Allama Abdul Alim: A Great Preacher
Compiled
By
Seraj Ahmad Misbahi
Ph. D
Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
Content
Dedication
Preface
Main Article
References
About Author
Dedication
I dedicate this humble work
To
My parents and grand parents
And
All respected teachers
I ask Allah Almighty to protect them from all evil,
And shower on them His kindness and blessing in this world and the hereafter.
Preface
This book has been written to recognize the religious services that have been done by Muballig-e-Islam.
Moballig-e-Islam Allama Abdul Aleem Merthi
“Roving Ambassador of Islam”, Mawlana ‘Abd al-'Alīm Siddiquī al-Qadirī Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho was born on 15th Ramadan 1310 Hijrī in Meeruth, India. He hails from the noble Siddiquī family who are direct descendants of Ameer al-Mo'minīn Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Al-Siddique Radi Allahu Ta'ala Anho in the 37th generation.
Early Life
Born in Meerut, British Raj, Siddiqui travelled continuously for forty years. Having earned his Master's in English, he'll become a polyglot and learn many other languages, including French and Japanese, which would eventually help him during his missionary activities around the world, while he also mastered the natural and social sciences. He visited Singapore where he pioneered the All-Malaya Muslim Missionary Society, now known as Jamiyah, in 1932. He also travelled to Hejaz, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Burma, Vietnam, Ceylon, China, Japan, Philippines, Mauritius, Madagascar, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Belgium, Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, Iraq, France, England, West Indies, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, the United States, and Canada. The All-Malaya Muslim Missionary Society (now known as Jamiyah Singapore) has built a mosque named after him.
In 1935, in the British Colony and Protectorate of Kenya at Mombasa, Abdul Aleem Siddique met with Irish philosopher George Bernard Shaw, and they enjoyed an exchange of thoughts in which Shaw called Abdul Aleem Siddique "a learned sage".
Blessed Birth
It was in the blessed month of Ramadaan that the world welcomed the blessed soul and the physical being of Moballig-e-Islam (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho). His terrestrial journey began on the 3rd of April 1892 (15th Ramadan 1310) at Meerut (U.P India). From the time of his birth he was immediately recognized as a gifted child with extraordinary potential. Many sages had already foreseen this child as a roving ambassador of Islam. From the time of his birth he was instantaneously immersed into an atmosphere of deep religious and spiritual values. His mother was a deeply pious and caring woman while his father, Hazrat Abdul Hakeem Rehmatullah Alaih was an illustrious scholar as well as a highly and well-respected human being. His parents affectionately nurtured him with a healthy spiritual and an emotional environment. As his young years progressed, he slowly inherited the knowledge and deep-rooted spiritual discipline of his father and grandfathers. Regardless of his tender age, because of his highly elevated spiritual capacity, he was initiated into his father’s spiritual order.
Youth and Education
HazratMoballig-e-Islam (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) was an exceptionally intelligent child, since his childhood he proved to have an intellectual capacity beyond his years. He brilliantly finished the memorization of the Holy Quran at the age of 4 years and ten month at the Madrassa Islamia Arabia, Meerut. He studied Urdu, Persian, and Arabic from the blessed companionship of his father. At the age of only 9, his oratory skills matured and he consequently delivered his first public speech at the Jamma Masjid of Meerut. He mesmerized the audience for 90mins with his captivating eloquence. His father left this world when Moballig-e-Islam (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) was only 12 years old. It was a very sad turn in his life but coming from one of the greatest faiths, he put all trust in the Almighty and persevered in his Islamic studies and the betterment of humanity.
His father, Hadrat Mawlana 'Abd al-Hakim Siddiquī al-Qadirī Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho was a distinguished scholar and a high ranking 'Alim of Dīn. He was also a devout Sufi Master of the Qadiriyyah Spiritual Order. He took special care in the education of his son who completed his Nazara (visual recitation) of the Holy Qur’an at the tender age of 4. He studied elementary Arabic and Persian under the guidance of his father at home and was then enrolled at the local Madressa 'Arabiyyah Qoumiyyah where he graduated as an 'Alim. He then pursued his Secular studies at the Islamiyah High School until Matric (Grade 12). His classmate was the former president of India Dr. Zakir Hussain. In 1917, he then enrolled at Meerut University where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree with distinction.
At the age of 16, in 1913 he graduated with distinctions in his Theology degree. He pursued his education at the Divisional College of Meerut where he studied modern subjects and Law. His motivation to proliferate Islam inspired him to acquire more knowledge. He met with Hazrat Maulana Shah Ahmad Raza Khan Bareilly (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) who was then the greatest living Islamic scholar, who had agreed to become his mentor. During his apprenticeship with Hazrat Maulana Shah Ahmad Raza Khan Bareilly (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) he had the opportunity to absorb many lessons and teachings from this great scholar. He acquired an advanced knowledge in Quranic Rules, Hadith, Tassawuf and the four Islamic laws in Mecca and Madina under the strict guidance of Sheikh Ahmad As-Sams (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) of Morocco, Sheikh As-Sunnua (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) of Libya and Maulana Abdul Baqi of Ferrangi Mahal of Madina. Moballig-e-Islam (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho), also studied the Arabian Medicine System from Hakim Qazi Ihteshamuddin of Meerut. The knowledge of medicine imparted to him had proven to be of great help for his humanitarian efforts and serving the ailing population in many countries.
Exalted Teachers
Besides his noble father and Imam Ahmad Rida Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho, some of his other notable teachers were:
a) BaHr al-'Ulūm Mawlana 'Abd al-Hayy Farangī Mahellī.
b) 'Arif Billah Shaykh Ahmad al-Shams Shamil Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho of Morocco.
c) Shaykh Al-Sanusee Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho of Libya.
d) Hakim Ah’tasham al-Dīn (taught him Tibb : Unani Medicine).
Spiritual Development
Hazrat Allama Abdul Aleem Siddiqui (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) was already swimming in the ocean of Ishq (love) that led him to adhere to a stable spiritual life. His mission started when he was ordered by his spiritual teachers to visit the Holy Land of Mecca. His journey to Mecca was the culmination of his spirituality; it was at that pinnacle moment that his lessons in ‘Baatin’ (inner) had to be lived in “zahiri’ (exterior). He set himself, body & soul to the pilgrimage in 1919. His life took a different turn when he stepped on the doorway of our Beloved Prophet Sallallahu Alaihe Wasallam. He was warmly welcomed, as our Beloved (Sallahu Alaihe Wassallam) blessed the heart of Moballig-e-Islam. Immediately he was convinced and inspired that he was a man chosen by Allah The Almighty and our Beloved prophet (Sallahu Alaihe Wassallam) to sacrifice his entire life to the service of humanity. His mission was handed over by beloved Prophet (Sallahu Alaihe Wassallam) to his heart and soul. This was when his real journey commenced.
He endured many painful obstacles and tribulations, but continued to persist through them with admirable patience. His heart was set to acquire the inner knowledge that he was taught during his early years. His approach to Tassawuf and spirituality was a distinctive feature that differentiated Huzoor Moballig-e-Islam from other living scholars. The desire to spread the teaching of Islam became so intense, that he traveled far and wide not only to spread Deen Islam and to enrich people’s conception about spirituality but also for the gratification of his soul.
His elder brother, the great 'Alim Hadrat Mawlana Sha Ahmed Mukhtar Siddiquī Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho then took him to Bareilly and handed him over to the great Mujaddid, 'Arife Billah A'la’Hadrat Imam al-Akbar Qutb al-Irshad Muhaqqiq Ahmad Rīda al-Qadirī Muhaddith Bareilwi Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho. Here he was groomed in many Islamic sciences including strenuous spiritual training in Tasawwuf under the able supervision of the Sufi Master and 'Arif of Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta'ala. After spiritual perfection, the Imam bestowed on him the Khilafah of the Qadiriyyah Barkatiyyah Silsilah. It was here that the ardent love of the Beloved Habīb Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam was injected into his heart that transformed him into a perfect human (Insan al-Kamil).
The Great Sufi
He traveled throughout the entire globe for 30 years with that sacred inspiration and mission to revive humanity and reveal the truth to everyone’s heart. He was not only a scholar, but also a highly endowed spiritual master conveying the message. He brought spiritual illumination to the hearts of thousands; Muslims and Non Muslims. His prayers had given hope to many that were struck by incurable illnesses. People around the world felt the sweetness of his presence. Many were attracted by his sincerity, others by the manifestation of a divine light, which encompassed his entire being and many others, by his friendly and compassionate attitude. His blessed presence and spiritual magnetism had given new impetus to the religious and social lives of thousands. He had gained a high esteem in everybody’s heart and continues to be remembered by so many as a great Sufi and spiritual leader.
Huzoor Moballig-e-Islam was such a highly endowed Sufi that his intelligence conquered eminent persons such as leaders and statesmen of different religious beliefs. His spiritual achievements were enormously admired and many political leaders and businesses sought his guidance in their matters. He had instilled purity and spirituality in the hearts of those he met. Even the celebrated intellectuals of the west had the opportunity of admiring this great saint of Islam. We cannot forget the infamous encounter between Moballig-e-Islam and George Bernard Shaw.
Achievement
Hazrat Moballig-e-Islam’s main intention was to help mankind by means of instigating the knowledge of Islam. One of his achievements was the pressure he gave the Arabian government, with the support of the Muslims Leaders around the world, to eliminate the unjust imposition of the Hajj tax. The Saudi government clearly understood his concern and the next year itself the Hajj tax was reduced.
In the wake of his visits to different part of the world, he urged Muslims to build orphanages for the helpless youths, infirmaries for the destitute, hospitals for the suffering, spiritual assemblies for spiritual discipline, libraries for the preservation of the Islamic traditions and intellectual heritage, several masajids, organizations of Ulemas for the coordination of Islamic forces, Muslim youth brigade & Muslims scouts for the physical and moral discipline of the youth.
Books and Articles
Hazrat Moballig-e-Islam also encouraged the publication of several magazines such as Muslims Digest and the Ramadaan Annual (South Africa), The real Islam (Singapore) and the Prophets Birthday Annual (Mauritius). He himself compiled his missionary works in terms of books or articles under the following titles:
v History of The Codification of Islamic Law Cultivation Of Science By Muslims
v Bahare shabab For Youth
v A Short Catechism Of Islam
v Meeting Between A Shavian And A Theologian
v The Universal Teacher
v The Universal Religion
v The Islamic Ideal
v Quest For True Happiness
v The Meaning Of Worship
v Women And Their Status In Islam
v The Forgotten Path Of Knowledge
v Islam’s Answer To The Challenge Of Communism
v Kitabbut Tassawuf ( Urdu)
v Zikre Habeeb and many others
His Poem dedicated to the Holy Prophet
Zara Chahray
Zara Chahray say kamli ko hatta dow Yaa Rasool Allah
Hamayn bhee apna deewaana bana-do Yaa Rasool Allah
Muhabbat ghair say mayri churra do Yaa Rasool Allah
Meri sow-ee huwi qismat, jaga-do Yaa Rasool Allah
Ba-ro-zay hashr daykhayn gay waseela aap ka Hazrat
Harr-ik aasi-kahayga bakshwaado Yaa Rasool Allah
Bari qismat hamaari hai kay ummat mayn tumhaari hai
Bharowsa deen-o-duniya mayn tumhaara Yaa Rasool Allah
Andhayri qabr mayn mujhko akay-la chhowr ja-ayn gay
Wahan ho fazl say tayray ujaala Yaa Rasool Allah
Khuda mujk ko Madinah mayn jo pahuncha-ay to behtarr hai
Kay Rowzay par hi day-dun-jaan ja-karr Yaa Rasool Allah
Translation
O Prophet of Allah, please look towards my direction
And accept me as your devoted follower.
O Prophet of Allah, save me from the love of duniya
And help me to awake from my slumber.
O Prophet of Allah, let me on the Day of Qayyamah
Be amongst the fortunate ones so that I can receive thy shafa’at
O Prophet of Allah, how fortunate I am to be born into your ummah
And on thee I depend for guidance in this world, so help me.
O Prophet of Allah, when I die dark and lonely will be my qabr,
But with thy Light my abode will be filled with nur.
O Prophet of Allah, I pray to Allah SWT that he takes me to Madinah
And cause me to die besides thy blessed rawda.
Another Poem
My heart yearns to show it’s bleeding scars
And to teach everyone on earth the laws
Which might make blessed life’s u
This is my yearning and this is my aim
This is my intention and this is my claim
With this I yearn to scan the globe
And deliver to humanity the message of Hope
(An extract from a poem by Mawlana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui written in his college years)
The Spiritual Chain of Succession / Spiritual Genealogy
1. Hadrat Muhammad Mustapha Sallallahu Alaihe wassallam
2. Hadrat Ali Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
3. Hadrat Hasan Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
4. Shaykh Habibbe Nil Ajamiyi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
5. Shaykh Dawood Datt Ta’irri Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
6. Shaykh Marouf Fil Karoukhiyi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
7. Shaykh Sirriyi Nis Saqa - Tiyyi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
8. Shaykh Sayyidit twa-I-fatti Abil Qasim Junaid Baghdadi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
9. Shaykh Abi Bakr Nis Shibli Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
10. Shaykh Abdil Wahidi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
11. Shaykh Abdil Azeezi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
12. Shaykh Abil Farahi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
13. Shaykh Abil Hasani Aliyil Qurayshi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
14. Shaykh Abi Saidi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
15. Sayyidina Shaykh Abdul Quadeer Jilani Ghawse Azaam Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
16. Shaykh Sayyidi Abdil Razzaq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
17. Shaykh Sayyidil Abdil Swalihil Faqeeri Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
18. Shaykh Sayyidi Ahmad Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
19. Shaykh Sayyidi Shihabbiddin Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
20. Shaykh Sayyidi Shamsid Deene Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
21. Shaykh Sayyidi Alaa-id Deen Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
22. Shaykh Sayyidi Nouri Muhammad Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
23. Shaykh Sayyidi Abdil Jalaalis Sahra-yi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
24. Shaykh Sayyidi Bahaawal Shee Qalandar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
25. Shaykh Abil Ma’ali Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
26. Shaykh Muhkamid Deeni Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
27. Shaykh Shah Amir Baa Laa yayru Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
28. Shaykh Abdil Lateef Fil Bourriyyi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
29. Shaykh Durweishi Muhammadin Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
30. Shaykh Shah Ahmad Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
31. Shaykh Abdil Lateefi Thani Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
32. Shaykh Madhe Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
33. Shaykh Sayyiddi A’azam Ali Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
34. Shaykh Sayyidi Muhammad Ghawse Ali Shah Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
35. Shaykh Mawlana Muhammad Abdil Hakeem Al Quaderi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
36. Shaykh Ahmad Mukhtaar Siddiqui Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
37. Shaykh Mawlana Shah Muhammad Abdul Aleem Siddiqui Al Quaderi Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anho
Politics
A staunch supporter of the Pakistan Movement and a personal friend of Jinnah, at partition his family relocated there where his son, Shah Ahmad Noorani, would become an influential political figure.
He led Pakistan's first-ever Eid prayer. Hazrat Maulana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui Rehmatullah Alaih is a shinning luminary in the family of the first caliph of Islam Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho. He has not only captured the hearts’ of thousands throughout the world but has also improved the lives of several people. He came from a very distinguished ancestral background who were all very well respected for their faith, piety, purity, sincerity and intelligence (All praise to Allah). As both scholars and teachers of Tassawuf they were all driven in the same blessed direction: preaching Islam and serving humanity. Their teachings focused on the reconciliation of Shariah and Tariqat. Their high spiritual devotion and their eagerness in the promotion of Tassawuf made them great Sufis of their time. Thousands of thousands of people gathered around them, seeking their guidance and spiritual advice. Coming from such a divine lineage, this paved the road for Hazrat Maulana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui Al Quaderi Al Madani Rehmatullah Alaih’s spiritual quest.
A Great Politician
Hadrat Mawlana was also a great politician and took an active part in local and international politics. He was very instrumental in abolishing the Hajj Tax then introduced by the Saudī Regime. The introduction of the Hajj Tax infuriated him as it was against the Sharī'ah and affected millions of incoming Hujjaj to the Holy land. It is also ethically incorrect to charge a Hajj Tax on pilgrims who spend thousands and undertake such a strenuous journey only to be welcomed at Jeddah seaport and airport by an unjustified tax instead of being given a warm welcome to the Holy Land as the guest of Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta'ala and His Rasūl Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam.
Man of Superb Qualities
In Madina al-Munawwarah he was lovingly called “Tabeeb al-Hindi” (Indian Physician). Mawlana was also a celebrated poet and used “Aleem, عليم” as his poetic pen name. He inherited this science from his noble father. Since childhood, he was an influential orator and addressed a huge crowd of Muslims at a Mawlid celebration in Meerut, India at the tender age of 9 years. This was his first public speech and he spoke on the excellence of Sayyiduna Rasūlullah Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam. His speech had the audience spellbound.
His noble father passed away when he was only 12 years old. Since his mother was a very knowledgeable and pious woman, she undertook the initiative to educate and groom her son to the peak of perfection. Since he was raised in a cradle of knowledge and piety, he possessed a refined character with an impeccable personality. His ancestral Siddiqī blood generated a great sense of awe in his personality that subdued intellectuals and peasants alike.
Expert in more than 15 Languages
He also studied at the Punjab University where he obtained a degree in Oriental languages. Mawlana was fluent in many languages, namely, Urdu, Arabic, Persian, English, German, Japanese, Indonesian, Suhailee ant etc.
Roving Ambassador of Islam
Till this day, Hadrat Mawlana is recognised and accepted as the “Roving Ambassador of Islam” for his invaluable services to Islam and the Muslims internationally. He travelled extensively to the four corners of the globe and preached Islam. Numerous persons embraced Islam on his hands and millions benefited from his services of Dīn. Some of the countries he frequented were:
1) United Kingdom
2) United States of America
3) Germany
4) France
5) China
6) Japan
7) Indonesia
8) Malaysia
9) Vietnam
10) Burma
11) Ceylon
12) Mauritius
13) Reunion
14) Madagascar
15) Portugal
16) South Africa
17) Canada
18) Thailand
19) Lebanon
20) East Africa
21) Kenya
22) Tanzania
23) Uganda
24) Congo
25) Egypt
26) Arabia
27) Syria
28) Palestine
29) Jordan
30) Iraq
31) South America
32) Holland
33) Italy
34) Belgium
35) West Indies
36) Singapore, etc.
In his tours, he met with leaders of every religion and faith exchanging views not only on religion but also on political and social dimensions. His approach and presentation of Islam won the hearts of many intellectuals and statesmen, who reverted to Islam on his hands. He not only propagated Islam wherever he went, but he also established socio-religious centres that to this day are rendering invaluable services to the masses.
His Eminence was also responsible for establishing various Mosques (Masaajids) and Islamic Educational Centres throughout the world. Three of the famous Mosques are the Hanafi Masjid in Colombo, the Sultaan Masjid in Singapore and the Naagarya Masjid in Japan.
The Inter-Religious Organization was founded in the '40s by Mawlana Muhammad Abdul Aleem Siddiqui Qadiri (may Allah be pleased with him), who also founded the All Malaya Muslim Missionary Society in 1931 and who was the first Muslim "missionary" to travel around the globe a number of times to spread the word of Islam. Jamiyah Singapore was founded in 1932 as an offshoot from this organization.
Thousands Embraced Islam at his Hands
Thousands embraced Islam at his hands including the well-known thinker Maria Levinskya and her husband the nuclear scientist Dr. Antonoff. An interesting account of Mawlana Muhammad Abdul Aleem Siddique's great work for Islam is found in the account of his world tour written by Dr. Tahir bin Ahmad's father - Professor Dr. Ahmad bin Ibrahim presently at the International Islamic University of Malaysia.
During his tour of the world, he met with various western dignitaries and had lengthy discussions with them on Islam. He met the world-renowned Irish dramatist and Philosopher, George Bernard Shaw, on 17th of April 1935 during his visit to Mombassa, Kenya and discussed many religious problems with him. He was very much impressed by Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqi and said, "I have been very pleased to make the acquaintance, and it will be the most precious of all memories of this trip of mine." (Ref: "Shavian and Theologian" published by Genuine Islam and World Federation of Islamic Missions, Karachi)
World Islamic Mission in Trinidad
The work of World Islamic Mission (WIM) in Trinidad began with the arrival of His Eminence Mawlana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui al-Qadiri at the opening of the Intercolonial Muslim Conference, held at the Jama Masjid Hall, Queens Street, Port of Spain in 1950.
Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqui visit to Trinidad in 1950 accompanied by his student and secretary, Dr. Muhammad Fazlur Rahman Ansari al-Qadiri, lasted for six months as part of his world tour. The presence of His Eminence for such as sustained and intensive period had a profound impact on Islam in the West Indies and indeed it created a generation of highly skilled Muslim Theologians, Imams, leaders and intellectuals most of whom became the spiritual disciples (murideen) of His Eminence.
His Eminence visited neighboring countries in the region including: Guyana (then British Guiana), Suriname, Barbados, etc. The idea of the conference came from His Eminence himself and it gave birth to the Inter-colonial Muslim Organization. Officers of this organizations were:
* Mohammed Hosein Shah (President - Trinidad)
* Moulvi M.A. Nasir (Vice President - British Guiana)
* Wahid Ali (Secretary - Trinidad)
* Tawfiq-ur-Rahman (Ass. Secretary - Trinidad)
* H.I. Hussein-Ali (Treasurer - Suriname).
The welcome function for His Eminence was held at Queen's Park Savannah on Sun. March 12th 1950. Many thousands attended - Muslims and non-Muslims. In the audience there were government representatives and members of the diplomatic corp. At this event a soul stirring recitation of al-Qur'an was rendered by Br. Ali Bin Khamis of Zanzibar who then became a regular at His Eminence's gatherings. Another regular was Br. Jameel Bin Ahmed of Malay (now Malaysia). Both were students at the Imperial College of Tropical Agriculture at St. Augustine (now part of the University of West Indies). After graduating they returned to their respective countries and both became highly acclaimed leaders.
Throughout his stay in Trinidad, and through tireless effort and dedication, Islamic propagation was always at the foremost priority and to the Muslim masses His Eminence expounded on the the principles of the Ahl Sunna wal Jamaah. In particlular, His Eminence Mawlana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui made a significant contribution to Islam in the following areas:
1. Hundreds of non-muslims embraced Islam. Prominent amongst them were Haji Yusuf Mitchell, Ahmed Rifae Scope, Abu Bakr (a humble shoe maker of Santa Cruz) and Sr. Muriel Donawa Mc Davidson.
2. His Eminence's lectures captivated Muslims, Christians, and Hindus who paid glowing tributes to him as the "Roving Ambassador of Peace".
3. His regular dars (Islamic classes) at Jama Masjid Hall, Port of Spain, produced some of the leading thinkers in the Muslim community. Amongst his students were:
* Haji Mohammed Ibrahim (President of Anjuman Sunnah wal Jamaah Association - ASJA)
* Haji Mohammed Yusuff Mitchell (Government architect and prominent Islamic worker)
* Haji Kamaluddin Mohammed (long standing govt. Minister and acting Prime Minister)
Visit to Canada
In 1939 Hadrat Abdul Aleem Siddiqui became the first Sufi saint to spread Islam and explain the meaning of Tassawuf in Canada. He initiated the project of the first Masjid that was built in Edmonton , Canada. He successfully carried out his mission by converting thousands of non-Muslims in North America. He was also given the opportunity of expressing his thoughts in Toronto where he once again captivated his audience. He instilled the Sufi traditions which are still kept alive by many other Sufis and muhibeens. Hadrat Sahab (Radi Allah Ta’ala Anho) was deeply convinced that Tassawuf and spirituality was the gateway for non-Muslims to comprehend Islam. He also firmly believed that the Sufis are most suitable successful in converting people to Islam. He performed the opening ceremony of the first mosque to be built in Canada in Edmonton in 1939. He also visited Toronto, the largest metropolis in Canada, where he presented Islam as a gift to a largely non-Muslim gathering.
Alhamdollillah through his prayers, Allah has accepted this land to be blessed by other Sufis and the light of Noor-e-Mohammadi (Sallahu Alaihe Wassallam) continues to burn North America.
Visit to Singapore
He came to Singapore in 1930 to spread the message and beauty of Islam. He laboured intensively in the cause of Islam and delivered numerous lectures in Singapore and attracted many people to Islam. He pioneered the establishment of the All Malaya Muslim Missionary Society, now known as Jamiyah, in 1932. He also pioneered the establishment of the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) to foster greater understanding between the faiths and to promote the spirit and message of peace amongst the people of Singapore. In IRO’s inauguration ceremony, on 18 March 1949 at Victoria Memorial Hall, Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddique gave an inspiring speech, in which he said,
“As far as the common evils and accepted moral principles were concerned, no religion could have any difference, and in the spirit of tolerance and sympathy and the desire to establish peace, all of them were as one. The task of the religious leaders was to let the followers of each and every religion know the teachings of other religions, so that a spirit of fellowship could work together to spread the accepted moral principles and to fight the common evils.”
In 1953, the land of Abdul Aleem Siddique Mosque was conveyed to several trustees and office-bearers of the All-Malaya Muslim Missionary Society (now known as Jamiyah Singapore). Prior to this, Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddique had identified and chosen the land to be developed as a Mosque. In 1954, Abdul Aleem Siddique Mosque was subsequently built on the land from donations collected through the society.
The Mosque was named after Mawlana Shah Muhammad Abdul Aleem Siddique, as recognition for his immense contribution to Islam and the social development of a plural society in Singapore. The contributions of Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddique are in itself historic and seminal efforts that deserve to be carved in stone. Abdul Aleem Siddique Mosque is a testimony and recognition of Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddique’s immortal work of spreading the faith of Islam and the message of hope and peace.
Visit to Mauritius
Between 1928 to 1953, his Eminence Mawlana Abdul Aleem Siddiqui made five visits to Mauritius. Sir Abdul Razzack Mohammed, then a Muslim leader in Mauritius met his eminence in Colombo and invited him to come to Mauritius which his Eminence accepted without hesitation.
First visit: In December 1928 he arrived in Mauritius at Port Louis Harbour where thousands of Muslims were waiting to welcome him. His lectures (waez) worked wonders in the hearts of Muslims and other communities as well. His Eminence created the Hizbullah in order to revive Islam in Mauritius.
Second visit: On 26 September 1931 he paid his second visit on the requests of several Muslim leaders.
Third visit: On the 30 March 1939 he paid his third visit. Some of his speeches were relayed by radio from the Jummah Mosque.
Fourth visit: He was expected to arrive in Plaisance on 5 May 1949 on board a plane KLM of Batavia at 6hrs 45 am. His flight was delayed by twenty four hours and he reached Mauritius only on 6 May 1949. The Jummah Mosque invited all the Muslims to welcome the Mawlana. His Eminence delivered several waez (Lectures) in Urdu and English throughout the Island.
His Request for Verdict from Mufti Aazam al-Hind
He consulted with the most senior Jurist of the Muslim World, the great 'Arife Billah, Qutb al-'Alam, Muftī al-A'zam, Imam Mustafa Rīda al-Qadirī Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho, and requested him for an Islamic ruling (Fatwa) on the Hajj Tax. The Grand Mufti issued an Islamic decree in the Arabic language condemning the Hajj Tax as un-Islamic which was later published by the title “Tard al-Shaytan un Sabeel al-Rahman al-Muqallib bihi Omdat al-Bayan fi Hurmate Koshan”. This Fatwa was acknowledged by many Giants of the Islamic world, namely Sadr al-Afadil Mawlana Sayyid Naī'mudīn Muradabadī Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho, Sadr al-Sharee'ah Mawlana Amjad 'Alee al-Qadiree Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho, etc.
Hadrat Mawlana 'Abd al-'Aleem Siddiquee Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho took this Fatwa and set out to meet the Saudi authorities. He met with the King in Hijaz and debated the Hajj Tax and presented the Fatwa. He convinced the King who then abolished the Hajj Tax. But unfortunately, the Saudi authorities later reinstated this un-Islamic Tax again to exploit the pilgrims to the Holy Land. It is indeed unfortunate that the Muslim world has forgotten the services of this great Ambassador of Islam.
Tabhleegh in form of Literature
Although he was extremely busy in his international mission of Tableegh, he still found time to write numerous books in Urdu and English. Some of them are:
1) Zikr-e-Habīb (Urdu)
2) Ahkam-e-Ramadan wa Eid al-Fitr (Urdu)
3) Qadyanī Haqiqat ka Izhar (Urdu)
4) Bahar-e-Shabab (Urdu)
5) Quest for True Happiness (English)
6) Principles of Islam (English)
7) Forgotten Path of Knowledge (English)
8) Muslim Contribution to Science (English)
9) Kitabbut Tassawuf ( Urdu)
10) Elementary Teaching of Islam (Hanafi) (English)
11) Elementary Teaching of Islam (Shafa’ī) (English)
12) The Mirror (English)
13) A Shavian and Theologian (English)
14) History of The Codification of Islamic Law Cultivation Of Science By Muslims (English)
15) A Short Catechism Of Islam (English)
16) The Universal Teacher (English)
17) The Universal Religion (English)
18) The Islamic Ideal (English)
19) The Meaning Of Worship (English)
20) Women And Their Status In Islam (English)
21) Islam’s Answer To The Challenge Of Communism (English)
22) The Preservers of Hadith (English)
23) Ijtahad and Mujtahid (English) etc.
Newspapers and Magazines
He was also the founder of various newspapers and Islamic magazines from amongst which are, "The Muslim Digest" (South Africa), "Trinidad Muslim Annual" and the "Pakistani News" and was author of numerous books such as the "Cultivation of Science by the Muslims".
Insha-Allah, Barkatur-Raza Publications (Durban, South Africa) intends gathering as many books as possible of this great scholar and publishes them so that the wealth left behind by him once again enlightens the hearts of the people.
His devotion for Services of Imam Ahmad Raza
Sayid Ayoob Ali narrates, "The distinguished orator, Allamah Mawlana Haji Qaari Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqi Qadiri Razvi Meerti, on returning from the Haramayn Shareefayn presented himself to the Great Imam and recited the following Manqabat in praise of Sayyiduna Ala Hadrat (RadiAllahu Anhu).
You are more than what is said in your praise,
O Sha Ahmad Raza! You are the distributor of Irfaan.
You are drowned in the Ocean of love and intoxicated from the goblet of Tawheed,
You are the accepted of He who is the Beloved of Allah.
You are the centre of Shariah,
The orbit of those on the path of Tariqah and the axis of Haqiqah.
Such a Qutbul Awliya are you!
The oceans of Shariah and Tariqah join here.
Your chest is the confluence of those oceans.
Such a guide are you!
The people of the Haram have accepted you as their Qibla and Kabaah,
You are the ‘people of the Qibla's’ Qibla.
Such a Qibla are you!
Through whom the Crowns of the Eminent are decorated,
You are such a radiant emerald and priceless gem!
I went to the land of the Arabs and saw with my eyes your activities;
Undoubtedly, you are the direction of the Ajam (Non Arab)!
The people of the path of Tariqah travel for you,
Such a Qutb of the time and Leader of the Awliya are you!
The glory of Siddique Akbar is demonstrated through your taqwa,
Why should I not call you the most pious when you are the most virtous!
The awe of Farooq-e-Azam is demonstrated from you,
You are the epitome of harshness on the kuffar,
You are the courageous lion of whom the dissentors fear!
You have collected the secret Quranic points,
This is your inheritance from Uthmaan!
In the sincerity of Ali, mannerism of Hassan and the resolve of Husayn,
By Allah you the most unique of the times and someone unfound!
You are spreading the knowledge of truth into the corners of the globe,
You are the Imaam of the Ahle Sunnah and the Successor to Sayyiduna Gauth-e-Paak!
Beggars beseech and spread their bags before you,
Fill the bags of the mendicant because you are their hope!
No one is ever returned empty handed, such a generosity is yours!
This unfortunate Aleem is a humble beggar of your court,
You are his King who will show favour on his condition!
Once the Mawlana had recited these verses, Sayyiduna Ala Hadrat asked him, "Mawlana, What can I present to you? The Imam pointed to his turban (which was very expensive) whilst he asked this to the Mawlana. Even if I had to present this turban to you, it still would not be worthy to be placed at your feet as you have come from the most sanctified of places. However, I have a very expensive jubba (Cloak) which I shall present to you.” Sayyiduna went into his home and returned, carrying in his hands a velvet jubba. He gifted this jubba which could not have been less than 250 Rupees to the Mawlana who stood up to receive it. He received it with both his hands, kissed it and placed it upon his eyes and then upon his head. Then he held it against his chest for a very long time. (Hayat-e-Ala Hadrat by Malikul Ulema, Shah Zafarudeen Bihaari)
We pray to the Bounteous Lord through the Waseela of His Compassionate Rasūl, Sayyidun wa Mawlan MuHammadur Rasoolullah Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam to shower the grave of the author with choicest blessings and through him, bless us all and let his struggle be a source of guidance to the Mankind. Ameen.
His Body Rests in Jannatul Baqi
It was the 22nd of Zil Hadj (August 22, 1954) at the age of 63 after a last visit with our beloved Prophet Sallallahu Alaihe Wa Sallam that Hazrat Maulana Shah Abdul Aleem Siddiqui Al Quaderi Rehmatullah Alaih left this world for the hereafter. Allah the Almighty had responded to his prayers, as he always wanted to be buried in Madina Munawara. His body rests peacefully at the Jannatul Baqqi near the tomb of Hazrat Ayesha Siddiqua Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anha.
Hadrat Mawlana Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anho was an ardent Lover of the Beloved Habīb, Sayyiduna Muhammad Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam and always prayed to die and be buried in the sacred city of Madinah al-Munawwarah. The compassionate Prophet Sallallaho Alaihi wa Sallam was fully aware of his ardent lover’s desires and hence granted him his wish. Sadly, this brilliant son of Islam finally departed at the age of 63 years in 1373 Hijree and was laid to rest at the feet of Umm al-Mo'minīn Sayyidah A’iesha Siddiqah Radi ALLAHu Ta'ala Anha in Jannat al-Baqee.
References
• Allama Abdul Alim Merthi: Ek Azeem Muballig.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Abdul_Aleem_Siddiqi.
• Muhammed Haron, "The formation of religious networks between the Muslim heartlands and the South African Muslims" in Boleswa Journal of Theology, Religion and Philosophy, 2007.
About Author
I was born on 07/11/1992 in UP, India. I got primary education in my village and then at the age of nine I got admission in Madrsa for the memorization of the holy Quran, Alhamdulillah, I completed this process within four years and continued my education in Islamic studies at Darul Uloom Alima, Basti until I completed this nine years course of Fazilah in 2014 at the Arabic University of Al Jamiatul Ashrafia, Mubarakpur, Azamgarh along with my graduation in B. A. (Distance Course) from Maulana Azad National Urdu University.
In this thirteen to fourteen years period, I have completed Urdu & Arabic Diploma (NCPUL) CABA MDTP and CCC courses of computer from NIELT Chandigarh.
In order to pursue higher studies, I applied for M. A. in Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi wherein I have passed out this course in 2016 along with JRF Award (Junior Research Fellowship) at the end of 2015. For further study, I was selected for M. Phil. (Master of Philosophy) in University of Delhi. Alhamdulillah, I was conferred the award of M. Phil. in 2018. In Feb 2019, I have been selected for Ph. D in Jamia Millia Islamia.
My Books and Lectures: Who is Imam Hussain? (English) The Political Legacy of Umar The Great (Arabic and English) The Introductory of Jamia Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki(English and Arabic) Practical Method of Arabic and English Translation (English and Arabic Lecture)
Experience: I have worked as Arabic into English and vice versa translator since February 2016 till 09/2018 in “ Data Flow Groups Services (India) Private Limited” located In Noida, India. It is a pioneer Middle East based leading company for background screening. I have joined Aegis Global known as Startek (Gurgaon) as a Senior Executive in department of operation in November 2018 till 03/2020.
Mob: 8588038150
Email: [email protected]