Who Were the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband?

Who Were the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند)
(By: Mufti Muhammad Noman Daji, Batley, UK - course.correspondence@gmail.com)
(After Asar, Monday 13th June 2021 –  
4th Zul-Qa’dah 1442 A.H)

Motivation
I had shared my piece titled “Seven Key Names of the ‘Discipline of the Inner Characters’ (علم الأخلاق) & What These Names Signify” with the intended and targeted audience. I usually have a read after I have shared too for a number of reasons.

At this point of reading it created an inner desire (داعية) and inspiration to share only the section from the piece that discusses who the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were to highlight and zoom in on their great and extraordinary personalities. The afore-mentioned piece was a bit lengthy (relatively speaking) so I thought it is possible the point does not come across or is lost. Hence, it should be posted separately to pinpoint their personalities. I had liked how the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) had been described in the piece.

It seems the love for the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) had come to the forefront that galvanised me to pen this dedicated (اصالةً) piece rather than sharing it as a post which could get lost. The mention (ذكر) of these ‘Great Scholars’ (كبار علماء) and ‘Friends of Allah Ta’ala’ (أولياء الله) is a source of blessing, inspiration and a means of increasing ones Iman (إيمان). Hence, worth penning, sharing and reading.

As a side note (جملة معترضة) anyone who knows me well or who reads my reflections, pieces and articles (in general including the several eulogies that I have penned) knows that I measure my words and I try to be as accurate as I can. I do not over praise or exaggerate in my praising or use words without measuring them. Hence, whatever I write regarding these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) is no exaggeration. Not even a tiny bit. There is a tendency in most to go to either extreme when praising or dispraising (افراط و تفريط). I have tried to state the facts and be accurate as much as I could neither exaggerating, overlooking or reducing their real worth. I have tried to be balanced. The truth is these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were truly extraordinary and unique. It seems and feels they were sent collectively for a special and divine purpose.

My vessel of the spiritual heart has since my childhood been overflowing with the love and admiration of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) - and still is. I also harboured the desire from an early age to study at this great, unique and inspirational seat of advanced Islamic learning. I was able to accomplish this dream through the mercy and grace of Allah Ta’ala. فللّٰه الحمد اوّلاً و آخراً

In my previous piece my mention of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) was as part of the discussion (ضمناً) on the topic at hand as I like to bring their mention into the discussion wherever it is relevant. The inner desire at the time was to share that particular section separately as a post to create additional focus on the topic and inspire those who attribute themselves to follow their lead in their various dimensions and central characteristic.

However, I thought I will wait a week and share the relevant parts after a week or so. In the meantime I thought I will pen a reflection (as part of the ‘Reflections’ series) I had been intending to write for a couple of weeks. Allah Ta’ala had different plans. And the divine plans are always more beautiful, better and centred on wisdom. Allah Ta’ala put in my spiritual heart that I should pen it as a proper piece (and not just share the relevant parts from the previous piece as an ordinary post) and also pen the additional thoughts Allah Ta’ala had dropped into my spiritual heart. Hence, this has culminated and transpired in the form of this piece. اللهمَّ تقبّل و بارِك وانفعنا بها

Acknowledgements & Gratitude
I am the beneficiary of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) in more ways than one. I attribute and owe my Islam and my understanding of Islam to them directly and indirectly.

I also acknowledge and appreciate the immense, incredible and unique contributions of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) in all areas of the Deen; their incredible role in preserving the true teachings of the beautiful Deen of Islam and in reviving and preserving the Islam of hundreds of millions of Muslims.

I have since my childhood admired and been inspired by the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) after listening about them. Their love and admiration only keeps increasing.

Their love and inspiration was the driving force and the primary motivation that took me to study at this great and accepted (مقبول) seat of advanced Islamic learning known as ‘Darul Uloom Deoband’. I am forever indebted to them. I continue to love and be inspired by them. I hope it is my means of salvation in the Hereafter as I have nothing else.

It is a quarter century ago (25 years) when I first set foot at Darul Uloom Deoband as a student and my first ever visit. It was an amazing and blissful experience. I still feel the experience. I entered Darul Uloom through the main gate known as the Qasmi Gate (بابِ قاسم). I wandered around the area known as Mulsari (ملسری). I felt I was home. I could feel the spirituality of Darul Uloom Deoband in my spiritual heart. It felt the Darul Uloom was founded on the foundations of sincerity and piety (اُسِّس على التقوىٰ). It felt the spiritual foundations were very deep.

Naming of the Pieces
The afore-mentioned piece on Tasawwuf (تصوّف) can be easily named as “What is Tasawwuf (تصوّف)” as it describes the various angles of the discipline by shedding light and focus on some of its key names. “What is Tasawwuf (تصوّف)” which would translate into Urdu as تصوّف کیا ہے and would be in line with the naming convention of this piece which translates into Urdu as أكابر علماء ديوبند کیا تھے.

The piece on Tasawwuf (تصوّف) can also be potentially named as “An Overview and Cursory Introduction to Tasawwuf (تصوّف)”. “An Overview and Cursory Introduction to Tasawwuf (تصوّف)” which would translate into Urdu as تصوّف کا ایک اجمالی تعارُف and the name of this current piece can also be أكابر علماء ديوبند کا ایک اجمالی تعارُف to be in line with the naming convention of the above sister piece. That would translate to “An Overview and Cursory Introduction to the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند)”.

One key reason to discuss the similarities in the naming of the two sister pieces is to highlight the intra-connectivity and how the two pieces are intertwined. Also, to point out the two pieces should be read alongside each other to gain maximum insight and benefit.

Terminology (اصطلاح) of ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند)
This term ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) is a specific term (اصطلاح). It refers to a specific group of scholars from all the scholars and graduates from Darul Uloom Deoband. This term is more specific (خاص) than the term ‘Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (علماء ديوبند). The term ‘Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (علماء ديوبند) is more general (عام).

The term ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) refers to the initial generations of this seat of learning connected to it in one way or the other. I don’t want to draw the line where it ends as that is not the point of the piece (neither it is within my reach). The ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) include:

~ Qasim-ul-Uloom wal Khairat, Hujjat Al-Islam, Hazrat Aqdas Moulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi (RA) - Founder of Darul Uloom Deoband (بانی دار العلوم ديوبند)

~ Imam Rabbani Hazrat Aqdas Moulana Rashid Ahmad Gangohi (RA) - First Patron (سرپرست اوّل)

~ Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) - Second Patron (سرپرست ثانی)

~ Jami Al-Maqool wal Manqool Hazrat Moulana Yaqoob Sahib Nanotwi (RA)

~ Mufti Aa’zam Hazrat Mufti Aziz-ur-Rahman Sahib Usmani (RA)

~ Hazrat Moulana Miya Asghar Ali Sahib Deobandi (RA)

~ Sheikh-Ul-Hind Hazrat Moulana Mahmood Hasan Deobandi (RA)

~ Muhaddith Al-Asr Allamah Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA)

~ Fakhrul Muhadditheen Hazrat Moulana Khalil Ahmad Sahib Saharanpuri (RA)

~ Sheikh Ul Islam Hazrat Moulana Husain Ahmed Madani (RA)

~ Mufassir Al-Quran Allamah Shabbir Ahmed Usmani (RA)

I have only listed eleven. However, there is a group (طائفة) of these great scholars (which I cannot comprehensively list and is not the point). I have named a select few (11 to be precise) to provide a glimpse of who these greats consists of. There are others too.

It is pertinent to mention Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki (RA). Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki (RA) is regarded as the Sayyid At-Taifah (سيّد الطائفة) as the chains of Tasawwuf and Tariqat lead to him. The first three great scholars (above) were the direct disciples (خلفاء) of this great Sheikh and Murshid. The other great scholars and the subsequent scholars are indirectly connected to Hazrat Haji Sahib (RA).

What is Darul Uloom Deoband
It seems pertinent and relevant to briefly mention what ‘Darul Uloom Deoband’ represents as these great scholars associated to this great seat of advanced Islamic learning are being discussed in this piece.

Darul Uloom Deoband is a seat of advanced Islamic learning founded in the era of British rule and occupation with the mission and intent to preserve the identity of the Muslims of India of the time; to preserve the correct, pure and unadulterated teachings of the beautiful Deen of Islam in every way; to produce highly qualified and skilled scholars and experts in all the Islamic sciences; etc.

At the time of its founding India was not partitioned. Hence, it was the undivided India (غير منقسم انڈیا). The undivided India consisted of current day India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Darul Uloom Deoband has certainly accomplished its mission par excellence. Also, its light and radiance has reached every corner of the globe. It has been the beacon of Islam for the past 150 plus years.

If Darul Uloom Deoband just produced one towering and giant scholar like Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) it would still be worth of gold. The reality and beauty is Darul Uloom Deoband has produced a long list of towering and giant scholars coupled with piety and integrity. Such is the productivity and quality of this great seat of advanced Islamic learning.

Also, as a result of Darul Uloom Deoband there are thousands of Darul Ulooms all over the globe which are effectively branches (شاخیں) of this great seat of advanced Islamic learning. For this reason Darul Uloom Deoband is regarded as Ummul Madaris (أم المدارس) - Mother of All Darul Ulooms - and also known as Azhar-ul-Hind (ازهر الهند) - The Azhar of India - due to the class and quality of its teachings. It is truly unique. I say this with full insight, confidence and conviction.

‘Darul Uloom Deoband’ is affectionately just known as ‘Darul Uloom’ as it is the Ummul Madaris (أم المدارس) and all the other Darul Ulooms (wherever they are in the world and however big they are) are Madaris and it’s children.

The light of Darul Uloom Deoband and it’s great scholars is still emanating and shining in all four corners of the world. And we pray that long it may continue to shine and emanate the light of Truth. آمين يا ربّ العالمين

Those who are associated and follow the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) and their methodology are known as ‘Deobandi’ (ديوبندى) or from the ‘Deobandi School of Thought’ (ديوبندى مكتبِ فكر).

This term “Deobandi” or the “Deobandi School of Thought” is not a term that is to signify a new group (جماعت). Darul Uloom Deoband is not really a separate school of thought (مكتبِ فكر). If anyone does regard it as the Deobandi School of Thought then be it. However, it should be noted that the Deobandi School of Thought are part of and the greatest proponents of the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة). This naming (Deobandi School of Thought) is to differentiate it from other groups who attribute themselves to the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة) but are off the mark in their understanding of the beautiful Deen of Islam.

All the beliefs of the Deobandi School of Thought are in line with the beliefs of the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة). Their Maslak (مسلك) is the Maslak (مسلك) of the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة). They adhere to the Maslak (مسلك) in the most pure and unadulterated way.

The above is in regards to the beliefs (عقيدة). Hence, to append to this point on the Maslak (مسلك) of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) in regards to Fiqh (فقه) they were Muqallid (مُقلِّد) and only accepted the view to follow any one of the Four Mazhabs (مذاهبِ اربعه) of Fiqh i.e. Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’ee and Hanbali. The  ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were themselves followers of the Hanafi Fiqh.

It should be noted and pointed out that amongst these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) some had reached to such high level due to the vast and depths of knowledge in all the Islamic sciences that scholars have said they had reached the level of a Mujtahid (مجتهد). Despite reaching this level in Fiqh (فقه) they never moved away from being a follower of the Mazhab (مذهب) i.e. being a Muqallid (مُقلِّد). They strictly followed one Mazhab without any mixing and matching. One great scholar who has been written about who reached this lofty level is Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA). Similar can be said of Muhaddith Al-Asr Allamah Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA).

And for completeness in regards to the following of the ‘Schools of Tasawwuf and Tariqat’ the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were adherents of the Chishtiyah School. They would follow the Chishtiyah methodology for spiritual purification and would attribute themselves to this School. However, they would take a pledge (Bai’ah / بيعة) on all the four popular Schools of Tasawwuf and Tariqat (i.e. Chishtiyah, Naqshbandiyah, Qadriyah and Sahawardiyah) to maintain their affiliation and respect with the other schools. Also, following any of the other three schools was accepted by them too.

The Path of Inner Purification is also called and referred to as a Maslak (مسلك) when it is mentioned alone. However, when this word - Maslak (مسلك) - is already in use alongside the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة) in the same discussion then the word used for the Schools of Tasawwuf and Tariqat is Mashrab (مشرب).

The truth is this great grouping of these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) is a unique grouping of the Scholars of Haqq (علماء حقّ) in this large quantity (كميت) and with this incredible quality (كيفيت) in recent times. Allah Ta’ala grant us all true appreciation of these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) and to follow in their noble footsteps.

The Sahaba (صحابة) Companions of the Holy Prophet (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين) are ‘Gold Standard’ for any groups of followers as they are the direct beneficiaries of our most beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him). The template and form of any group or grouping needs to fit the mould and cast of the Sahaba (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين). We can confidently say the mould and cast for the grouping of these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) fits perfectly with the ‘Gold Standard’ of Sahaba (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين).

Some Dimensions of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند)
I would like to mention the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) had numerous dimensions and arrows in their bow. Too many to list all so some of them are mentioned. They were teachers and instructors (معلّم و مدرّس), experts in Aqeedah and Kalam (متكلّم), experts in Tafseer (مفسّر), experts in Hadeeth (محدّث), experts in Fiqh (فقيه), experts in Mantiq and Falsafah (معقولى), writers (مصنّف), compilers (مولّف), freedom fighters and warriors (مجاهد), preachers (مبلّغ), callers towards the Deen (داعى), spiritual mentors and guides (مرشد), serving their communities (خادِم القوم), etc etc but at the heart and central to everything their spiritual heart was a Sufi (صوفى).

Their spiritual hearts (قلب) were purified (مُزَكّىٰ), pure and clean (مُصَفّىٰ), filled and brimming with sincere well wishing towards humanity (ناصِح), filled and brimming  (معمور) with the love of Allah Ta’ala (حُبّ الله) and the love of our most beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him) (حُبّ الرّسول) and much more.

This powerful inner state (روحانيت) that fuelled their apparent academic and other outer dimensions was the underlying reason that led to their far reaching effects of the effort, revival and preservation of the correct and balanced teachings of the complete Deen of Islam. We all need to stick closely and tightly to their teachings in every manner and in every branch of the beautiful Deen of Islam. The preservation of our Deen of Islam and the Deen of our future generations lies in this. The contrary state is a slippery one towards disbelief. اللهم احفظنا

The ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were great Muwahhid (موحِّد) in the complete sense (belief and practice). They observed Tauheed at the belief level i.e. Tauheed I’itiqaadi (توحيد اعتقادى) and also internalised Tauheed into their practices, physical and inner actions, interactions, mindset, etc in their daily life i.e. Tauheed Fa’ly (توحيد فعلى). They lived and breathed Tauheed (توحيد).

The ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) strictly observed and adhered to all aspects of the Sunnah (مُتّبع السُّنَّة) and also revived the Sunnah (احياء السُّنَّة). Also, they kept far away from engaging in any form of Bidah (بِدعة). Instead they  were active in getting rid of Bidah (بِدعة) i.e. (ماحى البِدعة) whether the Bidah (بِدعة) was related to beliefs (عقائد) or was related to actions (اعمال). The actions (اعمال) cover both the apparent (ظاهر) and inner (باطن).

Another way to look at who the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were is to say that they were Jami bayn Ash-Shariat wa At-Tariqat - جامع بين الشريعة و الطريقة. What that means is they had combined both the sciences of Ahkaam Zahirah (احكام ظاهرة) - i.e. Actions (اعمال) and the sciences of Ahkaam Batinah (احكام باطنة) - i.e. Inner Characters (أخلاق) - or in other words they were the scholars who had combined, internalised, instilled and also taught both the Shariat and Tariqat (i.e. Fiqh Zahir (فقه ظاهر) and Fiqh Batin (فقه باطن)).

Their approach to the Deen was in the complete sense. Hence, you can call them Kamileen (كاملين) - the truly greats of this Ummah. These greats who combined both dimensions (inner and outer) and every aspect of the Deen are also called Muhaqqiqeen (مُحَقِّقين). The ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were of this noble and great category. الحمدالله

As a result of this pure and holistic approach to the Deen they had become Faqeeh An-Nafs (فقيه النفس) as their inner and outer were in total synch and in harmony with the spirit of the Deen. As a result of this they naturally concluded and gravitated towards the right decisions and right actions as their spiritual hearts had become clean and pure (قلب سليم) and so had their mind and intellect (عقل سليم).

Another way to understand and look at our ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) is that they practiced and acquired and/or were bestowed with all the Four Dimensions of the beautiful Deen. The Four Dimensions of the beautiful Deen as mentioned in the discipline and books on Tazkiyah are:

1. Shariah (شريعت)
2. Tariqat (طريقت)
3. Haqeeqat (حقيقت)
4. Marifat (معرفت)

Based on the first dimension - Shariah (شريعت) - which the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were practicing they were Mutasharri (متشرِّع); based on the second dimension - Tariqat (طريقت) - which they were practicing they were Sufi (صوفى); based on the third dimension - Haqeeqat (حقيقت) - which they had mastered they were Muhaqqiq (محقِّق) and based on the fourth dimension - Marifat (معرفت) - which they had acquired or were bestowed with they were Arif (عارِف).

One thing to note that the meaning of Muhaqqiq (محقِّق) - above - is not one who does research (تحقيق) i.e. a researcher as we know it. The meaning of Muhaqqiq (محقِّق) here is about gaining insights into the deep realities (حقايق) of the physical and spiritual world. Research (تحقيق) is like a children’s activity in comparison to these deep insights.

Another way to view the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) in terms of their practice of the Deen of Islam is that they practiced every branch of the Deen and also taught the believers the importance of each and every branch of the Deen. The beautiful Deen of Islam has been categorised into five branches (شعبہ جات) by Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA). The five branches of the beautiful Deen of Islam are:

1. Beliefs (I’itiqadaat / اعتقادات)
2. Worship (Ibadaat / عبادات)
3. Financial Transactions (Muamalaat / معاملات)
4. Social Interactions (Muasharat / معاشرة)
5. Purifying the Soul, Heart and Nafs
(Tasawwuf / تصوّف) & Tazkiyah / تزكية)

These ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) practiced all the five branches. Based on this complete practice they can be called Mutadayyin (مُتديِّن) i.e. دین دار as they covered the practice of the complete Deen and not just one or two branches. And they also emphasised this completeness and following the complete and total Deen to their followers too and highlighted this reality in their speeches and writings. This was part of their revival and preservation of the total and complete Deen they undertook.

And to add to all the above points our  ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) exemplified I’itidal (اعتدال) - right balance - in all aspects of the Deen and in the different Deeni roles they had. The ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) exemplified I’itidal (اعتدال) in protecting the boundaries of the Shariah (Hifz Hudood Shariah / حفظ حدود شريعة). Also, the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) exemplified I’itidal (اعتدال) in  balancing the correct level of rights of everyone (Hifz Huqooq / حفظ حقوق).

You can say this practice of I’itidal (اعتدال) - right balance - in all aspects and areas of the Deen and the roles they had is the Manhaj (منهج) i.e. طریقہ کار - methodology - of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند). This methodology of I’itidal (اعتدال) - right balance - in all aspects of the Deen and the roles we play needs to be learnt from them.

To top up the above characters and areas of greatness all this was infused effortlessly and sincerely with immense simplicity (بذاذة) and without any pomp and show or pretension. None of this. They were never interested in trying to impress anyone with their knowledge, depth of knowledge, mastery in all the Islamic sciences (علوم عقلية و علوم نقلية اور علوم آلية و علوم عالية) and neither in the piety and total practice of the Deen. At the same time they would not ignore or dismiss anyone. They would give attention where it was required. Otherwise, they would remain busy in their task and mission. Hence, when we study the lives of our notable and ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) we do not find any kind of Takalluf (تكلُّف) in them and their lifestyle despite the greatness in knowledge, piety, refinement, character, politics, etc. We only find immense simplicity. This is the true prophetic behaviour. Hence, when we go back to our primary role model - our most beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him) - and his faithful and loyal Sahaba (صحابة) - Companions -  (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين) we also do not see this kind of Takalluf (تكلُّف) in their daily interactions with each other or others.

To conclude this section on the greatness of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) it seems appropriate to mention the famous couplet by the Poet Farazdaq to his arch rival Jareer. This couplet is usually mentioned at times like this.

أولَئِكَ آبائي فَجِئني بِمِثلِهِم

إِذا جَمَعَتْنا يا جَريرُ المَجامِعُ

These are my fore-fathers (after praising and extolling their virtues), so bring me anyone like them (from your clan).

If we ever gather in a gathering O Jareer!


I (and many others like me) are really proud (in a humble way) of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) due to their extraordinary accomplishments and contributions in terms of the Deen and more. However, I am under no illusion that I am not like them. Yes, I am trying to emulate them in every way and trying to follow in their footsteps to the best I can. But the truth is I lack far far behind in their knowledge and piety or their courage and determination. I am only banking on my sincere love for them to push me through the ‘line of success’ in the Hereafter and to be blessed with their auspicious company in Paradise as they will be with our most beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him) and his great and loyal Sahaba (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين). The prophetic saying المرء مع من اَحَبّ resonates well with me.

Below is a couplet I had written in one of my ‘Islahi’ correspondence (اصلاحى خط) with my beloved and compassionate mentor and guide Hazrat Moulana Masihullah Khan Jalalabadi (RA). The point was I have nothing so I am banking on my love for the righteous like my beloved Sheikh. This correspondence was from over three decades ago whilst I was a teenager. The sentiment still exist. There is no change if not it has gone stronger and clearer due to the increase in the spiritual maturity and the increase in clarity it brings. The greater the spiritual maturity comes the increased clarity.

أُحِبُّ الصالِحينَ وَلَستُ مِنهُم
لَعَلَّ الله يَرْزُقُنِي صَلاَحاً

I (deeply) love the righteous, but I am (clear I am) not one of them.

I do hope from Allah Ta’ala that He will bestow me with righteousness (due to this sincere love and to be like them).

Sincere Counsel (نصيحة) to Students of Knowledge, Darul Uloom Graduates and Scholars

The Arabic and the word used in the Holy Quran and Sunnah for ‘Sincere Counsel’ is نصيحة (Naseehat). This word is used in multiple forms. For example, in this exact word, in a noun form and verb form in the Holy Quran and Sunnah. I have a detailed reflection on Sincere Counsel (نصيحة) so I don’t want to go into the detail of what it entails. The translation of this word is sufficient for this piece. The referred piece is titled “Ramadhan Mubarak Reflections (5) – Sincere Well-Wishing to ALL (An-Naseehah)”. This reflection is part of the ‘Series of Reflections on Ramadhan Mubarak’.

I want to point out that this duty to have sincere well-wishing and to offer and impart ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة) is for every believer (مسلم و مسلمة). It is not exclusive to a pious person or a senior scholar, etc. Anyone can and should offer this ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة) when it is needed even the one being given the  ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة) is equal in stature or higher or equal or higher than you in terms of knowledge, etc. Hence, this section has my ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة) to fellow students of knowledge, graduates of Darul Ulooms and scholars.

The reason I have to mention this disclaimer is there are too many ‘nut cases’ and wrongheaded people with crooked and absurd understanding (کج فہم) of the Deen in every group. Hence, such disclaimers are helpful for various reasons. It should be noted that ‘Nut case’ is two words but the meaning and essence is one and whole (معنىٰ كُلّى).

There is a balance that needs to be struck in applying humility (تواضع) so it is only humility (تواضع) and not the Izzat-e-Nafs (عزّتِ نفس) that is being trampled. Our ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) were both humble and courageous at the same time. They were merciful and powerful at the same time. There is no contradiction in that. The nature would change depending on the context as it is described for the Sahaba (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين) in the Holy Quran. The Sahaba (رضوان الله عليهم اجمعين) were merciful to the believers and courageous against the enemies. Hence, there is a time and place to be of a particular nature. The skill is to discern and understand the situation and then act accordingly.

I am defining the three categories mentioned in the sub-section title for purpose of clarity.

By ‘Students of Knowledge’ (طلبة العلم). I am referring to knowledge of the Deen (علوم الدّين). Whether they are formal students (رسمى طالِبِ علم) currently enrolled in any full time Darul Uloom (usually residential) or those who regard themselves as lifelong students of knowledge (طالِب العلم) like I do of myself (even though they may have formally graduated from a reputable Darul Uloom).  

By ‘Darul Uloom Graduates’ I am referring to those who have studied full time the complete Dars-e-Nizami (درسِ نظامى) curriculum in a reputable Darul Uloom. They are referred to as Fuzala (فُضلاء).  

By ‘Scholars’ I am referring to those ‘Darul Uloom Graduates’ who have continued studying post their graduation in their personal capacity and have acquired in depth knowledge of the sciences they studied as part of their Dars-e-Nizami curriculum. They are referred to as Ulama (عُلماء).  

One thing to note is that being a  ‘Darul Uloom Graduate’ (فاضِل) does not equate to being a Scholar (عالِم). A small subset of the ‘Darul Uloom Graduates’ (Fuzala / فُضلاء) fraternity will qualify to be from the category of ‘Scholars’ (Ulama / عُلماء). And then there are many levels within this category of ‘Scholars’ (Ulama / عُلماء). One thing for sure is the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) are amongst the great scholars of this Ummah as a whole. They are no less in knowledge in the Islamic sciences than the greats from the early or earlier centuries.

The ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة) to these three categories is to undertake the below actions:

- Study the lives (سوانح) of these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) with an open mind and open spiritual heart. Start the study with the first three great scholars in the above list and then move onto the rest.

- Explore the depths of knowledge in all the Islamic sciences these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) possessed by studying their books and commentaries on Tafseer, Hadeeth, Fiqh, Tasawwuf, etc.

- Try to uderstand their mindset and personality (مزاج و مذاق) in regards to the Deen and it’s practices.

- When engaging in any research work or any any enquiry refer to their academic works at the outset and before concluding your research and don’t deviate from their teachings. In between by all means look at and research the works of other reputable scholars. This applies to all areas of the Deen. Apply the rules of Fiqh in their teachings when extending to new scenarios.

- Get connected and remain closely connected to a Murshid (مرشد) associated with any of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) directly or indirectly. There is safety of your Deen and Dunya in this.

- Instil the love of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) into your students and also into your congregation and communities.

I have observed first hand at seeing the distance (دوری) and the gap that is occurring in the Darul Uloom graduates from the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند). This widening gap from the source is a worrying sign. There are a number of factors but primarily are a lack of study and knowledge of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند); self-inferiority complex and the ‘I know it all syndrome’. How can someone not be attracted and gravitated towards such towering and giants of knowledge and piety (جبال العلم و التُّقىٰ) if they truly want to grow and develop in their Deen?

- I sincerely suggest you create a habit of reading the books of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) including the inspirational and full of knowledge and wisdom sayings (ملفوظات) and lectures (مواعظ). They are very powerful in creating and instilling change from within. The books of Hazrat Aqdas Thanwi (RA) are so many that they are sufficient for us for a lifetime of reading. If there is books of only one great scholar you need to read and study then they are the books and works of Hazrat Aqdas Thanwi (RA). Make a habit to read a page daily.

Sincere Counsel (نصيحة) to All Believers
By ‘All Believers’ I am including every one (besides the above three categories) - in this section - who associate themselves to the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة).

At the least it is directed to all those who attribute themselves to the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة) based on the understanding shared by the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند). As a group (جماعة) they are the best representation of the Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (اهل السنّة و الجماعة) as mentioned earlier.

- As a non-scholar accept the fact that your safety of the Deen lies in following a reputable scholar or a group of reputable scholars (to cover all areas of expertise) who are closely aligned to the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند).

- Study the lives of these ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند). Start the study with the first three great scholars in the above list and then move onto the rest. Translations are available in English too.

- Study books (or the translations) written by the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند).

- Consult a reputable ‘Scholar’ (عالِم) whose mindset is in alignment and synch with the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) and who also adheres to the teachings and lifestyle of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) in all areas of their life.

I want to emphasise that proficiency in knowledge is necessary as just “piety” without knowledge is not sufficient. Piety has to be backed by in-depth knowledge in the graduate or scholar you are consulting. Otherwise, piety devoid of in-depth knowledge leads to problems and eventually deviance (ضلالة و بدعة).

- Avoid all other “scholars”, “celebratory sheikhs”, Google, etc from whom you learn your Deen. This can only lead to confusion, creating doubts and deviance.

- Regularly sit in the company of scholars who are connected to the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) and who exemplify their knowledge, traits and characters.

- Get connected with a reputable mentor and guide (مرشد) who is in some way connected to the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند).

- Instil the love of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) into your children.

- I sincerely suggest you create a habit of reading the books of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) including the inspirational and full of knowledge and wisdom sayings (ملفوظات) and lectures (مواعظ). They are very powerful in creating and instilling change from within. The books of Hazrat Aqdas Thanwi (RA) are so many that they are sufficient for us for a lifetime of reading. If there is books of only one great scholar you need to read and study then they are the books and works of Hazrat Aqdas Thanwi (RA). Make a habit to read a page daily. Translations of a good number of books are available in English and other languages too.

Sincere & Humble Invite
I sincerely and humbly invite all the above four categories of believers to make a firm intention right now to reconnect and strengthen their bond and connection with the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند). And then to make a plan and concerted effort to enact the relevant ‘Sincere Counsel’ (نصيحة).

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the taufeeq, strength, ability and capacity to always tread the Path of Truth and Guidance.

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the taufeeq, strength, ability and capacity to always tread the Path of Your favoured servants.

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the taufeeq, strength, ability and capacity to tread this Path of Sulook and Tazkiyah with sincerity, commitment and conviction till death.

O Allah Ta’ala! Protect us all from all the Path of those who have deviated or are cursed.

O Allah Ta’ala! Protect us all from the deceit and alluring of the Shaitan and Nafs and all evil influences whichever form they take.

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the in-depth understanding of the teachings of the Best of all creation, Your Beloved and Final Prophet, Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him) and the strength and ability to emulate those practices.

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the taufeeq, strength, ability and capacity to tread the Path of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند).

O Allah Ta’ala! Protect Darul Uloom Deoband from all the evils of its enemies.

O Allah Ta’ala! Continue to spread the light of Darul Uloom Deoband and the light of the ‘Great Scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband’ (أكابر علماء ديوبند) to all four corners of the globe.

O Allah Ta’ala! Grant us all the taufeeq, strength, ability and capacity to sincerely and actively spread the complete Deen of Islam to humanity like our great scholars and righteous predecessors have done for us.

آمین یارب العلمین بجاہ سیدالمرسلین علیہ الصلوۃ والتسلیم
و صلى الله على النبى الحبيب الشفيع الرؤوف الرحيم

Muhammad Noman Daji
course.correspondence@gmail.com
(After Fajar, Wednesday 16th June 2021 –  6th Zul-Qa’dah 1442 A.H)

P:S: I am a graduate of Darul Uloom Deoband. I certified as an Aalim and a Mufti at this prestigious seat of advanced Islamic learning. I thought it should be mentioned (and has been suggested) so it provides some credibility and comfort for those reading (and who don’t know me).

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