Malfoozaat Pt1

OF
HADHRAT MOULANA ASHRAF ALI
THAANWI
(Rahmatullah Alayh)
PART 1

Compiled by:
Mujlisul Ulama of South Africa
P.O Box 3393,
Port Elizabeth, 6056
South Africa

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 Malfoozaat Pt1

WHAT IS TASAWWUF
TASAWWUF is a misunderstood concept, its true
meaning and significance in the daily life of a Muslim are
lost, Commercial "sufis" (men who exhibit themselves as
saints) are trading Tasawwuf as some mysterious cult of
"Mysticism" apart from the Shariat and Sunnat of Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam). They have reduced Tasawwuf
to potions, talisman, incantation, empty rituals, and they
have cloaked it with belief and theories of kufr and shirk.
They have interwoven Tasawwuf with bid'ah and practices
of corruption. All this have become necessary in the interest
of their pecuniary benefits. A “mystical” cult appeals and
preys on the mind of ignorant and unwary masses who seek
an escape for their Shar'i duties and Ibaadat in the fantasy of
"mystical" concepts fraudulently conjectured by the
fraudulent "sufis". Such fraudulent "sufis" are swift in
escaping the weaknesses and the spiritual lethargy of the
masses and are adept in providing "easy" solutions of
escape for a fee. Muslims who treasure their Imaan and
their Islam have to beware of such robbers of the Deen
who are easily recognised by the high fees which they levy
for spiritual initiation (ba'yt) into their mystical paths, for
their annual renewal fees, for the tabarruk charges and for
their many other fees subtley, but compulsorily levied in
the supposed interests of their disciples.

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Tasawwuf in reality is nothing but the ROOH of Islam.

Islam consists of two fundamental parts, viz the external
laws pertaining to Ibaadat and the internal state of
beauty, concern, sincerity and perfection on which the
external laws are to be based. Thus Tasawwuf is an
integral part of the Shariat of Islam. Any “Tasawwuf”
beyond the confines of the Shariat is not the Tasawwuf of
the Qur'an and Hadith, but is a practice of fraud and
deception. The Tasawwuf of ALL the great and illustrious
Auliyaa operate within strict control of the Sunnat of our
Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). A tasawwuf which is at
variance with the Tasawwuf of Rasulullah (Sallallahu
alayhi wasallam) is not Tasawwuf, but is some satanic
concept designed to obtain the pleasure of shaitaan. The
main purpose of Tasawwuf is to eliminate the bestial
qualities in man and to supplant them with the noble and
virtuous qualities of angels. In this direction, Tasawwuf
employs the advices, exhortations, restrictions,
prohibitions and remedies prescribed by the Qur'aan,
Hadith and the authoritative and authentic Auliya of
Islam.

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MALFOOZAT
"Join with the Saadiqeen " (Qur 'aan)

Self-reformation and roohani (spiritual) progress are not

normally possible without the suhbat (companionship) of
the Auliya. By sitting in the company of a true Shaikh of
Tasawwuf, the sincere seeker of the truth achieves islaah
(reformation) of the nafs and attains spiritual progress.
Unfortunately, in our day the old and beneficial system of
the Khaanqah is disappearing. Few gain the benefit of
sitting in the company of a true Shaikh. The Mashaa-ikh
too are rapidly departing from the world.
This book, a compilation of some Malfoozat (statements,
anecdotes, advices, prescriptions and spiritual remedies)
of Hakimul Ummat Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi
(rahmatullah alayh) will be a spiritual and a Deeni aid and
guide to the sincere reader who searches for the true
Deen.

Where physical suhbat is not possible, the vacuum could

be somewhat filled by reading carefully and acting
according to the directions given in the Malfoozat of the
Mashaa-ikh. Towards this end, this book fulfils the need.
It is hoped that more books on the Malfoozat of Hakimul
Ummat will be published from time to time, Insha'Allah.

Mujlisul Ulama of South Africa

P.O. Box 3393
Port Elizabeth 6056 (South Africa)
Shabaan 1415 - January 1995

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Malfoozat do not deal with particular

subjects. Every aspect of the Muslim's life
comes within the focus of Malf oozat.

1) Our buzroogs were never sour-faced. They always

maintained a cheerful appearance, smiling with everyone
in spite of the fear of Divine Love consuming their heart.

2) It is not among the ways of our Akaabir (seniors) to

praise a person in his presence. Whatever praises Maulana
Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) lauded on me were in my
absence. Friends conveyed such statements to praise to
me. I cannot remember him praising me in my presence.

3) One philosopher wrote a letter informing me that after

he had become a complete atheist he reverted back to
Islam by studying the Mathnavi (of Mulana Rumi
[rahmatullah alayh]). I prescribe the Diwaan of Haafiz
and Mathnavi for those devoid of passion. The statements
of these sages kindle yearning in the heart. The Molvi
Saheb (i.e. the philosopher) had no faith in the Sufiya. I,
therefore, advised him to sit in the dars (class) of
Mathnavi. After a while a state of ecstasy settled over
him. He became a great admirer of Maulana Rumi
(rahmatullah alayh).

4) In Keraana (a town In India) a lawyer once asked me:

‘Why is Namaz [salaat] five times a day Fardh?’ I said,
‘Why has your nose been created on your face?’ He
replied: ‘It would have appeared ugly if it was on my
neck.’ I said: ‘Never! If everyone’s nose was at the back of
the neck, it would not seem unsightly.’ He remained

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speechless. )

5) When angered by someone, leave his presence or have

him removed from your presence and drink cold water. If
the anger is overwhelming then reflect:
‘Allah Ta’ala too has rights over me and I frequently
violate such rights. When He forgives us, we too should
forgive the faults and errors of others. What will be my
plight if He seeks to take vengeance?’

6) People complain that those who pursue Islamic

education are despised by the modernists. My advice is:
You (i.e. Islamic students) too should despise them. This
is the Sunnat of Nabi Nooh (alayhis salaam) who said to
his people:
‘If you mock at us, we too shall mock at you just as
you are mocking’
My nephew was once travelling on a train during his
childhood days. Along the journey he met a top ranking
police officer who asked:
‘Why is it that every student of Arabic (Islamic
Education) has a clean-shaved head?’
(At that time my nephew was studying Arabic.) My
nephew instantly responded:
‘Why is it that every student of western education has
a clean-shave face?’’
This witty answer silenced the police officer.

7) There are such clear incidents regarding the Divine

Scheme controlling Rizq (man’s worldly sustenance),
which even liberal and sceptical intelligence cannot deny.
There are many extremely wealthy persons who are

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completely illiterate, not being able to write even their

names. However, in their employ, working under them are
graduates.

8) Health is a wonderful ni’mat (bounty of Allah). In

Lucknow there was a nawaab who suffered from a
stomach ailment. His nourishment consisted of only
sucking a bit of mince boiled in a cloth-bag. On account of
his aliment he could only suck the cloth bag containing the
boiled mince. One day while sitting on the bank of the
river with some of his friends he saw a woodcutter
approaching with a heavy bundle of wood on his head. The
woodcutter dumped his load under a tree, washed his
hands and face in the river and sat in the shade of the tree
eating a piece of dry bread with much relish. After
drinking some water he fell in a deep sleep, snoring loudly.
Observing this scene the nawaab said to his friends:
‘I am prepared to exchange my wealth along with my
sickness for the woodcutter’s poverty and health.’
(i.e. if this was possible).

9) Hubbe-jaah (love for fame) and hubbe-maal (love for

wealth) are grave spiritual evils. They never leave man in
peace. If a man is satisfied with his lot and remains
contented with the little he obtains, he will have no cause
for worry and frustration.

10) Presentation of one’s needs to others is disgraceful. A

person who abstains from asking, suffers no disgrace even
if he happens to be a pauper. It has never been observed
that a man who renders Deeni service without presenting
his needs to people, running around from pillar to post

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seeking the aid of people.

11) Molvi Muhammad Shafi Saheb contemplated the

publication of a newspaper. I advised him that if he
publishes a paper, it should be entirely Islamic in
character. People should be able to say: “This is indeed an
Islamic paper.” The standard by which this can be
achieved is to reflect in the light of Shari’i principles.
Before deciding on the publication of any material
ascertain by reflection whether it will be permissible to
verbally express the statements, then it will be permissible
to print them. If verbal expression is not permissible,
printing too will not be permissible.

12) Someone sent a gift of some money. In his letter he

mentioned: “I am sending this gift as per my established
practice.” I returned the gift, enquiring him: “What is the
meaning of this obligation?”

13) One feels hurt when someone who claims to love one,
behaves like a stranger. If the claim of love is not made,
there is no complaint. A certain man reviled me
throughout his life, but I paid no heed whatever. Mansoor
(rahmatullah alayh) at the place of execution, while he
was being stoned by the crowd of people, remained
unperturbed. Not a cry of agony escaped from his smiling
lips. But when Hadhrat Shibli (rahmatullah alayh) struck
him with a flower, he let out a sigh a pain. People asked
him for the reason for this strange behaviour. Mansoor
(rahmatullah alayh) replied that the crowd did not know,
but Shibli (rahmatullah alayh) was aware of the reality,
hence his striking with even a flower was not tolerable and

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caused him pain.

14) My brother, Akbar Ali, had once planned to give me a

fixed monthly allowance. However, I refused. Such a
stipend would bring me unnecessary concern, for one will
remain in anticipation of receiving the money on the fixed
date. Delay will lead to anxiety. There is no peace in such
gifts. Allah Ta’ala grants sustenance from the least
expected sources. Therein is total peace. My brother
retorted: “After all, you accept gifts from others as well.”
I said that such gift as I accept are not fixed stipends. He
then adopted this method- i.e. occasionally spending gifts.

15) When visiting the Mashaa-ikh (spiritual guides) do not

consider it necessary to make gifts to them. By the
compulsory presentation of gifts you corrupt their hearts.
While they improve you spiritually, you engage in
corrupting them.

16) Our Maulana Khalil Ahmad Saheb (rahmatullah

alayh) would say: “We are in need, but we are not seller of
the Deen.” Regarding gifts, when there is the urge to give,
then make the presentation. Do not make it a fixed
practice or custom, then one will be constrained to
observe the practice even if one has no real desire for
making a gift.

17) Hadhrat Shuraih (radhiallahu anhu) was appointed

the Qaadhi by Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu). During
the Khilaafat of Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu), Hadhrat
Shuriah (radhiallahu anhu) was still the Qaadhi. Hadhrat
Ali’s shield was stolen. Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu)

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recognised his shield when he saw it in the possession of a

Jew. He instituted a claim in the court of Qaadhi Shuraih
(radhiallahu anhu) who asked that Hadhrat Ali produce
his witnesses to prove his claim. Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu
anhu) presented his son and his emancipated slave.
According to Hadhrat Shuraih (radhiallahu anhu) the
testimony of a son in favour of his father was not
admissible, hence he ordered Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu
anhu) to present another witness.

When Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu) was unable to do so,

Qaadhi Shuraih dismissed the claim. Hadhrat Ali
(radhiallahu anhu), the Khalifah of the time, emerged
from the court cheerfully. On seeing this high degree of
justice, the Jew recited the Kalimah and embraced Islam.
He presented the armour to Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu
anhu) saying that, in actual fact, it belonged to him.
Hadhrat Ali Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu) responded: “I
have made a gift of it to you.” Thereafter the Jew
remained perpetually in the company of Hadhrat Ali
(radhiallahu anhu) and was martyred in the Battle of
Siffeen. If today’s attitude had existed in those days,
people would have exclaimed: “What! Was Hadhrat Ali a
liar (that his word was not accepted)?” In spite of him
being the ruler, he was not offended in the least bit by the
dismissal of his claim.

18) Even if it was not imposed by the Shari’ah, Purdah

(Hijaab) is a natural demand. Honour dictates that
women adopt Purdah. Everyday we hear of the increasing
evil consequences of non-observance of Purdah, but
people refuse to come to their sense. Shame and honour

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have taken flight from people. It is indeed an act of mercy

that the Shari’ah has commanded the observance of
Purdah.

The consequences ensuing in this time in the wake of

moves to eradicate purdah are nothing other than the
elimination of shame and modesty from women and their
open involvement in immorality and rebellion against their
husband’s authority.

19) If I observe in members of the general public who

have no spiritual ties with me, ninety faults and one virtue,
my gaze goes to the virtue. In contrast, regarding those
who have submitted themselves to me for self-
reformation, if I observe in them ninety nine excellences
and one fault, my gaze goes to the fault. It is the duty of
the Shaikh to remedy the fault.

20) Nowadays the capacity of obedience is no longer to be

found among people. Once Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu
anhu), while making Tawaaf observed a women with the
disease of leprosy also making Tawaaf. Hadhrat Umar
(radhiallahu anhu) forbade her from making Tawaaf,
saying that since her ailment caused inconvenience to
others, it was best that she remains at home instead of
coming for Tawaaf.
After some days the lady returned. People informed her
to Hadhrat Umar’s (radhiallahu anhu) death and told her
not to worry any longer since the one who had forbidden
her from Tawaaf was no longer present to debar her.
The lady replied: “I thought that he was alive, hence I
came to plead with him. He is not the type of person

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whom one obeys in his presence and disobeys in his

absence. He is a man of such calibre that his
commands have to be obeyed after his death in the
same way as they were obeyed during his lifetime.”

So saying, she departed and never again returned to make

tawaaf. Such lofty degree of obedience is no longer found.

21) Many instances have been narrated of certain dogs

abstaining from food one day in every week. Those who
fail to fast should take lesson from this.

22) I underwent much strain in writing the book,

Hayaatul Muslimeen, both in choice of topics and
simplifying. I have no confidence in any of my acts (of
righteousness) but, Alhamdulillah! I value this act (of
having written Hayaatul Muslimeen). I have hope in it.
This kitaab should be included in Madrassah Syllabi.

23) Sometimes, when sincere and conscious efforts are

not made in the direction of self-reformation then a
degeneration of moral character occurs despite being in the
close association of saints. One Molvi sahib who happens to
be the right-hand man of a certain buzroog wrote a letter
of intercession to me on behalf of a man. In his letter he
described the man as prominent businessman, hence
special attention should be paid to him. I severely
reprimanded him (the Molvi Saheb) telling him that he
sought to impress and awe me with the business and
prominence of the man. “You attempt to dangle a bait in
front of me”.

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24) Nowadays the hearts of people are saturated with

greed and desire, but the attainment of their desire is not
within their control. They are therefore constantly
consumed by worry and frustration. They just cannot find
solace and peace. People yearn for luxurious mansions,
expensive furniture and cars. Life is squandered in the
pursuit of accumulating such material possessions. Why
have they saddled themselves with so many worries?
Instead of being contented with a simple life-style, they
have burdened themselves with worries. Their peace of
mind is, thus, completely shattered.

25) I shall show you a wonderful criterion by means of

which Haqq and Baatil may be recognized in ambiguous
and doubtful cases. Even if there happens to be no Aalim
around, you will be able to distinguish between Haqq and
Baatil on the basis of this standard. Regarding new and
innovated things, find out who are the originators. Are the
originators laymen or pious Ulama. If the originators are
pious Ulama, then such things, e.g. Madrassahs, Khaanqas,
Daarul Iftas, etc are part and parcel of the Deen.

The introduction of such things was inspired into the

hearts of the pious Ulama. Practices such as urs, faatiha,
third-day, seventh-day khatm, etc., which were
introduced by the laity (ordinary people -non-ulama) are
not part of the Deen. By means of this standard, all
innovations and new practices may be distinguished and
recognized to be either Haqq or Baatil.

26) I wrote to the authorities of a certain Madrassah

informing them that if they participated in Meelaadun

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Nabi celebrations, then I shall sever my relationship with

the Madrassah.

27) It is among the etiquettes of dua that the bandah

(servant of Allah) verbally proclaims his needs to Allah
Ta’ala despite the fact that Allah Ta’ala is fully aware of
his requirements. If the bandah refrains from verbal
assertion, his humility and helplessness will not be
displayed whereas these qualities are of greater
importance in dua.

28) When a woman attains nisbat-e-baatini, she acquires a

lofty and a wonderful pedestal. Once during a drought,
people went to a saintly lady and asked her to make dua
for rain. She went to a small raised platform whereon she
usually performed her Namaaz. She loosened her hair and
swept the platform with it. After sweeping she raised her
gaze towards the heaven and supplicated: “I have done the
sweeping, you now sprinkle the water.” As she said this,
rain started to come down in torrents. Humility and
supplication are indeed wonderful.
(Nisbat-e-Baatini: A special, lofty relationship of
proximity with Allah Ta’ala).

29) Once the people of the town of Sandelah performed

Salaatul Istisqaa (Salaat for rain). However, the rains did
not come. One day the prostitutes of the town went to
the mayor of the town and said:
“The dua which you people are making are efficacious
and worthy of acceptance. The reason for rain not
falling is the presence of our evil group. Rain has been
withheld because of our sins. It is therefore, our wish

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to go to the forest to cry and supplicate to our

Creator and to make taubah. We have approached
you to take measures for preventing any male coming
near to our gathering for casting evil gazes.”

The necessary arrangements were made and measures

were taken to ensure that no male come nearby.

These women gathered in the forest on the outskirts of

the town. They performed Salaat and then supplicated to
Allah Ta’ala. They made taubah and poured out their
hearts to Allah Ta’ala.

There was no limit to their crying and expressions of

regret for their past misdeeds. While they were engrossed
in their humble supplication, the rain started to come and
soon poured in torrents.

Who can, after having heard this episode, be vain and

proud of his piety and disdainful of the impiety of others?

30) Acquisition of material wealth in worldly garb is not as

harmful as the acquisition of worldly gain under guise of
the Deen.

31) One Aalim from Nadwa sent me a book which he had

written. I was much elated to read the following passage
in the book:
“The attempt to submit revelation to reason so that
revelation conforms to reason is a grave error. Religion
(viz. Islam) refers to pure Imaan (Belief) and
Inqiyaad (submission to revelation). In deen there is

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nothing other than wholehearted submission to Divine

Law. On the other hand, in matters of reason and
intellect rational proofs are necessary.”

However, the Aalim did not elaborate on the statement of

rational proofs being necessary in religious matters. If
rational proofs are to be totally discarded in religious
matters, then everyone will be able to claim the truth of
his religion on the basis of only faith.
The Aalim Saheb should have added that rational proofs
are not necessary in relation to the Furoo’ (Details &
Particulars) of Deen. But in so far as the Usool (the
principles or Fundamentals) are concerned, there is a need
for rational proofs. Godhood and Risaalat (Prophethood)
should be substantiated by means of rational proofs
whereas pure and total submission is required in the
detailed rules of the Deen.

32) In some places, a person who prohibits customs and

acts which are in conflict with the Shari’ah is branded a
Wahhaabi. One pious Aalim saw and Aalim wearing a ring
of gold. When his attention was drawn to this violation of
the Shari’ah, he responded: “You are a Wahhaabi.”

33) If a person witnessed oppression being committed and

does not report the oppression to the seniors of the
oppressor, then he (the observer) will be regarded as
being a party of the oppression.

34) A contract which guarantees that the candidate will

be successful in the acquisition of the education offered
by the course, is not valid.

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35) Corruption in fund-raising schemes have increased to

such an extent that the path of truth has been abandoned
and the ways of falsehood have been acquired. Nowadays
the authorities of religious institutions regard the
contributors as gods. They have become subservient to
those who contribute funds. They do not differentiate
between halaal and haraam. The existence of a Madrassah
is meaningless if the pleasure of Allah and His Rasool is
not acquired. In some cases it is better for a Madrassah to
cease operation. In most cases, the management is more
concerned with retaining the pleasure of the wealth even
at the cost of Allah’s displeasure. Care is taken to avoid
affronting donors even if Allah’s laws are violated in the
process. It is quite apparent from the attitude of the
officials and management boards (of religious institutions)
that the aim is to achieve name and fame. They seek
fulfilment of these aims via the Madrassah under their
control.
Since the purpose of a Madrassah is the dissemination of
the Deen and the acquisition of the pleasure of Allah and
His Rasool, these ends should always be kept in view.
Haqq (truth) is dominant. It has been said:
“Haqq will remain dominant and will not be dominated.”

Resolve to maintain this work (of the Madrassah) as long

as its activities are confined to the limits of the Shari’ah.
The day these limits are transgressed, withdraw from the
Madrassah, for then, the actual aim, viz. Allah’s pleasure,
no longer exists.

Hadhrat Maulana Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) once

wrote to Maulana Khalil Ahmed (rahmatullah alayh) and

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Maulana Deobandi (rahmatullah alayh) when they were

being distressed by opponents:
“My Beloved Brethren! Why are you distressed? The
goal is not the Madrassah. The goal is the pleasure of
Allah Jalle Shaanuhu. There are many ways of
attaining this goal. One such way is the Madrassah. If
the Madrassah remains with you, continue rendering
your services. If it does not remain, find an alternate
avenue for your services.”

36) Nowadays the degree of reliance on newspaper

reports is greater than the reliance which people accord
to even Shar’i proofs in spite of sensationalism and
distortion employed in abundance by the papers. There
appears to be no limit to erroneous reports published by
newspapers.

37) From the external appearances which Muslims have

adopted nowadays, it is difficult to recognize if they are
Muslims.

38) Gazing intentionally at pictures (of living things) to

derive pleasure, is haraam. If the gaze falls on such
pictures unintentionally it will not be sinful. (Someone
asked:) “What if the picture is viewed from an artistic
point of view?” Hadhrat Thaanwi rahmatullah alayh
replied:
“Forget about artistic achievement or value of a
picture-maker. It is unlawful to look at some things
created by even the True Artist, Allah Ta’ala. Gazing
at females and young lads is haraam. The Fuqaha have
well-understood the danger of such viewing ostensibly

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for the sake of art. The Fuqaha have ruled that it is

not permissible to look at wine to derive mental
pleasure.”

39) A person makes waqf of his property and stipulates

that while he is alive the income of the property will
accrue to him and after his death it will accrue to certain
of his heirs (mentioned by him); thereafter when there
remains no one in progeny of the heirs, the income will go
to the poor. This form of waqf is permissible.

40) Speaking in abundance and associating much with

people are very harmful spiritually.

41) A man came and said: “I am a habitual gambler. What

is its remedy?”
Hadhrat Thaanwi replied: “Courage is its remedy.
Secondly, resolve firmly that whenever you indulge in
gambling you will impose on yourself the performance of
100 raka’ts Nafl Salaat and abstain from two meals. Other
than this, the original and actual remedy is nothing other
than courage and striving against the dictates of the nafs.”
The same man said: “My heart is devoid of love for my
parents.”
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) replied: “Serve
them in abundance. Service to parents will create love for
them.”

42) The beard is something wonderful. It enhances the

dignity and handsomeness of a man. In fact a bearded man
has a noble appearance. But, nowadays it is being vilified.

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43) Hadhrat Shah Abdul Quddoos (rahmatullah alayh)

passed his days in great poverty. When his wife became
restless because of hunger, he would placate her by saying:
“Fear not. In Jannat the most delicious and sumptuous
dishes are being prepared for us.” By the fadhl of Allah, his
wife’s taqwa was of such high calibre that this statement
would reassure and satisfy her.

44) On the occasion of Hajjatul Wida’ (The Farewell

Hajj), Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) had
distributed his blessed hair among the Sahaabah. It is
obvious that there are countless thousands of hair on the
head, hence numerous Sahaabah had the good fortune of
receiving some of the mubaarak hairs of Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Undoubtedly, they must have
treasured those hairs and guarded them well. Therefore,
should you hear that someone has some hair of Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam), do not reject it in haste.

45) On the occasion of Hajjatul Wida’, Rasulullah

(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) made Qurbani of (sacrificed)
one hundred camels. He slaughtered 63 with his own
blessed hands while Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu)
slaughtered the remaining 37. At the time of thabah
(slaughtering) a wonderful condition settled over the
camels. Every camel was pushing forward in the attempt
to be slaughtered first by the holy hands of Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

46) Hadhrat Shah Abul Ma-aali (rahmatullah alayh) said:

“Once we were sitting in the company of our Shaikh
and we all were sobbing. A man who was there

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remarked that all of us were deprived of Divine

proximity, hence our sobbing.”

In reply to this comment Shah Abul Ma-aali (rahmatullah

alayh) wrote a treatise in which he explained that crying
has seven causes, hence, crying is not proof of deprivation.
Sometimes, the cause of crying is the very experience of
attainment of Divine Proximity.

Once during the Hadith lessons of Hadhrat Maulana

Ya’qoob (rahmatullah alayh), an anecdote of Hadhrat Abi
Ibn Ka’b (radhiallahu anhu) was narrated. Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) informed him: “Allah Ta’ala
ordered me to recite Lam-Yakoen to you.”
Ka’b (radhiallahu anhu) asked: “O Rasulullah! Did Allah
Ta’ala mentioned me by name?”
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam said: “Yes, Allah
Ta’la mentioned you by name.”
Hadhrat Ka’b (radhiallahu anhu) broke down sobbing. This
crying was the effect of Muhabbat (Love).
These states pertain to thauqiyaat (natural disposition).
Those devoid of such natural conditions lack the ability to
understand these states.

47) Some Ahle-Zaahir - those learned men who are bereft

of thauq (a natural disposition with spiritual perception)
have conceded the probability of Muhabbat-e-Aqil
(intellectual love) with Allah Ta’ala while rejecting
Muhbbat-e-Tab’i (emotional love). They contend the
improbability of emotional love with Allah Ta’ala because
he is not visible to the corporeal eye. Vehemently refuting
their contention, Hadhrat Imam Ghazaali (rahmatullah

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alayh) said that their denial is like the denial of an eunuch

who is unaware of the pleasure of sexual intercourse.
People have sacrificed their lives for the sake of love.
Even animals have. If this is not emotional love
(Muhabbat-e-Tab’i), then what else is it? Such emotion
cannot be stirred in the state of Muhabbat-e-Aqli.

48) Once Hadhrat Samnoon (rahmatullah alayh) was

giving a discourse on Divine love. A bird sitting on the roof
of the veranda was listening attentively. It descended.
Unable to restrain itself, it came and sat in the lap of
Hadhrat Samnoon (rahmatullah alayh). Within a few
moments it laid down its head and died. Such is the
burning flame of Divine Love.

49) In my wasaayaa (Last Testament) I have directed

that my biography should not be written. People are not
cautious.
They exaggerate much, attributing the performance of
miracles to their Shaikh- such miracles which he did not
demonstrate, but which they have imagined him to have
performed. In their opinion if their Shaikh is not depicted
as a man who had demonstrated Karaamat (miracles),
people will gain the impression that he was not a man of
high spiritual rank of excellence.

50) A man from among the Ashaab-e-Suffah had left a

dinar (a gold coin) at the time of his death. On learning of
this Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that on
account of the dinar he will be branded once in Jahannum.
Another man, also form among the Ahl-e-suffah left two
dinars at the time of his death. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi

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wasallam) said that he will be branded twice in Jahannum.

There now arises the question: “Is accumulation of wealth
forbidden?” It is quite obvious that it is not forbidden. If it
was forbidden, there would not have been the Laws of
Inheritance (Meeraath). Those who could not
comprehend this Hadith asserted that the accumulation
of wealth in that age was not permissible.

Qaadhi Thanaaullah (rahmatullah alayh), the author of

Tafseerul Mazhari, presented a beautiful interpretation.
He explained that the cause for the punishment
(mentioned in the Hadith) is not accumulation. On the
contrary the reason for the punishment was their claim of
having renounced the world. Since they had renounced the
world in totality, it was highly unbecoming of them to
treasure anything of the world.

In fact, the community had believed the (Ashaab-e-

Suffah) to be men who had renounced the world for the
sake of Allah Ta’ala. Thus, accumulation of wealth by such
devotees is nugatory of their professed love for Allah
Ta’ala.
[Ashaab-e-Suffah refers to the group of people who had
renounced the world during the age of Rasulullah (sallallahu
alayhi wasallam). Their sole occupation was the acquisition
of knowledge from Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)
and Ibaadat. They were confined to the precincts of the
Musjid and were not permitted to engage in any worldly
profession. Their lives were based on Tawakkul- Trust and
reliance on Allah. - Translator.]

51) Riyaa (show) is not confined to the display of Ibaadat.

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Riyaa is to display one’s Ibaadat while being motivated by

the desire to be known as a pious person. Ibaadat in public
does not necessarily reflect riyaa. If the thought of piety
comes to mind unintentionally without one believing or
entertaining the idea of one’s piety, then such thought is
not riyaa. It is a waswasah of riyaa.

[Waswasah is a stray thought which enters the mind at

the behest of shaitaan. Provided that such a whisper of
shaitaan is not fixed firmly in the mind by one’s volition
and intention, no sin is occasioned. - Translator].

As long as there is no intention to display one’s Ibaadat,

riyaa is not involved.

52) A Hadith states:

“A single faqeeh is harder on Shaitaan than a thousand
aabids (pious worshippers).” (Faqeeh is an Aalim of the
Deen)

Shaitaan devises schemes to deviate people. In devising his

plots he spends a lot of time. The Faqeeh neutralizes and
destroys his schemes without much difficulty. The Faqeeh
by virtue of the insight of Ilm recognizes the deception of
Shaitaan.

53) A man came and requested that dua be made for him.
Hadhrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullah alayh) said:
“Brother! You too make dua and I also sham make dua.”
The man said: “My tongue is not fit for dua.” (In other
words, he did not consider himself worthy of making dua.)
Hadhrat Thaanwi replied: “Do you recite the Kalima?”

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The man said: “Yes.”

Hadhrat Thaanwi: “Kalimah has greater blessing than dua.
How come your tongue is worthy of reciting the Kalimah?
In fact, Shaitaan made dua at the very time when he as
being cursed by Allah Ta’ala.”
He supplicated: “Grant me respite until the day when
people will be resurrected.”
Allah Ta’ala answered his dua: “You are among those who
have been granted respite.”
When even Shaitaan was not deprived of acceptance of
dua, how can we be deprived? Shaitaan has deceived us into
believing that our tongues are not worthy of making dua.
People consider this attitude to be humility.”

54) A man entered the presence of Rasulullah (sallallahu

alayhi wasallam) without permission. Rasulullah
(sallalllahu alayhi wasallam) ordered him out and
instructed another man to teach him the manner of
entering so that he may return observing the correct
etiquette. This incident indicates that practical training is
also Sunnat. Without such training people with dense
minds do not remember.

55) When a man strives (in the Deen) and adopts the
correct means and procedures, he shall attain the promise
of Najaat (Salvation). This is in fact the beautiful end (to
this earthly life). No one is compelled to drift astray. One
goes astray by one’s choice and free will. The state of
death (i.e. whether in Kufr or Imaan) being unknown
means that it is not known what one will do tomorrow be
one’s own free will.

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Whether one will choose Kufr or Imaan volitionally - of

one’s free will- is an unknown entity in regard to man. It
does not mean that tomorrow Allah Ta’ala may compel us
into Kufr. The incidence of Najaat is a Ni’mat by itself.
On entering Jannat, the Jannati will express his shukr
(gratitude) in the following Qur’anic terms:

“All Praises is due to Allah Who has fulfilled for us His

promise and granted us the ownership of the Land (i.e.
Jannat) so that we may occupy Jannat wherever we
please. Indeed, wonderful is the reward of those who
practiced virtue.”

56) The mystery of Taqdeer will not be fully revealed to

man even in Jannat. However there will remain no
uncertainty and doubt. Even here on earth the Aarifeen
(the Auliya) have no doubt and uncertainty regarding
Taqdeer. They are enshrouded with an atmosphere of
peace and tranquillity.

57) If someone raised on objection or expressed a doubt

when Hadhrat Haji Saheb had given a discourse on any
subject, he would comment:
“This is not a Madrassah. This (what has been
explained) is for practicing. Give practical
expression to it and then observe the result.”

Madrassah Ustaads have the practice of disputing and

entertaining objections. On the other hand, the Aarifeen
feel suffocated by such questions and answering. Those
who are engrossed in action, discern the reality and truth.
Their condition is unlike that of general public. They (the

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Aarifeen) are in peace and contentment.

Hadhrat Haji Saheb (i.e. Haji Imdaadullah) detested
questioning and answering. Since the truths and unveiled
realities (of the Deen) were in front of him, there
remained no doubt and uncertainly. If it is said to a person
that the sun has risen and he, instead of conceding, initiates
an argument seeking proof for the rising of the sun, the
repugnance and frustration which such disputation will
cause are quite apparent. The degree of certainty and
conviction which the people of insight (the Aarifeen, the
Auliya) have regarding haqaa-iq (realities and
transcendental truths) is like the certainty which a man
has regarding the identity of his father in which he has no
doubt. In fact, the degree of certitude of the Aarifeen is
higher because there exits the possibility of doubt in a
certain man being one’s father. Indeed, such a high degree
of certainty and clarity is a wonderful ni’mat (favour of
Allah).

58) Whenever I give someone a ta’weez I wrap it in a

piece of paper because it is not permissible to touch a
Qur’anic Aayat without being in the state of wudhu.
People are not careful in this matter.

59) Once the Nawaab of Dhaka questioned me regarding

the permissibility of the tauliyat of a non- Muslim
government. (Tauliyat, i.e. appointing an authority to
administer Islamic Law). I replied: There are two types of
tauliyat – Shar’i and Qanooni. (Shar’i, i.e. legal or valid in
terms of worldly law). A non-Muslim government cannot
be a Mutawalla Shar’i because Islam is a pre-requisite for
such an office. However, the government should be

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requested to appoint a Shar’i authority who will deal with

Islamic matters. The government should promulgate the
laws while the enforcement and imposition of the laws
should be by the decree of the Shar’i authority. [The
Muslim Shar’i authority appointed by the government
should issue the verdicts and order enforcement of the
Shari’ahs decisions. - Translators]

60) Why focus the gaze on anyone other than Allah

Ta’ala? The Qur’an informs: “Unto Allah belongs the
treasure of the heavens and earth.”

61) There always is the need for money, but to accept it

with disgrace is not tolerable.

62) A man requested to be instructed with some formula

of Thikr which will serve the purpose of reforming him.
Hadhrat Thaanwi said:
“Islah (self-reformation) is achieved by remedying the
aliments of the nafs. Athkaar (plural of Thikr) are like
medicines and pills which can be prepared by studying
medical books. However, there remains the
indispensable need for a doctor to diagnose the illness
and prescribe the remedy.
Similarly, thikr formulae and spiritual exercise
(ashghaal) are recorded in books. However, there
remains the need for a Shaikh (Spiritual Guide and
Mentor) to diagnose the aliment of the nafs and to
prescribe remedies for its reformation.”

Wazaa-if (forms of Thikr) are not too difficult upon the

nafs. Within a short while the Thikr is completed,

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whereas the ailments of ujub (vanity) and riya show, for

example, are not cured by only wazaa-if. Wazaa-if only
create barkat and act as aids.

63) People now consider spiritual states of ecstasy

(kayfiyaat) to be the goal of Sulook (Tasawwuf). Even if
animals at times experience certain conditions of ecstasy
when influenced by music and singing. Once an expert, in
a challenge, defied his opponent, saying:
“You will be able to measure my expertise and
excellence when you behold the wild beasts of the
jungle, subservient under the sway of my influence.
Let us go to the jungle and sing our songs. At that time
I will put a rope around the neck of every animal. It is
left then to you to remove the ropes from their
necks.”

They went into the forest and the expert commenced his
bewitching singing. So enthralling was his singing that wild
animals came out from all directions and submissively
stood in is presence. He took hold of the animals one by
one and put a rope around each one’s neck. He than
ceased his singing; the animals scattered and disappeared
into the forest. He now challenged his rival to start his
singing, gather the animals and remove the ropes.
However, he was rendered helpless.

Emotional states are common to both man and beast.

Such states in man, therefore, do not represent any
achievement or excellence.

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64) Nowadays, observance of customs has become

dominant. The Sahaabah honoured and respected
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), but were devoid of
pretence. Their respect for Nabi-e- Kareem (sallallahu
alayhi wasallam) was not a mere external display of
customary etiquettes. Thus we see that they would not
stand when Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)
appeared on the scene since they were aware of the fact
that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) detested the
custom of standing in respect for him, yet there were no
greater and more ardent devotees of Rasulullah (sallallahu
alayhi wasallam) than the Sahaabah.

65) A man who had spent a considerable time in an

asylum, on being released, came to visit Hadhrat Thaanwi
(rahmatullah alayh). Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah
alayh) commented:
“Whatever I prescribe for someone regarding his
tarbiyat (spiritual training), is done with great
consideration and affection. Whoever acted in
conflict with the prescription had soon to suffer the
harmful consequences. (Pointing to the man, he said:)
Now he is sitting here after having experienced such
consequences. I had warned him to refrain from
specialized forms of Thikr and Shaghl (spiritual
exercises), but he persisted. Finally he became
insane.”

66) It is stated in the Hadith than an honest trader will

rise on the Day of Qiyaamah among the Shuhadaa
(martyrs). Honestly in trade brings prosperity and success
although initially some difficulty has to be borne.

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However, after a while there will be considerable barkat

in the business. Later, people will gain full confidence in
the honest trader.

67) Allah Ta’ala loves abdiyat (total obedience and

submission- the quality of being a slave). A woman holding
the hand of her child came to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi
wasallam) and said:
“O Rasulullah! I cannot bear to throw this child in the
fire. Will Allah Ta’ala assign His servants to the Fire?”

Hearing this, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) cried

and said: “Allah Ta’ala will not assign to Jahannum anyone
but a rebellious person bent on flagrant transgression.”

Only a person who deliberately and flagrantly rebels

against Allah’s law - one who knowingly and wantonly
refuses to acknowledge the authority of Allah Ta’ala - has
chosen the fire for himself by his own volition. The
humble ones will be treated with only mercy. Even a man
who is unable to fulfill the rights of others on account of
his lack of ability and means will obtain the aid of Allah
Ta’ala provided that he always was concerned about
fulfilling such rights. Allah Ta’ala will placate the people of
right (e.g. creditors) by offering great reawards to them
on behalf of the debtor.

68) The Fuqaha have ruled that if a person after having

served as the Imam of a place for twenty years says that
he was all this time a Kafir, then notwithstanding his
claim, all Salaat performed behind him in the past is valid
and discharged. He will be branded as a Kafir from the

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time he made his declaration of Kufr. It is quite possible

that he desires to put Muslims to hardship hence, his
claim in relation to the past.

69) Islam teaches us to refrain from pride; hence, it

exhorts us to do our own housework - with our own hands.
Thus, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) would
himself attend to the household chores with his own
blessed hands. He milked the goat, mended shoes and
assisted with preparing the food. When someone asked
Hadhrat Aishah (radhiallaahu-anhu) about Rasulullah’s
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) program at home, she said:
“Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) did not stay idle at
home. He would join us in the housework.”

70) The character and morals of people became

corrupted from the time they participated in these
political movements. Darkness has settled on all sides.
Every person is steeped in liberalism. Respect for elders
has disappeared. Ignoramuses have become leaders. The
Ulama have joined ranks with the wealthy and become
men of the world. Not even in centuries has so much
change been wrought in the Deen as the change which
occurred in the Khilaafat movement of a few days.

71) A Shaikh ordered one of his mureeds to go for a while

to a certain place and apply himself to Thikr and Shaghl
(spiritual exercise). After sometime the mureed wrote
informing his Shaikh of disunity and animosity prevailing
between the Muslim and non-Muslim communities of that
place. Hence, he requested the Shaikh for dua. The
Shaikh wrote reprimanding the mureed: “Have I sent you

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to dispatch news reports or for working (i.e. engrossing

yourself in Thikr)?” Someone asked: “Dua is Sunnat. Why
the reprimand?” Hadhrat Thaanwi replied: “If a Sunnat
act prevents a person from a Fardh act, he will be
instructed to forgo the Sunnat act. Islaah of the Nafs (i.e.
self-reformation) is Fardh. (Involvement in the affairs of
the community impeded the spiritual progress of the
mureed, hence the reprimand).”

72) One should not ask one’s Shaikh (one’s Spiritual

Guide) such Fiqhi Masa-il (rules of Fiqh) which entail
debate and discussion. Debate and objection are highly
detrimental in this Path of Tasawwuf.

73) Natural characteristics do not change. Only a

diversion is introduced in them. The experts (in
Tasawwuf) do not attempt to eliminate in them. The
natural characteristics are the subjects of Allah’s Wisdom.
Hence, attempts should not be made in the futile exercise
of transforming the natural propensities in man. Only the
direction should be changed. The natural propensities in
man should be diverted from evil and channelled into the
direction of virtue.

74) We Muslims have nowadays become total strangers to

good culture and morality. An Englishman who had
converted to Islam entered the Musjid to perform Salaat.
He notice that the gully in which the waste water flowed
was dirty. Addressing those present he advised them to
maintain the gully clean. Someone retored: “It seems as if
you are still influenced by Christianity, hence, you blabber
about cleanliness.” They then evicted the convert from

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the Musjid.
When other respectable Muslims heard of this incident
they sought to placate the convert. They told him not to
take this unfortunate incident to heart since those who
had rebuked him were ignorant. The convert replied
honourably:
“What, do you think that I will become disillusioned
with Islam and revert to Christianity on account of
their treatment? I did not embrace Islam on the
strength of these disrespectful persons. I have
professed Imaan in Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi
wasallam) whose lofty morals cannot be compared
with the characters of these people.”

75) In their letters to me even men of considerable

sincerity write informing of their constancy in Thikr and
Shaghl. They request dua to be made for them. It seems
as if Islaah of the nafs (self self reformation) is
insignificant to them. They regard exercise of Thikr and
Shaghl to be the actual aim of acquisition. On the
contrary, Islaah is the actual purpose. Thikr facilitated in
the achievement of self reformation.

76) Do not be hasty in accepting a man as your Shaikh

(Spiritual Guide). Study him well. When you are
thoroughly satisfied with his credentials and credibility
then only enter into the oath of allegiance (Ba’yt) with
him.

77) When making dua at the graveside, do not lift the

hands. Even at the time of burying, the hands should not
be lifted when making dua. This ensures the observance of
the Shari’ ah arrangement. Lifting the hands while making

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dua at the graveside may convey the impression that

supplication is being made to the dead.

78) By the grace of Allah there are many wealthy Muslims

with good intentions desiring to give loans to others.
However, on account of wanton disregard of the terms of
repayment agreed upon by debtors, they (i.e. those who
wish to give loans) refrain from lending. A pious- looking
(outwardly religious) man borrowed a small sum of money
from his friend. On due date when the lender requested
payment, the pious looking man said that he will pay later.
After a while when he was again asked for payment, he
once again said that he will pay later. When payment was
requested the third time he (the debtor) said: “Have you
any written proof that I had borrowed money from you?”
Indeed, morals have degenerated and have become
decadent.

79) The Fuqaha have ruled that if a beggar comes to beg, a

guest is not permitted to give him food from the table of
the host. Similarly, it is not permissible to eat from a plate
in which someone sent some food as a gift. The food
should be put in one’s own container. However, if the
type of food sent is such that its form and taste will be
transformed or spoilt if removed from the plate/dish, e.g.
pudding, salad, then it will be permissible to eat from the
same plate in which was sent.

80) The Hadith prohibits hitting on the face, even if it is

an animal. Most people hit on the face. One of the reasons
for this prohibition is that hitting on the face is very
prevalent. Furthermore, the face is an honourable and

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delicate part of the body. Prohibition is generally directed

to evil acts which prevail in abundance. Thus, wine is
explicitly prohibited since indulgence in it is widely and
abundantly prevalent, and also because it is something
towards which people incline. On the other hand, we find
no explicit prohibition for urine. Who will consume it?

81) The claim that the garments of a Nabi do not burn is

false. According to the Hadith, once the musallla on which
on which Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) was
seated caught fire.

82) Nowadays people are terrified by Islaah (self-

reformation). They prefer only Thikr and Shaghl (spiritual
exercises). A man who became my mureed wrote saying
that he suffered from the disease of zina (fornication). I
prescribed the remedy of zina. He wrote back advising me
not to be harsh with him. Since then he has terminated
correspondence.

83) Numerous rights (huqooq) of neighbours are stated in

the Ahaadith. If a neighbour knocks a nail into your wall,
do no prevent him as no harm is caused to you. Although
the owner is permitted to prevent an operation in his
property, nevertheless, consideration should be accorded
to the rights of the neighbour.

The argument of this issue between the Ulama-e-

Mutaqaddimeen and the Ulama-e-Muta-akh-khireen is
interesting.

Muta-akh-khireen: It is not permissible to install a window

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in one’s wall facing the house of one’s neighbour so that the

purdah and privacy of the neighbour are not violated.

Muta-qaddimeen: It is permissible since an owner has the

right to operate in his own property.

Muta-akh-khireen: Only such operations by the owner in

his property, which are not harmful to others are
permissible.
Muta-qaddimeen: It is permissible for an owner to
demolish his entire wall (e.g. the fence or boundary wall)
which faces the neighbour. Why is it then not permissible
for him to open a window on the wall.

Muta-akh-khireen: He has the right to demolish his wall

because in removing the whole wall there is not such harm
as will be caused by a window opening into the yard of the
neighbour. If there is no wall, the neighbour will be more
cautious and make their own Hijaab arrangements for
guarding their purdah and privacy whereas one can remain
concealed and peep through the window into the privacy
of others.

On the contrary, if there is no wall people will not have

the audacity to stare into the houses of people while at
the same time the inmates of the house will move
cautiously.

84) People say that humility produces disgrace. This is

wrong. On the contrary humility brings about respect. It
comes in the Hadith: “Whoever adopts humility for the
sake of Allah, Allah elevates him.”

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85) Atibba (physicians) have said that the digestive

process commences with the hand. Allah Ta’ala has
created a special property in the hand. Besides the fact
that eating with the hand renders the food tastier, the
special digestive property existing in the hand is not to be
found in the knife and fork. This may be the reason for
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) saying:
“Do not cut the meat (when eating) with a knife.”

86) I am opposed to the system of written examinations

which is prevalent in educational institutes. Great strain
and stress are imposed on students by this system. The
purpose of examinations is to ascertain the ability of the
student. It will therefore, suffice to ascertain whether the
student has understood the kitaab which he has been
taught. This fact can be ascertained even if the student is
tested orally and the kitaab given to him to look at.
Memorising can be accomplished by the revision and
teaching. In fact, in most cases, the student forgets what
he had memorized during the student days. Such futile
memorising strains the mind unnecessarily. It is sufficient
to ascertain if the student possesses the ability to solve
the problems in the kitabs by means of his own research.
More than this is an exercise in futility.

87) A man wrote informing Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat

that he (the writer of the letter) was involved in the
disease of casting evil glances. Hakimul Ummat replied:
“What, is this not controllable?”
Casting an evil glance is a volitional act (i.e. done by one’s
one free will. It is not forced onto one). Hence, it is within
one’s power and ability to control and abstain therefrom

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even though it may be difficult. However, people just

refuse to undergo any difficulty. But the punishment of
Jahannam is severe and most difficult. I asked a man who
was involved in the disease of the evil glances:
“If the husband of the woman is watching you will
you stare at her?”
He said: “No”. I said to him:
“The greatness of Allah in your heart does not even
equal the greatness which your heart has for the
husband. Allah Ta’ala is omnipresent. He watches our
conditions at all times. At all times He is aware of our
evil conditions; however, we are not deterred. We are
not conscious of being watched by Allah Ta’ala every
moment. If this consciousness is developed, there will
not be the audacity to sin in this way.”

88) Qiyaas (the analogical deductive system of the

Fuqaha) merely makes manifest or brings to the fore a
law. It does not formulate laws. Laws (of the Shari’ah) are
formulated by Nass (Qur’an and Hadith ). Example:
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Every
intoxicant is haram.” On the bases of this Hadith, Qiyaas
applies the ruling of prohibition to opium as well since it
(opium) too is an intoxicant. Thus opium is haraam. Thus,
in actual fact, it is Nass which confirms the prohibition of
opium as well.

89) Inherent in the instructions of Rasulullah (sallallahu

alayhi wasallam) are some material advantages and
benefits. However, we should not entertain the motive of
gaining worldly benefit when executing the orders of
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). We should carry

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out these instructions with the intention of fulfilling the

Sunnah. Example: Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)
loved to eat marrow, which is a vegetable of the pumpkin
family.
It is beneficial for the physical health. Should one eat
marrow with the niyyat of it being a favourite dish of
Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), such action will
merit thawaab.

90) After a ta’weez has served its purpose it may be given

for use to another person.

91) An Aalim wrote an unnecessarily lengthy letter

containing all the frills and fancies of modernism. In fact,
the Aalim , in his letter, even expressed his apology for the
excessive length of the letter. Replying to the letter,
Hadhrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullah alayh) wrote:
“I do not regret so much the squandering of my own
time (in perusing the inordinately long letter).
However, I do grieve for your sake. You have
abandoned the orthodox way and have adopted
modernity. Indeed the Aayat : “What! Do you take in
exchange something inferior in return for something
better (and superior)?”, is applicable here. When such
transformation takes place in even the men of
knowledge, what can we say about others? Indeed, the
fitnah has overtaken all.”

92) Allah Ta’ala has distinguished and granted superiority

to man over other species of creation by the virtue of Aql
(intelligence). Aql should therefore be employed only in
submission to Wahi.

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93) If aql (intelligence) is not submitted to Wahi

(Revelation), man becomes the victim of error, night and
day.

94) The correct meaning of equality is equality in common

rights (rights which apply equally to all, such as legal
rights). Equality does not mean that husband and wife,
teacher and pupil, Murshid and Mureed are equal in every
respect. Everyone has separate rights as well. The clamour
of equality nowadays is ludicrous.

95) According to some Auliya the Haram Shareef is

capable of containing as many Hujjaj as are present,
irrespective of their numbers. This is one of the
miraculous peculiarities of the Haram Shareef. It expands
to take in the ever-increasing numbers of Hujjaj like the
womb of a mother expands to accommodate the growing
foetus.

96) The goal of Tasawwuf is the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala.

This divine Pleasure is attainable by obedience to the
Shari’ah. However, nowadays some people have
understood the goal to be absorption in some state of
ecstasy while others think that the goal is self-oblivion. In
fact, these states and conditions are of no significance.
The Taalib (Searcher of Divine Pleasure) should not be
concerned with the pursuit of such temporary states and
conditions.

97) When on a journey the Sunnat Salaats should never be

abandoned without valid reasons. When time and comfort

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are available the Sunnats should not be omitted.

98) The maintenance of disabled children is the

responsibility of the parents even if such children are
adults. In the absence of parents, the responsibility
devolves on close relatives. (In theabsence of such
relatives, on neighbours, then on the community. -
Translator)

99) One should not interfere with and oppose the things
established by our saintly predecessors. Their methods are
all correct.

100) A woman should not write letters without the

approval of her mahram guardian (husband, father, etc.).
There is the grave danger of mischief in females writing
without the approval of their guardians.

101) When Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)

appointed Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu) the Qaadhi of
Yemen, he instructed him: “O Ali! Never give a verdict
between two parties until you have not heard both sides.”

102) According to Abdul Wahhab Sha’rani, there was a

physician during his time who had succeeded in fertilising
and developing a human embryo outside the human body
into a fully grown man who was normal in all respects.
However, he could not speak. In future this feat will be
marked with greater achievement.

103) It is not a requisite for a Mujaddid to be a ruler

although sometimes he happens to be one. However he

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has to be an Aalim with the ability of differentiating

between Haqq (Truth) and Baatil (falsehood). Also, it is
not necessary that there be only one Mujaddid each
century. Sometimes there is one, two or several Mujaddid
in the same century. Sayyid Ahmad was a Mujjaddid.
(Sayyid Ahmad is not to be confused with Sir Sayyid, the
founder of Aligarh College). Sayyid Ahmad (rahmatullah
alayh) would have assumed the reins of government, but
he was martyred. Mujaddid Alf-e-Thani (rahmatullah
alayh) was Mujaddid in the field of Tasawwuf. Our
Hadhrat Haji Imdaadullah (rahmatullah alayh) was also a
Mujaddid in Tasawwuf. Considerable confusion had crept
into Tasawwuf, but Hadhrat Haji Imdaadullah
(rahmatullah alayh) dispelled the confusion, renewed and
reinvigorated Tasawwuf.

104) I never give a verdict in a dispute after having heard

the story of only one side. In the majority of cases a one-
sided verdict is erroneous. Furthermore, reports are
generally false.

105) A man wrote to Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah

alayh): “My money had disappeared from on top of my
table. Merely on suspicion I accused a child and hit him.
Afterwards, I found the money by another person who
had stolen it. I am now overwhelmed with regrets for
having hit the child. How do I make amends?”

Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) replied: “If the

child is a baaligh, seek forgiveness from him. If he is na-
baligh (minor), confess your error in his presence and for
a period of time make him happy by fulfilling his wishes.

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From time to time ask him for his wants and fulf ill
these.”

106) During the time when I had written Tafseer Bayanul

Qur’an, an Englishman met me very eagerly. He said:
“How much money did you get for this work?” I formed
him that I had obtained nothing. Expressing surprise, he
said: “Then what benefit did you get?” I replied: “Here on
earth my Muslims brethren derive benefit from this
work and in the Hereafter is the Pleasure of the True
Lord.”

107) Allah Ta'ala grants Noor-e-Baseerat(or Firaasat) to a

servant of the Deen in proportion to the degree of Deeni
service Allah Ta’ala imposes of him. In this regard
Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
“Beware of the firaasat of the mu’min, f or verily, he sees
with the Noor of Allah.”

(Firaasat is the intuitive capacity of perception in the

heart of the Mu’min. This ability varies with Taqwa and
Deeni responsibility. --Translator)
Giving an example of the Mu’min’s firaasat, Hadhrat
Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) narrated the following
episode:

Once a man professing profound aqeedat (faith and

devotion) came to Hadhrat Maulana Gangohi
(rahmatullah alayh). However, Hadhrat refused him
permission to stay in the khaanqah. Some people, taking
pity on the man, accommodated him at their home. It was

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felt that Hadhrat had dealt harshly with such a sincere

follower. A short while later it was discovered that this
man was a spy of the secret police. When this became
known, the one who had accommodated the man evicted
him. Hadhrat Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) commented:
“I had forbidden him from the very beginning.”

108) By showing disrespect to the Shaikh (Spiritual

Guide), the Mureed is deprived of baatini (inner, spiritual,
intuitive) blessings (barakaat). Even the Nisbat (spiritual
relationship) with the Shaikh becomes severed.
Disrespect is highly dangerous in the spiritual path. Its
peculiar effect is worse than the effect of sin. In this Path
(of spiritual reformation) all defects are tolerated, but
criticism and disrespect. Total devotion and confidence in
the Shaikh are essential in this Path.

109) Once a robber, abandoning his profession, took up

residence in a hut along the river banks. He involved
himself in Thikrullah. People started to visit him, labouring
under the impression that he was a saint. Some even
became his mureeds and become involved in Thikr. By the
qudrat (power) of Allah Ta’ala some of these mureeds
attained high ranks of spiritual elevation.

One day some of his spiritual elevated mureeds by means

of Muraaqabah (spiritual meditation) discerned that their
Shaikh (the ex-robber) held no spiritual status. Even after
repeating the Muraaqabah several times, they could not
discern any elevated spiritual rank for their spiritual guide.
Finally, they reported their discovery to their Shaikh who
truthfully revealed to them his story and told them very

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clearly that he was, in fact, a non-entity. All the mureeds

together made dua to Allah Ta’ala for the elevation of
their Shaikh. As a result, Allah Ta’ala elevated the shaikh
to a high spiritual rank.

In this episode the determining factor was nothing but

aqeedat (implicit faith and devotion). Such faith cleared
the road.

110) A person who is doubtful in his thoughts can be

corrected. However, one who has already decided an
issue cannot be corrected. He will argue with a
preconceived notion. There is, therefore, no need to
become involved in argumentation with such persons. The
Truth has already been sufficiently manifested and
disseminated.

111) People write to me complaining of my strict manner

of admonishing them. However, I say that a doctor who
does not admonish a patient who neglects the prescription
is an abuser of trust. Such a doctor is unfit to treat
patients.

112) Sometimes involvement with the Qu’raan Shareef

also becomes unlawful. For example: a man wishes to do
Hifz but has the responsibility of providing for his family.
It will be unlawful for such a man to involve himself with
Hifz of the Qur’aan which is Mustahab, since it is his
obligatory duty to provide for his family. [This prohibition
will apply if involvement in the pursuit of Hifz results in
the neglect of the Huqooq of one’s family. If a man
possesses the ability to execute both tasks simultaneously,

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it will not be unlawful. - Translator].

113) Man should form a proper bond with Allah Ta’ala.

When his relationship with Allah has been set right,
arrogant and proud Fir’ouns will bow their necks in his
presence. (Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said: “He
who is humble f or the sake of Allah, Allah elevates him.”
- Translator)

114) Ignoring the direction of ilhaam (inspiration of the

Auliya) results in worldly calamity such as illness, etc.
However since ilhaam is not among the Hujjats of the
Shari’ah (Proofs of the Shari’ah), there is no punishment
in the Aakhirah for its non-observance. Punishment in the
Aakhirah is for violating the demands of Wahi (Revelation
which came to the Ambiya).

115) Regard yourself to be more contemptible than even

a faasiq and a kaafir. Tell yourself that one does not know
which quality in the faasiq may appear pleasing to Allah
Ta’ala. With regards to Kufr, one does not know what the
future holds. Now one knows what will be the condition of
his Imaan tomorrow.

116) The actual nature of takabbur (pride) is the feeling

of superiority which arises in one on account of some
attribute of excellence. This feeling engenders contempt
for others. If this feeling arises involuntarily, one will not
be blameworthy provided that one does not act in
accordance with the dictates of this involuntary takabbur.
In other words, one should not proclaim by word or deed
one’s superiority nor show contempt for others. If this

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feeling of superiority is by deliberate design or even if not

by deliberate design, but one acts according to the
demands of takabbur, then one will be guilty of the crime
of takabbur. The remedy for this malady is to praise and
speak good of the person whom one is despising. Also
meet him with honour, respect, and humility.

117) Those who assert the belief of Ilmul Ghaib

(Knowledge of the Unseen) for Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi
wasallam are of two kinds.
i) The one group believes in uloom ghair mutanahiyyah or
limitless knowledge -eternal knowledge.
ii) The second group subscribes to the belief of uloom
mutanahiyyah or limited knowledge. Those who believe in
uloom ghair mutanahiyyah are in fact denying the absolute
proofs of the Shari’ah (Nusoos-e-Qat’iyah). Such people
are, therefore, kaafir.

Unlimited knowledge (Ilm Ghair Mutanahi) is the

attribute of Allah Ta’ala exclusively. It is impossible for
the created human to encompass limitless knowledge.

Those who subscribe to the belief of uloom mutanahiyya

(limited knowledge), in turn consist of two groups. The
one group believes that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi
wasallam) was awarded the ability and power of
encompassing the knowledge of all things and that the
power of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) extends
over all Uloom mutanahiyyah. Furthermore it is their
belief that after having awarded this power to Nabi
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) Allah’s Will no longer
operates, just as a king who assigns control to a minister

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who then utilizes his personal discretion in the office

placed under his jurisdiction. The minister, while holding
office does not require the consent of the king in each and
every detail. This is the type of belief which the
Mushrikeen of Arabia held in regard to their idols. The one
who subscribes to this belief is also a kaafir.

The other group believes that while the knowledge of

details of everything has been bestowed to Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) he nevertheless is yet
dependent on the Will of Allah Ta’ala. Baseless
interpretation (Ta’weel Fassid) is employed by this group
in vindication of its belief in regard to the limit of this
uloom mutanahiyyah. Therefore, this group represents the
people of Bid’ah. Their belief entails that Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) possessed the knowledge of all
things from the beginning of creation to the time of entry
into Jannat and Jahannum, without the exception of a
single detail. However, numerous narrational evidences
refute this belief.

118) The following episode illustrates the intelligence and

ingenuity of Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu):

Two companions along the journey sat down to eat. The

one has five bread rolls and the other had three. A passer-
by, on the invitation of two companions, joined them.
After eating, the generous passer-by presented them with
eight dirhams (silver coins). The traveller who had three
bread rolls requested his companion to share the money
equally between them.

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The companion refused, saying that he was entitled to five

dirhams since he had five bread rolls. The other one
should receive three dirhams because he had three rolls.
When they could not settle this dispute, they presented
their case to Hadhrat Ali (radhiallahu anhu) who said to
the one who had three bread rolls: “What harm is there if
you accept this division of three and five?”

He replied: “I want justice.”

Hadhrat Ali: “If it is justice you want, then you take one
dirham and your companion seven dirhams.”

The companion with three bread rolls objected. Hadhrat

Ali (radhiallahu anhu) commented:
“There were eight rolls and three who ate, hence each
person ate one third of the eight rolls. Eight consists of
24 thirds. Thus each one ate eight parts. However, his
three rolls consists of 9 parts (thirds). After having
consumed his 8 parts there remained one part of his
share. The one with five rolls had 15 parts (thirds) of
which he ate 8, leaving behind 7 parts. The 8 dirhams
have, therefore, to be divided in this proportion the one
who contributed one part of his bread has to receive one
dirham and the one who contributed 7 parts should
receive 7 dirhams.”

119) Once Hadhrat Ahmad Bin Hambal (rahmatullah

alayh) was making wudhu on the banks of a river. Another
man sitting on higher level, was also making wudhu. When
he realised he was sitting on a lower level, he moved from
his position, taking up a place lower than the position of

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Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal (rahmatullah alayh). After the

man’s death someone saw him in a dream and enquired
about his condition.

He replied:
“One day I was making wudhu on the river bank where
Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal (rahmatullah alayh) was also
making wudhu sitting on a lower level. My water was
flowing in his direction. In respect for the Imam I went to
sit lower down. When I was ushered into the Divine court
for a reckoning I was informed that I was being forgiven
solely on account of having honoured an accept servant of
Allah Ta’ala.”

Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) commented:

“When forgiveness is obtained on the basis of pretexts,
then how is it possible to regard anyone with contempt?
In my opinion only such person will be punished, who
themselves desire to be punished. They rebelliously
refuse to be repentant.”

120) In the army of Gwaliar was a Muslim soldier who

was clean-shaven. Other Muslim soldiers always criticized
him for shaving his beard. However, he ignored their
criticism and never kept a beard. Coincidentally, the king
ordered that henceforth, all soldiers will have to be clean-
shaven. The others told him:
“Now you may rejoice. All have to be like you.”
He replied: “Until now I refrained from keeping a beard
on account of the mischief of my nafs. Now I shall not
abstain from a Law of the Shari’ah because of an order of
a kaafir king. I shall rather work elsewhere as a labourer.”

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He resigned and grew a beard while the others who had

criticized him, shaved their beards.

It appears in the Ahaadith that whoever criticizes another

person’s action, adopting a holier than thou attitude, will
not die before having committed the same misdeed. Only
Allah Ta’ala was aware of his heart’s condition.

121) Someone asked a buzroog (saint) about Hadhrat Ali

(radhaillahu anhu). The buzroog said: “Which Ali?”
The man said: “Are there several Ali?”
The Buzroog replied: “Yes, there are two Ali: One is our
Ali (radhiallahu anhu), the son-in-law of Rasulullah
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam), the husband of Hadhrat
Faatima (radhiallahu anhu) and the father of Hadhrat
Hasan and Hadhrat Husain (radhiallahu anhuma). The
other one is Ali of Shiah - The Ali who was a great coward
who passed his whole life in the shadow of Taqiya. This is
the Shiah Ali. (Taqiya is the Shi’i doctrine of concealing
one’s true beliefs).

122) Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiallahu anhu), during his very

life-time appointed Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu) as
the Khalifah to succeed him. Along with the appointment,
Hadhrat Abu Bakr secured the oath of allegiance (Bay’t)
from the people on behalf of Hadhrat Umar without even
revealing his successor’s (Umar’s) name.
Hadhrat Abu Bakr wrote the name of Hadhrat Umar on a
paper and informed the people that the person whose
name is recorded on the document will be the Khalifah
after him. He then commanded the people to take the

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Bay’t, i.e. swear allegiance to succeeding Khalifah (whose

name appeared in the document, but whose identity was
not revealed). When making this pledge of allegiance,
Hadhrat Ali (radhaillahu anhu) commented: “I pledge the
oath of allegiance even if he (i.e. the unknown appointee) is
Umar.”

123) Once Maulana Muhammad Yaqoob (rahmatullah

alayh) narrated the following story:
“A happily married, wealthy couple was one night asleep
in their room. A band of sixteen robbers gained entry into
the house. Since the robbers were convinced that a large
treasure
was stored in the room, they lifted the couple’s bed with
exceptional care and placed it outside in the yard. The
operation of removing the bed was so expertly executed
that both and wife were not disturbed form their sleep.
As soon as the robbers returned to the room the entire
roof collapsed, killing the sixteen.

The couple slept right through this episode. In the

morning when their eyes opened they beheld the scene in
shocked astonishment. They were under the impression
that angels must have removed their bed into the yard.
They were very grateful to Allah Ta’ala for saving them.
However, when later the place was cleared and the
bodies of the robbers discovered, then only did they
realize what had actually happened. The life and death of
the couple and the robbers respectively were divinely
ordained in this way.”

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124) Women are by nature modest. A wealthy man

(inclined to the shameless ways of the west) once ordered
his Purdah-observing wife to discard her Purdah, but she
refused. One day in rage, he confronted her with a
firearm, ordering her to abandon Purdah otherwise would
kill her. She replied:
“I accept death, but not the abandonment of Purdah.”
On hearing her decision, the husband fired and killed her.
For the sake of Purdah, she offered her life. May Allah
Ta’ala forgive her and grant her a lofty rank.

125) Two things are very beneficial. If a person adopts

them, he will not go astray. One: He should annihilate his
personal opinion. Two: He should not hanker after results.
He should act according to the instructions of his Shaikh
(Spiritual Guide).
Hadhrat Hajee Imdaadullah (rahmatullah alayh) usually
commented:
“The Taufeeq (inclination) to do good, in itself is a great
wealth.”
[The above advice pertains to spiritual and moral
reformation where one is following the guidance of a
qualified Shaikh who is an expert in the field of spiritual
reformation. The mureed (disciple) should submit to his
Shaikh’s instructions and abandon his personal ideas.]

126) After the demise of the renowned saint, Hadhrat

Ibrahim Adham (rahmatullah alayh) another saint saw
him in a dream and on enquiring about his (Ibrahim’s -
rahmatullah alayh) condition, Hadhrat Ibrahim Adham
(rahmatullah alayh) replied: “Alhamdulillah! Allah
bestowed His grace on me and conferred ranks to me.

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However, a poor neighbour of mine surpassed me on

account of his yearning that if he had the time he would
have devoted himself to Thikrullah.”

127) Ijtihaad is a natural and inherent ability. One does

not become a mujtahid by studying and abundances of
books.

128) While on a journey in Bombay, a man came and

asked: “How many kinds of crows are there?”
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) replied: “I do not
know the classes of crows. However, if you say I shall
explain the classes of human beings and also inform you of
the class to which you belong.” The man was silenced by
this answer.

129) During the journey to Rangoon, Hadhrat

(rahmatullah alayh) said: “There are four types of people.
i) People who have both intelligence and courage.
ii) People who have neither intelligence nor courage.
iii) People who have intelligence but lack of courage.
iv) People who have courage but lack of intelligence.”

130) In former times there was a degree of Deeni noor

(light) in even people of bid’ah. This was because of their
engagement in Thikrullah. The similitude of this Noor of
the Deen (in the people of bid’ah) is like the shadow of a
tree in moonlight. The effect of this combination (of the
moon’s light with the shadow of the tree) can neither be
described as light nor darkness.
On the contrary, there is nothing but deceit and scheming
in the people of bid’ah of present times. They are devoid

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of Thikrullah. Former people (a reference to the Ahl-e-

Bid’ah of former times) were not traders (i.e. trading the
Deen for worldly gains). They were Deeni people albeit
involved in error. Their intentions were not corrupted.

Today’s claimants (of divine love) are barren. Wallah! I

take oath and say that even a drop of divine love will
transform the entire world into bitterness. To a man who
has in him true divine love, the world seems as poison.
This is the basis of religiosity.

131) There are two benefits in the acquisition of Deeni

Knowledge even though it be without practice. One:
Correction of Aqeedah (Belief). Two: At some time or
the other, knowledge will draw one towards itself
(resulting in one’s spiritual and moral upliftment).

132) Once along the journey to Rangoog, Hadhrat

(rahmatullah alayh) said:
“In this place there is an abundance of wealth, but a lack
of expertise. In our area, Alhamdulillah, there is sufficient
wealth (i.e. for needs) as well as adequate expertise. It
may also be said that the lack of excellence is also an
excellence”

133) The talks and terminology of the Auliya cannot be

comprehended without staying in their company. In Delhi
there was a buzroog (a saint) who was heard saying: “I am
not your servant and you are not my god. Why then should
I obey you?”
On hearing this expression, the people proclaimed the
verdict of kufr against the buzroog. He was apprehended

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and brought to the Qaadhi who asked: “Hahdrat! To

whom were you speaking?”
Smiling the buzroog commented: “Alhamdulillah! In Delhi
at least there is one intelligent man, hence he has asked
me for an explanation. My nafs is demanding that I feed it
a certain delicacy. In answer to its demand I was saying: “I
am not your servant and you are not my god. Why then,
should I obey you?”

134) When people refrain from associating with saintly

persons, they (the buzroogs) suffer no harm. On the
contrary, people harm themselves (by depriving
themselves of the benefits of holy company).

135) Nowadays, people regard Ibaadat to hardship.

Wallah! There is no hardship in Ibaadat. Ibaadat is like
varieties of delicious foods. There is no hardship in
participating in such varieties of delicacies. If this is
branded as hardship, it will be tantamount to denying the
quality of nourishment of food. I take oath by Allah! These
virtuous deeds of the shari’ah are like bread. Initially the
baby finds difficulty in eating bread and seeks to abstain
from it. However, once the realization has dawned on the
child, he will understand the bread to be a mercy.
Similarly, the worshipper experiences some difficulty
initially in Ibaadat. But later, when experiences the
pleasure of Ibaadat, he will engross himself
wholeheartedly therein.

136) Alas! We are increasingly becoming the enemies of

such things which create the love of Allah. We flee from
the Ibaadat of Allah. On the other hand, we adopt the

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things which distance us from Allah.

137) A man in love with a woman wrote to Hadhrat

Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh): “I am in love with a widow.
I have tried much to keep my gaze off her, but to no
avail.”
In reply, Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh) wrote: “Come
with this letter to me.”
Thus, he came on the 12th Rajab and presented the letter.
Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh) said: “Assuming this
woman’s husband was present, would you have gazed at
her (in his presence)?”

He said: “No! I would have restrained my gaze.”

Hadhrat: “Alas! You do not honour and fear Allah Ta’ala
as much as fear her husband. It is indeed disgraceful. The
reason for your attitude is the fear of immediate reaction
of the husband. What! Is the punishment of Jahannum
less than a thrashing which the husband would give? Is the
hardship of courageously restraining the gaze more than
the hardship of Jahannum? You may have come here
thinking I would prescribe some wazifah. But, ailments are
not cured with wazifah. Ignorant peers (who have
appointed themselves as spiritual guides) have destroyed
people. For everything they prescribe wazifah.

Wazifah is like a stimulant which gives energy without

curing the illness. In fact, if a stimulant is taken during
illness then in some cases the sickness worsens. A sickness
is cured after taking bitter medicine.”

138) Allah Ta’ala has a different relationship with

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different people. He sustains everyone in a different way.

He treats them according to their own conditions.

139) Our Hadhrat Haji Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) said:

“A principle of the buzroogs of former times was to
impart ta’leem (spiritual instruction) to every person
according to his capability. To some, they indicated some
domestic work; on some they imposed some other service.
In this manner would they acquire spiritual and moral
perfection. Now it has become the norm to instruct
everyone with the Thikr of Ism-e-Zat (Allahu) 24,000
times: whether the poor soul survives or perishes. In fact,
they don’t even confine themselves to the instruction of
this 24,000. Whatever comes to mind, they dole out.”
Hadhrat had made these comments on account of a book
compiled by a certain person on Durood. Many terms in a
book did not fully comply with the Shari’ah. Commenting
further, Hadhrat said:
“Even with regard to Dalail-e-khairaat I draw the
attention of my friends to the considerable time required
to recite a lengthy manzil (chapter) thereof. In lieu of this,
the same amount of time should be spent rather reciting
that Durood Shareef which the entire Ummah recites
during Salaat. Further this Durood (which is recited in
Salaat) has been narrated from Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi
wasallam).”

140) Commenting on the criticism of the Ahl-e-Baatil,

Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh) said:
“These are all controversies. Who will seal the tongues of
people? As long as Allah Ta’ala maintains a person in the
service of his Deen and accepts the service, then one

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should not be concerned even if the whole world vilifies

one. Shukr unto Allah! Like Ihya-ul-Uloom (the famous
work of Imaam Ghazali-rahmatullah alayh), my Kitab
(Beheshti Zewer) too was burnt and fatwas of kufr were
levelled against myself.
Then, in their very presence Ihya-ul-Uloom was written
with liquid gold. Similarly, my kitaab too, is being kept in
the homes of these very people, Alhamdulillah! They are
deriving benefit from it. Approximately 100,000 copies
have already been printed (this was before 1943). Others
have translated it into their languages. I am extremely
pleased that in spite of opposition, people are benefiting
considerably from it. In fact, the Kitaab would not have
become so widespread if there was no opposition.”

141) Commenting further on the charges of kufr which

the Ahl-e-Bid’ah directed against our Ulama, Hadhrat
(rahmatullah alayh) said:
“We have been taught to recite La-ilaaha il-lallaahu when
someone says that we are kaafir.
Our Haji Shaheb would say on such occasions:
‘If I am a Mu’min by Allah Ta’ala, then no one can harm
me in any way’.”

142) Nowadays, piety is confined to the recitation of

wazifahs (prescribed forms of Thikr). Betterment of
moral character is no longer accorded importance.

143) Once, commenting on the Athaan, Hadhrat

(rahmatullah alayh) said: “Other religions have bells to
proclaim the time of prayer while here (i.e. in Islam), the
proclamation commences with such words which

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announce the greatness and glory of Allah Ta’ala, and

which exhort worship.”

144) Remember! Just as fussaaq (flagrant transgressors)

and fujjaar (immoral persons) are the captives of Shaitaan,
so too is such a mut-taqi (pious person) who commits
excesses and goes beyond the limits prescribed by the
Shar’iah. [Hadhrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullah alayhi) made
this comment on account of a man whose excessive
caution in matters pertaining to Tahaarat (purification)
had reached the degree of baseless suspicion and doubt.]

145) Suspicion and probing are not good in every place.

However, if the moral reformation of a person is one’s
responsibility, then making investigation will be
appropriate, in fact, necessary some times.

146) A man here once admonished someone, exhorting

him to do an act of righteousness. I doubted his motive
and said to him: “Did you resort to Amr bil Ma’roof
(commanding righteousness) to a certain man”. When he
replied in the affirmative, I said to him:
“You are standing in the Musjid. You are taking the Name
of Allah Ta’ala. If you are going to speak a lie, both your
worldly life and the life of the Aakhirah will be ruined.
Now honestly answer. ‘At the time when you were
executing the duty of Arm Bil Ma’roof, did you consider
yourself better than him?’ He replied: “Undoubtedly, I did
think so”.
I said: “This is therefore, not guidance. On the contrary it
is deviation. I fact, it is a deviation akin to shirk. Now what
should be done to you?”

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He said: “Whatever you prescribe.”

I said to him: “Tend to the shoes off all the musallis.”
(This means to put in order the shoes off all the musallis
who usually leave them in disarray at the entrance of the
Musjid.) Also, fill the wudhu-jugs for all. (These services
were imposed on him as a remedy for his pride.) Since this
ailment (of pride) was in consequence on his Thikr and
Shaghl (prescribed forms to spiritual exercises), I ordered
him to desist therefrom. Instead of the prescribed
formulae of Thikr I instructed him to continue with Thikr
while walking, sitting and reclining. In this way he will in
fact be engaging in even more Thikr.

He had derived much benefit by the adoption of this

method. He had also conceded this fact. His words were:
“Even in ten years I would not have derived so much
benefit.”

147) The existence of Madaaris is a cause for abundance

of virtue and barkaat. In this regard a story narrated by
Shaikh Sa’di (rahmatullah alayh) comes to mind. While a
prince was once hunting, a diamond inset in his crow was
lost. Darkness had already set in. He ordered his servants
to gather all the pebbles in the vicinity and take them
along. The diamond will then be searched for among the
pebbles at leisure. Similarly, out of these Madaaris emerge
such persons who undertake and execute all the affairs of
the Deen.

148) The Hadith: “Verily, actions are with intentions”,

pertains to permissible acts and worship. It does not apply

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to sins. The Hadith means that good deeds accompanied

by good intentions are acceptable. It does not mean that
sins accompanied by good intentions are transformed into
virtuous deeds.

149) A man asked Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh) to make

dua for him. Hadhrat replied: “You too should make dua.”
The man said: “I am not fit to make dua.”
Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh) commented: “Subhaanallah!
You do recite the Kalimah which is the basis of
everything. How come you are fit to recite the Kalimah,
but unfit to make dua? Fitness is not a requisite for dua,
because dua is to ask (to appeal, to supplicate). It is
evident that an unfit person lacking in means and ability
asks. The dua of even Shaitaan was accepted. (This is
evident from the Qur’aan). I, therefore, fail to understand
why you are not fit for dua. Indeed, having plunged people
in this error, Shaitaan has deprived them to abundant
virtues.”

150) The harmful effects of publishing every item of news

is stated in the Qur’an Majeed. Allah Ta’ala says in this
regard: “When there comes to them (i.e. the
munaafiqeen) some news, either of peace or fear, they
publicise it. If they would have referred it to the Rasool
and those in authority among them, then those among
them who understand it will know it (i.e. what causes of
action to take). And, if it was not for the grace off Allah
on you, most certainly, you would have followed Shaitaan,
except a few.”

The full tafseer of this Aayat could be ascertained in the

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Books of tafseer. Thus, the Qur’an forbids publication of

every item of news in general. Even the Hadith
deprecates such publication. It is said in the Hadith: “It
suffices for a man to be branded a liar that he speaks
everything he hears.”

151) Once in Kanpur, I negated democracy on the very

basis on which the votaries of democracy substantiate it.
They cite the Qur’anic Aayat: “Consult with them in
affairs.”, as proof for the system of democratic
government. But, I refuted this contention on the basis of
this very Aayat. This Aayat in fact orders mashwarah
(consultation) which is not democracy. Although you (i.e.
votaries of democracy, viz. the modernists) consider
yourselves to be philosophers and wise men, you are in
reality devoid of understanding. Democratic government,
is not consultation.

In fact, there are certain principles of consultation in

democracy, among which is majority vote. When
difference of opinion prevails, a decision is taken in terms
of the majority
opinion. The ruler in such a system is bound by the
majority opinion which he cannot oppose. If the ruler
rejects the majority opinion and promulgates his own
view, the system will not be a democracy. It will be a
dictatorship. Hence, a government cannot be described as
democratic solely on account of consultation. Now it
should be proved with even a single episode that the
government of the Sahaabah (radhiallahu anhu) was not a
democracy.
Never were the Khulafa bound to the decisions/advices of

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their advisors. They were not constrained to act in

accordance with the opinion or advice of those whom they
consulted. Thus, according to the Shari’ah rule,
government of the individual is upheld. You (the supporter
of democracy) stop at “And consult with them”, when
citing the verse. You do not proceed to cite the full verse.
The portion which is omitted is: “Then, when you (the
ruler) have finally decided (a matter), repose your trust on
Allah (and act accordingly).”

You have either conveniently overlooked this portion of

the verse or your understanding is unable to fathom its
meaning.

This portion at the Aayat explicitly states individual rule

(termed dictatorship). The verse does not say: “When the
majority has decided”. On the contrary the final decision
is left to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) who had
to give effect to his own decision in spite of consultation.
The verse means that even after having consulted, the
decision will be solely ‘yours’ (i.e. Rasulullah’s), be such
decision in accord or in conflict with the majority opinion.
Reposing trust in Allah, the ruler should proceed to
implement his own decision.

152) The work of the Deen is not dependent on any

particular person. During the Khilaafat of Hadhrat Umar
(radhiallahu anhu), a Christian clerk was employed by
Hadhrat Abu Musa Ash’ari (radhiallahu anhu). Amirul
Mu’mineen (i.e. Hadhrat Umar- radhiallahu anhu) asked
Hadhrat Abu Musa (radhiallahu anhu) about this. He
replied that the clerk was well-versed in accounting.

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Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu) said: “Dismiss him!”

Hadhrat Abu Musa (radhiallahu anhu) said: “He knows
accounting well.”
Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu): “If he dies then you will
have to make alternate arrangements. You can make that
arrangement now.”
On his return, Hadhrat Abu Musa (radhiallahu anhu)
discovered that the Christian clerk had died.

When Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu) appointed

Hadhrat Abu Ubaidah (radhiallalu anhu) as the
commander after dismissing Hadhrat Khalid Bin Walid
(radhiallahu anhu), the people said: “Hadhrat Khalid
(radhiallahu anhu) should not be substituted by such a
weak man.” (Hadhrat Abu Ubaidah (radhiallahu anhu) was
of tender disposition.)

By the same token Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu)

supported his appointment. He, therefore, said: “Precisely
for his reason have I dismissed Khalid. The gaze of the
people is focused on only Khalid. They do not look
further.”
(Everyone was attributing the victories to Khalid Bin
Walid- radhiallahu anhu).

Now seeing the appointment of a weak man such as Abu

Ubaidah, all will turn their gaze to Allah Ta’ala.

153) Judge Akbar Husain who was a very wise man made
a wonderful statement. He said:
“The statement: ‘We should move with the times’, is
absurd. The times refer to our collective actions which are

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under our own control. How then should we become

subservient to these?”

154) Someone wrote: “I have a strong relationship of love

with my wife. Is this not perhaps harmful (for spiritual
progress)?”
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) replied: “It is not
harmful, On the contrary, it is beneficial. However, if she
acts in conflict with the Deen, then beware. Love for
someone who is irreligious constitutes a danger to one’s
own Imaan.”

155) If someone (viz. a Wali) after the incidence of a

Karaamat (miracle) examines his heart, he will not find
any progress in his condition of Divine Proximity. On the
contrary, he may sometimes detect a kind of (spiritual)
retrogression. Thereafter, if he says ‘Subhaanallah’ just
once, he will discern a noor rising in the heart.

156) People who are much enamoured by supernatural

displays, will be with Dajjaal in greater number. I have
heard this from my seniors. I have also heard that Dajjaal
will have the appearance of a Majzoob. (Majzoob is a saint
whose mind appears to be deranged as a result of his total
engrossment with Allah’s remembrance and love.)

This indicates that haal (a spiritual state) is not sufficient.

The vital need (for rectitude) is obedience to the Sunnah.
Those people whose attention is focused only on
spiritual/supernatural states while not accepting the Deen
as the requisite for Tasawwuf, will find it very difficult to
be saved from the traps of Dajjaal. Dajjaal will do

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everything, but he will not be able to act in accordance

with the Sunnah. Only the followers of the Sunnah will be
safe from Dajjaal’s trap.

157) A deceit cannot imitate the Sunnah. The effect of

Sunnah is spiritual reality which the deceit can never
acquire. The difference between a deceit and a true
follower of the Sunnah will become manifest by
observation.

158) Once in a dream I saw numerous females and

plentiful musical instruments with Dajjaal, (These will be
his agencies in luring people to him).

159) In the Mathnavi (of Maulana Rumi) it is narrated

that Shaitaan requested Allah Ta’ala:
“Bestow some tools to me to enable me to execute my
work.” When women were presented to him (to be his
agents in deception and evil), nothing was more pleasing to
him. When Shaitaan saw the women, his elation was
immense and he commented: “Now I shall be successful.”
Nowadays peers (this is a reference to the ‘spiritual
guides’ of the Ahl-e- Bid’ah sect) are entrapped in the
calamity (of mixing with females). They worship
external beauty and they are opponents of the Sunnah.

160) In order to combat corruption of morals, the Fuqaha

(Jurists of Islam) have ruled that a man should not reply
to even the salaam of a young women. In fact, the Fuqaha
have exercised so much caution in this regard that they
have ruled that even the garments of females at times are
in the same category as a woman (i.e. a man should not

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stare at even a female’s attractive garments).

161) I claim with emphasis that if a person submits fully
(to the Shari’ah), the result will be barakaat (blessings) in
abundance. But one should be steadfast. In the beginning
one will not discern benefit. However, later such noor
(spiritual light) will be perceived that peace of mind
without obedience will not be possible. In fact, the effect
of such obedience will extend to others.

162) I always pity the wealthy. They are always engulfed

with worries. Sometimes they lack the means, but feel
constrained to spend for the sake of maintaining their
position and dignity in society. They feel ashamed to
contribute a small amount in charity, therefore give more
than what they can afford, thereby burdening themselves.

163) Ghair muqallid’ism (la-mathabi’ism or the practice

of abandoning Math-hab) has the outer form of Deen, but
is devoid of the reality of Deen.

164) The minds of people have become corrupted. A man

posed some questions and wrote:
“State the answers from the Hadith.”
I responded: “I remember the answers from Fiqh. I do not
remember them from the Hadith, hence excuse me.”
(The questions were thus not answered. This was the
remedy for the futile request- Translator)

165) The intelligence of an obedient (servant of Allah) is

enhanced at the time of hardship and he becomes more
alert because Allah Ta’ala creates irfan (spiritual insight
and vision) in him on account of his obedience and piety.

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166) Visit two Aalims. One who is mutaqqi (pious) and

one who is simply an aalim devoid of piety. I take oath and
say that you will find the pious Aalim to be very intelligent
and wise. On the other hand the one lacking in piety will
be extremely shallow (in his grasp) and devoid of
understanding. In fact, I further say that even an illiterate
man who happens to be pious will have such intelligence
and understanding which will not be found in an Aalim
lacking in piety. The majority of the Sahaabah (radhiallahu
anhum) could neither read nor write. However, when
they addressed kings and emperors inviting them to Islam,
they (kings) were astonished by their talks.

Once in the court of the emperor Heraclius, when the

emperor addressing the Muslim delegation asked for a
description of the character of the Khalifah Umar
(radhiallahu anhu), an illiterate member of the delegation,
dressed in simple garments, replied: “He neither deceives
nor can be deceived.” In a single statement did he sum up
the character of the Khalifah. The emperor was left
speechless and amazed. This was the barkat (blessing) of
obedience.

By virtue of obedience, divine understanding was

acquired. Allah Ta’ala was their supporter and helper. The
emperor addressing his courtiers and noblemen said:
“These two qualities in their Khalifah are such that the
entire world cannot oppose a man in whom these exist. It
is clear from the statement, ‘He does not deceive’, that
he is a man of piety, and piety is the head of kingship. The
statement, ‘He cannot deceived,’ indicates that he is a

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man of great intelligence. A man in whom piety and

intelligence unite, will dominate all.”

167) When the searchers of fame engage in any Deeni

activity, they do so for the sake of acquiring fame.

168) When Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddique (radhiallahu

anhu) nominated Hadhrat Umar (radhiallahu anhu) to
succeed him, he (Umar) said: “I have no need for the
Khilaafat.” Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiallahu anhu) said:
“True! But the Khilaafat needs you.”

169) If the Ulama join the ranks of the ignorant, what

benefit will there be? Yes, if the ignorant submit to
Ulama, then will they gain benefit (Deeni and spiritual
benefit). This is a simple and self-evident fact. If a
medical doctor submits to the whims of the sick, they
(the sick) will not derive any benefit. The sick will benefit
only if they remain subservient to the physicians. This
subservience will be laudable and wise because the patient
has submitted himself to a wise and qualified person. A
doctor who submits to the whims of ignorant patients,
displays gross ignorance.

170) Once (on the occasion of mi’raj) the kuffaar taunted

Hadhrat Abu Bakr Siddique (radhiallahu anhu): “Have you
heard the claim made by your friend? He claims to have
ascended into heavens.”
Abu Bakr’s swift response was: “If he says so,
undoubtedly, it is the truth. He had ascended into
heavens.”
The kuffaar said: “How is it that you confirm this so

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unhesitatingly?”
Abu Bakr (radhiallahu anhu) said: “Do you not know that
prior to this, I have already acknowledged a greater (i.e.
more wonderful) claim? I have acknowledged that a being
of the heavens (this is a reference to Jibraeel) visits him.”
There is greater wonder in a heavenly being (viz. Jibraeel)
visiting the Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) than the Nabi
(sallallahu alayhi wasallam) being taken into the heavens.
Subhaanallah! Allah Ta’ala had bestowed wonderful
intelligence to the Sahaabah.

171) Speaking about spiritual guides who themselves

suffer from spiritual maladies, Hadhrat Thaanwi
(rahmatullah alayhi) said: “Nowadays, there remain only
policies (of personal and worldly motives). Imam Ghazali
said: ‘O honourable friend! What hope have you for ;your
spiritual reformation when your mentor himself is
afflicted with (spiritual) maladies?’”

172) People search for comfort (and pleasure) in the

works of the Deen. While such comfort does occur, it is
only after accomplishment of the work. But people desire
to attain this comfort first. Their similitude is that of a
sick man who complains of his ill- health. While he wishes
for good health, he abstains from medicine. Health
without eliminating the sickness is not possible. The
eliminating of sickness cannot be effected without
medical treatment. However in the affairs of the Deen
the intelligence of people has become deranged (because
they are reluctant or refuse to adopt correct methods for
spiritual reformation and benefit).

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173) The condition (of Muslims) will become reformed

only if actions conform to the Deen. This is the true sign
(of reformation). This is the aim. All new- fangled acts are
accursed. The need is to abandon them and to act on the
Sunnah.

174) A sick man wrote to me: “I am sick and because of

my illness I am unable to practise the Wazaa-if (forms of
prescribed Thikr). I, therefore, feel very despondent.” I
replied:
“Sometimes such (spiritual) benefits are achieved by virtue
of sickness, which are not attainable from Wazaa-if.”

175) If a Shaikh (spiritual guide), in spite of being aware

of his mureed’s action which the Shari’ah, refrains from
rectifying him, then I believe him (the Shaikh) to be a
khaa-in (abuser of trust). Such a person should not be
appointed as one’s spiritual guide. When they (such
guides) lack the ability to cure, why do they mislead
people? For which sickness are they a remedy? When they
refrain from treating the (spiritual) ailments of people,
then why do they lead people into deviation?

People think that the meaning of amaanat (trust) is only to

keep in safe custody the valuables of others. The talibeen
(those who are desirous of reformation) and the thaakireen
(those who are engaging in abundant Thikr) have submitted
themselves to us (spiritual guides). If then, we fail to
discharge the duty of tarbiyat (spiritual guidance and
treatment), will we not be guilty of abuse of trust? When
they have submitted their Deen and Imaan to you, then

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why do you not concern yourselves with their islaah

(reformation). What reliance could be put on a man who
abuses Imaan? He is capable of doing anything. Whoever is
careless of Imaani matters, cannot be trusted in financial
affairs.

176) Someone wrote: “I am saddled with debt. I always

make dua, but none of my duas is accepted. Allah Ta’ala
says in the Qur’an that He accepts the duas of His
servants. However, my duas are not being accepted,
hence I am overwhelmed by worry. Do make dua on my
behalf. You are a pious servant of Allah.” Hadhrat
Thaanwi, wrote to him in reply:
“Make taubah! (i.e. Repent). Allah Ta’ala had accepted
the prayer of even Shaitaan when he had asked to be
granted life until Qiyaamah.” People misunderstand the
Qur’anic Aayat:

‘Verily, I answer the dua of the caller when he calls Me.’

Imam Raazi (rahmatuallah alayh), explains this Aayat with
reference to another Aayat, viz. ‘In fact, you call only
Him.

He then opens up (i.e. answers) what you had supplicated

for unto Him, if He wishes.’ The former Aayat is
conditioned with this Aayat. The meaning will, therefore,
be that if Allah so desires He will accept/grant the dua.
Furthermore, it should be understood that certain things
are within the power of a person (i.e. they can be
acquired by his effort) while some things are beyond his
volitional power. In matters in which man’s effort plays a
role, it is essential to make effort. Along with effort, dua

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will introduce barkat (blessings). But, in such matters dua

alone is inadequate, e.g. someone desires offspring, but is
not prepared to marry. Making dua will not avail him. His
dua for children will never be accepted.

In matters which are beyond man’s effort, e.g. rain, dua is

accepted if it (dua) is not in conflict with his welfare and
interests. If a little child asks for poison or for a beautifully
coloured snake, will its wish be granted? This explanation
is applicable to worldly affairs. Regarding the Aakhirat,
whatever is asked for, will be granted because the actual
goal is the Aakhirat.

177) The Fuqaha have explicitly ruled that a perpetrator

of even major sins remains a Muslim and will not be
branded a kaafir as long as he accepts the sins to be sins
even though he commits such misdeeds willfully. Yet we
find people (such as the Ahl-e-Bid’ah) who proclaim a
man as a kaafir simply because of a dream (which may
appear to them as kufr). But, these people who become
involved in ihtilam (emission of semen) do not consider
themselves to be fornicators (on basis of ihtilam).

178) In Rampur was a man (a saintly man) who believed

himself to be an atheist. (This was a temporary state.
Such states of depression sometimes settle over the
Auliya). This man was a Sahib-e-Silsilah (an authentic
Shaikh of Tasawwuf). However, he was not fully qualified
in this field and lacked the ability to comprehend Waarid
(spiritual states). The saint suffering with this depression
went to an Aalim who was teaching Mathnawi Shareef. As
he (the depressed saint) entered the class, the Aalim

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enquired: “Who are you?” Spontaneously, the Sahib-e-hal

(the depressed saint) replied: “I am Shaitaan.” The
Maulana Saheb responded:
‫َجَ َيم‬
َََ َ َ‫َََر‬ َ ََ‫َََ َشيَط‬
‫انََال‬ ‫أََعََوَذ‬
‫َََبَََاَهللََمَ َنََال‬

On hearing this, the Sahib-e-hal went straight to his home.

He now felt that he truly was Shaitaan. (He regarded the

Maulana Saheb’s exclamation as confirmation for his idea
that he was Shaitaan). He resolved to cleanse the world of
his existence. He informed one mureed that he was about
to cut his own throat and that he (the mureed) should
complete the job (of slitting his throat) if he (the Shaikh)
does not succeed in accomplishing the task. This
simpleton promised to abide by this instruction.

The Shaikh went inside his room and slit his own throat.
After sometime, the mureed entered the room and found
his Shaikh dead with his throat slit. The head was dangling
by the skin. The mureed completed the job be cutting off
the head. He was arrested by the police. The case was
heard by the Nawaab (Ruler). The simple mureed
narrated the entire episode. Since the mureed had also
mentioned the name of the Maulana (who had recited
‫)ََعََوذ‬,
...ََََ ‫ أ‬he was summoned to appear in court.

The Maulana confirmed the story of the Mureed

(regarding his encounter with the Sahib-e-hal). The
Nawaab then acquitted the Mureed. On hearing of this
episode, Maulana Yaqub Saheb commented: “He (the
Alim) should have replied: ‘Even if you are Shaitaan, so
what?’ After all, Shaitaan too belongs to Allah”. This reply

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would have displaced his depression and peace of mind

would have returned.”

179) Ignorant sufis proclaim the futility of Salaat and

Saum while claiming wazaa-if and athkaar (prescribed
forms of Thikr) to be the actual pursuits. But, Thikr and
shaghl (devotional practices) without Salaat, Saum,
Zakaat, and Hajj, are devoid of benefit. Thikr and Shaghl
strengthen Salaat and Saum. These arkaan (fundamentals)
are like the blooming bud while Thikr and shaghl are like
water. Now if some ignoramus digs up the plant and
continues watering the ground, what ruling will be issued
for him?

180) Someone wrote, seeking advice in his business

affairs. In reply, I wrote:
“In future you should not ask me regarding such things.
Yes, I make dua.......... I don’t have experience in these
matters. Enquire from an experienced person and act
accordingly. I have two activities. One - Making dua.
Hence, ask me to make dua even if the matter is a
worldly affair. After all, that too is Ibaadat. Two - Ask me
about the name of Allah.”

These people at least do understand that I lack

experience in these worldly affairs, yet they will refer
such matters to me. What is the reason for this? They
labour under the notion that the hearts of the people of
Allah will be inspired with what will happen, hence they
refer such things (i.e. worldly affairs) to the people of
Allah (i.e. the Auliya). But this notion is an excess. The
basis of seeking such advice is thus, corruption of beliefs. I

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endeavour to save people from this ignorance so that they

do not dwell in deception. The beliefs of the lay people
are indeed most corrupt.

181) As long as a person himself is not concerned about

his islaah (moral reformation), nothing will be gained by
simply staying with a pious man.

182) During my student days I requested Hadhrat

Maulana Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) to become bay’t.
Hadhrat Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) responded: “As
long as you are involved in the acquisition of academic
knowledge (i.e. Deeni knowledge), consider this to be a
waswasah (whisper) of Shaitaan.” Undoubtedly, these
illustrious men of the Deen were truly wise men. Indeed
this advice was wonderful. However, at the time I did not
understand this statement. I thought Hadhrat had merely
postponed the issue. I wrote to Hadhrat Haaji
Imadaadullah (rahmatullah alayh) requesting him to
intercede on my behalf. I wrote: ‘Request Hadhrat
Maulana to accept me in his bay’t.’

Maulana Hadhrat Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh) was

proceeding that year for Hajj. I schemed to send this letter
of intercession with him to hand to Haaji Imdaadullah
(rahma tullah alayh). Of course, Hadhrat Gangohi was not
aware of the contents of the letter. (Haaji Imdaadullah was
at the time in Makkah Muazzamah). Hadhrat Haaji Saheb
(rahmatullah alayh) replied my letter. He had the reply
written by Hadhrat Gangohi (rahmatullah alayh). In his
reply he said that he (Haaji Imdaadullah) had accepted me
into his bay’t. He also wrote that after completing my

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studies if I wished to practise shaghl (special devotional

exercises). I should refer to Maulana Muhammad Ya’qub
(rahmatullah alayh) or to Maulana Gangohi (rahmatullah
alayh). In conclusion he instructed that I should never
abandon the service of knowledge.

183) A Molvi Saheb said to Hadhrat (rahmatullah alayh):

“If it were not for the Fuqaha (rahmatullah alayhim), we
all would have wandered around in error (searching for
the correct rules). They had systematically formulated
the whole Deen.” Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh)
commented:
“In reality, without them, it would have been darkness.
These ghair muqallids (La-Mathhabis) are great claimants
of Ijtihaad. Everyone among them thinks that he is a
mujtahid. Ghair Muqallid’ism is a grave danger. It leads to
rebellion and vilification of the pious. This in fact is its first
step.” (Finally it leads to kufr.-Translator)

184) Speaking on the state of the masses, Hadhrat

(rahmatullah alayh) said:
“Initiating any work on the strength of the masses is
extremely foolish and negligent. Neither are their beliefs
reliable nor their declaration of love. Even their opposition
is unreliable. They will do whatever they feel to do. They
will suddenly switch allegiances.”

185) A Molvi Saheb said: “Hadhrat, it is difficult

nowadays to differentiate between a majzub and a
majnoon.”
(Majzub: A person who lost his worldly sanity in the
pursuit of Divine Love. Majnoon: An insane person.-

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Translator)
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) commented:
“Absolutely correct. Someone may be a majzub and
another one may be a majnoon. Saintly people are able to
recognize them.”
I have heard from buzroogs that in Deoband Hadhrat
Maulana Yaqub (rahmatullah alayh) was the chief of the
jamaat (group) of majzubs. An episode confirms this. A
majzub who was a foreigner came to live in Deoband. He
took up residence in the Chattah Musjid. But prior to
taking up residence he sought permission from Maulana
Yaqub Saheb (rahmatullah alayh). We, the students
would pester the majzub to curse certain kuffar. But, he
would never respond other than say: “Alright, alright!”
After his death it was learnt from some of our buzroogs
that he was the supporter of certain kuffar (whom we had
asked him to curse). Regarding this support, Hadhrat
Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) said:
“Majzubs are like the Malaa-ikah. Among the Malaa-ikah
are those who are responsible for also the training (and
maintenance) of the kuffar.”

186) With regard to the earthly existence, Majzubs are

devoid of understanding. They are not in need of this
understanding. They require another kind of
understanding which they do possess. In this group, there
is no intelligence (aql) although their physical senses are
intact, e.g a horse while not having aql, does have physical
senses or a child lacking intelligence before buloogh
(puberty) even though the senses are fully functional.
The presence of the physical senses does not negate the

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state of mujzubiyat nor do the laws of the Shari’ah, e.g.

Salaat, become obligatory simply because of the physical
sense being fully functional. For the incumbency
(fardhiat) to these laws, aql is the requisite. Hence, both
the majnoon and the mujzub are absolved of the Shar’i laws
on account of the lack of aql in them. However, it is
difficult to differentiate between these two groups. This is
a delicate task.
A probable criterion for this differentiation is the
relationship or treatment which the sulaha and atqiyaa (i.e.
the Auliya) have for the majzub/majnoon. If the Auliya
honour or ignore the person, others too, should behave in
this manner. The general public should not act according to
their opinion.

187) One should not expect any benefit from this jamaat
(the majzubs). As far as possible keep aloof from them.
Since they lack aql, there is the danger of them causing
harm.

188) A Molvi Saheb asked: “What is the reality of majzub?

How does one become a majzub?”
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) replied:

“Sometimes a very strong waarid snatches away the aql.

(Waarid is a spiritual inspiration). This rank of majzubiyat
is acquired by way of majaahadah (striving against the
desires of the nafs). The various affairs of this world are
entrusted of these majzubs. They are responsible for the
systems which operate in the world. On the other hand
the Ahl-e- Irshaad (those Auliya who are actively involved

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in the moral reformation of the Ummah) are the

Representatives of the Rasool. Their rank is far superior.
The actual thing is obedience (to Allah and His Rasool)
Kashf and Karaamat are not excellences. Similar
(seemingly miraculous) wonderful feats are demonstrated
even by the Ahl-e-Baatil (kuffar, magicians, sorcerers,
etc). Once the wife of a man in either America or
Germany, who was deeply in love with her, died. The
husband took a photograph of her dead body. When he
developed the film, to his surprise, five photographs
emerged. Of these five, one was of his wife and four other
people. He recognised two of the photographs. The other
two were the pictures of strangers whom he did not
recognize. The man concluded that the only explanation is
that at the time of taking the photos, the souls of the
other four deceased must have been present, hence the
five photographs. However, what is amazing is the
photographing of invisible entities. How did this happen?
(Also, how did five different photos emerge from the
single photograph taken by the man?-Translator) Look!
Such amazing feats are manifested on the hands of even
Ahl-e- Baatil. It is precisely for this reason that the Ahl-e-
Haq (Ulama-e-Haq) say that the criterion is obedience to
Allah and the Rasool.”

189) Nowadays leaders, whether they are religious or

political leaders, are involved in the pursuit of acquiring
wealth and fame. Some believe that the more a man’s
wealth, the greater is his intelligence. But this is a baseless
notion. In Deeni matters, one should never refer to such
people.

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190) Malaakaat-e-Razeelah (the lowly bestial qualities) by

themselves are not evil, e.g. Shahwat (sexual lust). In fact,
a man with strong shahwat will derive greater noor
(spiritual light) from the opposition he offers his shahwat.
The noor of a man with weaker shahwat will be less. Thus,
the basis of Divine Proximity are Af’aal-e-Ikhtiyaariyah
(actions which are the effects of man’s free will). When
ikhtiyaar (free will) is employed to a greater degree (e.g.
in striving against lowly desires), the Divine Proximity
gained, will correspond to the greater effort.

191) Some non-Hanafi Ulama have written that it is

ignorance for the muqtadi to recite Surah Faatihah behind
the Imam in the Jahri Salaat (viz., Fajr, Maghrib and Isha).
According to them, the muqtadi should recite Surah
Faatihah in the Sirri Salaat (Zuhr and Asr) because silence
is not Ibaadat according to Shari’ah.

We do not accept this view because this silence has been

commanded (by the Shari’ah) and obedience to a
command is Ibaadat. Further, this silence is, in fact, an act.
This act is abstention from speech. There is thus no
ambiguity in this silence being an act of Ibaadat. It is just
like abstention from prohibitions.

192) The power of the mind is an accepted fact. I have

heard the following episode from Maulana Muhammad
Yaqub (rahmatullah alayh): “A man imagined that a lion
attacked him and struck its paw against his back. So strong
was his imagination that a lion’s claw marks were
discernible on his back. Even blood would flow from the

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wound of his imagination.”

This is the reality of mesmerism. It is the assertion of the
power of the mind. The claims of the appearance of
arwah (soul) are all baseless. These things are all in the
manifestations of the mind.

193) A man came to Imam Abu Hanifah (rahmatullah

alayh) and said: “A certain person says that no kaafir will
enter Jahannum. What ruling is applicable to this person?”
Imam Abu Hanifah (rahmatullah alayh) said to his
students: ‘Answer!’ They said: ‘The man is a kaafir and a
denier of the Nusoos (clear proofs of the Shari’ah).’ Imam
Abu Hanifah (rahmatullah alayh) instructed them to
present an interpretation (to avoid the verdict of kufr).
They replied that it is impossible to interpret away this
statement. Imam Abu Hanifah said that the
interpretation (ta’weel) is this: At the time of entry into
Jahannum no man will remain a kaafir, i.e. in the literal
sense. On the contrary he will be a mu’min in the literal
sense even though he will be a kaafir in terms of the
Shari’ah. At that time the realities will be unveiled. Thus,
he will not be a denier (kaafir) of the unveiled realities.
The Qur’an says:

“This is the Jahannum which the transgressors had

denied.”

Further, the kaafir will experience more revelations of

Jahannum than the Mu’min who will cross over Jahannum
swift as lighting. Indeed the intelligence and caution of
Imam Abu Hanifah (rahmatullah alayh) were amazing.

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194) If there is anything in which comfort and rest can be

found, it is Thikrullah. One should be involved in it, adopt
concealment and annihilate oneself (one’s ego - nafs). In
this is pleasure. Without this there is no peace.

“Verily, in the Thikr of Allah do hearts find rest.”

(Qur’an).

195) A manifest difference between Karaamat and

istidraaj is that the person demonstrating Karaamat is a
man of Imaan, Ibaadat and Taqwa. On the other hand, a
person displaying istidraaj is involved in evil deeds.
(Istidraaj - supernatural deeds displayed by Kuffaar and
fussaaq.- Translator)

196) According to Hadhrat Shah Waliullah (rahmatullah

alayh) the mu’jizah (miracle) of Shaqq-e-Qamar (Splitting
of the moon miraculously by Rasulullah -sallallahu alayhi
wasallam) is among the signs of Qiyaamat. This is
confirmed by the Aayat:

“The Hour (of Qiyaamah) has approached near and the

moon has been split.”

197) If one has a bid’ati mentor (spiritual guide), it is

firstly difficult to extricate oneself from him. Even if one
somehow succeeds in withdrawing from him, then too, in
most cases his influence endures.

198) Hadhrat Haaji Imdaadullah (rahmatullah alayh) was

Allah’s Hujjat (Proof) on earth. The Knowledge which had

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become hidden for centuries became manifest on his lips.

His greater treasure was his tareeq-e-tarbiyat (method of
spiritual and moral training of mureeds). I have not seen
any person whose worry/grief did not vanish after
confiding in Hadhrat Imdaadullah Saheb (rahmatullah
alayh).

199) A Molvi Saheb asked: “Hadhrat what actually is

waswasah?” Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh)
replied: “A detestable thought coming involuntarily into
the mind is what I consider to be a waswasah. However,
since it enters the mind without one’s choice, it is not
harmful.”

200) Compensation for past sins is to repent (seek

forgiveness) and for the future, fix a fine on the nafs
whether it be a bodily fine or a financial fine. (i.e. Resolve
to perform a certain number of raka’ts of Salaat or fasts,
etc or to give a sum of money in Sadqah if one commits a
sin). It appears in the Ahadith that Rasulullah (sallallahu
alayhi wasallam) said: “Whoever says: ‘Come, I shall
gamble with you,’ should give Sadqah.”

If the reason for gambling is searched, it will be found to

be love of wealth. Sadqah eliminates this love.

(The giving of Sadqah mentioned in this Hadith is a self-

imposed fine for a sin which is being contemplated.-
Translator).

201) I am showing the Ulama a very significant thing. The

basis of practising the Deen is the houour and respect for

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the Salf-e-Saaliheen (the illustrious predecessors, viz.

Sahaabah, Taa-bieen and Tab-e-Taabieen). Never allow
the slightest vestige of belittlement and criticism of these
souls to enter our heart.

202) This Road (of Tasawwuf) is very delicate. Therefore,

there is the need for a qualified guide. Sometimes,
remorse over one’s past constitutes a veil for future
spiritual progress. The Saalik becomes engrossed in
excessive remorse, hence becomes useless for the future
(i.e. his excessive regret engenders in him a sense of
hopefulness. He thus becomes stagnant in his regret,
unable to progress, hence, the need for a qualified shaikh).

203) Some sins (which technically are described as

Saghaa-ir), (e.g. an evil gaze) with regard to their effects
are more harmful than even Kabaa-ir (major) sins. (This is
due to constancy in the commission of such sins which are
viewed as insignificant).

Although there are differences in the severity of sins, it

should not be said that one sin is lesser than another sin,
e.g. it should not be said that the sin of consuming liquor is
less than murder. Rather, it should be said that the sin of
murder is worse than drinking alcohol. It should not be
said that the filth of urine is less than faeces. On the
contrary it should be said that the impurity of urine is
great and that of faeces greater. Style of speech is
important for the muslih (spiritual guide) and muballigh
(preacher). There is a need for understanding.

204) Since the mubtadi fails to distinguish between the

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necessary and unnecessary, he is instructed to refrain

from advising and admonishing others. Although
sometimes even the muntahi also commits the error of
indulging in unnecessary talk, he is immediately forwarded
by the inner spiritual intuition which imbues his heart. He,
therefore, hastens towards repentance. But the poor
mubtadi remains blissfully unaware while darkness settles
immediately on the heart of the muntahi. Even if he
speaks one uncalled for word, he immediately perceives it
and makes amends.

205) Commenting on the need for absolute purity of

niyyat, i.e. Ikhlaas, Hadhrat said:

“A mureed living with his shaikh for a very long while was
always engaged in thikr and shaghl. However, despite the
abundance of thikr and shaghl, the Shaikh did not discern
any improvement in the mureed’s spiritual condition.
Once the inquired: ‘What is the motive for this thikr and
shaghl?’
The mureed said: ‘So that I could be of benefit to others’.
The shaikh said: ‘Indeed, this intention is shirk, Repent.’”

The mureed repented and shortly thereafter special

fadhal of Allah Ta’ala began to imbue the heart of the
mureed.

206) The tricks of the nafs are extremely subtle. Man

sees deception of his nafs only after great difficulty.

207) It is never the intention of the Aakhireen (Senior

Ulama /Mashaikh) to respond to criticism in an endeavour

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to vindicate themselves. In fact, they consider themselves

to be the most contemptible. This is their natural attitude.
They never believe themselves to be worthy of any praise.
On the contrary, they are surprised when people follow
them inspite of the abundance of defects they believe
themselves to possess. Some even publicise their faults so
that people refrain from following them. But, those
Akaabireen in the position of leadership should not do so
because this attitude is harmful to the general public.

208) A man who is involved in many occupations should

not leave things to his memory. He should commit it to
writing.

209) Hadhhat Thaanwi narrated the following episode,

which he heard from Moulana Muhammad Ya’qub
(rahmatullah alayh):

“It happened prior to the 1875 mutiny (i.e. the Muslims

uprising against the British). A wealthy Pathaan resident
of the town of Jalaalabad, dist. Muzaffarnagar, had
supported the Hindus in the construction of their shrine.
The wealthy Pathaan after sometime became very ill.
Molvi Ghulaam Husain Saheb who was a hakeem in
Thanabovan, and also among the Auliya, went to
Jalaalabad to attend to another patient. The wealthy
man’s relatives called the hakeem to attend to him.
After feeling his pulse, the hakeem said that there was no
longer any hope for the sick man (i.e. the wealthy
Pathaan). So saying, he stood up to leave, but the sick man
grabbed his hand and implored: ‘For Allah’s sake don’t
leave me. Just now two men with a cage of fire appeared

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in front of me, telling me that they will be taking me away

locked in that cage. When you appeared, they moved off
saying that they would soon return to take me. If you go
they will come.’”

Thereafter the man died. Several people in their dreams

were instructed to abstain from all acts of isaal-e- thawaab
for this man because he had died a kaafir. Na-uthubillah!
Hadhrat Thaanwi (rahmatullah alayh) added:
“The barkat of Ahlullah (Auliya) is such that the Angels of
Punishment withdrew. Some sins while thought to be
insignificant are exceptionally grave in the ultimate end.
Participation in the customs and festivals of the kuffaar is
of this kind.”

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EQUALITY BETWEEN WIVES

Hakimul Ummat went to great lengths in maintaining
equality between his wives. Even in matters which do not
require strict equality, Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali
(Rahmatullah alayh) exercised extreme caution so as to
maintain the happiness of his wives. The following episode
illustrates the great care he would exercise in his
relationship with his wives;

One day someone presented a beautiful piece of cloth as a

gift to Hadhrat Thaanwi. Hadhrat liked the cloth much.
He instructed the servant to go to the bazaar and
purchase another piece of cloth of exactly the same kind.
This he did because he had two wives. After much
searching, the servant returned saying that such a cloth
was not available anywhere in the bazaar. Hadhrat
Thaanwi took the cloth and divided it into two pieces,
sending one piece to each of his wives.
Someone there commented. ‘Now this cloth is of no use to
anyone. If the idea was to mete out equality, then you
could have sent the cloth to one wife and the price thereof
to the other wife.’
Hadhrat commented: ‘Your thinking is not correct.
Equality could not have been maintained in this way.
Equality is necessary in every aspect so that there remains
not the slightest doubt of inequality in the heart of any one
of them.’
When I refuse acceptance of a gift presented to me, I
fear despite the valid reason (for refusing) because when I

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reflect, I discern a doubt of kibr (pride). This creates

great fear in me. May Allah Ta'ala forgive me. It is very
difficult to differentiate between istighna (independence)
and kibr (pride). Both are so similar. Sometimes one is
deceived (in attempting to differentiate between the
two). Sometimes one thinks it to be istighna while in
reality it is kibr. Only Allah can protect one (from this
deception). In fact our every statement is impregnated
with danger. None of our conditions is devoid of danger.

One should not be vain on account of one's acts of ibaadat.

Don't think highly of the hour you had spent in thikr. It is
not known whether it is accepted by Allah or not.

While I am not issuing a fatwa, I certainly do give

mashwarah (advice) that the management of the home
affairs should either be in the control of the wife or the
husband himself. It should not be in the hands of others
even if they are one's brother, mother or father.This is
very hurting to the wife. Either the husband arranges the
finances himself or entrusts this duty to the wife. After
all, she is more entitled to this than others. The right of
the wife is not restricted to only feeding and clothing her.
For the sake of maintaining the happiness of the wife the
Fuqaha have decreed it permissible to speak even a lie.
From this may be assessed the importance of keeping the
wife happy.

Regardless of how beloved a guest may be to me, I never

insist that he stays longer than his wish. When he wishes
to take leave, I wholeheartedly consent. I do not insist
that he eats. I consider such insistance to be very evil. To

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compel a person who is not hungry to eat is administering

poison to him. The disease of forcing guests to eat is
widespread.

Generally people are under the impression that the right

of Allah Ta'ala is not related to Haqqul Ibasd (Right of
people). It is thought that only the rights of people are
involved. This is erroneous. Allah Ta'ala, in fact, has
commanded the observance of Huqooqul Ibaad (Rights of
people), e.g aid the oppressed; refrain from gheebat;
refrain from hurting others. When these commands are
transgressed, it involves violation of the rights of people as
well as violation of Allah's right since it is He who has
decreed these orders. His command was transgressed,
hence, obtainal of pardon from people when their rights
have been violated, is not sufficient. Taubah and seeking
forgiveness from Allah Ta'ala are incumbent. Generally,
Allah Ta'ala forgives the violator when the person whose
rights have been violated forgives However sometimes
when His special and beloved servants (the Auliya) even
forgive a person who had violated their rights, Allah Ta'ala
does not forgive His right, but apprehends the violator
(with His punishment).

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