Alahazrat: Childhood

Imam Ahmed Raza's Blessed Birth; His Blessed Name; Illustrious Family History; Imam Ahmed Raza's Piety as a Child; Imam Ahmed Raza's First Lecture; His Intelligence as a Child; Astonishing

Events of Childhood

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born on a Monday, the 10th of Shawaal 1272 A.H. (14th June 1856), at the time of Zohar Salaah in a place called Jasoli, which is in the city of Bareilly Shareef, India.
A few days before the birth of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), his father, Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), had a wonderful dream. He immediately disclosed this dream to his father, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who interpreted this dream by saying: "This is a sign that you are going to be the father of a child, a boy, who will grow up to be pious and knowledgable. His name will gain prominence from East to West."
This was the good news that was given to Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the birth of none other than the "emerald from amongst the Treasures of Almighty Allah", the "sweet-scented rose from the fragrant garden of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)", Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu).
The date of birth of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was extracted by himself from the Holy Quran. "These are they in whose hearts Allah has inscribed faith and helped them with a spirit from Himself." (58:2)
 
The name that was given to him at birth was the beautiful name of "Mohammed." The name corresponding to that year of his birth was "Al Mukhtaar." His grandfather, a great Scholar of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), also gave the young child the beautiful name of "Ahmed Raza." It was by this name that he was famously known. Much later in his life, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) added the title "Abdul Mustafa" to his name signifying his great love and respect for Sayyiduna Rasulullah (salal laahu alaihi wasallam).
The Grand Mufti of Makkatul Mukarramah, Sheikh Hussain bin Saleh Makki (radi Allahu anhu), also gave him the title of "Zia'udeen Ahmed."
 
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaderi, was the son of Allamah Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan, who was son of Allamah Mawlana Mohammed Kaazim Ali Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Shah Mohammed Azam Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan, who was the son of Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan (radi Allahu anhum ajma'in).
The great forefathers of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) migrated from Qandhar (Kabul) during the Mogul rule and settled in Lahore. Allamah Mawlana Sa'eedullah Khan, the first forefather of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhum), held a high government post when he arrived in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. His son, Allamah Mawlana Sa'adat Yaar Khan (radi Allahu anhu), after gaining victory in the city of Ruhailah, was elected as the Governor of that city.
Allamah Mawlana Hafiz Kaazim Ali Khan, the son of Mawlana Mohammed Azam Khan (radi Allahu anhum), was a Tax-collector in the city of Badayun. His son, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), the illustrious grandfather of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), did not serve in the Government. It was from this generation that the heads of the family began to adopt Tassawuf as their way of life.
We have included a very brief history of A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father and grandfather.
HIS FATHER: A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father, Hadrat Mawlana Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu), received his education at the hands of his father, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He wrote more than 50 books, among them, "Suroorul Quloob fi Zikri Mouloodul Mahboob", which received a very high distinctive position amongst Islamic literature. The treatise is characteristic in its condemnation of the enemies of Islam, both internally and externally. A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) father passed away in 1297 A.H. (1880) when he was 24 years old.
HIS GRANDFATHER: One of the greatest Sufis of his time, Allamah Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was born in the year 1224 A.H. He was also a great warrior and fought with General Bakht Khan against English invaders in the year 1834. He received his early education at the hands of Molwi Khaleerur Rahman. At the age of 23, he had already completed his Islamic education, earning certificates of distinction in various fields of knowledge. He passed away in the month of Jamaadi-ul-Awwal in the year 1282 A.H. (1866). A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was at this time only 10 years old.
 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was a child of 4 years when this incident took place. On that particular day, he was dressed in a long Kurta. As he stepped out of his house, a few female prostitutes walked past him. In order to cover his eyes, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) quickly held the bottom of his Kurta with both his hands and lifted the Kurta over his face. When one of the prostitutes saw what he did, she said, "Well! Young man. You covered your eyes, but allowed your Satr to be shown." With his face and eyes still covered, the young A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied, "When the eyes are tempted, then the heart becomes tempted. When the heart is tempted, then the concealed parts become tempted." So shocked and affected was this woman on hearing such a reply from a child that she lost consciousness.
Another incident which happened in the Month of Ramadaan also s hows A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) piety and fear of Allah. Fasting was not Fardh (obligatory) upon him because he was still a child, but on that day he intended to keep fast. It should be known that for a little child to keep fast in India during the summer season was very difficult. The average temperature on a summer's day rises to approximately 50 degrees Celsius. On that day, the heat of the sun was intense. Hadrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu) took his young son, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), into a room where sweets were kept. He closed the door and said, "There, eat the sweets."A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied that he was fasting. His father then said, "The fasting of children is always like this. The door is closed and no one is looking. Now you may eat." On hearing this, the young A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) respectfully said, "Through Whose command I am fasting, He is Seeing me." On hearing this answer from a little child, tears began to flow from the eyes of Hadrat Allamah Naqi Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). He then left the room with A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu).
 
Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) delivered his first lecture at the age of 6 years. It was during the glorious month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) stood on the Mimbar (Pulpit) and delivered a lecture before a very large gathering which also consisted of Ulema. His lecture lasted for approximately 2 hours. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spoke on the Wilaadat (Birth) of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He brightened the hearts of the listeners with the love of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The people listening were thoroughly impressed by the maturity and eloquence of this lecture which was being delivered by a 6 year old child!
 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was so gifted and intelligent that there was no need for him to study beyond the fourth Kitaab of his course under the tutorship of any of his teachers. He studied the remaining Kitaabs by himself and used to later ask his teachers to test him.
Once, his teacher asked him, "Mia! Are you a Jinn or a human being? It takes me much time to teach a lesson, but it does not take you much time to learn the same lesson." A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) answered, "Praise be to Allah that I am a human."
When he was 8 years old, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote a Mas'ala concerning Fara'idh (Fards). When his father looked at the answer, he happily remarked, "If only some adult could answer in this manner."
At the age of 10, when he was studying the Kitaab, "I'lm-us- Thuboot," under the guidance of his father, he noticed a few objections and answers of his father on the side of the page. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) studied this book carefully and wrote such a well- explained footnote that even the need for an objection was ruled out. His father came across his research on that objection. He was so delighted that he stood up and held the young A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) to his heart and said, "Ahmad Raza! You do not learn from me, but you teach me."
Professor Dr Ghulam Mustafa Khan, Head of Department: Urdu, Sindh University, Sindh (Pakistan) said: "Allamah Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan is among the outstanding scholars. His deep learning, intelligence, vision and acumen, surpassed that of great contemporary thinkers, professors, renowned scholars and orientalist. Indeed, there is hardly any branch of learning that is foreign to him."
 
At the age of 3, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was once standing outside the Raza Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. An "unknown" person, attired in an Arabian garb, approached him and spoke to him in the Arabic language. Those who were present and witnessed this incident heard the young A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) converse with the person in pure Arabic. They were surprised. The person who spoke to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was never seen again in Bareilly Shareef!
A Majzoob (one drowned in his love for Almighty Allah) by the name of Hadrat Basheeruddeen Sahib (radi Allahu anhu) used to live at the Akhoon Zada Musjid in Bareilly Shareef. He spoke harshly to anyone who visited him. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) wished to meet this Majzoob. One night, at about 11 o'clock, he set off alone to meet him. He sat respectfully for about 15 minutes outside the Majzoob's house. After some time, the Majzoob became aware of him and asked, "Who are you to Mawlana Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu)." A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied that he was the grandson of Hadrat Raza Ali Khan (radi Allahu anhu). The Majzoob immediately embraced him and took him into his little room. He asked A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) if he had come for any specific matter, but A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said that he had come to ask him to make Dua for him. On hearing this, the Majzoob, for approximately half an hour, made the following Dua: "May Allah have mercy on you, May Allah bless you." 

Alahazrat: Academic Services

Proficiency in over fifty Branches of Knowledge; Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran; Authority in the Field of Ahadith; A Great Jurist of his time; Imam Ahmed Raza's I'lm-e-Jafar; His Knowledge of Philosophy and Science; Knowledge of Astronomy and Astrology; A Mathematical Genius; Contribution to the Field of Poetry 
PROFICIENCY IN OVER FIFTY BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE  
If we study the life of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), we will discover that HIS PROFICIENCY IN VARIOUS SUBJECTS TOTAL OVER FIFTY FOUR BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE. Is it possible today, to find an Islamic scholar or even a non-Muslim professor, scientist, educationist or a Nobel Prize owner who possesses such qualifications? Arab Scholars like Sheikh Ismail bin Khalil and Sheikh Musa Ali Shami (radi Allahu anhuma) commended A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) as the Revivalist of the 14th Century A.H.: "IF HE IS CALLED THE REVIVALIST OF THIS CENTURY, IT WILL BE RIGHT AND TRUE." 
Commenting on A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) reputation and his knowledge, Dr Jamil Jalibi, Vice Chancellor, Karachi University (Pakistan) said: "Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi was an eminent Jurist, leading scholar, scientist, Naa'tia poet, a keen observer of Shariah and a Saint. His crowning scholarship can be imagined by the fact that he had commanding knowledge of about 54 branches of various sciences and humanities. He has contributed valuable works in almost all of them. He left behind more than a thousand treatises." 
Professor Dr Wahid Ashraf, Baroda University, in Baroda said: "There is no shortage of renowned personalities in the history of Islam who made rich contributions to various fields of knowledge through their divine-gifted qualities of learning, wisdom and insight. Ibn Sina, Umar Khayyam, Imam Razi, Imam Ghazzali, Al Beruni, Farabi and Ibn Rushd are a few rich names that shall always be remembered with pride. Among them, someone is renowned for Philosophy and Medicine, some other famous for Mathematics, another in Astrology, yet another is known for Moral Philosophy. Someone is an expert in Greek Thoughts, etc., BUT THE MOST OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY WAS BORN IN INDIA AND PASSED AWAY IN THE PRESENT CENTURY. HE WAS AHMED RAZA BAREILVI WHO ENJOYED SUCH A COMMAND IN VARIOUS BRANCHES OF KNOWLEDGE THAT ONLY EXPERTS OF THE SPECIAL FACULTY CAN DISCUSS FULLY AND SUCCESSFULLY." 
TRANSLATION AND COMMENTARY OF THE HOLY QURAN 
Many people have translated the Holy Quran into the Urdu language, but the translation of the Holy Quran presented by A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) - called "Kanzul Imaan" - is proven to be the most unique translation in the Urdu language. In his translation one sees that A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) used only those words in his translation that are worthy for the Attributes and Qualities of Almighty Allah and of His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 
It is said that the translation of the Holy Quran by A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) is not merely a literal translation, but is also the commentary of the Holy Quran. In the words of Hadrat Sayyiduna Muhaddith-e-Azam Hind (radi Allahu anhu), "IT IS NOT ONLY THE TRANSLATION OF THE QURAN, IT IS THE QURAN." 
We have taken just one example of a Verse from the Holy Quran that has been translated by various persons and compared it with the beautiful translation of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). We have taken Sura 93, Verse 7 as an example: 
(1) "And he found you lost on the way and he guided thee."
Translation by Mohammad Asad
(2) "And found thee groping so he showed the way."
Translation by Muhammad Ali Lahori Qadiani
(3) "And He found you uninformed of Islamic laws so he told you the way of Islamic laws."
Translation by Ashraf Ali Thanwi
(4) "Did he not find thee erring and guide thee."
Translation by Arberry
(5) "And saw you unaware of the way so showed you the straight way."
Translation by Fatheh Muhammad Jalledhri
(6) "And he found thee wandering and He gave thee guidance."
Translation by Yusuf Ali 
Now that we have examined six different translations of Sura 93, Verse 7, let us examine the difference and the uniqueness of the translation of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu): "AND HE FOUND YOU DROWNED IN HIS LOVE THEREFORE GAVE WAY UNTO HIM" 
Look at the uniqueness and the cautiousness that is present in this translation of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu)! He abstained from using those words that may cause any disrespect to the dignity and personality of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! 
Due to the vast amount of time A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent in compiling books on Fiqh and various other topics, it was not possible for him to compile a complete commentary of the Holy Quran. However, a few learned scholars have stated that if all the books of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) have to be brought together then there is a great possibility that a complete commentary of the Holy Quran may be compiled. Like his translation of the Holy Quran, they have said that his Tafseer will also be exceptional. 
Commenting only on the "Bismillahir Rahman nir Rahim", A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) presented such a lengthy lecture on this simple phrase that it was compiled into a complete book and published under the title, "Al Meeladun Nabwiya." 
Once, during the Urs Shareef of Hadrat Mawlana Shah Abdul Qaadir Sahib (radi Allahu anhu), A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) delivered a lecture on Sura Wad-Duha from 9 a.m. in the morning right till 3 p.m. in the afternoon! This lecture on Sura Wad-Duha alone lasted for 6 hours. After completing his lecture A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "I only wrote 80 percent of the commentary on this Sura and had to leave it aside. Where is there time enough to write the Tafseer of the entire Quran-e-Azeem!" 
Allamah Ata Muhammad Bindayalwi (radi Allahu anhu), Sarghoda (Pakistan) said: "Hadrat Bareilvi (radi Allahu anhu) has written about a thousand treatises. He exhaustively dealt with every topic he touched, but his most glorious work is his Urdu translation and explanation of the Holy Quran entitled,'Kanzul Imaan'. Indeed, there is no parallel. Real worth of this monumental work can be evaluated by only those scholars who possess vast and deep knowledge of various other translations and explanations of high standard in Urdu. A'la Hadrat kept the same pattern as adopted by the renown writers, but he excelled in the explanation and expansion of the most difficult and complicated subject matter in relatively few simple words." 
AUTHORITY IN THE FIELD OF AHADITH 
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was also a great authority of his time when it came to the subjects of Ahadith and Usool-e-Ahadith. He knew the names of almost every Hadith narrator. When he was questioned concerning details of a certain narrator, he was able to give a complete biography of the narrator. When he studied any Hadith he was able to explain the type of Hadith, it's benefits and the reasons behind that Hadith. He wrote many booklets on the topic of Ahadith. One of his books is entitled, "Hajizul Jarain An Jamma Bainas Salaatain," which covered the Ahadith pertaining to "Jamma Bainas Salaatain" or the "Combination of Two Salaahs in one time." 
Dr Professor Mohiyyuddin, Azhar University, Cairo (Egypt) said: "Renowned scholar, Ahmed Raza Khan, visited Arabia twice to perform Hajj at Makkah and payed homage to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) at Madina. During his stay he visited various centres of learning and had extensive exchange of views with the scholars covering various branches of learning and religious issues. He secured permission from some authentics to quote them in reference to particular Ahadith, and in return, he allowed them to mention his authority in respect of some other Ahadith. 
"It is an old saying that scholarly talent and poetic exuberance rarely combine in one person, but Ahmad Raza Khan was an exception. His achievements contradicts this diction. He was not only an acknowledged research scholar, but also a great poet." 

A GREAT JURIST OF HIS TIME 
Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) is that branch of knowledge that is derived from the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah(sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Only that person can be a proper Jurist who is well-versed in both the Holy Quran and the Ahadith of Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He must also be well-versed in and all the other important branches of knowledge, such as Tafseer, Logic, Philosophy, Translating, and many other branches. 
Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was regarded as the greatest Jurist of his era. He was totally proficient in the field of Fiqh and received acceptance by the great Ulema of the East and the West. The greatest proof of his position and status in the world of Fiqh can be understood from his answers concerning the Shariat-e-Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), which was compiled into 12 large volumes, comprising of approximately 12 000 pages to form the famous book, "Fatawa Radawiyyah," which is used in every Darul Ifta (Fatawah Departments) around the world today. 
A renowned theologian and a great Saint of Delhi, Hadrat Mawlana Zayd Abul Hassan Faruqi (radi Allahu anhu), who completed his education at the Al Azhar University, Cairo, acknowledged the unrivalled mastery of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) over Islamic Jurisprudence and other branches of learning in the following words: "None can deny the knowledge of Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan in the field of Fiqh. He was, no doubt, the greatest Faqih (Jurist) of his time." 
When Sheikh Ismail Khalil, the Curator of the Library at Makkatul Mukarramah, read the Fatawas of Sayyiduna A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) he was puffed up with joy and wrote to A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu): "By Allah, if Abu Hanifa Nu'man (radi Allahu anhu) would have gone through these Fatawa, undoubtedly, it could have been his heart's delight and granted its writer among his pupils." 
IMAM AHMED RAZA'S I'LM-E-JAFAR 
"I'lm-e-Jafar" refers to "The Knowledge and The Art of Prediction." Not all persons are blessed with such knowledge by Almighty Allah. It is a speciality for the Awliyah Allah. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was blessed with the gift of I'lm-e-Jafar. 
Once, a certain person asked A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) concerning the approach of Qiyaamah and the arrival of Imam Mahdi (radi Allahu anhu) in the future. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said that Almighty Allah knows of this and His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is also aware of this fact. After saying this A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) substantiated these facts by quoting many verses of the Holy Quran and Ahadith of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said, "THROUGH A CERTAIN TYPE OF KNOWLEDGE, I FEEL THAT THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT IN 1837 HIJRAH THERE WILL BE NO ISLAMIC GOVERNMENT LEFT, AND IN 1900 HIJRA IMAM MAHDI (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) WILL APPEAR". After hearing this answer, someone asked A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) if he had gained this answer through I'lm-e-Jafar. He replied that he did. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said very sarcastically, "Eat the mangoes. Do not count the trees." 
There was a King of Rampur whose wife was very sick. He loved her very much and was very attached to her. This King, who was a "Badd Mazhab" (one who does not follow the religion properly), sent a messenger to Bareilly Shareef with a special request. He requested A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) to predict the time and place of the death of his wife. The King's wife was, at that moment, not at her house in Rampur, but she was in a place called Nainital. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) told the messenger to tell the King that his wife will die in Rampur in the month of Muharram. When the messenger returned to the King, he gave him the message of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). 
With this message of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) at the back of his mind, the King tried very hard to keep his wife away from Rampur. He did not want her to be in any way near Rampur. 
It so happened that rioting broke out in Rampur. It concerned the affairs of the Kanpur Shaheed Ganj Musjid. The Governor summoned the King to meet with him urgently in Rampur. The King decided to go on his own, but his wife insisted on joining him. As soon as they reached Rampur, the King's wife suddenly died. It was also the month of Muharram. The prediction of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu)proved to be true! 
 
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) was a great Scientist and Philosopher. He understood Science and Philosophy better than anyone in his time. He was a master of Ancient and Modern Sciences. He proved through research that various concepts of the modern day science are illogical and against the theories of the Holy Quran and the Ahadith. 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote many books on Science and Physics. One of his famous books, "Fauze Mubeen Dar Harkate Zameen," using the Holy Quran as its guidelines, proves that the earth is not rotating but is stationary. He also proves that the entire Universe is revolving around the earth. Modern theories believe that the earth is rotating on its axis and that all the planets, including the earth, are revolving around the sun. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) also disproved the theories of Scientist such as Galileo Galilei and Sir Isaac Newton. We believe that should this book be translated into the English language by our Scholars who are well-versed in Science and presented to the West, there will have to be a re-think on modern scientific theories! Today, many people in the Western world regard Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) as the "NEGLECTED GENIUS OF THE EAST." 
 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) gained great expertise in the field of Astronomy and Astrology. 
There was a person by the name of Mawlana Ghulam Hussain Sahib, who used to regard himself as an authority in Astrology. Once, Mawlana Ghulam Hussain Sahib visited A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) asked him, "So! What is the situation of the rain?" After working out the position of the stars, Mawlana Ghulam Sahib drew-up an astronomical table and said,"In this month there will be no rain. It will only rain in the following month." Mawlana Sahib then handed over the astronomical table to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) examined it and said, "All the Power is by Allah. If He pleases, then it may rain now." Mawlana Ghulam Hussain then said, "Are you not observing the astronomical table?" A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "I am observing everything." 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) then looked towards the clock and asked, "What time is it?" Mawlana Ghulam Hussain said, "Quarter past eleven." Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "That means that there is three quarters of an hour left for twelve o' clock." Saying this, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) walked up to the grandfather clock that was in the room. With his finger he moved the big needle of the clock until it was on the twelve, thus showing twelve o'clock. The clock began to chime. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) then said, "You said that it would take three quarters of an hour for the needle to come to twelve o' clock." The Mawlana Sahib replied, "But you were responsible for altering the position of the needle." 
On hearing this, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) said, "Almighty Allah is All-Powerful and He may alter the position of the stars whenever he wishes..." 
 
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was also a great Mathematician. He used to solve the most difficult mathematical problems in a short space of time. His authority in the field of Mathematics will leave modern-day Mathematicians wide-mouthed. Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Logarithms, and other branches of Mathematics which are normally handled with great difficulty even by mathematics students today, was like ordinary addition and subtraction to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu)! 
Once, Sir Ziaud-deen, a famous Mathematician, was in a predicament with regards to part of his research in the mathematical field. He had to go to Berlin in Germany to seek a solution to this intricate problem. It so happened that a certain Mawlana from the famous Aligarh University advised Sir Ziaud-deen to visit A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) to seek a solution for his mathematical problem. But, Sir Ziaud-deen, not sounding very confident said, "What will an ordinary Mawlana like Mawlana Ahmed Raza be able to solve? He hasn't even gone out of his city to gain knowledge, so it is obvious that his knowledge is very limited." Nevertherless, after some convincing, he agreed to visit A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu).
When he arrived in Bareilly Shareef, he immediately went to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). Presenting the intricate mathematical problem to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) he said, "I am now going to Germany. I will come back for the answer, that is, if you do manage to solve it." As he was speaking, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was busy writing and listening to him at the same time. As Sir Ziaud-deen was about to leave, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) handed him a sheet of paper. When Sir Ziaud-deen read what was written on this paper, he realised that it contained the solution to his mathematical problem that had him so confused. Sir Ziaud-deen then said, "TODAY I BELIEVE THAT THERE IS SOMETHING KNOWN AS I'LM-E-LADUNI (INSPIRED KNOWLEDGE)." 
Sir Zia'uddeen, was later recorded to have said about A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu): "He was an un-assuming man of pleasant manners and morals, had deep insight in Mathematics, although he was not formerly educated by a teacher. It was an inner divine-gifted inherent knowledge. My query pertained to a theory of knotting problems of Mathematics, but his manner and explanation was spontaneous as if he had already carried out a research in it. Now, there is nobody so well-versed in India. Such a great scholar, I think, there is none. Allah has bestowed upon him such a knowledge, that is amazing. His insight in the fields of Mathematics, Euclid, Algebra and Timings is astonishing. A mathematical problem that I could not solve despite my best of efforts, this learned genius explained in a few moments." 
 
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) spent much of his valuable time writing Poetry. His Poetry mostly consisted of Naath Shareef in praise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Manqabats. In all the Naath Shareefs that was written by A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), it is evident that his heart and soul was drowned in the love of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 
His Naaths were written within the boundaries of the Shariah. Every stanza was filled with pearls of "I'lhaam". "I'lhaam" is that which is inspired by Almighty Allah into the hearts of the Awliyah Allah. Just as the Ambiya receive "Wahi" or Revelation, so do the Awliyah receive "I'lhaam". Each verse and stanza of his Poetry is the Tafseer (Commentary) of the Holy Quran and the Hadith of Sayyiduna Rasulullah(sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). His Poetry was mainly in the Arabic, Urdu, and Persian languages. 
A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) Poetry was compiled to form the famous, "Hidayake Bakhshish," (Gardens of Forgiveness). This famous Naath Kitaab is used throughout the world. A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) humble compilations are read by all who wish to express their love for Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 
Mawlana Qari Noorul Hassan, quoting the following stanzas from A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) Poetry:
 
and says that there are many illiterate and ignorant people, who look at the above stanzas and accuse A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) of praising himself in his Poetry. This, he says, is not true and are mere baseless objections. He further explains. 
Hadrat Hassan Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), the younger brother of Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), would often send his Poetry to be corrected to Janaab Daagh Delhwi, who was a famous and distinguished Poet of his time. Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) used to take the poetry of Hadrat Hassan Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) to Daagh Delhwi. One day, as he was about to leave for Dehli, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) presented one of his Naaths to Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) and said, "Ask Daagh Delhwi to rectify this Qalaam." The Naath which A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) sent begins with the following stanza:
 
When Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) reached Delhi and presented the Naath to Daagh Delwhi, he looked at it and said,"This does not seem like the poetry of Mawlana Hassan Raza Khan. Whose is it?" Hadrat Hassnain Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) replied that it was written by A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu). On hearing this, Daagh Delhwi said, "YOU HAVE BROUGHT THE QALAAM OF A'LA HADRAT (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) TO ME FOR CORRECTION! THIS IS THE QALAAM OF SUCH A POET WHO HOLDS NO PLACE FOR ANY CORRECTIONS. BUT, SINCE IT IS INCOMPLETE, I WOULD LIKE TO WRITE THE FINAL VERSE FROM MY SIDE. PLEASE ASK A'LA HADRAT (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) NOT TO CHANGE IT AS I AM AWARE THAT HE DOES NOT LIKE ANYTHING WRITTEN IN HIS PRAISE." After saying this, he wrote the verse:
 
Jis Simt Aagaye ho sikhe Bithaa diye hai" 
So, to those who accuse A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) of praising himself in his Poetry, will find sufficient evidence to prove that it was Daagh Delhwi who inserted that stanza and not A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu)! 
Commenting on one of A'la Hadrat's poems, Allamah Sayyid Muhammad Muhaddith Kichauchawi (radi Allahu anhu) said: 
"Once I had the opportunity of reciting the Qasida-e-Me'rajia (A poem of A'la Hadrat radi Allahu anhu regarding the Holy Prophet's sallal laahu alaihi wasallam Me'raj) in my own style, in a select gathering of men of letters at Lucknow. I then asked them about the literary worth of the poem. Everybody was overwhelmed and they all exclaimed that the language is superb, pure and divine."
"Mulke Sukhan Ki Shahi Tum Ko Raza Musallam
"Unki Mahk ne dil ke ghunche khila diye hai
Jis Raah chal diye hai kooche basa diye hai."
"Mulke Sukhan Ki Shahi Tum Ko Raza Musallam
Jis Simt Aagaye ho sikhe Bithaa diye hai"
CONTRIBUTION TO THE FIELD OF POETRY 
A'LA HADRAT (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) HAD NOT YET COMPLETED HIS SENTENCE WHEN IT BEGAN TO RAIN UNCONTROLLABLY. 
A MATHEMATICAL GENIUS 
KNOWLEDGE OF ASTRONOMY AND ASTROLOGY 
HIS KNOWLEDGE OF PHILOSOPHY AND SCIENCE 

Alahazrat as a Mujaddid

Imam Ahmed Raza as the Mujaddid of the 14th Century; A List of known Mujaddids from the first Century; Imam Ahmed Raza's Jihad against the Insulters of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam); A Few Fatawas of the Ulema-e-Haramain Sharifain; Some Titles bestowed upon him by the Noble Ulema of Makkatul Mukarramah; Some Titles bestowed upon him by the Noble Ulema of Madinatul Munawwarah; His Unique Memory
IMAM AHMED RAZA AS THE MUJADDID OF THE 14TH CENTURY
Undoubtedly, besides being recognised as a great Wali, as the Ghousul Azam and as the Imam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhum) of his time, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was also the Mujaddid (Reviver) of Islam of the 14th Century. He possessed all the conditions of a Mujaddid and his entire life was spent trying to revive the Deen of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
A cloud of darkness had covered most of the world and the false concepts of Polytheism (Shirk) and Innovations (Bid'at) were coming into existence. The Muslims were in a state of confusion. They were surrounded by the cloud of Kufr (Disbelief), Shirk and Bid'at. It is through the Divine Grace of Almighty Allah and the Sadaqah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that the Reviver of the 14th Century, Imam-e-Ahle Sunnat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) shone like the sun. With his bright proofs, he destroyed the darkness of Kufr and revived Islam.
Professor Manzoorud'deen Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Karachi said: "The reality is that on reading several books of Imam Ahmed Raza, I have come to the conclusion that through his writings and speeches, the Fatawa (Inquisitions) and hundreds of small and bulky treatises, he had struggled for the revival of Islam, and as a reward he was declared as a Mujaddid of his Century by the Ulema (Scholars of Islam), in particular, the scholars of Makkah and Madina (Haramain Sharifain). . ."
A Hadith recorded in Mishkaat Shareef and quoted by Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu) who says that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "VERILY, AT THE END OF EVERY CENTURY, ALMIGHTY ALLAH WILL SEND SUCH A PERSON TO THE UMMAH, WHO WILL REVIVE THE DEEN FOR THE THEM (THE UMMAH)."
In other the words, when there comes a period in which there is a shortage of knowledge and a deterioration in following of the Sunnah; when there is an increase in false innovations and ignorance; then Almighty Allah will send a person at the beginning or end of every century who will show the difference between Sunnah and Bid'at. He will refute and destroy false innovations and will fear none but Almighty Allah. He will very bravely and sincerely hoist the flag of Deen-e-Muhammadi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Such a person is known as a "Mujaddid" (Reviver) of Deen.
The author of the book, "Siraajum Muneer", has explained who a Mujaddid is in the following words: "In other words, to revive the Deen is to revive those teachings of the Quran and Sunnah that are being destroyed and to give command according to the Quran and Sunnah."
Allamah Munaadi (radi Allahu anhu) states:"A Mujaddid is one who separates Sunnah from Bid'ah and one who degrades the status of the Ahle Bid'ah."
 
Why does a Mujaddid come after 100 years? A Mujaddid is sent after every 100 years because after every century the surroundings, the environment, the manner of thinking and ways of the people tend to pass through a massive transformation. It has been stated in the Hadith of Bukhari Shareef that during the latter stages of the Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) physical life, one night, after performing Esha Salaah, he stood up and said, "Should I inform you of the importance of this night? From this night onwards, right up to the end of a 100 years, that person who is alive on the earth (presently) will not be alive."
Can their be more than one Mujaddid to a century? Yes. There can be more, and there has already been more than one Mujaddid to a Century. In the Hadith, the Arabic word that is used to explain the coming of the Mujaddid is in the singular tense, but according to the meaning, it is a plural as it has been explained in the Kitaabs of Usool-e-Fiqh. Allamah Mulla Ali bin Sultan Qaari (radi Allahu anhu) who is the Mujaddid of the 11th Century says, "From the words, not only one single person is implied, but the implication is towards a group of people, from amongst whom each one is reforming a single type of knowledge or all types of knowledge in his city."

A LIST OF KNOWN MUJADDIDS FROM THE FIRST CENTURY:
1st CENTURY :
•    a. Sayyiduna Imam Umar bin Abdul Aziz (radi Allahu anhu)
2nd CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Hassan Basri,
•    b. Imam Muhammad bin Hassan Shaibani,
•    c. Imam Maalik bin Anas,
•    d. Imam Abdullah bin Idrees Shafi'i
(radi Allahu anhuma)
3rd CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Abul Hassan bin Umar,
•    b. Imam Ahmad bin Hambal
(radi Allahu anhuma)
4th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Tahtaawi,
•    b. Imam Isma'eel bin Hammaad Ja'fari,
•    c. Imam Abu Jaafar bin Jareer Tibri,
•    d. Imam Abu Haatim Raazi
(radi Allahu anhuma)
5th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Abu Naeem Isfahani,
•    b. Imam Abul Hussain Ahmad bin Muhammad Abi Bakr-il-Qaadir,
•    c. Imam Hussain bin Raaghib,
•    d. Imam Muhammad bin Muhammad Ghazzali
(radi Allahu anhuma)
6th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Abul Fadhl Umar Raazi,
•    b. Allamah Imam Umar Nasfi,
•    c. Imam Qaazi Fakhrud'Deen Hassan Mansoor,
•    d. Imam Abu Muhammad Hussain bin Mas'ood Fara'a
(radi Allahu anhuma)
7th CENTURY :
•    a. Allamah Imam Abul Fadhl Jamaaluddeen Muhammad bin Afriqi Misri,
•    b. Imam Sheikh Shahbuddeen Suharwardi,
•    c. Kwaja Muhi'yuddeen Chishti Ajmeri,
•    d. Imam Abul Hassan Uz'zuddeen Ali bin Muhammad Ibn Atheer,
•    e. Imam Sheikh Akbar Muhi'yuddeen Muhammad ibn Arabi
(radi Allahu anhuma)
8th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Taaj'uddeen bin Ata'ullah Sikandari,
•    b. Kwaja Nizaamuddeen Awliyah Mahboob-e-Ilahi,
•    c. Imam Umar bin Mas'ood Taftazaani
(radi Allahu anhuma)
9th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Hafiz Jallaluddeen Abu Bakr Abdur Rahmaan Suyuti,
•    b. Imam Nooruddeen bin Ahmad Misri,
•    c. Imam Muhammad bin Yusuf Karmani,
•    d. Imam Shamsuddeen Abul Kheyr Muhammad bin Abdur Rahmaan Sakhawi,
•    e. Allamah Imam Sayed Shareef Ali bin Muhammad Jarmaani
(radi Allahu anhuma)
10th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Shahabuddeen Abu Bakr Ahmad bin Muhammad Khatib Qistalaani,
•    b. Imam Muhammad Sharbini,
•    c. Allamah Sheikh Muhammad Taahir Muhaddith
(radi Allahu anhuma)
11th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Ali bin Sultaan Qaari,
•    b. Imam Sheikh Ahmad Sarhindi Mujaddid-e-Alf Thaani,
•    c. Sultaanul Arifeen Imam Muhammad Baahu
(radi Allahu anhuma)
12th CENTURY :
•    a. Allamah Mawlana Imam Abul Hassan Muhammad bin Abdul Haadi Sindhi,
•    b. Imam Abdul Ghani Taablisi,
•    c. Sheikh Ahmad Mulla Jeewan
(radi Allahu anhuma)
13th CENTURY :
•    a. Imam Abdul Ali Luckhnowi,
•    b. Imam Sheikh Ahmad Saadi Maaliki,
•    c. Allamah Imam Ahmad bin Ismaeel Tahtaawi,
•    d. Allamah Shah Abdul Azeez Muhaddith-e-Delhwi
(radi Allahu anhu)
14TH CENTURY:
•    IMAM-E-AHLE SUNNAH, QAMI-E-BID'AT, MUJADDID-E-AZAM, A'LA HADRAT, ASH SHAH IMAM AHMED RAZA KHAN (RADI ALLAHU ANHU)
 
IMAM AHMED RAZA'S JIHAD AGAINST THE INSULTERS OF SAYYIDUNA RASULULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)
 
Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent much of his time also refuting those who insulted the dignity of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He left no stone unturned in safe-guarding the dignity and integrity of Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), in spite of being personally attacked by the misguided. These personal attacks did not bother him in the least bit!
Allamah Abdul Hamid, Vice Chancellor of Al Jamia Al-Nizamiyya (Hyderbad, India), said: "Mawlana Ahmed Raza Khan was a Sword of Islam and a great commander for the cause of Islam. He may justifiably be called AN INVINCIBLE FORT THAT HELPED TO DEFEND THE BASIC TENETS AND IDEAS OF THE AHLE SUNNAH WAL JAMA'AT. It is on accord of his untiring efforts that due respect and regard for the Messenger of Allah, Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and other Sufis and Saints of Islam is still alive in the Muslim Society. His opponents had to mend their ways. No doubt he is the Imaam (Leader) of the Ahle Sunnah. His written and compiled works reflect immense depth and vision."
Justice Allamah Mufti Sayyid Shuja'at Ali Qadri (radi Allahu anhu), Shariah Court, Government of Pakistan (Islamabad), said: "He was pious like Ahmad bin Hambal and Sheikh Abdul Qaadir Jilani. He had true acumen and insight of Imam Abu Hanifa and Imam Abu Yusuf. He commanded the force of logic like Imam Razi and Imam Ghazzali, bold enough like Mujaddid Alf Thaani and Mansoor Hallaj to proclaim the truth. Indeed, he was intolerant to non-believers, kind and sympathetic to devotees, and the affectionates of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)."
The adversaries of A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) levelled many accusations and tried desperately in defending their Kufr statements. After much proofs, when it became absolutely clear to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) that certain misguided individuals were not prepared in withdrawing their Kufr statements and making Tauba, and in order to protect Islam, he passed Kufr Fatawas against those persons. We should remember that he passed the "Fatawa-e-Takfeer" (Kufr Fatawa) against those persons who insulted the status and dignity of Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He passed the Fatawa-e-Takfeer on persons such as Ashraf Ali Thanwi, Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi and Khalil Ahmad Ambetwi and others because, through their writings, it was evident that they had insulted the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
We will quote some of the following blasphemous statements that were made by them:
In page 51 of "Baraahin Qatia", Khalil Ahmed Ambetwi says: "After looking at the condition of Satan and the Angel of Death, it can be gained that they possess a great depth of knowledge and this has been proven from Quran and Ahadith. To prove such knowledge for Fakhre Aalam (Muhammad sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) without proof from the Quran and Ahadith, but from common sense, is a false thought. If, to do so is not a Shirk, then in which category of faith does it fall?"
In page 6 of "Hifzul Imaan", (Printed in Mazahirul Uloom), Ashraf Ali Thanvi says: "If Knowledge of the Unseen refers to partial knowledge, then what speciality is there in Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Such knowledge is possessed by Zaid and Amr (any Tom, Dick and Harry), every child, insane people and all types of animals."
In page 5 of "Tahzeerun Naas", (Published in Makhtaba Fayz Nazd Jami Masjid Deoband), Qasim Nanotwi says: "Prophets are superior to their followers only in Knowledge, but in good deeds, followers sometimes seem equal and occasionally even become superior to them."
In Part 2, page 12 of "Fatawa Rasheedia", (Published Makhtaba Rasheedia Jami Masjid Delhi), Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi says: "The word 'Rahmatul lil A'lameen' is not a speciality of Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). But other Prophets, Saints and great Ulema are also cause for mercy unto the worlds, even though Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is the highest of them all. Therefore, to use this word on others, is also permissible."
If one examines the original books that were written by such persons, one will find other similar disrespectful statements found in their writings.
Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat's (radi Allahu anhu) cautiousness in declaring a person a Kaafir is to be noted in many of his books. In his book,"Subhaanus Subooh", he academically destroys the arguments of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi. Yet, at the end of the book, A'la Hadrat says,"The Ulema have not termed this individual as a Kaafir, therefore, one has to be careful."
Once again, refuting the arguments of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi and a few of his "infamous" followers in another book, "Al Kaukabatush Sha'haabiya", A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) says, "In our opinion (the opinion of Islam), to term a person a Kaafir and to control one's tongue is an act of extreme precaution and analysis."
In another treatise entitled, "Sallus Suyooful Hindiya", A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) states: "There is indeed a difference between accepting words of Kufr and branding a person a Kaafir. We have to be extremely careful. We have to remain silent. If there is the minutest possibility that he is still a Muslim, we should fear terming that person a Kaafir."
In his book, "Subhaanus Subooh", Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) says, "We do not give any comment on the Kufr of Molwi Ismail Dehlwi, simply because Sayyiduna Rasulullah (salal laahu alaihi wa sallam) has warned us against terming the Ahle Qibla as Kaafirs. (It is only possible) to term a person a Kaafir if his Kufr becomes clear as the sun and the minutest indication does not remain that he is a Muslim." (Tamheed-e-Imaan, pg. 42-43)
From the above statements, we clearly see how careful A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was, in terming a person a Kaafir. He was merely fulfilling his duty as a conscientious and responsible Muslim. The fault was indeed of those individuals, who even after being warned, remained steadfast in their own beliefs and words of Kufr.
As we have already stated earlier, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) sent many of the blasphemous and insulting statements to the Ulema of Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah for clarification. They did not hesitate in passing the Fatawa of Kufr against such people who insulted Almighty Allah and the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).
A FEW FATAWAS OF THE ULEMA-E-HARAMAIN SHARIFAIN
FIRST FATAWA
"All Praise is due to Allah, the Master of the Worlds, Who has made the Ulema-e-Shariat-e-Muhammadi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) the freshness of this world. By manifesting truth and guidance, and filling cities and heights, and by siding the religion of Sayyidul Mursaleen (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) they saved the society of Huzoor (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) from violation and (with their bright proofs) they destroyed the heresy of those who were misled.
"After sending praise and salutations, I have seen that which that learned person and professional teacher has purely written. It is a struggle on behalf of the religion of Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). In other words, my brother and my respected Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu), who in his book, "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad" has refuted the evil leaders of the false sects and false beliefs. Such people are worse than all evil, wicked and seditious people. Our author, in his book, has summarised and stated the names of those wrongdoers, who due to their wrong doings, are soon to become the worst and the lowest amongst the infidels.
"May Almighty Allah grant him (Imam Ahmed Raza) great reward for unveiling the wickedness and wrongness. May Allah accept his efforts and place his most high honour into the hearts of all people."
He has said this with his tongue and his writing has given an order. He is hopeful in gaining all he wishes from his Creator.
MUHAMMAD SAEED BIN BAABSEEL - MUFTI OF THE SHAFI'I ORDER IN MAKKAH (radi Allahu anhu)
SECOND FATAWA
"All Praise is for Allah Who is One. After Praise, I have heard of this bright and evident book. I have realised that our leader and most learned sea of great wisdom, Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) has made obvious the wrongs of those who have come out of Deen, those who walk on the path of the infidels and the wicked ones, in his book "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad."From among their corrupt beliefs, not one of them did he leave un-examined.
"O! Readers, it is essential for you to hold on to this Kitaab which it's author has written with great swiftness. You will find in this book bright and evident proof in refutal of these groups. Especially those individuals who intend to undo the objective which is already bound. Who are these individuals who are known as Wahabis? From amongst them is "Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani" who has claimed Prophethood, and the other ones who have come out of Deen and insulted the dignity of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) are Qasim Nanotwi, Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, Khalil Ahmad Ambetwi and Ashraf Ali Thanwi and all those who follow their ways.
"Almighty Allah grant Imam Ahmed Raza Khan great reward for he has given cure and has answered his decree which is in his book, "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad", in which are also the decrees of the Ulema of Makkah and Madina. Due to the corruption and trouble, it has become necessary for them as they (the misguided) are spreading corruption on this earth. They and all those on their path.
"May Almighty Allah execute them where they behave arrogantly. May Allah give Imam Ahmed Raza glad tidings and shower His blessings upon him and his children amongst those who will speak truthfully until Qiyamah. Ameen."
One in need of forgiveness from his Powerful Creator.
MUHAMMAD BIN ABDUS SALAAM DAGHISTANI - MUFTI MADINATUL MUNAWWARA (radi Allahu anhu)
THIRD FATAWA
"All Praise is due to Almighty Allah Who has shown the path to those whom He has guided and with His Justice, misguided him who he has left, and granted the Believers an easy path to gain advice. He has opened their hearts to bring faith in Almighty Allah and bear witness with their tongues and keep sincerity with their hearts and follow that which Allah and His Books have shown.
"Peace and Salutations upon him whom Allah has sent as a mercy unto the worlds, and upon him sent down His Clear Kitaab in which is the bright explanation of everything and to terminate the wrongness of the disbelievers. This Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), whose proof and arguments are clear, has made it obvious from his practices. Salutations upon his family for they are guides, and upon his Companions who have made the Deen firm and beneficent, and upon their followers until Qiyamah, especially, the four A'ima-e-Mujtahideen and those Muslims who are their followers.
"After Praise and Salutations, I put my sight on the book of a learned person on this earth. He has widened the path of knowledge and, in it (the book) made obvious every interpretation and utterance in his clearly convincing and sufficient arguments. He is Hadrat Ahmed Raza Khan (radi Allahu anhu) on whose name is "Al Mu'tamadul Mustanad."
"May Almighty Allah protect his life and always keep him happy. Now, that which is in refutal of those people, cursed and evil Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani, who is the Dajjal Khazzab of the last decade. Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi and Khalil Ambetwi and Ashraf Ali Thanwi, degrading and insulting Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). THEN, IT IS NO DOUBT THAT THEY ARE KAAFIRS AND THOSE WHO HAVE THE POWER TO EXECUTE THEM, THEN IT IS NECESSARY FOR THEM TO DO SO, TO GIVE THEM THE DEATH SENTENCE."
This has been said by the servant of Allah
MUHAMMAD BIN HAMDAAN MAHSARI- SERVANT AT MUSJID-E-NABAWI (radi Allahu anhu)
 
SOME TITLES BESTOWED UPON HIM BY THE NOBLE ULEMA OF MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH
 
•    1. A COOLNESS FOR THE EYES OF THE ULEMA
•    2. A BELOVED AND ACCEPTED SLAVE OF ALMIGHTY ALLAH
•    3. THE SEAL OF GREAT ISLAMIC RESEARCH SCHOLARS
•    4. A LEADER OF ULEMA
•    5. THE MUJADDID OF THIS CENTURY
These titles are recorded in the books, "Al Fuyuzaatul Makkiya", "Hisaamul Haramain" and "Ad Daulatul Makkiya."
 
SOME TITLES BESTOWED UPON HIM BY THE NOBLE ULEMA OF MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH
 

•    1. THE LEADER AMONG IMAMS

•    2. THE LEADER AMONG MYSTICS

•    3. THE PRIDE OF GREAT PRECEDING ULEMA AND THE LEADER OF FUTURE ULEMA

•    4. THE MUJADDID OF THIS UMMAH

•    5. A JUDGE AMONG ISLAMIC JUDGES

•    6. THE IMAM AMONG SCHOLARS OF AHADITH

•    7. THE DESTROYER OF BID'AT AND THE UPHOLDER OF SUNNAH

•    8. THE MUJADDID OF THIS CENTURY

These titles are recorded in the books, "Al Fuyuzaatul Makkiya", "Hisaamul Haramain", and "Ad Daulatul Makkiya."
HIS UNIQUE MEMORY
Once A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) went to Pillibit Shareef. He stayed with Muhaddith-e-Surat, Hadrat Mawlana Wasi Ahmad Sahib (radi Allahu anhu). Before leaving for Bareilly Shareef, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) requested to borrow a Kitaab called "Uqoodul Arya"from him. As there was only one copy of the book he gave A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) the book and said, "After studying the book, please return it as these are the only few kitaabs that I have for Fatawa writing."
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was supposed to depart from Pillibit Shareef that night, but since he had been invited at another person's home, he stayed one more night in Pillibit Shareef. Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) spent the entire night studying the Kitaab, which consisted of numerous volumes.
The following morning, before leaving for the Railway Station to meet A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu), Hadrat Muhaddith-e- Surat (radi Allahu anhu) found that the Kitaab that he had lent A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) had been returned. He thought that A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was angry and displeased with him for asking him to return the Kitaab quickly. He immediately went to A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) and asked for pardon. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) smiled and then said, "That is not the reason for returning the Kitaab. I stayed one more night, so I studied the book and, therefore, did not find the need to take it with me."
When Hadrat Muhaddith-e-Surat (radi Allahu anhu) heard this he was surprised and exclaimed, "You have studied this book in one night!" A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) replied, "INSHA-ALLAH, FOR THE NEXT 3 MONTHS I WILL NOT NEED TO LOOK AT THE BOOK TO FIND ANY STATEMENTS, AND AS FOR THE ESSENCE OF THE BOOK, INSHA-ALLAH, I WILL NOT FORGET IT IN MY LIFETIME." He then said, "THE BOOK DID NOT HAVE A TABLE OF CONTENTS. I HAVE DRAWN UP ONE FOR YOU."
A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was intially not a Hafiz-ul-Quran. Once, someone wrote a letter to Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu)and addressed him as "Hafiz". When A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) 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 Quran.
How did he become a Hafiz-ul-Quran? It has been stated that in the time period from Wudhu till the time of Jamaat, Hadrat Allamah Sadrush Shariat (radi Allahu anhu) would recite one Sipara. Sayyiduna A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) 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, A'LA HADRAT (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) BECAME A COMPLETE HAFIZ OF THE HOLY QURAN!

Alahazrat as a Muhaddith

Imam Ahmad Raza was not merely a great Faqih (Jurist) but was also a great Muhaddith. Shaikh Yaseen Ahmad Al-Khiyari-Al Madni has written that he was the Imam of Muhaddithin (Leader of Tradition alists) 

The following treatise testify to his comprehension of Ilm-e-Hadith :-  
   * Al-Amnu-Wal-Ula 
   * Muneerul- Ain  
   * Al-Zubdatul Zakiyah  
   * Al Nahiul Akid  
   * Alfadhlul- Mohibi  
   * Madaraji-Tabqat-al-Hadith  
   * Addaulatul Makkiah etc. 
   Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadvi & his father Maulana Abdul Hayee have also admitted Imam Ahmad Raza's grasp of Hadith with reference to his treatise "Al-Zubdatul-Zakiyah" 

Alahazrat as a Jurist

Jurisprudence was the main Subject of Imam Ahmad Raza. He was originally a Jurist. 
Fatawa Radhvia consisting 12 Volumes spread over 12000pages in big size is a marvellous work of Imam Ahmad Raza. This is a collection of thousand of Fatawa, Solution of thousands religious issues & problems. This book contains many researches of Imam Ahmad Raza in Fiqh. 
For example Aalahazrat Imam Ahmad Raza has described 306 kinds of water and discussing 
their qualities, Chemical reactions etc, he has proved that with 160 kinds of water Wadhu (Ablution) can be made & with 146 kinds of water the ablution is not permissible. 
Like wise about Tayammum (Alternative of ablution) he has drawn a list of 181 things (Soil & other matters) fit to be used for Tayammum & a list of 130 things unfit for this purpose. This Fatawa Radhvia is an ocean of learning & knowledge. Imam Ahmad Raza has used theories of physics, Geology, chemistry, logarithm, spherical Trigonometry, Algebra and view 
points of trade, commerce & Economics etc in this book. He has made the rational branches of knowledge the slave of Fiqh and Divinity. This is infact a constitution of life .

His another work in Fiqh is "Jiddul Mumtar." "Kiflul Faqihil Fahim" is also a good example of his skill in Fiqh. 
Ulama and Jurist's of his time & the present age have admitted his skill in Fiqh. 

Writing & Work of Imam Ahmed Raza

Works of Imam Ahmed Raza; Organisations and Institutions Spiritually affiliated to Imam Ahmed Raza
WORKS OF IMAM AHMED RAZA
 
Earlier in this book, we learnt that A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) gained proficiency in more that fifty branches of knowledge. With this, A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) wrote many books on various aspects of Islam. A'la Hadrat (radi Allahu anhu) was a genius writer. He wrote numerous books and treatises in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu on diversified topics.
To date, it has not been ful