE SUNNAH
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) laid great emphasis on the followance of the Sunnah of Sayyiduna Rasoolulah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam).
The following account clearly describes Imam Ahmed Raza's great trust and faith upon the Sunnah. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) 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 (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) 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 (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) are true and that the words of the doctor are 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 Allah Ta'ala! 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 Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) had in Allah Ta'ala and His beloved Habeeb (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) is recorded by Mawlana Mohammed Shareef. He says, “Once, when Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi was returning from Hajj by ship with his father, there was a great storm. The storm reached such intensity that the Captain of the ship advised the passengers to wear their kafans (shrouds), for he could see no escape from such a storm. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi, 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 Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi replied, 'O father! If the captain has lost hope then let him do so. We should have complete faith in Allah Ta'ala and His beloved Habeeb, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam). In accordance with the commands of the beloved Habeeb (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam), 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'. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) 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'.”
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi, having merely spoken these words, when the Captain arrived and began informing the passengers that the storm is subsiding and that there was no need for concern!
During his second Hajj, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was suffering from fever. As the fever subdued, he took his bath and rushed towards the Haram Shareef. In the meantime, it began to rain very heavily. Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) recollected a Hadith: “Whosoever performs Tawaaf amidst rain, swims in the bounty of Allah.” Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) kissed the Hajr-e-Aswad and started the Tawaaf forthwith, with the result that fever gripped him again. When Shaykh Sayyid Ismail Makki (Alaihir Rahmah), a noted Scholar of his time, came to know of it, he said to A'la Hadrat, “You did not care of yourself simply for a weak Hadith.” Upon this, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza replied: “Though the Hadith is weak, yet the hope is strong.” The heart-touching point is that even a weak Hadith touched the heart of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) to such an extent.
When Sayyidi Imam Ahmed Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was only 20 years old the Governor of Rampur had the great yearning to meet him. It so happened that Imam Ahmed Raza once visited Rampur. The Governor went and met him. The Governor was overwhelmed and as a mark of respect offered him a silver chair to sit on. Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) refused to sit on the silver chair saying that the use of silver furniture is Haraam. Feeling ashamed, the Governor requested Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) to sit on the bed.
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 (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) 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 Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi was illuminated with the glorious observance of Sunnat-e-Nabwi (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam).”
HAFIZ-UL-QUR'AN
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was intially not a Hafiz-ul-Qur'an. Once, someone wrote a letter to him and addressed him as “Hafiz”. When Imam Ahmed Raza 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 Holy Qur'an.
How did he become a Hafiz-ul-Qur'an? It has been stated that in the time period from Wudhu till the time of Jamaat, Hadrat Allama Sadrush Shari'at (Alaihir Rahmah) would recite one complete Sipara. Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) would listen to it and, thereafter, recite the same Sipara in the Taraweeh Salaah. He continued this routine for 30 days, and by the end of the Month of Ramadaan, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi became a complete Hafiz of the Holy Qur'an!
STANDARD OF PRAYERS
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) used to offer all the five prayers in congregation in the Mosque without fail. Even when he was ill, he would go to the Mosque sitting on a chair. Usually he came to the Mosque having made his Wudhu (ablution). Never did he offer his Fard Salaah without Amama (Islamic turban) and Angarkha (cloak). He was too particular about it even when it was too hot. He did not take his Salaah as a mere formality. He took it as personal appearance in the Highest Court of Allah Ta'ala. Hence, hot and cold weather could not influence him from his unshakable stand.
HIS CONTENTMENT AND HIS ABSTENTION FROM WORLDLY ACTIVITIES
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was an example of simple living. He chose to lead a simple and austere life. During his life he issued thousands of Fatawa but he never charged any money from anybody. He never charged for the issuing of Taweez. If anybody insisted on paying something, A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) flatly refused and made it clear that he would not sell Taweez [amulets]. Not withstanding, he accepted unconditional presents being a Sunnah. His life involved no pomp and show. Far from grand, his Madarsa was so simple. He had no personal servants at his disposal. He never disheartened the poor. He hardly accepted feasts from the rich. To be very clear, he was not fond of worldly riches. He did not pay Zakaat as his riches never touched the required level. He gave all is money to charity and to struggling students.
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) never celebrated the birthday of his own or of his sons, etc. A'la Hadrat celebrated the birthday (Eid-e-Milad-al-Nabi) of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alayhi Wasallam) with all the fervour. His son, Mufti-e-'Azam Hind, Mawlana Mustafa Raza Khan (Alaihir Rahmah) said that Sayyidi A'la Hadrat had no complaint with anyone who failed to attend the 'Urs but A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) definitely expressed his displeasure with those who failed to attend the auspicious function of the Holy Birth (Eid-e-Milad-al-Nabi) of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alayhi Wasallam) organized by Sayyidi A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) at his residence.
It is recorded that Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) had a few acres of land in his possession whose maintenance he left entirely in the responsibility and trust of others. Although Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi received a monthly allowance from his own property, he spent his allowance in the service of guests, of Sayeds and in the purchasing of books. There were times when Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi 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, Ghandi was advised that he should meet with the distinguished Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah). This suggestion was made to Ghandi by people such as the Ali Brothers, Mawlana Qiyamuddin and Abdul Baari Faranghi. They said that since Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi commanded the respect of the large Muslim populace, it would assist them in their Khilafat Movement. When Sayyidi A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) was told that the Ghandi 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]
OBEDIENCE TOWARDS PARENTS
After the demise of his father, Allama Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (Alaihir Rahmah), Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) inherited all his properties. Although he was the sole owner and beneficiary of these properties, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan never spent a single cent of this wealth without first seeking the permission of his blessed mother. Even if he wished to buy a Kitaab for study purposes he asked permission from his mother!
When Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) wished to fulfill his heart's desire of being present in front of the Rauda-e-Anwar he first sought the permission of his mother. She immediately granted him permission by saying: “Bismillahi Khuda Hafiz.”
RESPECT TOWARDS THE SUPERIOR ULEMA
While studying the life of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah), 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 Muslims he was the shining example of “Ruhhamaoo bainahuma” [caring towards each other].
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza always showed immense love and respect towards the 'Ulema of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah. He had a liking towards Allama Abdul Qaadir Badayouni (Alaihir Rahmah). Concerning the Ulema-e-Haq, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) 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 a city, it becomes a barren town.”
Hadrat Mahdi Hassan Barkaati (Alaihir Rahmah), the Sajjada-e-Nashin of Sarkaare Kilan Marehra Shareef states, “When I used to go to Bareilly Shareef, Huzoor Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) would personally bring out the food for me, and he would also wash my hands. Once, while washing my hands, he requested that I give him my ring and bangle which were made of gold. I immediately presented them to him. Later, I departed to Bombay. When I returned to Marehra 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 Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi wrote presenting the jewels to my daughter.”
Subhan-Allah! Look at the respect and wisdom that Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) showed towards his superiors. He practised upon the law of “Amr bil Ma'roof Wa Nahi Anil Munkir” [enjoining good and forbidding evil] and the same time showing great respect towards Hadrat Mahdi Hassan Barkaati (Alaihir Rahmah).
RESPECT FOR THE MASJID
Once, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) was performing I'tikaaf in the Masjid in Bareilly Shareef. It was a cold winter's night. It was raining quiet heavily. Sayyidi A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) 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. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi 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.
LOVE AND RESPECT TOWARDS PILGRIMS
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) always showed great respect to pilgrims (Hajees). He made it his duty to meet with the Hajees when they arrived from the Haramain Sharifain. Whenever he would meet a Hajee, the very first question he used to ask was, “Did you visit the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam)?” If the answer he received was in the affirmative, then he would kiss the feet of the Hajee. If the Hajee replied that he did not, then Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) would show his dissatisfaction and would end his conversation with that person.
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 madressa. But, he says that Eid was always spent joyfully because Imam Ahmed Raza 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, Mawlana Ibrahim Raza Khan (Alaihir Rahmah), who is the father of Taajush Shariah, Hadrat Allama Mufti Mohammed Akhtar Raza Khan Al Azhari, was born, his grand-father, Imam Ahmed Raza, out of great joy, invited all the students of Madressa Manzare Islam to a meal. Before preparing the meal, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan 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 Breyani for the Bihari students; and sheep for the Punjabi and other foreign students.
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) 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 Salaams of little children.
A FEW OF IMAM AHMED RAZA KHAN'S HABITS
1. He never kept any ordinary book on the books of Ahadith.
2. He would be displeased if anyone spoke out unnecessarily while he explained the Ahadith.
3. 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.
4. He would sit in the position of Tashahhud from the beginning to the end in a Mehfil-e-Meelad which sometimes lasted for 5 or 6 hours.
5. He would never chew paan during a lecture.
6. On hearing the name “Muhammad”, he would immediately say Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam.
7. He would never laugh out aloud.
8. He slept in the position of the Arabic form of the word “Muhammad”.
9. He would never spit or stretch his feet in the direction of the Qibla.
10. He always did everything form the right-hand-side.
HIS LOVE FOR THE HOLY PROPHET MUHAMMAD (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) spent every moment of his life praising the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam). Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Allah Ta'ala and His beloved Rasool (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam).
Once, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) went into the Raza Masjid in Bareilly Shareef. He was confronted by a Majzoob, Hadrat Dhoka Shah (Alaihir Rahmah). The Majzoob said, “O Ahmed Raza! I see the Power of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) only on the earth and not in the skies.”
Imam Ahmed Raza replied: “The Power of Huzoor (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) is on the earth and in the skies.” The Majzoob said that he could not see this.
Imam Ahmed Raza 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 (Alaihir Rahmah), who was still a child, was playing on the roof of the house. When Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) reached the house, his mother came up to him and said, “You should know better than to argue with Majzoobs. Look! Mustapha Raza has fallen off the roof.” Imam Ahmed Raza Khan enquired 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 Razas' on the Raza (pleasure) of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam), but I will not allow one word to be uttered against the dignity of Rasool-e-Akram (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam).”
After some time, the Majzoob returned and met Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) and said, “O Ahmed Raza! You are victorious. Our case was brought up before Sultaanul-Hind, Hadrat Khwaja Gharib-un Nawaaz (Alaihir Rahmah). He had passed the verdict on your behalf, and Alhamdulillah, through your blessings, I am now able to see the Karam (mercy) of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) even in the skies.”
It has been recorded that Hadrat Mawlana Naee'muddeen Muradabadi once asked Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) the reason from him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam). Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) replied, “O Mawlana! I am severe upon those people because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) 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 (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) is spared from these insults.”
The above mentioned incidents clearly highlights the following thoughts of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah): “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 Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam).”
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 Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) without which, Islam is a body without a soul.”
Also commenting on the great love that Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) had for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam), Justice Shamim Hussain Qadri, Punjab High Court, Lahore (Pakistan), said: “He was a devotee of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) from the deepest chambers of his heart, and to popularise this attitude is the need of the hour. Love, affection and devotion to the Holy Prophet's (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) personality is the only solution to the multi-farious problems of our temporal life and a solution for the life hereafter.”
LOVE AND RESPECT FOR THE SAYEDS
It is Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) who showed the Muslim world how to respect the descendants or family (Sayeds/Saadaat) of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam). On the instruction of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat, Sayeds would receive a double share of Shirnee (sweetmeats) in assemblies of Meelad Shareef. He would kiss the hands of the Sayeds, fulfill their needs and seat them in places of distinction in his gatherings.
Love for them was the fundamental nature of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (Alaihir Rahmah), praise for the Ahle Bait and Saadaat was the Wazifa of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan and serving them was his Imaan. A'la Hadrat's Hadaa'iq-e-Bakhshish stands proof of this love. Drowned in his love, he writes:
Kya Baat Raza Us Chamanistaan-e-Karam ki
Zahrah hei Kali jis mei Hussain aur Hasan Phool
“Raza, what can be said of that beautiful garden of mercy!
Wherein Zahrah is the blossom of grandeur and Hasan and Hussain, the scented flowers.”
Teri Nasl-e-Paak mei hei Bacha Bacha Noor Ka
Tu hei Ain-e-Noor Tera sub Gharaana Noor ka
“Ya Rasoolallah! Every child of your lineage is Noor,
You are the fountain head of Noor, your entire family is Noor.”
His entire life is filled with incidents wherein he showed love and respects to Sayeds. We narrate a few.
Many are aware of this famous incident. Once, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was invited to the home of a certain person. In those days, the 'Ulema were carried in palanquins [a seat supported by poles with four carriers] as a means of transport. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi was sitting in one of these palanquins that was carried by carriers. As they proceeded along the way, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan suddenly commanded the carriers to halt. He immediately alighted from the palanquin and asked, “Who is a Sayed from amongst you? I am receiving the scent of a Sayed.” One of the carriers, who was a Sayed, was too afraid to speak. Nevertheless, when Imam Ahmed Raza further prompted that person to reveal himself, he came forward and admitted that he was Sayed.
With tears in his eyes, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) fell at his feet and began asking for pardon. The Sayed continuously asked Imam Ahmed Raza to refrain from doing so but Imam Ahmed Raza continued asking for pardon, saying, “Please forgive me. What would I do on the Day of Qiyamah if the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam) asks me concerning this incident, and says to me that I showed disrespect to his family?”
The Sayed readily forgave Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah). But this Aashiq-e-Rasool (Sallal Laahu Alayhi Wasallam) was not yet satisfied. He commanded the Sayed to sit on the palanquin, placed it on his shoulders and carried the Sayed for the same distance which he had been carried!
Allahu Akbar! Those who had been witnesses to this incident could not believe that the Imam of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, the Mujaddid of Islam, was carrying a palanquin-bearer on his shoulders. But to Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah), that person that he was carrying was a family of the Holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu Alaihi Wasallam)!
It has also been stated that a child, who was a Sayed, used to live in the vicinity of Bareilly Shareef. The child used to play outside the house of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah). Sayyidi A'la Hadrat would be busy writing but could see outside his home as his door used to be open. Each time that the child ran pass the door, the great Imam would stand up in respect for that child. Even when the child passed the door ten times in a day, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi used to stand up ten times in a day as a mark of respect for that Sayed child.
As it is expected of a devout Muslim, A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) always surrendered before a Sayed unconditionally. Sayedul-Ulema Hadrat Ale-Mustafa Marahravi (Alaihir Rahmah), once disclosed a very interesting thing. A thought came to his mind that A'la Hadrat possessed all outstanding qualities but one, i.e. he was not a Sayed. A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) took birth in a Pathan family. Sayedul-Ulema (Alaihir Rahmah) said that when he thought over the case of the palanquin, he was forced to give a second thought to his earlier thinking. He was then able to understand as to why Sayyidi A'la Hadrat (Alaihir Rahmah) was a non-Sayed. If he was a Sayed, how could the people know what respect should be given to a Sayed and how he should be dealt with.
When Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was asked about the Islamic punishment that was to be meted out to a Sayed, he remarked, “Even though a Judge is called upon to declare judgement and punishment upon a Sayed, and the penalty that he has decreed is within the tenets of Islam, he (the Judge), should not have the Niyah (intention) that he is punishing the Sayed. Rather, he should think that a small amount of mud has smeared itself on the Sayed's feet, which he is merely washing away”. [Al Malfuz]
LOVE FOR GHAUS AL-AZAM SHAYKH ABDUL QAADIR JILAANI
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) possessed immense love for Sultaanul Awliya, Sayyiduna Ghausul Azam, Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jilani (Alaihir Rahmah).
Hadrat Muhaddith-e-Azam Hind (Alaihir Rahmah) reported that in the period when he was given permission to serve in the Darul Ifta at Bareilly Shareef, Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) bought sweets (Niyaz) to the value of 11 Rupees and made the Fatiha of Ghaus al-Azam (Alaihir Rahmah). He then distributed the sweets to those who were present. While the sweets were being distributed, those who were present became astonished to see Imam Ahmed Raza standing up from his chair and kneeling down on to the floor. They came closer to see what had happened. Then only did they realise that the person distributing the Niyaz had dropped a little on the ground and Imam Ahmed Raza was lifting this piece of Niyaz with the tip of his tongue! This alone will show the great amount of love and respect that Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) possessed for Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jilani (Alaihir Rahmah).
It has been stated that Imam Ahmed Raza was not only the Na'ib (Helper) of Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jilaani (Alaihir Rahmah), but he was also the Ghausul Azam of his time. He wrote many Manqabats in praise of Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jilani (Alaihir Rahmah).
LOVE FOR HIS PEER-O-MURSHID AND HIS FAMILY
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) possessed immense love for his Peer-o-Murshid [Spiritual Master] and for the family members. He also displayed his love for all those who had contact with them and respected them. Whenever Imam Ahmed Raza went to Marehra Shareef to gain blessings from his Peer-o-Murshid, he would remove his shoes at the station and walk bare feet in Marehra Shareef! Whenever any person or representative from Marehra Shareef arrived in Bareilly Shareef to deliver a letter or parcel to Imam Ahmed Raza 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. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah) would personally go into the house and bring food for that person. He even used to carry the dish or plate of food on his head!
If this is the respect that Sayyidi Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) showed towards the representatives of his Peer-o-Murshid and his family, one cannot imagine or fathom the respect which he showed towards them personally!
LOVE FOR SULTAANUL HIND
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza(Alaihir Rahmah), who was satiated at the pond of Sultaanul Awliya, Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jilaani (Alaihir Rahmah), says beautifully about the showers of blessings that were obtained by Sultaanul Hind, Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaaz, Hadrat Khwaja Mu'inuddin Chisti Ajmeri (Alaihir Rahmah):
Mazra'a Chisht o Bukhara o Iraq o Ajmer
Kaun Si Kasht Pey Barsaa Nahi Jhala Teyra?
“The lands of Chisht, Bukhara, Iraq and Ajmer
Upon which lands did your blessings not fall?”
Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) wrote a book titled Zeelul Muddu'a Al Hasanul Wa'aa (Published by Raza Academy, Mumbai), in which he has stated the places where supplications are accepted by Allah Ta'ala. In that section he has specifically mentioned the court of Sultaanul Hind, Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaaz (Alaihir Rahmah) as the place that Allah Ta'ala especially accepts supplications in Hindustan.
One of the objections that were raised during the time of Sayyidi A'la Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza (Alaihir Rahmah) was that Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaaz should not be called “Ghareeb Nawaaz” (Helper of the Poor). Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelwi wrote a detailed and comprehensive reply to that objection. At the end he wrote emphatically, “Sultaanul Hind is the Helper of the truth and the religion, and is definitely the Helper to the Poor.”
Allama Hasan Raza Khan Barelwi (Alaihir Rahmah), who is a great poet and a master with words, and is the brother of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan, wrote the following memorable verse in relation to Sultaanul Hind (Alaihir Rahmah):
Khwaja e Hind Woh Darbaar Hai A'ala Teyra
Kabhi Mehroom Nahi Maangney Waala Teyra
“Master of Hind, Your court is so exalted
No beggar in your court is ever deprived”
Similarly, when objections were raised because of the fact that the word “Shareef” was added to Ajmer, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan gave such a complete reply to this objection in Fatawa-e-Radawiyyah that it silenced the critics.