Hazrat Allama Molana Naqi Ali Khan
Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.
Imam ul Mutakal’limeen, Ra’ees ul Atqiya Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Qaadiri Barkaati Aale Rasooli Rahimullah Alahi was born towards the end of Jumadil Aakhir or at the beginning of Rajab in the year 1246 Hijri. He was the son of Hazrat Allama Raza Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi, a renowned mystic and esteemed scholar of his time. Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi holds a significant position in the lineage of scholars and spiritual leaders.
He is recognized as the beloved father of Mujad’did e Azam Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Ash Shah Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Qaadiri Barakaati Rahimullah Alahi, who was a prominent figure in Islamic scholarship and spiritual revival. The details of Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan’s life are documented in the book “Jawaahir ul Bayaan Fi Asraaril Arkaan,” published by Hasani Publishers in Mohalla Saudagaran, Bareilly Shareef, as recorded by Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Imam e Ahle Sunnat Faazil e Bareilvi.
Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Qaadiri Barkaati Aale Rasooli Rahimullah Alahi was revered as Taaj ul Ulama (Crown of Scholars), Raas ul Fudala (Chief of the Virtuous), Haami e Sunnat (Protector of the Sunnah), Maahi e Bid’at (Eraser of Innovations), Baqiyatus Salaf (Preserver of the Ancestors’ Practices), and Hujjatul Khalaf (Proof for the Future).
Please note that while I have provided a more coherent English version of the text, the original text may have contained specific honorific titles and terminology commonly used in the context of Islamic scholarship and spirituality.
His Knowledge
Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Qaadiri Barkaati Aale Rasooli Rahimullah Alahi acquired his knowledge from his esteemed and revered father, the exalted and blessed personality, Hazrat Allama Maulana Raza Ali Khan Saaheb حه. He excelled in his pursuit of knowledge, attaining great heights in various fields. His deep foresight, exceptional intellect, wisdom, and profound understanding were unparalleled among the people of his time and country. The level of his spiritual insight was remarkable, as his predictions and prophecies would manifest exactly as he had foretold. It is rare to find individuals who possess both temporal and spiritual gifts to such a degree, and I witnessed this firsthand in him.
In addition to his intellectual prowess, Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi was known for his generosity, bravery, fearlessness, and kindness. He exemplified good character and held a high position of authority and respect. His wealth and influence did not deter him from caring for the poor and marginalized, and he remained steadfast in his religious principles, regardless of the opinions of the wealthy and influential individuals.
His Character
Hazrat Allama Maulana Naqi Ali Khan Qaadiri Barkaati Aale Rasooli Rahimullah Alahi maintained distance from worldly leaders and remained content with whatever sustenance he received. Furthermore, he was blessed with numerous other beautiful qualities, and those who truly comprehend his greatness are the ones who had the opportunity to accompany him and serve this noble personality.
However, the most remarkable and significant quality possessed by this esteemed individual was that Almighty Allah had created him for the service and love of the King of Prophets, Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم. He was unwavering and resolute in standing against the enemies of the Beloved Prophet, demonstrating his firm commitment and loyalty.
His Immense Courage
With gratitude to Allah! His immense courage and commanding authority completely eradicated the mischief caused by the opposition in the city. Not a single individual remained with the audacity to raise their head or directly challenge him. As a result, a public debate was announced in the month of Sha’ban in the year 1292 Hijri, and it was published under the title ‘Islaah Dhaat Bayyin,’ signifying the year of the debate when the numerical value of the letters in the title adds up to 1292.
In response to this challenge, the opposition could do nothing but maintain complete silence, cowardly retreat, display their ignorance, and experience utter humiliation due to their hopelessness and helplessness. At that time, the mischief of ‘Shash Mithl’ was at its peak, and scholars across India were striving to counter this misguidance through their writings. However, when this blessed personality took the initiative, by the grace of Allah, this mischief was extinguished to such an extent that its impact became unheard of in the entire country. Alhamdulillah, entire India witnessed the demise of this mischief.
The enemies burn with envy when they hear his name. From the very beginning, it was destined for this blessed personality to serve the beloved Mustafa صلى الله عليه وسلم, as elaborated in detail in the document ‘Tambih Al Jihaal Bil Haamil Baasitil Muta’al’. It is the grace of Almighty Allah that He bestows upon whom He wills.
Some Notable Works of Allama Naqi Ali
Allama Naqi Ali Khan wrote numerous books on matters of Deen (religious issues) that are beneficial for believers and repel mischief-makers. Some notable works of Allama Naqi Ali Khan include:
- Al Kalaam ul Awdah Fi Tafseeri Sharh Alam Nashrah: This volume contains immense knowledge.
- Wasilatun Najaath: This book discusses the remembrance and excellence of the Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم.
- Suroor ul Quloob Fi Dhikril Mahboob: This distinguished work discusses Twelve Beautiful Chapters focusing on the Moulood and the Blessed Life of Nabi Kareem صلى الله عليه وسلم.
- Jawaahir ul Bayaan Fi Asraaril Arkaan: This book’s splendor can only be understood by perusing it.
- Usoolur Rashaad Li Qama’i Mabaniyyil Fasad: This book presents clear interpretations and facts that reinforce the Sunnah and expose the innovations of the Najdis.
- Hidaayat ul Bariyyah ila Shari’atil Ahmadiyyah: This distinguished book refutes ten deviant sects.
- Izaaqat ul Aathaam Li Maani’i Amalil Mawlud Wal Qiyaam: This book was written but its publication was mentioned for a future date.
- Fadlul Ilmi Wal Ulama: This brief book discusses the excellence of knowledge and scholars.
- Izaalatul Awhaam: This book refutes the Najdis.
- Tazkiyyatul Ikaan: This book refutes Taqwiyatul Imaan by Isma’eel Delhvi.
In addition to the above ten books, Hazrat Malik ul Ulama Allama Zafrud’deen Bihari confirms that they were published during Allama Naqi Ali Khan’s lifetime.
Furthermore, there are several other works attributed to Allama Naqi Ali Khan, including:
- Al Kawakibuz Zahra Fi Fada’ilil ‘ilmi Wa Adaabil Ulama
- Ar Riwayatur Ruyah Fil Akhlaqin Nabawiyyah
- An Naqawatil Qawiyyah Fil Khasa’isin Nabawiyyah
- Lam’atun Nibraas Fi Adaabil Akali Wal Libaas
- At Tamakkun Fi Tahqeeqi Masa’ilit Tazayyun
- Ahsanul Wi’a Fi Adaabid Du’a
- Khayrul Mukhatabah Fil Muhasabati Wal Muraqabah
- Hidaayat ul Musthaq ila Sirril Anfasi wa Aafaaq
- Irshaad ul Ahbaab ila Adaabil Ihtisaab
- Ajmal ul Fikr Fi Mabaahith-iz-Zikr
- Ayn ul Mushahada Li Husnil Mujahada
- Tasharraq ul Awwah ila Tareeqi Mahabbatillah
- Nihayatus Se’adah Fi Tahqeeqil Him-mati Wal Iraadah
- Aqwaz-Dhari’aah ila Tahqeeqit-Tareeqati Wash-Shari’ah
- Tarwih ul Arwah Fi Tafseeri Suratil Inshirah
Regarding the works of Allama Naqi Ali Khan, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Imam e Ahle Sunnat mentioned the following:
The manuscripts of these books were in the process of being published, but unfortunately, Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan did not have the opportunity to finalize them for publication. However, it is the desire of this humble servant (may Allah grant him salvation) to gather and publish these manuscripts in one comprehensive volume. Additionally, there are numerous other books that have been found in separate satchels, but some parts of these manuscripts are missing, including the beginning, end, or middle chapters.
Sayyidi Aala Hazrat further states that, despite the limitations with these manuscripts, the blessed life of Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan was dedicated to propagating Deen, protecting the Muslims, upholding the truth, and striving against the enemies, while promoting the love of the Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم. May Allah reward him with the best of rewards on behalf of Islam and the Muslims. Aameen.
Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi had an immense love for the Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم and was willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of that love. In his masterpiece, Suroorul Quloob, he gives beautiful advice to true believers, emphasizing the importance of sacrificing oneself, life, and wealth for the love and obedience of Allah and His Messenger.
He compares the dedication of an employee to their employer, who diligently fulfills their duties and sacrifices their own comfort for the sake of their job. He questions why believers do not show the same level of obedience and devotion to Allah, who bestows countless blessings upon them.
Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan highlights the commands of Allah, such as performing prayers, fasting, giving zakat, and performing Hajj, which believers often neglect. He emphasizes that not only do they fail to fulfill these obligations, but they also show no remorse for their sins or shame for their disobedience.
He argues that while believers rely on Allah’s compassion, they often forget about His wrath and punishment. He questions whether being dismissed from a job is worse than the punishment of Hell and urges believers to realize the intensity of Hell and strive to be saved from it.
Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan’s profound love for the Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم led him to fear the Majesty of Allah. He highlights the need for believers to understand their own condition and recognize the importance of both Allah’s compassion and His wrath.
Regarding Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan’s Bay’at and Khilafat, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat explains that he took the oath of spiritual allegiance from esteemed personalities and received certificates of authorization and spiritual succession from various Silsilas.
Regarding Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan’s Hajj and Ziyarah, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat recounts his journey to Madina Shareef despite his illness. Many advised him to postpone the journey due to his weak physical condition, but he remained determined. Witnesses observed that he performed all the obligations of Hajj with utmost dedication and showed no signs of weakness, as the blessings and mercy of the Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم cured him of his illnesses.
During his journey, Hazrat Naqi Ali Khan also had the opportunity to meet esteemed scholars and receive certificates of authority in Hadith from them.
His Marriage & Children
Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi married a noblewoman named Husaini Khanam, and they were blessed with three sons and three daughters. Their children were:
- Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan
- Ustaz e Zaman Allama Maulana Hasan Raza Khan
- Hazrat Allama Maulana Muhammad Raza Khan
- Hijab Begum
- Ahmadi Begum
- Muhammadi Begum
The children of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi serve as proof of the piety of their parents. They were fortunate to have parents who blessed the world with a remarkable son like Mujad’did e Azam Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Ash Shah Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Qaadiri Barakaati Rahimullah Alahi.
The piety, generosity, kindness, wisdom, acumen, courage, and above all, the true love for Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool صلى الله عليه وسلم, which Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi possessed, were indeed reflected in his children, particularly in the exemplary character of Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Rahimullah Alahi.
His Journey Into The Hereafter
The noble father of the great Mujad’did, Ra’ees ul Atqiya, Imam ul Mutakal’limeen Hazrat Allama Mufti Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi, departed from this physical world towards the end of Zul-Qa’da. According to most narrations, he passed away on the 29th of Zul-Qa’da, near the time of Zuhr, on a Friday, in 1297 Hijri, at the age of fifty-one years and five months. He attained the blessed status of martyrdom due to an illness caused by asthma.
On the evening of that Friday, he was laid to rest beside his beloved father. He performed his Fajr prayer that morning and passed away when there was a short while left before Zuhr prayer. إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ (Surely we belong to Allah and to Him, we shall return).
At the time of his passing, those present witnessed him continuously sending salutations (Salaams) with his eyes closed. In the final moments, he ran his hands over his body as one would do when performing Wudu (ablution), even cleaning his nostrils in the manner of Subhaan-Allah. Despite his apparent unconscious state, he even performed his Zuhr prayer in this manner.
Subhaan-Allah! This serves as a great lesson for those of us who love the Awliyah (saints). Look at how they did not neglect their prayer even in the last moments of their lives. This exemplifies the true nature of the servants of Almighty Allah.
A Noor Appears From His Chest
Regarding his passing, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Rahimullah Alahi further narrates the following: I, this humble servant, was by his bedside when his soul departed from his body. I solemnly swear by Allah, The Most Magnificent! A radiant light became visible, emerging from his chest, illuminating his entire face like the reflection of sunlight on a mirror, and then it vanished. At that moment, his soul separated from his physical body.
Subhaan-Allah! This is a clear indication of the acceptance of his piety and his dedicated service to the religion. It is a sign observed in the pious servants of Almighty Allah that, upon their departure from this world, a divine light emanates from their blessed bodies as their souls are about to depart. This phenomenon occurs due to their sincere recitation of the Holy Qur’an, their devoted worship, and their genuine love for Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool (peace be upon him).
Hazrat Sayyiduna Imam Jalaalud’deen Suyuti Rahimullah Alahi provides examples of such manifestations in his renowned work “Sharhus Sudoor.” He mentions a narration by Hazrat Ajali Rahimullah Alahi, who witnessed a similar occurrence when visiting an unconscious individual. A radiant light emanated from the person’s head, piercing through the roof and ascending, while a similar light emanated from their navel and feet. When the person regained consciousness, they confirmed being aware of the phenomenon. The light from their head represented the 14 verses of Alif Laam Tanzeel, the light from their navel represented the verses of prostration (Aayaat-e-Sajdah), and the light from their feet represented the latter verses of Surah Sajdah. All these lights were interceding on their behalf, while Surah Tabaarak (Surah Mulk) remained for their protection, as they used to recite it every night.
Subhaan-Allah! This phenomenon witnessed by Sayyiduna Imam Suyuti Rahimullah Alahi can be observed in the final moments of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi, as described by Sayyidi Aala Hazrat himself.
The final words of Ra’ees ul Atqiya were “Allah.” Two days prior to his passing, he had written the blessed phrase “بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم” (Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim) on a piece of paper. Subhaan-Allah! This reminded me of my esteemed Murshid e Kareem, Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah Rahimullah Alahi, the great-great-grandson of Ra’ees ul Atqiya, whose last words before departing this world were the same, as personally narrated to me by Huzoor Qaa’id e Millat Allama Mufti Mohammed Asjad Raza Khan on the day of Huzoor’s passing. Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah Rahimullah Alahi had performed ablution (Wudu) for Maghrib prayer, and as his breathing became rapid, he was laid down. As the Adhan (call to prayer) began, Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah Rahimullah Alahi said, “Ya Allah! Ya Allah! Ya Allah! Allahu Akbar! Allahu Akbar!” With these words, the soul of our beloved Shaykh departed from the physical body, ascending towards the heavens.
Subhaan-Allah! This piety has been transferred through generations. The last words of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi were manifested generations later on the lips of his great-great-grandson and spiritual heir, Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah Rahimullah Alahi, at the time of his passing as well.
In a dream after Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi’s passing, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat saw Hazrat Sayyiduna Sayyid Shah Aala Rasool Ahmadi Marahrawi Rahimullah Alahi standing by the graveside of his beloved father. Sayyidi Aala Hazrat asked the reason for Hazrat’s presence, to which Hazrat Sayyiduna Sayyid Shah Aala Rasool Ahmadi Marahrawi Rahimullah Alahi replied, “As of today, I will be residing here.”
In conclusion, Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi was undoubtedly a truly blessed servant and among the Awliyah (saints) and Asfiyah (friends of Allah). He lived his life in accordance with the commands of Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool (peace be upon him), and he departed from this world in the love of Almighty Allah and his beloved Rasool (peace be upon him).
It is mentioned in the Hadith Shareef that one of the best actions a person can do for their hereafter is to leave behind righteous children. Subhaan-Allah! Look at the piety of the children left behind by Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi in this world, and observe the generations of pious descendants that have come from his beloved children.
Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi was laid to rest in the well-known City Qabrastan in Bareilly Shareef, beside his beloved father, Hazrat Raza Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi. Thousands of people visit his Mazaar Shareef annually to seek blessings and pay tribute to the Noble Father of The Great Mujad’did.
FAQs
Q: What happened at the time of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan’s passing?
A: According to Sayyidi Aala Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Rahimullah Alahi, a bright light emerged from Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan’s chest, causing his face to glow before disappearing. His soul then departed from his physical body.
Q: What does the manifestation of light indicate in the case of pious individuals?
A: The manifestation of light is considered a sign of the acceptance of their piety, their sincere recitation of the Qur’an, their devoted worship, and their genuine love for Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool (peace be upon him).
Q: Are there any examples of similar manifestations in other individuals?
A: Yes, Hazrat Sayyuna Imam Jalaalud’deen Suyuti Rahimullah Alahi provides an example of a person who emitted light from different parts of their body, representing specific verses they used to recite. This light was believed to intercede on their behalf.
Q: What were the last words of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan?
A: Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan’s last words were “Allah.” Two days before his passing, he had written the blessed phrase “بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم” (Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim) on a piece of paper.
Q: Did Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah also utter similar words at the time of his passing?
A: Yes, Huzoor Sayyidi Taajush Shariah Rahimullah Alahi, the great-great-grandson of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan, uttered similar words, “Ya Allah! Ya Allah! Ya Allah! Allahu Akbar! Allahu Akbar!” before his soul departed from his physical body.
Q: Did Sayyidi Aala Hazrat have any dreams related to Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan after his passing?
A: Yes, Sayyidi Aala Hazrat had a dream in which he saw Hazrat Sayyiduna Sayyid Shah Aala Rasool Ahmadi Marahrawi Rahimullah Alahi standing by the graveside of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan, indicating his presence there.
Q: Where was Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan laid to rest?
A: Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan was laid to rest in the City Qabrastan in Bareilly Shareef, beside his beloved father, Hazrat Raza Ali Khan Rahimullah Alahi.
Q: Is the Mazaar Shareef of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan visited by people?
A: Yes, thousands of people visit the Mazaar Shareef of Hazrat Allama Naqi Ali Khan annually to seek blessings and pay tribute to him, as he is considered the Noble Father of The Great Mujad’did.