BIOGRAPHY OF THE FOUNDER OF
DAR-UL-IHSAN
HAZRAT ABU ANEES MUHAMMAD BARKAT ALI
(QUDDIS-A-SIRRUH-UL-AZIZ)
Holy
Birth
Good name of
the great saint is
Muhammad Barkat
Ali (R.A. –
Rehmat-ullah Alaih). The filial appellation is “Abu Anees” (father of Anees -
his daughter). The title of honour is “Bava Jee Sarkar” (spiritual guide). He
is the sultan ((Tajdaar) and founder
of Dar-ul-Ihsan.
He was born
on 27th Rabi-ul-Sani 1329th Hijra (according to lunar
calendar), and Thursday, 27th April 1911 (according to Christian
Calendar) at Barhami District Ludhiana. He belongs to Dhariwal, Jat family. His
honourable father’s name is Hazrat Nigahi Baksh (R.A.) and respected mother’s
name is Hazrat Jannat Bibi (R.A.).
Bava Jee
Sarkar (R.A.) is a born saint or Wali
Allah (Friend of Allah Almighty). His mother was a pious lady who used to
recite Darood (salutations) on the
Holy Prophet (S.A.W) profusely. His father, too, was a virtuous man who
steadfastly adhered to the practice of regular fasting and prayers. He was
employed in the army though he belonged to a farming family. Love and service
of Allah’s righteous people was his custom. He was often found in the company
of a ‘Majzoob’ (a mystic person
wholly absorbed in Divine meditation).
That Mystic predicted
about the birth of Bava Jee Sarkar (R.A.) even before the marriage of
Hazrat Nigahi Bakhsh (R.A.) in the following words: “Oh Nigahi! There is
nothing special in your own destiny but you will bear a son who will be really
great”. This prediction proved true.
Bava Jee’s
great-grandfather, “Baba Jee Dandu Shah (R.A.) was also a great saint of his
time. He lived on the bank (Danday) of Sutlej river, and accordingly he was
called “Dandu Shah”.
His tomb is
in “Mandar Maleek” village.
Respected
father of Bava Jee Sarkar (R.A.) is having eternal rest at Barhami Sharif and
his noble mother at Aadhi Kot in Khushab district.
Childhood
Since
childhood, Bava Jee Sarkar (R.A.) was inclined towards virtue. By nature, he
was a sober person and he loved solitude. He learnt the Holy Quran in his own
village and, afterwards, went to Halwara for his formal education. He had the
distinction of building the first mosque in his village. He spent most of his
time there in recitation of the Holy Quran and remembrance of Allah Almighty.
Domestic
life
He married
at the age of 16. His wife’s name was Barkat Bibi. She was a simple and dutiful
woman who adhered to the practice of prayers and fasting all her life. Sarkar
(R.A.) gave her the title of “Makhdoomah Dar-ul-EIhsan” (respected personality
of the house of blessings). Sultan of mysticism (Shah-e-Wilayat) Hakeem Sayyed Ameer-ul-Hassan Saharanpuri said
about her: “She has the same status in my devotees as the wife of Abu Talha
(Razi Allah Anha) had among the companions of Holy Prophet (S.A.W.)”
His children
include five daughters and two sons. One of his sons passed away when he was
quite young and the other died at the age of forty five leaving behind four
children. Two daughters have also expired and three daughters are living today
with their families Masha’Allah!
The eternal
resting place of Bava Jee’s wife is in Dar-ul-Ehsan Salar Wala. One of the sons
and two daughters are also buried by her side.
Selection
In the Army
Bava Jee
Sarkar’s father wanted him to join the army so that he could become an officer
like him. In pursuit of this desire and upon the recommendation of Baba Kareer
Wala, a commissioned army officer Pakhar Singh Rajuana, took him for
recruitment in the army on 9th April 1930. To every one’s surprise the
medical officer, Captain Doctor M. N. Khanna, selected him straight away even
without a medical examination. He was considered fit for the Boys Company as
soon as he was selected. After passing the Indian Army special education
course, he was selected as a Y-Cadet. As an officer he was appointed on a
highly sensitive key post in a corps headquarters. His Corps Commander, General
Veitch, was a great admirer of his because of his sterling qualities, modest
nature and graceful personality. He treated him as a friend. Even amongst the
common youth he was known for his graceful personality and piety. He spent most part of his employment in
Roorkee Cantonment. His Corps Commander was very pleased with him because of
his discipline and professionalism. He often quoted the example of his noble
character and disposition to other officers. He treated him with respect and
dignity, so much so that he abstained from eating and drinking during the holy
month of Ramadan in order to show respect to him.
Character
and Disposition
Bava Jee
Sarkar regularly and steadfastly followed the practice of prayers and fasting.
Besides, he always remained absorbed in meditation and remembrance of Allah
Almighty. While serving in the British Indian Army as secretary to the Corps Commander,
Bava Jee had a very busy schedule and immense responsibilities. As a
conscientious and dutiful officer he fulfilled all these responsibilities to
the entire satisfaction of his Corps Commander. Bava Jee has stated in his
writings that in spite of these heavy commitments he recited the holy names of
Allah Almighty 11,000 times every day
before noon and the bounteous names of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) 12,000 times
every afternoon.
During his
stay in Roorkee Cantonment he used to walk down to the holy shrine of
“Peeran-e-Kalyar Sharif” every day after duty hours. His officers were aware of
this fact but they never objected to it. General Veitch once commented: “It is
excellent that you go to Peeran-e-Kalyar Sharif and not to the ‘red-light’
district.” He was Allah’s servant from ‘day one’ but when
circumstances made him serve the
British Indian Army, he followed the army discipline in letter and spirit.
Devotion to his military duties and adherence to military discipline were in
fact a prelude to the forthcoming struggle. Rays of reality began to sprout
from the veil. Every
three months, the Corps Commander
sent a report to the General Headquarters admiring Bave Jee’s graceful
personality. He would write: “Barkat Ali is a man of great skills and the
noblest character in the Indian Army.”
Bava Jee’s
punctuality could be compared with the clock-work precision of motion of the
universe. He would stress: “It is mandatory that you work like a clock. Your
batteries should remain charged at all times.
You must never
stop. It is also essential that
you should remain steadfast on this principle. You must refrain from all
pursuits that are forbidden.”
Allegiance
to Islamic Mysticism
(Bay’at-e-Tareeqat)
Bava Jee
Sarkar (R.A.) took his bay’at (vowed
his allegiance) at the hands of Shah-e-Walayat, Hakeem Ameer-ul-Hasan
Saharanpuri (R.A.), on Thursday, 19th Rabi-ul-Sani 1363 A.H., at
Peeran-e-Kalyar Sharif. Hakeem Sahib
(R.A.) asked Bava Jee to massage his back. When Bava Jee did so, Hakim Sahib
remarked: “I was granted it (mysticism) by a Punjabi and now I am passing it on
to a Punjabi, the one who has been chosen by fortune.” (Please note that Hakeem
Sahib’s spiritual guide, Hazrat Qari Shah Abdul Kareem (R.A), was a resident of
Naseerpur Sharif, in Sargodha District.)
Hakeem Sahib
always treated Bava Jee with compassion. He would usually call him “mera chand”
(my moon). When needed, he would say, “Call the army officer”. Sometimes he
would say, “Mere Chand! You have a reformer’s heart,” and at other times would
state “Your end will be well”. Once he said, “Saain Tawakkul (R.A.) came a
moment ago and said, “You will be exalted in the Punjab in the same way as I
was.”
Hakeem Sahib
(R.A.) acquainted Bava Jee (R.A.) with the secrets of sanctity as he was a
Dervish (faqeer), not saint (peer) and the chief of the congregation of
Zikar-e-Ilahi Mashallah! Hakeem Sahib said, “None would have been a saint (Pir) anywhere from Sutlej (river) to
Attock (river), if you were the one.”
Resignation
From the Army
If Bava Jee
(R.A.) had stayed in the army he would have been promoted to the rank of a
general. However, he preferred to be a Faqeer
(a dervish) of Allah by sacrificing everything. He favoured mysticism and
sanctity over the life of pomp and splendour. To commence his journey towards
the auspicious and righteous path of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) he resigned from
the army on 22nd June 1945 (11 Rajab ul Murajjab 1364 A H). He
himself stated: “This auspicious and righteous destination is in true
compliance with the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.)” He discarded his army
uniform, wore simple sufi tunic and declared: “I am no more an employee of the
British Government but am a servant of Allah. I am prepared to face whatever
action the government may wish to take against me. I have done my own court
martial and am willing to accept any of the three punishments – a bullet, life
imprisonment or banishment”.
Every one
was astonished at Bava Jee’s decision. It was the time of World War II. The British and their allies were in
desperate need of every single soldier and army officer. In these
circumstances, resignation of an officer appointed on a key post was like
playing with fire. British Army officers tried every possible approach of
affection, facilities and temptations but Bava Jee remained steadfastly devoted
to his cause. This was such a daring step that no one would have had the
courage to take it. It simply amounted to revolt against the English rule,
which during war time had amounted to treason. However, after passing through a
number of stages he finally managed to accomplish his goal.
Day
of Perseverance
Bava Jee
Sarkar (R.A.) had always remembered this day of his release from the army as
‘Yaum-e- Istaqamat’ (day of perseverance). In The Words of Wisdom he writes:
“It was a day worth seeing. Equipped with determination, intoxicated with
divine inspiration, splitting apart the veils of negligence, breaking the
chains of intricacies of life, denying everything, care free from life or
death, ….. kept heading towards the destination with utter devotion and all the
obstacles were overcome with a single move. The violent and fierce torrents
could not face this incursion. The storms started circumambulations. The
abysses became the guides. The pride of the devil perished and his arrogance
turned into ashes. All his schemes were dashed to the ground, his weapons
ruined, the satanic temptations abashed and vanity of wealth and authority
forfeited. World with all its grandeur stood supplicated (before me). But everything
was turned down and disregarded (1945)”.
Three
Main Objectives
As soon as
Bava Jee Sarkar was released from the army, and had renounced the world and
what it contained, he went straight to Peeran-e-Kalyar Sharif and paid his
homage. He resolved to achieve three objectives in life. He described these objectives at the
inauguration ceremony of Dar-ul-Hikmat in these words: “When I came across the
prominent figure of Hazrat Makhdoom ‘Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari (R.A)
about forty years ago, I declared that I had renounced the world and its
contents and that I had resolved to spend the rest of my life for achieving the
following three holy objectives for the sake of Allah the Almighty”:
Ø Constant Zikr of Allah the Almighty.
Ø The invitation to and the spread of Islam.
Ø Selfless service of humanity.
He further
said: “I then vowed never to accept anything from this world in whatever colour
it might be presented to me as long as I lived.”
Formation
of Pakistan and Migration
Thus his
training for the great cause had started two years before Pakistan came into
existence. Allah the Almighty had chosen him for the direction, instruction and
religious guidance of the masses.
He migrated
to Pakistan on the 27th of August 1947. After the initial roving and
migratory moves he finally arrived at Salar Wala, where he was allotted a piece
of land (in lieu of his ancestral agricultural land left in India). This piece
of land was located near Salar Wala railway station. The place was totally
desolate before his arrival. He put in nearly forty years of continuous
struggle to transform this place into a heavenly complex consisting of a huge
beautiful mosque, a Quran-e-Kareem Mahal, a hospital, a library and a minaret
as a monument to the memory of Asahab-e-Badar. He named this complex as
Dar-ul-Ehsan and dedicated it as Waqf-e-Islam
(endowed for Islamic cause). Here he was busy day and night in the
remembrance of Allah, preaching of Islam, selfless service of humanity and
divine meditation.
At the same
time he was writing and compiling Islamic literature for the religious and
spiritual guidance of the masses. Soon the place was resonant with the echo
of Zikr-e-Ilahi. The
seekers of truth, coming from all
parts of the country and even from some of the foreign countries, started
congregating there in large numbers. A number of non Muslims embraced Islam at
his hands.
He called
himself “Al-Muhajar Ilallah, Wal Mutawakkal Alallah Al-Azeem” (Emigrant to
Allah and the one who has submitted himself completely to the will of Allah the
Almighty) and he proved his words by his actions that Al-Muhajar Ilallah is not
bound by any necessities of life, and travels in Allah’s way with complete
abandon and faith in Allah. A Sahib-e-Tawakkal is neither bound to any land,
nor owns any property, He neither bothers about any trade or earnings nor
wealth or provisions. In the morning, he saves no provisions for the evening,
and similarly, in the evening he saves nothing
for the following morning, nor
worries about it at all. He does not even bother whether he lives or dies if
that be Allah’s will.
Bava Jee
said: “The greatest of sacrifices is the sacrifice of shunning all human
desires. Only a Muhajir Ilallah, can make such a sacrifice. No ordinary person
can do it.” Bava Jee surrendered all his desires for his passion for Allah. The
way to Allah is not a bed of roses. It requires prayers and supplications
throughout the night, in the morning, and all day. It requires the courage to
suffer hardships and mockery and humiliation inflicted by others. It also
requires selfless service to humanity. Indeed the way to reach Allah is very
tough and arduous.
Bava Jee
Sarkar (R.A.) stated: “Islamic mysticism which you think is a bed of roses is
actually a bed of thorns and an uphill task. I migrated forty one times only
for Allah’s sake and in His way. It is continuous since 1367 A H. I spent all
my life as ‘Muhajir Ilallah’ and only Allah the Almighty knows what I have been
through. Every single migration was for Allah’s Zikr, spread of Islam and for
the service to humanity.
Final
Migration to Camp Dar-ul-Ehsan
The stay of
Allah’s blessed ones at a particular place or leaving a place is by His will
only. Sarkar (R.A.) has said: “A person who is living a life of peace and
security will never migrate. He will be forced to do so when he becomes weary
of life.”
Bava Jee
Sarkar (R.A.) had to migrate to camp Dar-ul- Ehsan in 1984 from his abode at
Salar Wala, which he had built into a splendid place with his incessant
efforts. When he moved, it seemed that all the splendour of Salar Wala also
moved with him to, what heretofore had been, the wilderness of Dalowal. This
wilderness was at once glorified with the glorious presence of Bava Jee Sarkar
(R.A.). Melodies of Ya-Hayyu Ya-Qayyum
echoed all around. The place was soon transformed into something that looked
like a piece of heavens on earth. Quran Kareem
Mahal, offices of Dar-ul-Ehsan, mosque, library, almshouse (Langar) and medical centre were
constructed rapidly. This heavenly complex must have become a place of envy
even for the dwellers of the skies. He named this place as “Almustafeez
Dar-ul-Ehsan” and “Camp Dar-ul- Ehsan”. He chose to stay here for the rest of
his life and after demise. About this place he said:
“This
place under the trees is my destination in my worldly life and the life
hereafter. Thanks to Allah the Almighty who ordained my migration from old
Dar-ul-Ehsan. After the migration, Allah’s favours on me have exceeded all
limits. Such blessings, which have been bestowed upon the Punjab Khatan House, would not have been possible otherwise.”
Zikr-e-Ilahi
and Preaching of Islam
The Creator
of the universe sent his prophets (messengers) from time to time for the
guidance and direction of mankind; and after them he assigned this duty to the
Saints and Mystics (Sufis). Wherever these Sufis appeared on earth, they spread
the light of Islam. With their efforts, vast areas were illuminated with the
brilliance of the ‘Din-e-Islam’; hearts were enlightened and spirits and souls
revived. Because of them, chains of depraved thoughts have been broken and man,
having been liberated from ignorance, has been elevated to the level of ‘Laa Makaan’ or eternity. Masha Allah!
Bava Jee was
an accomplished Mystic and heralded the spiritual values of Islam. He spent
days and nights in the remembrance of Allah, meditation and service of
humanity. He persuaded people to piety. Sarkar (R.A.) said, “The greatest
service of humanity is invitation to Din and the guidance to follow Allah’s
path.” He did full justice with the mission of guidance and righteousness.
Masha’Allah! He sought every nook and corner of the country to spread the word
of Islam. A segment of our society consists of those poor people who are
wandering around all the time in search of livelihood and have only flimsy and
makeshift hutments as their shelters which they carry from place to place. They
are truly a deprived section of the society not only economically but also
spiritually because no one ever carried to them even the message of Islam. Bava
Jee Sarkar did that. He invited them to embrace Islam. He also endeavoured to
improve their economic condition. By
involving the administration he got them homes. He gave them hope. In fact he
gave them a purpose of life. They were isolated from the society. He brought
them into the mainstream of socio-economic system. He embraced those who were
shunned by others. Today these people are self reliant. They have gained
success in both worldly and religious affairs and are foremost in their gratitude
and remembrance of Allah. They love Bava Jee and ardently follow his teachings
of Islam.
Bava Jee
wrote letters to some of the non-Muslim world leaders inviting them to the fold
of Islam. By doing so he revived the Sunnah of Holy Prophet (S.A.W).
Having been
inspired by Bava Jee and enlightened by the spiritual system practised by him,
thousands of young volunteers are spreading the light of Islam throughout the
world. These volunteers are organized into preaching teams/centres. Around six
hundred preaching centres have been established in various cities and towns
throughout the world. They organize congregations in their respective cities
and towns for Zikr-e-Ilahi and preaching of Islam.
The
disciples also visit Camp Dar-ul-Ihsan every month with their respective teams
and stay there for three days. Here they are debriefed about their activities
during the previous month with regard to ‘Tableegh’
(preaching) and service to humanity and are given further guidance about
similar activities during the coming month. It goes without saying that Bava
Jee’s spiritual personality showers blessings on them all this time. Volunteers
among them also serve the patients during the month-long eye camps held in
Dar-ul-Hikmat during the months of March and October every year.
These teams
of preachers undertake preaching everywhere - in trains and buses alongside
schools, colleges, universities, educational institutions and even in jails.
Creator of
the universe feels proud of His creation of such men who remember Allah and are
grateful to Him. They spend their lives for the sake of Allah Almighty and
guide others to the path of righteousness and service of Allah’s creatures.
Teachings of Holy Prophet (S.A.W) are a guide for these people. These teachings
are a boundless ocean of divine mercy for the humanity. About the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) Allah Almighty
has said in the Holy Quran: “We made you a ‘Mercy’ for all worlds”.
The most
beautiful colour on the canvass of life is that of our master, Holy Prophet
(S.A.W). His action and conduct is in accordance with Allah’s words. He is the
living Quran. His way of life is as Allah has decreed and favoured for the
comfort of his servants. To follow the footsteps of Holy Prophet (S.A.W) is the
way of salvation for this life and the hereafter.
Bava Jee
(R.A) stated:
“May
our way of life be in accordance with the Sunnah of Holy Prophet (S.A.W). Every
other path is nullified.”
“There
is only one leader and the life revolves around him. Our true guide and leader
is the Holy Prophet (S.A.W). He is the greatest of all leaders. He beckons us
to the true path of Allah. Our Prophet (S.A.W) is a living example of the
noblest character. Follow his character with steadfastness. His example is the
most worthy, authentic and a guarantee for the success in both worlds. May this
example always remain in the forefront. Aameen!”
Service
of Humanity
Hazrat Abu
Anees Muhammad Barkat Ali (R.A) did full justice with service of humanity
besides remembrance of Allah and invitation to and spread of Islam. Masha
Allah! He explained:
“Service
of humanity is a multifaceted and endless struggle. It has no bounds and no one
can ever reach its peak. It is a continuous process day and night.”
“Service
of humanity is the greatest of blessings. It is an ongoing process that never
ends.
About his
three-fold mission of ‘Zikr’, ‘Tableegh’, and ‘Service of Humanity’, Bava Jee
said: “Places may change but this
mission of ‘Remembrance of
Allah’, ‘Invitation to and Spread of Islam’ and ‘Service to Humanity’ never
changes, and stays firm until the ‘Last Day’. Masha Allah!”
He gave
monthly stipends to the disabled, the deprived, widows, and the poor and needy
students. He made special arrangements for the marriage of poor girls. He took
special care of prisoners and lepers; and distributed beddings, flour and
clothes among the sick and needy at their doorsteps. In addition to these
services, he set a peerless example of selfless service to the humanity through
the platform of Dar-ul-Hikmat.
He set up the
institution of Dar-ul-Hikmat for everyday treatment through ‘Yunani’ medicines prepared at Camp
Dar-ul-Ehsan. He also started the practice of organising month-long free eye
camps twice a year for the treatment of eye diseases. He considered patients’
service as an honour, regarding them as his benefactors and Allah’s guests. He
never charged a penny from any patient.
The
first free eye camp
was organized in 1976 and the
practice has continued ever since without a break. Until October 1996, forty
one six-monthly (half yearly) free eye camps had been organised. Out of 369180
patients, 142884 had their vision restored through operations. 226296 patients
were treated without surgery and 171 born-blinds also regained vision with the prayers
and attention of the erudite Sufi, Bave Jee (R.A).
Power and
authority are not relevant to a particular place. These are related to the
person vested with authority. He had migrated from Dar-ul-Ehsan Salar Wala in
November 1984. At that time there were no buildings at Camp Dar-ul-Ehsan.
Therefore, free eye camps kept being organised at the old Dar-ul-Ehsan (Salar
Wala).
In November
1996 Bava Jee (R.A) laid the foundation stone of Dar-ul-Hikmat at Camp
Dar-ul-Ehsan and declared that from then onwards eye camps would be held at
Dar-ul-Hikmat. Missionary groups and visitors witnessed that the work that
would have taken years was completed in months and work expected to take months
was completed in days. It was like a miracle. Finally, he inaugurated the
Dar-ul-Hikmat on Shab-e-Baraat after Salat-ul-Khair on 25th December
1996. It started functioning in March 1997 according to his advice. Masaha
Allah.
Dar-ul-Hikmat
is equipped with the most modern and latest medical equipment. Very few
hospitals in the country possess such sophisticated equipment. Expert
physicians and experienced surgeons treat and operate the eyes. The treatment
is totally free. Patients are required to
bring their own beddings in accordance with the
prevailing weather. One attendant is required to accompany each patient – a
male for a male and a female for a female. All lodging and boarding is free
both for the patients and their attendants. Distinguishing feature of the
hospital is fair treatment with the patients. All patients are treated on the principle
of equality. No one is given preference over another. There is no ‘Sifarish’ system. Admissions are on
‘first-come first-served basis’.
Twenty Two
eye camps have been held at Dar-ul-Hikmat during the period from March 1997 to
October 2007. During this period, there were 469,528 outdoor patients. 165,206
patients were operated upon. 138,833 patients were operated upon with the help
of microscopes. Lenses were inserted in the eyes of 60,915 patients. 304,322
patients were treated without operation. 824 patients were such who were
born-blind and, by the
grace of Allah Almighty, their vision was restored, after operation at
Dar-ul-Hikmat.
thus, in all
63 camps, 838,708 patents came here for treatment out of which 308,090 eyes
(including 995 born-blind cases) were successfully operated upon.
Success rate
of operations has generally been 99.96 % or above. This is no less than a
miracle. All this, by the grace of Allah, is due to the ever increasing and
never ending bounties of the founder of Dar-ul-Ehsan, granted to him by Allah
Almighty.
No doubt,
those noble and pious people of Allah who spend their lives in Allah’s way,
remember Allah Almighty day in and day out, render selfless service to Allah’s
creatures - their fellow human beings - and work incessantly for preaching
Islam, are forever alive. For such beloved people of Allah Almighty death is
just like a veil between this life and the life hereafter. By this veil Allah
Almighty only screens them from our view. Otherwise their bounties stay for ever
by Allah’s grace.
National
Message - Unity Among Muslims
Bava Jee
(R.A) was a very kind and loving person. He had a genial temperament and was
friendly with all. All his writings also convey love and affection. There is
not even a hint of hatred or disliking for any one. He was a great advocate of
unity among the Muslim Ummah and kept striving for it all his life.
Bava Jee
commented: “Everything revolves around its axis. The axis of Dar-ul-Ehsan is
love for our Holy Prophet (S.A.W) and unity among Muslims. This is the spirit
of every religion and the call of the time. National mission is always vibrant.
It is also durable and lasting. Unity among Muslims is a national mission. This
unity has to come about. It will, Insha’Allah, happen!”
“O Muslim! O
dear! Unity among Muslims is the most important call of the time. Have mercy on
yourself and be united. Unity and brotherhood among Muslims is essential so
that you may flourish. Stay away from nationalism and sectarian friction, and
be united. In order to spread Allah’s Din in every corner of the world, be
united! Do get united! The so called differences among you are insignificant.
Shun these differences and get united so that the dignity of Allah’s most
favourite religion Islam is exalted. Be united in the great name of Allah. Do
be united. Be united at every cost. Be united in whatever way it is possible.
Do not even hesitate to sacrifice your life for this cause. Is there none
amongst you who can sacrifice his life to keep the nation (Ummah) alive and ever lasting? O young men of the nation (Ummah)! For God’s sake do not indulge in
controversial issues. Present some personal character. Display some leadership
qualities. Do not criticise one another and do not create problems; instead
solve them because problems do not serve any purpose.
Love
for the Holy Prophet (S.A.W)
Bava Jee
remarked: “A person follows the one whom he ardently loves. No one can follow a
person who does not inspire true love. Today people only pay lip service to
love and affection. They do not mean it. A person who truly loves the Holy
Prophet (S.A.W) can never go against Sunnah. He will sincerely follow every
Sunnah and every action that Holy Prophet (S.A.W) has ever taken.”
Hazrat Abu
Anees Muhammad Barkat Ali (R.A) was a true and ardent lover of Holy Prophet
(S.A.W). He proved it practically, not just verbally, and spent all his life in
accordance with the Sunnah. “Kitab ul Amal bis Sunnah is a popular and
authentic practical programme of study that consists of the deeds of Sunnah. He
practised this till the end and resolved: “Devotion to Holy Prophet (S.A.W) is
my faith; love for him is my way of life and obedience of his instructions is
my goal”.
Asma-e-Nabi-ul-Kareem
(S.A.W) which consists of five volumes is an exquisite and rare book of the
world history. It contains 1438 (one thousand four hundred and thirty eight)
names of Holy Prophet (S.A.W). Each sanctified name is given with complete
reference of the Holy Quran and Ahadees-e-Mubaraka. Collection and compilation
of these holy names is such a task which can only be inspired by devotion to
the Holy Prophet (S.A.W). This compilation is also a master piece as regards
calligraphy and printing. Another evident proof of devotion to Allah and His
Holy Prophet (S.A.W) is the splendid edifice in the shape of elegant and
graceful buildings of Quran-e-Kareem Mahal. Old, worn out and musty copies of
the Holy Quran are re-bound and preserved in a beautiful manner in the Quran
Mahal. Preservation of some very rare and precious handwritten copies are a
true and ever lasting manifestation of Bava Jee’s love for the Holy Quran.
Writings
and Compilations
He was a
treasure of knowledge and wisdom. A number of his books bear testimony to this
fact. His book “Kitab ul Amal bis Sunnah” is such a beautiful compilation of
authentic “Ahadees” that such a book can rarely be found anywhere in the world.
This voluminous compilation has a high standard of calligraphy and printing.
When this book was presented to some of the international leaders on the
occasion of the Islamic Summit Conference, held in Pakistan in 1974, they expressed
their admiration for its high literary value and elegant printing. This book is
available in the libraries of almost all the universities of the Islamic world.
Learned intellectuals and research scholars are
benefiting from this book world wide. Bava Jee (R.A)
described this book in these words”:
“This
book, ‘Kitab-ul-Amal bis Sunnah’ is the stock of the Sunnah of Holy Prophet
(S.A.W). Lifelong struggle has been spent for its compilation. Guidance of
Allah Almighty has helped to print this selection in the form of a book and to
follow this sacred path with His special benevolence, graciousness and
beneficence. Kitab-ul-Amal bis Sunnah is an authentic collection of the
teachings of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W), the very essence of remembrance of Allah and the source of all
blessings. Masha Allah.”
He wrote
hundreds of books which are a precious treasure of knowledge, wisdom and
interpretation of Islamic law. By using poetic language, he has made the
abstruse topic of mysticism inspirational and easy to understand.
He was a
very decent, cultured and charming person. These religious compilations of such
a high standard are a true reflection of his elegant taste and exquisite
personality. These books are distributed free of cost.
A deep
inspiration is found in all the thirty volumes of Bava Jee’s “Maqalat-e-Hikmat”
(Words of Wisdom). Use of concise and crisp sentences coupled with relevant
proverbs makes the composition of each ‘Maqala’
very impressive and meaningful. Yet
the meanings are profound. Only a
serious reader, who possesses
religious knowledge and is keen to learn, can derive full benefit from these
words of wisdom. These are awesome words, each reflecting the greatness (Azmat), the infinite beauty (Jamal) and omnipresence of Allah
Almighty. Hidden in each phrase there
is guidance about
how to spend one’s life and how one’s salvation lies in the obedience of
Allah Almighty’s injunctions and orders to mankind. No doubt, a complete
chapter on Life and a hundred chapters on Obedience have been enclosed in each
and every sentence, written spontaneously and naturally. Only, the one who has
spent all his life in Allah’s Love can gain this great power of expression and
depiction of Allah’s vision through words. Bava Jee (R.A) had acquired that
qualification by Allah’s grace and Allah Almighty had chosen him to reveal
meanings of certain aspects of life and universe. Bava Jee (R.A.) once
remarked:
“These
Maqalat are not the beads that make a necklace but each ‘Maqala’ in itself is a necklace of pearls. You may either store
these pearls in your heart or spoil them. It is all up to you.”
Following of
the world-renowned compilations and publications of Dar-ul-Ehsan have won
international fame and popularity: -
- Kitab-ul-Amal Bis-Sunnah Al-Maroof Tarteeb Sharif (Book of the Practice of Sunnah), Volumes 1-6.
- Asma-ul-Nabi-ul-Karim (Bounteous names of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W), Volumes 1-5.
- Makshoofat-e-Manazal-e-Ihsan (Manifestations of the Stages of Blessings), Volumes 1-5.
- Maqalat-e-Hikmat (Words of Wisdom), Volumes 1-30.
- Almiftah Liknooz-ul-Quran-al-Azeem (Keys of the Treasures of Holy Quran), Volumes 1-3.
- Khanqahi Nizam (System of Holy Shrines).
- Zikr-e-Elahi Jihad-e-Akbar (Commemoration of Allah Almighty, the Greatest War).
- Ahl-e-Faqr Konain kee Aabru (Mystics, the honour of Konain).
- Zikr-o-Ta’at-o-Shan-e-Rasool(S.A.W.) (Commemoration and Obedience and Dignity of Holy Prophet (S.A.W).
10.
Tazkarah-e-Hussain Shehzada-e-Konain.
11. Al Muhajir Ilallah
wal Mutwakkal Alallah Al Azeem (Immigrant towards Allah and True Believer of
Allah).
12. Aakhri Nabi (S.A.W) Ka Aakhri Pegham (Last Message of the
Last Prophet (S.A.W).
13. Anta Habeebi Ya Rasool Allah (S.A.W) (You are my Love,
Dear Allah’s Prophet, S.A.W).
(Note.
This book is a stylish seven-coloured publishing work, like
Asma-Ul-Nabi-Ul-Kareem, S.A.W. It is a
facsimile (an exact copy) of the hand-written manuscript of the great saint,
Hazrat Abu Anees Muhammad Barkat Ali Quddis-a-Sirruh-Ul-Aziz. Thus, it is truly
a unique book).
14. Muslmaan Say Khitab Aur Dua (Address to Muslims and a
Prayer).
15. Khidmat-e-Khalq (Service of Mankind).
16. Waseela-e-Shiekh (Support of the Saint).
17. Tameer-e-Millat (Building of the Nation).
18. Khaslat (Disposition).
19. Azm-o-Istiqamat (Determination
and Perseverance).
20. Taleem-ud-Din (Education in Religion).
21. Zikr-e-Elahi (Remebrance of Allah Almighty).
22. Al Tauba Wal Istighfar (Asking forgiveness of Allah
Almighty).
23. Yu Salloona Alan-Nabi (S.A.W) (Salutations on the Holy
Prophet (S.A.W).
24. Manaqib Hazrat Khawaja Awais Qarni (R.A.) (Virtues of
Hazrat Khawaja Awais Qarni ,R.A).
Maqalat-e-Hikmat,
Asma-ul-Nabi-ul-Kareem (S.A.W) and some other books are being translated into
English and German languages. A few others have been published.
It is to the
bounty of Allah Almighty that this institute, Camp Dar-ul-Ihsan, has the honour
of distributing these books free of cost for the enlightenment of the whole
nation (Ummah). Bava Jee (R.A)
followed that practice during his lifetime and the practice is still
continuing. Whatever Bava Jee wrote, he acted upon that himself in letter and
spirit. Therefore all his writings have a great impact on the reader. Thousands
of lives have changed after reading these books. A number of non Muslims of
Europe and America have embraced Islam.
In fact, in
20th century, he is a living example and a luminous star of pious
and dignified personalities of the ancient times. His piety, decency,
virtuousness and practical compliance of Quran and Sunnah made him a living
embodiment of all that is good and noble. He had the most endearing nature. He
inspired love and respect not only in his disciples but also in any one who
ever came close to him. Whenever he cast a look at any person, the life of that
person was totally changed. This quality of his is adequately reflected in all
his writings. That is why even today he is a beacon of light for those who may
be groping in the dark, because his writings can show the right path.
Dervish
of Allah Almighty
Bava Jee was
a dervish of Allah Almighty and had the infinite wealth of Sufism. Ibrahim Bin
Adham had to bid farewell to the kingdom of forty princes to achieve a wealth
of that kind. About Faqr (the
practice of a dervish) our Holy Prophet (S.A.W) has said: “Alfaqr fakhri wal faqr minni”, i.e. “Faqr is my pride and it is from me.” Bava Jee declared: “Belief in
Allah is the fruit of Faqr. A person, who acquires belief in Allah, does not
even give a thought to the kingdom of the whole world. Allah Almighty will
bless him so much that he will not care for anything else.”
Bava Jee
proved to be such a dervesh of Allah Almighty that he was royal and sovereign
even in his Sufism. By his Faqr, he gave a practical lesson in how one could
remain indifferent to all the worldly rank, dignity, wealth and riches and yet
appear as an emperor to all who were around him.
Bava Jee
declared: “My creator, Allah Almighty, knows that I have never let any wealth,
or luxuries of life attract me. I pray that such attractions should never come
anywhere near me.”
Life
like a Traveller
Holy Prophet
(S.A.W.) advised:
“Live
in the world like a traveller and consider yourself amongst the dead”.
Bava Jee
(R.A.) spent his whole life like that of a traveller. He saved nothing for the
coming day. He stressed:
“Living
like a traveller is not a matter of priesthood for a Muslim but it is true
Islam”.
“Take
your route to the destination from where you originated. You came bare handed
and while departing you must do the same.”
“All
belongings of a traveller are tied up just in a bundle. Neither can he
accommodate more, nor does he need more.”
“Having
a meal today and saving nothing for tomorrow is a golden rule of my mystic life
that has never changed and will never change. Tomorrow’s sustenance will come
tomorrow, if one still sustains. Masha Allah”.
When the
seeker of reality holds on this belief, he becomes carefree for everyone but
Allah. He rejects every temptation of life.
System
of Shrines (Khanqahi Nizam)
Bava Jee
(R.A) added a golden chapter to the history of Sufism by setting up and
practising a ‘Khanqahi Nizam’ (System of Shrines) the basic principle of which
is as follows: -
“Whatever
livelihood is granted, distribute it among the needy people after eating. Do
not hoard any thing for the coming day. Have no concerns for the following day,
not even the hope of life.”
Bava Jee
(R.A) used to distribute every thing that he got before the night fell, and
saved nothing for the next day. He never
saved a penny even for a single night.
Bava Jee
(R.A) declared that the system of shrines in its true meaning entails the
following: -
“Distribute
today’s livelihood today. Eat, feed, but do not amass.
Tomorrow’s livelihood will be granted tomorrow. Remember Allah
Almighty, because there
is nothing other
than the remembrance
of
Allah
Almighty in the system of shrines. I do not know about any one else, but I
myself am bound to this system.”
“I
have vowed to Holy Prophet (S.A.W), and Allah Almighty is a witness and bears
testimony to this vow, that today’s earnings will be spent today without saving
even a penny for tomorrow.”
Heritage
There are no
heirs to Bava Jee’s sainthood. There is also no bequest. This
quality revives the Sunnah of the prophets. None of the prophets
left behind any worldly property. The heritage of the prophets is knowledge,
its practice, chastity and fear of Allah. Any one who can accomplish these four
things is the heir to the knowledge of prophet hood. Bava Jee (R.A.) declared:
“Heir
of a dervish is only a dervish. And a dervish possesses nothing but Allah and only Allah”.
“The
path of mystic initiation (Salook)
is, in fact, the path to piety. No words, no matter how full of wisdom, can
bear any fruit in the valley of piety. A job that a thousand words cannot
accomplish, a single example of piety can do. Words that are only uttered but
are not acted upon are useless. Mere words cannot satisfy your listeners.
Sufism
and Miracles
Bava Jee
(R.A) said: “Miracles are not necessary for a sufi or a saint whatever his rank
or position. What is necessary is remembrance of Allah and His obedience, which
are the two objectives required to be achieved to reach the final destination.
These two objectives should never be ignored. No miracle is superior to
Zikr-e-Ilahi. You cannot get awareness of Din, unless you get down to earth and
free yourself from the clasps of excellences and miracles. Service of mankind
should be your mission and
in doing so you should not aspire for rank. There is no better rank than
service of mankind. Rank or position is immaterial.
The
Will
Bava Jee
(R.A) declared that we have a three-fold mission as follows:
Ø Remembrance of Allah Almighty
Ø Invitation to and spread of Islam
Ø Selfless service of humanity
He said that
we should never engage in any task other than these three. While undertaking
these tasks we should not care about any one’s disapproval, criticism, and
allegations. We should attend to these three fundamental aims with complete
devotion. One, who has not followed this, has disdained the honour of affinity
with me and has disregarded the ideals of Dar-ul-Ehsan, affected its dignity
and embarrassed me. “Wama Alaina Illal balagh” (our duty is
just to convey).
Management
of the Institution
Bava Jee Explained:
“An
institution is not the personal property of anyone. It is the Markaz (centre)
of betterment and well being. Selected loyalists, devotees and volunteers are
the source of esteem for the Markaz”.
“Dar
ul Ehsan is a vibrant welfare institution. It is beyond any restrictions,
limitations or jurisdiction. Masha Allah! The institution or any of its assets
are neither my personal property nor any one else’s. It is completely and
absolutely dedicated for invitation to and spread of the Din of Allah Almighty,
the creator of the universe, and for the selfless service of His people. There
is absolutely no other aim or intention of this at all.”
Bava Jee
(R.A) made himself incharge (Mohtamim) of this international welfare organization
and managed all its departments according to a set of rules that he had himself
formulated for its efficient running. He appointed Mian Muhammad Shafi Gondal
as his vice and managed all the functions of the organization with the help of
sincere staff members and assistants. He managed everything, till last, very
efficiently.
He used to
say: “The best establishment is the best helper. One, who does not assist you
towards the achievement of the aim, has no relationship with you and you are
not related to him”.
After his
demise, Mian Muhammad Shafi, naturally, succeeded him as the incharge
(Mohtamim) of the institution. He chose Mian Muhammad Najeeb ullah Willana as
his vice (Naib) and the organization, at Camp Dar-ul-Ihsan, is being run most
efficiently in accordance with a set of rules formulated by Bava Jee (R.A).
Everyday
Routine
His life was
very simple and completely free of ostentation especially in respect of dress,
diet, meetings and relations. He wore a simple dress made out of khaddar cloth
(a coarse fabric made on hand-looms). As a headgear he wore a turban in winter
and a cap made of coarse khaddar in summer. He used to walk bare footed. While
going to the washroom he used simple rubber-foam slippers. Even in this simple
attire of a dervesh, he looked like a king with a very impressive personality.
He would eat whatever was available. He would happily eat a dry loaf of
langar-bread with lassi. He ate very little. He was not inclined to fine foods
and dainties. At times he would be busy in his routine work for many days
without any rest. He once remarked: “I do not essentially sleep at night. I
sleep only when I feel sleepy.”
He followed
two very important rules in his life – exemplary personal discipline and total
devotion to his mission in life i.e., ‘remembrance (Zikr) of Allah Almighty’,
‘the spread and preaching of Islam’ and ‘selfless service of humanity’. His
time was planned and scheduled up to minutes and seconds. When an event or an
individual hindered his routine, his face showed visible signs of Jalal
(anger).
Bava Jee
(R.A) gave this advice to his disciples and visitors:
Ø “Be wise……….and do not talk like this at such places”.
Ø “Do not stay for long………….pray what you want (from Allah
Almighty) and depart without any ifs or buts.”
Ø “You have come here for supplication. Remember Allah
Almighty, recite Darood Sharif, pray what you want and have faith in the
acceptance of your prayers. Supplication has been made. You may leave now;
thank you”.
Kitab-ul-Amal
Bis-Sunnah was open on his table almost all the time. At times he would
practically act upon the contents of the book and at other times he would
recite the Holy Quran. He would be engaged in prayers, supplications and Zikr
by counting the beads. In short, he would be remembering Allah Almighty
continuously all the time. While compiling Tarteeb Sharif, he used to carry out
fresh ablution and offer two nawafil before copying each Hadees-e-Mubaraka in
his manuscript. All his compilations were written in the state of ablution. He
acted upon every Hadees before he wrote it down. He never wrote anything that
he had not practised himself.
He
used to recite the Holy Quran according to a set pattern. He recited 15,459
verses of Holy Quran every day. He started a daily practice of listening to the
recitation of the Holy Quran with translation, on the tape-recorder, from the
21st of Zee Qa’d ul Najeeb 1412 AH and continued it till his demise
on the 16th of Ramazan-ul-Mubarik 1417 AH. During this period he had
listened to the recitation of complete Holy Quran 484 times. He used to listen
to Surah Yousuf and all the surahs beginning with Haameem keenly. Additionally,
he used to recite 852,094 holy phrases also as a part of his daily routine.
Along with daily Zikar, he kept on writing “Maqalat-e-Hikmat” and termed this
writing power as an invaluable livelihood from Allah Almighty. If on any
particular day, by any chance, he was not able to write Maqalat, he would pray
to Allah Almighty with all the earnestness, in the following words:
“Oh
Allah! The whole day has passed and I haven’t got my chaste rations. Please do
grant me my holy subsistence, my dear Lord”!
Apart
from this he wrote twenty three holy phrases daily. He wrote the date below it
and signed at the end of every page. These have been preserved in four hundred
and ten volumes. From 1420 AH onwards, these are being included, one by one,
every year, in Taqweem Dar ul Ehsan under the title of
“Aks-e-Tehreer”(reflection of the writing) as benediction.
He
himself wrote the cash book and signed it daily. He remembered and thanked
Allah Almighty while walking, standing, sitting, travelling and in every state.
At the same time he met all the visitors who came to see him and prayed for
them. Special nawafil and prayers at Tahajjud time (before dawn) was his
routine. Fajar and Asar time was specified for collective remembrance (Zikr) of
Allah. Before old age set in, he used to fast throughout the month of Rajab ul
Marajjab in addition to Ramadhan ul Mubarak. He never stored alms and charity and
distributed it to the deserved
the very moment he received
these.
He
declared:
Ø “All my earnings of the world, Din and the hereafter are
dedicated for the widows, forlorn, sick
and for forgiveness of the dead from among the followers of Holy Prophet
(S.A.W)”
Ø “All my earnings and endeavours are for the humanity. I
keep no reserve of livelihood or deeds of virtue for myself. I am completely
free of both. A dervish is a dervish in every condition.”
He was very
kind hearted. While listening or talking
about Hazrat Imam Hussain (R.A), he bewailed. Once in a blue moon, he also
listened to Qawali eagerly. He organized preaching congregations thrice a year
at Ashoora, Eid Meelad-ul-Nabi (S.A.W) and the anniversary of his great mentor.
Salat-ul-Khair was offered collectively during Shab-e-Baraat.
Demise
and Burial
Bava
Jee said:
“Gentlemen!
My life in this world is like that of a traveller; and a traveller carries
nothing with him except a few necessities. I consider myself like the dead in
the graves. The dead desire and aspire for nothing except a new life. They wish
that they could return to the world and spend day and night in the remembrance
of Allah, meditation and expressing gratitude to Allah Almighty with full
devotion.”
No doubt he
was deeply immersed in the remembrance of Allah day and night. In this state of
meditation, remembrance and gratitude his time to depart from this mortal world
to the eternal world came on the 16th of Ramdhan ul Mubarik 1417 at
the time of Zuhar prayers. ‘Inna Lillah e
Wa Inna Ilaihi Raajioon’. (Undoubtedly, we are sent by Allah and are to
return to Him). Allahumma Al Rafiq il Aala
(Allah is the best companion).
The news of
his demise spread all over the world in minutes. Funeral prayers were fixed for
the following day after Zuhar prayers. A multitude of devotees and followers
came to participate in the funeral prayers of the Dervish, from all over the
country as well as from abroad.
Martyrs are
always alive. Allah Almighty explained in Holy Quran: “The people who pass away
in the path of Allah, do not call them dead, they are alive but you do not
understand.” (Al Baqra Ayat 154)
Bava Jee
once said: “People who remain steadfast in Zikar, pass away in Allah’s way,
even if they die on their beds, are blessed with a special life which normal
deceased are not endowed with.
He further
said:
“This is the
greatest of all struggles. One who dies in this
way, by God, he never dies – he is just shifted from one
life to another. Even death cannot perish him”.
At the time
of Bava Jee’s demise, all the surroundings and everything therein seemed to be
echoing the phrase “Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum”
in a mournful tone. Even trees, birds and clods of earth seemed to be reciting
“Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum”.
People were
swarming the place to pay their last homage. It was difficult to find a place
to stand upon. All the eyes were tearful and the foreheads bore the essence of
his devotion. His face was as radiant as the full moon. His face looked as if he was smiling, with
his eyes shut, in anticipation of his meeting with his Beloved (Allah
Almighty). When the grave of the martyr in the way of truth was dug, a sweet
fragrance of musk pervaded the air. The
tomb sounded, ‘Bismillah’, the soil of the grave felt proud for its fortune and
swayed with joy and took the martyr in its lap with great delight and pride.
Angels were peeping from the sky in great surprise. Virgins of the paradise
were eager to welcome him. Beloved pushed the veil aside.
He was
buried in the hut of Sabir Sahib (R.A) according to his will. The atmosphere of
his mausoleum is illuminated with the auspiciousness of Zikr-e-Ilahi and
immersed in the fragrance of flowers of Darood-o-Salam (salutations to the Holy
Prophet S.A.W) all the time. The doors of the Darbar of this Faqir are open to
all and sundry. The number of devotee visitors is increasing day by day. People
are earning religious and worldly blessings according to their own desire and
magnanimity from this clear and pure fountain of rectitude and righteousness. Masha
Allah!
He once
explained:
“A
person can bless his visitors in three ways - by supplication, by teaching and
by ‘attention’ – and this last option is better than the first two”.
“Dervishes,
even in their mausoleums, give supplication, provide knowledge, and pay
attention, to their visitors in the same way as in real life”.
“Blessings
originate from blessings and keep on for ever. This is the property of
blessings. May these blessings of Allah the Almighty be eternal and benefit the
seekers of devotion and love”.
People will
come and go and these unlimited blessings will ever continue until the Angel
Israfil blows the trumpet.
THE
END
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