Around three weeks ago, I was informed that the distinguished figure of the Muslim world, a scholar of great virtue and knowledge, a master in both rational and traditional sciences, an expert in Islamic economics, author of hundreds of books, a commentator of Hadith, and a translator and interpreter of the Glorious Qur'an, Sheikhul Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani (HafizahuAllah!), is scheduled to visit Zambia, Africa. The higher authorities at "Jamia Islamia" in Lusaka had extended an invitation to him for this visit. The honour of hosting him was granted to the Jamia. The most significant aspect of his visit was to deliver a lecture on the last Hadith of Sahih al-Bukhari to the students who were completing the "Alimiyyah" Course from the Jamia.
We had a deep desire to meet this great scholar of the Muslim world, to see him in person, greet him and benefit directly from his sermons and lectures. In this regard, a conversation took place between Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib Qasmi Solapuri (currently residing at Moon Rays Trust School, Mpulungu, Zambia) and Hazrat Maulana Idris Gangat Sahib (HafizahuAllah!), the Vice-Principal of Jamia Islamia, Lusaka. Following their discussion, Maulana Solapuri decided that we should all travel to Lusaka to participate in the programme and benefit from Mufti Sahib’s knowledge, sermons, lectures and guidance. He then advised our colleagues: Mufti Muhammad Noman Sahib, Mufti Muhammad Asif Sahib Azmi, and myself to begin preparing for the journey. We made the necessary arrangements, and on 30th January, 2025, our small group of four set off early morning by car from Moon Rays Trust School, Mpulungu to Lusaka. Shaikh Shahid Motala (Hafizahullah), Chairman of our school, also left for Lusaka along with his family members and his son: Mufti Abrar Ahmad Motala to benefit from the programme of Shaikhul Islam. Our plan was to stop overnight in a city along the way and reach Lusaka the following day, 31st January. While traveling, our colleague: Mufti Mohammad Asif Qasmi talked to Maulana Zakiur Rahman Sahib Qasmi about our journey. Maulana Zaki Sahib graciously invited us to stay at his residence for the night. Maulana Zakiur Rahman is serving at the "IK Charitable Trust," located very close to Lusaka. Then we decided to spend the night at his place. We arrived at his residence around 23 hours in the night, where we were welcomed warmly. He immediately served the dinner, and we had the meal together. Then we performed Ishaa Salaah and slept. The following morning of 31st January, shortly after Fajr Salaah, we gathered for breakfast at Maulana Zakiur Rahman's residence. JazahuAllah Kheiran!
Maulana Solapuri decided that before our departure, we should observe the activities of the IK Charitable Trust to better understand the ongoing activities on the ground. One of the trustees of our school, Mr. Yaqub Ahmad Ji Sahib (who resides in the UK), was also in Lusaka at that time. Maulana Solapuri invited him for the flying visit of the IK Trust which he accepted happily. Together, we had the opportunity to observe the activities of the "IK Charitable Trust," an organization that has achieved remarkable charitable success in a very short span of time. The trust has established a village, where 193 houses have been built and distributed among the vulnerable Muslim families. A beautiful Masjid has been built there, alongside a clinic that provides healthcare services to the residents at minimal costs. In addition, an Islamic school was founded last year in February to provide education to the village children, offering Islamic and modern educations from nursery to Grade: 12. The school’s infrastructure, educational standards, and management are all highly impressive. For the accommodation of the teachers, a well-furnished staff quarter has been built separately. Beyond these initiatives, the IK Charitable Trust is also involved in welfare and charitable activities throughout different regions of the country. The level of success the organization has achieved in such a short period of time is a rare accomplishment for any institution.
We had already been informed that Sheikhul Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani would be delivering a speech before the Jumuah Salaah at "Masjidud Da’wah" of the "Makeni Islamic Trust" on January 31. Therefore, after our visit to the "IK Trust," we made our way to the "Makeni Islamic Trust." Accompanied by Mr. Yaqub Ahmad Ji Sahib and Maulana Solapuri, we arrived at the Masjid around 12 o'clock. Not long after our arrival, Mufti Sahib, accompanied by Hazrat Maulana Idris Gangat Sahib, entered the Masjid, surrounded by personnels of his security guard. Before delivering the sermon of Jumuah, Mufti Sahib addressed the audience in Urdu for nearly half an hour. He then proceeded with the Friday sermon and led the Salaah. In his Urdu lecture, he focused on the topic of Ma’ashrat-social etiquette.
Mufti Sahib began by briefly outlining the five key areas of Islam: Ibaadaat (Worships), Ma’amlaat (dealings) and so on. He then shifted focus to social conduct in details, emphasizing that many people mistakenly consider social conducts to be separate from religious teachings. However, the Prophet Muhammad (saws) has provided extensive guidance on this matter, and we must adhere to these teachings. He referred to the Hadith: "المسلم من سلم المسلمون" and said that the Hadith guides towards the true definition of a Muslim. The essence of the Hadith is that if a Muslim harms another Muslim, he is not fulfilling the true essence of Islam. A Muslim, when meeting another Muslim, greets him with "Assalamu Alaikum." How then, can one Muslim cause harm to another? To clarify his point, he provided an example: if a person has a wound on his body that emits a foul odor and causes discomfort to others, that person should refrain from offering Salaah in congregation at a Masjid. This is because Salaah with congregation is Sunnah Muakkidah, and avoiding to cause harm to others is obligatory. He then offered another example, explaining that touching the “Black Stone” (Hajre Aswad) is akin to shaking hands with Allah. However, there is unanimous agreement that if kissing the Black Stone causes harm or discomfort to others, it should not be done. This is because causing harm to others is a major sin. If your actions hurt someone, you will be held accountable for it on the Day of Judgment, but you will not be questioned about kissing the Black Stone. Further, Mufti Sahib reminded us that while greeting with "Salam" is a Sunnah, replying to it is Waajib, and shaking hands is Mustahab. However, if shaking hands results in causing harm to another person, it should be avoided. This is because we must always refrain from committing what is Haraam for the sake of a Mustahab act. He concluded by urging us to avoid backbiting and suspicion, and to live in a way that no one's rights are violated. Allah will forgive His own rights, but He will not forgive the rights of others.
The luncheon for Mufti Muhammad Taqi Sahib and the guests staying at the Jamia was arranged at the residence of Mr. Muhammad Seedat Sahab. Through Maulana Idris Gangat Sahib, the arrangements for our stay and meals were made at the Jamia itself. Prior to the Friday Salaah, Maulana Idris Sahib sent a message to Maulana Solapuri, informing him to head to the residence of Mr. Seedat for the lunch. We made our way to his home and had the food. Jazahumullahu Kheiran!
After having the lunch, we headed directly to Jamia Islamia in Lusaka, where we settled into the room arranged for our accommodation. We then took some time to rest. The Jamia is a well-established and renowned institution in Zambia, with nearly 275 hundred students currently enrolled in different courses such as Hifz, Ifta, and Alimiyyah. It operates by the governing body (Majlise Shora), consisting of Ulama who are actively involved in both education and the administration. Although, the Jamia is approaching its twenty-fifth year, which is not a long period particularly for any institution, it has made impressive strides in terms of both educational quality and infrastructure. This progress is truly commendable. The Jamia’s hostel and classrooms are designed with thoughtful planning and a beautiful layout. Likewise, the family quarters for the teachers are of high quality and the location is very perfect. The campus features wide, spacious pathways lined with large trees, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The Jamia’s educational standards are also highly regarded. A dedicated team of teachers plays a key role in developing the character and educational quality of the students. In just this short time, the Jamia has successfully produced a large number of Huffaz and Ulama. May Allah accept the institution and protect it from evil eye!
The second programme of Shaikhul Islam, scheduled after Maghrib Salaah, was to take place at an institution called "Al-Ihsan," located next to "Masjide Umar." This event was specifically arranged for the city’s businessmen and was meant for the trade-related lecture. Perhaps due to the large turnout, it was decided to hold the programme within the Masjid itself. The proceedings began immediately after Maghrib Salaah. After the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, Mufti Sahib was called upon to address the gathering. He started his speech by emphasizing the importance of "Divine Revelation" and elaborated on the fact that whatever the Glorious Qur’an has declared forbidden is indeed prohibited, and whatever it has declared permissible is allowed. He specifically mentioned that the Qur’an has forbidden interest, and thus, it is undoubtedly prohibited. Similarly, trade has been declared permissible in the Qur’an, and there is no need for further proof. He emphasized the importance of keeping trade free from prohibited practices and incorporating ethics into business dealings. Mufti Sahib further explained that Islam spread to the East Africa and India through traders. The people embraced Islam after observing their admirable ethics. He encouraged the audience to make their trade a means of inviting others to Islam, stressing the importance of honesty and trustworthiness in business. He also advised those engaged in trade to seek the knowledge regarding business practices from Ulama. In situations, where multiple people or family members are involved in a business, it is crucial to clearly define each person’s share from the very beginning, along with setting clear salaries for each one. The programme continued till Ishaa Salaah. The dinner was arranged by the renowned traders of the country Maulana Shahid Naumani Sahib and Maulana Zahid Naumani, sons of late Mr. Khalid Nomani Sahib, ex-Chairman of Trade-Kings (May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus!). Although, we were supposed to dine there, but Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib had already informed Maulana Idris Gangat Sahab that we would be having dinner at the residence of Mr. Farooq Motala Sahib.
Maulana Talha Motala and Mr. Farooq Motala, a trustee of our school and the in-charge of Jamia Zainab lil-Banaat in Lusaka, had invited us to the Walimah of his younger son, Hafiz Ismail Motala. We all headed to his residence, albeit with a slight delay, and enjoyed the meal there. At the invitation of his institution, my honourable teacher Maulana Muhammad Salman Sahib Bijnori (DB), the esteemed editor of the "Monthly Darul Uloom" and Hadith teacher at Darul Uloom Deoband, was also present. We were fortunate enough to meet him at Mr. Motala’s residence, where we spent almost an hour in conversation. During our discussion, Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib briefly mentioned the activities of our institution, Moon Rays Trust, which he appreciated and encouraged us for our works. He emphasized that every group working for the cause of religion should support and assist one another. He also shared his concerns about the current situation in India. After the gathering, we returned to our residence at Jamia Islamia. When we were about to sleep, Maulana Idris Gangat Sahab visited us and inspected the arrangement of the guests. Really it shows his commitment, otherwise, we know well that, he was very busy with Mufti Sahab. Jazahumullahu Kheiran!
On the 1st February, we performed the Fajr prayer in the spacious Study-Hall of Jamia Islamia. Since the Masjid is still under construction, the five daily prayers are currently held in the said hall. Right after the prayer, Maulana Idris Gangat Sahib informed us about the time and place for the breakfast. We rested a bit and then we proceeded to the Jamia's dining hall, which was impeccably clean and well-arranged. The food-table was neatly set, and the breakfast was soon served. There was a variety of food. We each enjoyed our preferred dishes. After breakfast, we returned to our room.
Later that morning, Mufti Muhammad Taqi Sahib, visited the Jamia. He took the time to inspect each section of the institution. While Mufti Sahib was touring the kitchen, the esteemed and respected Principal of the Jamia, Hazrat Maulana Yusuf Sahib (DB) brought us closer to Mufti Sahab, giving us chance to greet and shake hands with him. JazahumuAllah Kheira!
After this flying visit, Mufti Sahib addressed the students of the Jamia. In his speech, he commended the administration and management of the Jamia, urging the students to make the most of the facilities available to them. He encouraged them to stay focused on their studies and work diligently, as nothing should stand in the way of their education. He also advised them to engage in regular study, review their lessons, and maintain consistent effort. Following the speech, we all performed Zuhr Salaah under his leadership. The lunch was arranged at the residence of Mr. Jasat Sahib. We gathered there and had the meal.
After Maghrib, Mufti Sahib delivered the final lesson of Sahih al-Bukhari to the students who were being graduated from Jamia Islamia, at the hall of "Makeni Islamic Trust." The event, marking the completion of Bukhari, attracted a large crowd, including both the general public and distinguished individuals. Despite the spaciousness of the hall, it felt somewhat crowded. The programme began with the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, followed by a Na'at. Then one of the students from Jamia recited Mufti Sahib’s famous poem, "Darbār mein hazir hai aik bandah āwārah." Afterward, a student read the last lesson from Sahih al-Bukhari. Mufti Sahib then began his lecture. He expressed concerns about the Khatm-e-Bukhari ceremony potentially evolving into an innovation (Bid'ah) or becoming an annual event like an Urs. He pointed out that the tradition of Daurah Hadith course is uniquely taught in the Indian subcontinent. Mufti Sahib then discussed the significance of Sahih al-Bukhari and Imam Bukhari’s understanding of Arabic language. Moving on to the last chapter of the Book of Tauheed in Sahih al-Bukhari, Mufti Sahib spoke about the weighing of human deeds on the Day of Judgment. He explained that our actions and words will be weighed, a concept that is no longer difficult to understand, as modern science has practically shown this idea. He also noted that the Mu’tazila, by relying solely on their intellect, went astray. Mufti Sahib emphasized the importance of speaking carefully, as all our words and actions will be weighed. Explaining the last Hadith, he highlighted the importance of Tasbeeh and Tahmeed. Before concluding with a prayer, he clarified that the acceptance of prayers at the time Khatm-e-Bukhari is not guaranteed, and it is not obligatory for prayers to be accepted. He remarked that if someone leaves the gathering without making Duaa, it is not an issue. However, if people begin to view this Duaa as essential, it would lead to innovation (Bid'ah). The ceremony concluded with his brief Duaa. Following this, the Isha Salaah was performed in congregation in the same hall. Later, the dinner was hosted at the residence of Mr. Abdul Hameed Sahab of Kamwala area, where all the guests gathered to enjoy the meal.
On the morning of the 2nd February, we had breakfast at the residence of Mufti Azizur Rahman Sahab, a teacher of Jamia. A special lecture was organized for the Ulama. Before the formal programme began, a portion of the Glorious Qur’an was recited, followed by one of the students reciting a poem by Mufti Sahib: "Dard Se Yaadon Se Ashkon Se Shanasayi Hai – Ketna Aabaad Mera Goshae Tanhaayi Hai". Mufti Sahib then began his address, humbly stating that, as there were Ulama present, he would only repeat what he had heard from his elders. He advised the attendees to consider themselves students rather than Ulama and advised them to study the works of the great scholars. He cautioned them to avoid modernism and extremism, and emphasized the importance of maintaining balance. At the conclusion of the session, a request was made for permission to narrate Hadith at his authority, which Mufti Sahib graciously granted. He then recited "Al-Hadith al-Musalsal bil-Awaliyah" and gave the audience special permission to narrate this Hadith from his chain, along with general permission. The session concluded with a prayer from Mufti Sahib.
At around the same time, there was also a Khatme Bukhari ceremony for the students who had graduated from Jamia Zainab lil-Banat, Lusaka. This event was held at the Makeni Islamic Trust hall, with Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Salman Bajnoori (DB), a teacher of Hadith at Darul Uloom, Deoband, serving as the guest of honour. We made our way directly from the Jamia to attend, but by the time we arrived, the Khatme Bukhari ceremony had already concluded. Following that, we proceeded to the residence of Mr. Farooq Motala Sahab for lunch, as we had been invited there. A wide variety of dishes had been prepared, and we had the lunch according to our preferences. Jazahumullahu Kheiran!
After the meal, we were supposed to visit “Free Medical Camp” on the invitation of Maulana Mubashshir Mehta Sahab, a teacher of Jamia Islamia. But we could not do it, due to Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Sahab being busy with other activities. The medical camp was hold under the arrangement of “Muslim Social and Welfare Trust”. More than 20,000 vulnerable and sick people of the society have benefited from the medical camp up to now. Along with teaching activity, Mualana Mubashshir Mehta Sahab performs the social and welfare activities under this trust. May Allah accept his services and give him the best reward!
Then we reached the residence of Maulana Muhammad Akram Sahab Qasmi, in his company, near Asr time. He had arranged for our accommodation and dinner for the night at his residence. The next morning, on 3rd February, we departed from his residence and headed towards Mpulungu. By around 10 pm, we safely reached our destination, Al-Hamdulillah. Due to some prior commitments, one of our colleagues, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Sahab, remained in Lusaka. Maulana Muhammad Akram, originally from Atarsi, MP, India, belongs to a business-oriented family. His business is actually in Surat at large scale. Along with being successful in business, his family is very much religious and maintains strong connections with Ulama, Maa Shaa Allah. Recently, he has started a company in Zambia, which is currently under construction. May Allah bless his business with success and growth! Ameen!
Shaikhul Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani was born on 3rd October 1943, in the renowned city of "Deoband" in the British India. He is the youngest son of Mufti Muhammad Shafi Usmani, the author of Ma’ariful Qur’an. After the partition of India and Pakistan, Mufti Muhammad Shafi migrated to Pakistan, where he had previously served as a teacher and Grand Mufti at Darul Uloom, Deoband. Following his migration, his family also joined him in Pakistan. Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani’s education took place at the institution founded by his father, Jamia Darul Uloom in Karachi (established in 1950). He later pursued his Bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science from Karachi University, followed by a law degree from the same University. He then obtained a Master’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature from Punjab University. Over the years, Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani has contributed extensively in various fields. Among his scholarly works, he authored a six-volume commentary on Sahih Muslim, titled Takmilah Fathul Mulhim, covering topics from Kitab al-Rida to Kitab al-Tafseer. He also translated the Glorious Qur’an into both English and Urdu, offering concise explanatory notes, which gained immense popularity. In addition, Mufti Taqi Usmani wrote a two-volume book in Arabic, titled Fiqhul Buyu’ (The Jurisprudence of Trade), which addresses various issues related to trade, spanning over 1,258 pages. Under his supervision, an important book, Al-Mudawwanah Al-Jami’ah, is being compiled, which organizes the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (saws) from various Hadith books with world reference numbers. He is also well-known for his pioneering work in the field of Islamic economics and banking. He serves as the chairman of Shariah boards for several institutions related to Islamic finance across multiple countries. Furthermore, he holds the position of President of the Wifaqul Madaris al-Arabia of Pakistan. For nearly 20 years, he served as a Justice at the Shariah Appellate Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Having begun his career in the field of teaching and issuing Fatwa, Mufti Sahab remains deeply involved in it today. He currently teaches Sahih al-Bukhari, one of the most prestigious Hadith books, at Jamia Darul Uloom, Karachi. May Allah grant Mufti Sahib good health, a long life, and accept his monumental services for the Ummah! May he continue to guide us with his knowledge, books and lectures! Aameen! ∎∎∎∎