By: Mufti Muhammad Noman Daji, Batley, UK*
I learnt of the passing away of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib when I checked my WhatsApp messages some time after the Maghrib Salah on Friday. From the messages and the audio clip of Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB) that this painful incident occurred around Isha time in Karachi that day (Friday 18th November 2022). The Islamic date in Pakistan corresponds to the night of 23rd Rabi-ul-Aakhir 1444 A.H. In the U.K. the Islamic date was the night of 25th Rabi-ul-Aakhir 1444 A.H.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was just over 86 years of age at the time of passing. A few more years if you count the age based on the lunar calendar.
It was painful to learn of the passing away of such a great scholar despite the known illness and fragility of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib since the last couple of years. It was saddening news. It brought memories of his immense compassion to mind and also the thought of the pain that was being felt by Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB) – the younger brother of the marhoom – approximately five years younger – and the immediate family in particular due to their immense closeness and bond. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was a strong pillar of support and a final point of call in regards to advice and consultation for Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB). This speaks volume of the personality of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib (RA).
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani is lovingly referred to by students, teaching staff, general staff and the alumni of Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi as Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) (due to his unique and primary role).
إنَّا لله وإنا إليه راجعون
Verily we belong to Allah, and verily to Him do we return.
إِنَّ لِلَّهِ مَا أَخَذَ وَلَهُ مَا أَعْطَى وَكُلٌّ عِنْدَهُ بِأَجَلٍ مُسَمًّى، فَلْنَصْبِرْ وَلْنَحْتَسِبْ
Certainly, it is only for Allah Ta’ala to take back (what belongs to Him (سبحانه)) and it is only for Him (سبحانه) to grant and bestow whatever He (سبحانه ) likes. Both (belonging and bestowment) have a limited fixed term (in this world). Hence, we should observe patience (at the end of this time) and hope for Allah’s reward (for all the good deeds).
إن العين تدمع والقلب يحزن، ولا نقول إلا ما يرضی ربنا، وإنا بفراقك يا رئيسنا الشفيق لمحزونون
The eyes are crying and the heart is full of grief. However, we do not say anything but that pleases our Rabb. O Our Mushfique Leader we are certainly grieving at your departure.
You were the heartbeat of the Jamiah Darul
Uloom Karachi. You were the head of the Jamiah Darul Uloom fraternity.
You have left us to meet your Rabb but you will not be forgotten.
I called my dad after learning about this sad news as I had been updating my dad about the health status of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib. My dad asked about the timing of death. I said it was around Isha time in Karachi. So Friday had passed. My dad then mentioned that during one speech he heard from Hazrat Hakeem-ul-Islam Qari Muhammad Tayyab Qasmi Sahib (RA) that was taking place on a Friday evening after Isha where he mentioned that though the superiority is of Friday (night and the day) but the night after Maghrib on Friday due to the association also has blessings.
I’d like to share my feelings (وجدان) I experienced during the time after Jumuah Salah (the actual day and approx time of the passing of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib). After Jumuah Salah I try to keep my mind focused on Madinat Ar-Rasool (مدينة الرّسول) visualising the Raudhah Aqdas (روضہ اقدس) and where possible keeping my tongue engaged in Durood Shareef. This visualisation can be called Muraqabah Muhammadi (مراقبه محمدي). This is whilst I am doing whatever I need to be doing at that time. For some reason I could not figure out at that time why my mind kept presenting me with the image (تصوّر) of my Murabby and Ustaz Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله) and also the thought about the city of Karachi (مدينة كراتشي). I refocused my attention to what I was visualising again but for some reason this kept happening for a couple of hours at various intervals until close to Maghrib time here in London, U.K (close to 4 pm). I was in London (مدينة لندن) at the time. I did not delve into this occurrence but it felt it had a message. Hence, I supplicated that Allah Ta’ala grants me further taufeeq to benefit from Hazrat and prayed for the good health and long life of my Murabby and Ustaz Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله). I tend not to check WhatsApp at this sacred time until Maghrib Salah (unless for any pending reasons I need to). Hence, after that I checked and saw the many messages related to the news of the passing of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib. It seems this was a premonition of sorts as it was indicating through the recurring image of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmsni Sahib (حفظه الله) that his elder brother, the great scholar and Friend of Allah Ta’ala (Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani) was preparing to meet his beloved Allah Ta’ala at that very time I was experiencing this. The close connection between the two great brothers (referred to as Shaikhayn / شيخين) was well-known by students and staff of the Darul Uloom. This closeness could also be felt by the brief speech by Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmsni Sahib (حفظه الله) announcing the passing of his elder brother.
Incidentally, I had similar feelings (وجدان) -approximately 23 years earlier – at the time leading to the passing of my elder brother Moulana Muhammad Imran Daji (RA). At the time of that very painful incident I was in Darul Uloom Karachi and our beloved brother was in the U.K. This time I was in the U.K. and Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was in Karachi.
Janazah & Burial Details of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)
The janazah and burial of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) took place on Sunday morning (20th November 2022 corresponding to 24th Rabi-ul-Aakhir 1444 A.H).
The janazah Salah was led by Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB). Prior to the janazah Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB) and respected Mufti Muhammad Zubair Ashraf Usmani (DB) – learned son of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) delivered some short speeches.
The janazah was attended by a sea of people from all over the country wanting to be a part of it and pay their respect to this national asset and the asset of the Muslim Ummah as a whole.
After the janazah Salah Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) was laid to rest in the old cemetery adjacent to the Jame Masjid in the Darul Uloom complex. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)’s grave is actually in between his beloved parents. On one side is his great father – Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) – and on the other side is his respected and pious mother. Hazrat’s nephew has beautifully composed this in poetry form.
تھی اس کی آخری منزل سرور و چین کے بیچ
یہ کون لاڈلا سویا ہے والدین کے بیچ
سعودعثمانی
It seems the graveyard is adjacent to the masjid so the inhabitants of the graveyard can continue benefiting from Zikr Allah. This is nicely composed in poetry form by respected Moulana Sayyid Bilal Husain Sahib Thanwi (DB).
آرزو ہے کہ میری قبر ہو مسجد کے قریب
بعد مرنے کے بھی سنتا رہوں ذکرِ حبیب
Very Briefly on Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) needs no introduction but for completeness I will very briefly mention some salient points.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) can be accurately described as Kareem (noble) son of Kareem son of Kareem (كريم ابن الكريم ابن الكريم) due to his great scholarly and pious lineage. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) himself a great scholar and a Friend of Allah whose father is the great Faqeeh, Mufassir and Friend of Allah Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) – author of the renown Tafseer Ma’arif Al-Quran – whose father was the great scholar and Friend of Allah Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Yaseen Sahib Deobandi (RA) – former ustaz at Darul Uloom Deoband and colleague of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA).
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) was highly fortunate to be given his name by Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA).
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) originally hails from Deoband, UP, India. Deoband is their ancestral town. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) was actually born in Deoband and undertook the initial and formative studies at Darul Uloom Deoband. After that as their illustrious father Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was part of the Ulama leading the creation and formation of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (اسلامی جمہوریہ پاکستان) the family migrated to Pakistan and settled in Karachi.
Karachi is where their illustrious father Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) founded and established Darul Uloom Karachi and remained its head (صدر) until his passing. After that Hazrat Dr Abdul Hayy Arifi (RA) – a colleague in spirituality (پیر بھائ) was appointed as its head. After the passing of Hazrat Arifi (RA) the reigns of the Darul Uloom were handed down to Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib who beautifully, skilfully, sincerely and successfully progressed this seat of learning into a world class seat of learning.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was a senior disciple (khalifah) of Hazrat Dr Abdul Hayy Arifi (RA) who was a senior disciple (khalifah) of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA). Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) had a strong connection (نسبة قوية) with Allah Ta’ala. Hazrat Dr Abdul Hayy Arifi (RA) played a key role in the Tarbiyah and refinement in the character and personality of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) alongside his great father.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was also the current holder of the title and post of the Grand Mufti of Pakistan (مفتی اعظم پاکستان). Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was selected and appointed to this post of the Grand Mufti of Pakistan (مفتی اعظم پاکستان) in 1992 by a selecting committee of 400 scholars from all the major Islamic groups (اسلامی تنظیمیں) and affiliates of all the Darul Ulooms in Pakistan after the illness (علالت) of its then holder Hazrat Mufti Wali Hasan Tonki Sahib (RA). Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) held this post successfully and with integrity for 30 years until his passing. Prior to Hazrat Mufti Wali Hasan Tonki (RA) the Grand Mufti of Pakistan and the first beholder of this post since the founding and inception of this great country was his great father Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA).
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was also the patron of the unique umbrella organisation that oversees, moderates and regulates all the Darul Ulooms in Pakistan namely Wifaq Al-Madaris Al-Arabia.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was also a key member of the Shura (consultative body) of the reputable organisation Majlis Siyanat Al-Muslimeen (مجلس صیانتہ المسلمین) in Pakistan.
And one key aspect about Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) (and the Usmani family) is their love for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (اسلامی جمہوریہ پاکستان). They had migrated to Pakistan from India and settled in Karachi. As mentioned earlier their illustrious father Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was part of the Ulama leading the creation and formation of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (اسلامی جمہوریہ پاکستان). Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) himself spent time on the frontier in Kashmir. The stability, security and prosperity of this great country founded by great scholars was always an overriding factor and concern.
To conclude this section Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was a great asset to Pakistan and one of the most well-known and reputable scholars there. Hazrat was also well-known and an asset to the Muslim countries (عالَم اسلام) in general on a broader and wider scale. Also, Muslims in the West were a beneficiary of the knowledge and wisdom of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) through his visits, writings and students.
The loss is felt by all and in particular the scholarly fraternity. The reason I believe we write and read about such great scholars, true believers and friends of Allah Ta’ala is so that we take a leaf out of their lives and act on it and also gain lessons and strength from their experiences and achievements. This is the reason one of the key topics and themes in the Holy Quran is on Stories (قِصص). It would be a great injustice if the beautiful and inspiring aspects (Mahasin / محاسن) of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Sahib Usmani (RA) were not shared with the world so they can also follow and learn from his life that is full of inspiration and devotion to the Deen of Islam and to the service of Muslims the world over.
My Connection With Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)
My first encounter with Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was through his beautiful book (which is part of the Dars-e-Nizami syllabus) titled ‘Ilm As-Seegah (علم الصّيغة) Urdu’. This is actually a translation of a book in Persian which Hazrat rendered into Urdu and added and appended it with additional notes and explanations making it more accessible to students. The Urdu language is very lucid (سلیس) and displays the language skills of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib. I cannot comment on the translation aspect from Persian into Urdu as I do not know Persian. However, I have heard my mentor in Qadha (قضاء) and Ustaz – Qadhi Shariat (قاضى شريعت) Hazrat Moulana Qadhi Abdul Jaleel Qasmi Sahib (RA) – Chief Qadhi at Imaraat Shariah Bihar, Odisha & Jharkhand, India praised the translation and the explanatory notes in the book. My mentor was an expert in this subject along with all the other introductory and advanced subjects (علوم و فنون). Qadhi Sahib mentioned to me his story where he visited the village of the author of the original book in Persian which is located near Lukhnow, India during his student days. The original author is Mufti Inayat Ahmad Kakorvi (RA). Whilst I was studying this book in the formative years of the Dars-e-Nizani syllabus from then I could sense the author (translator)‘s personality possessed clarity, style, substance, depths, care and compassion for students of Deeni knowledge and clarity in what he was conveying.
My first face to face meet with Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was in 1999 when I went to Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi with the intention to benefit from the expertise in contemporary Fiqh issues (جدید فقہی مسائل) by Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmsni Sahib (حفظه الله). The head and principal of this seat of advanced learning was Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib (the two are brothers and latter the elder one). I met Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib in his office in regards to my admission. It was a very pleasant meet. Hazrat was very friendly and asked me where I was from in the U.K. and asked about some people as he had visited too (but I was in India studying then). Fast forward I was admitted to the second year of the Darul Ifta (after examination of Hidayah Thalith) so I could accomplish the purpose of my visit. Hence, I spent a year at Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi. And during the year I would meet Hazrat from time to time and get to know more of his personality and character. I had made this trip after studying and completing the Ifta course at Darul Uloom Deoband with the specific aim in mind as mentioned.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib was known as Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) by all the students, teaching staff and workers as he was the head and principle of the Darul Uloom. Hence, I will refer by this title in this eulogy too.
During the year I would enjoy and benefit from the talks in multiple ways Hazrat would give to all students (an assembly of sorts) at various opportune times. Also, the Jumuah speeches and various other Tafseer and general speeches. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was like a fatherly and motherly figure combined in one for students.
When my elder brother Moulana Muhammad Imran Daji passed away in the U.K. I was studying at the Darul Uloom. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was very supportive of me at this time of immense grief and personal loss (indescribable). So were Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله) and Mufti Muhammad Zubair Ashraf Usmani (حفظه الله) – who is the learned and beloved son of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب).
After my return from Karachi I would try to meet Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) whenever I had the opportunity. Hence, I was able to meet with Hazrat and his son during Hajj time (2012); during my visits to Darul Uloom in Ramadhan (as I would go there to spend some time with my Murabby and Ustaz Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله)) and also during Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) visits to the U.K. الحمد لله
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani along with his respected wife also visited our home at the invite of our dad during Hazrats first visit to the U.K. At the time I was studying in Darul Uloom Deoband in my Daurah Hadeeth Sharif year so I was not present at the visit. My dad had mentioned to me on the call at the time too. My parents still mention and remember this visit of theirs with a lot of fondness.
Another long connection the people of Batley in general have (where I hail from) with this respected and scholarly family is that our local Muslim organisation (IMWS) had invited their respected and great father Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) to visit Batley and the U.K in the 70s. Hazrat at the time was unwell so could not come but mentioned in the letter he wrote back that anyone one of these two sons coming is the equivalent of me coming. Hazrat was referring to his two learned sons – Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani Sahib and Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله). Alhamdulillah, we have been fortunate and blessed to have been visited by both the scholarly and saintly sons of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA). الحمد الله
Targeted Audience
These five distinguishing and pivotal traits of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) will be of great benefit to the following categories of people:
- Direct students of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)
- Current or past students of Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi
- The Muhtamim, Nazim and the management of Darul Ulooms anywhere in the world
- Scholars currently teaching in a Darul Uloom or Maktab anywhere
- Students currently studying Dars-e-Nizami and have intention to teach at a Darul Uloom post their studies
- Those who attribute themselves to the Ahlus-Sunnah based on the understanding shared by the great scholars (Akabir Ulama) of Darul Uloom Deoband.
Five distinguishing and pivotal traits of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA)
I am focusing only on five but distinguishing and pivotal traits related to the character and personality of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA). They were par excellence. There are many other academic, intellectual, spiritual and welfare aspects of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) that I will not be touching at all. The reason being are two fold. One is they are aspects other writers will be touching on and the second reason is that this aspect I am discussing is more needed at a mass level in the academic fraternity. There is a drought in these areas.
These five distinguishing and pivotal traits related to the character and personality of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) are:
- Compassion (شفقت) towards Students of Knowledge (طلبة العلم)
- Simplicity (سادگی)
- Moderation & Balance (اعتدال)
- Firmness on the Maslak of Ulama Deoband (مسلك علماء ديوبند پر تثبّت)
- Excellent Administration (حُسنِِ انتظام) & Excellent Servitude (حُسنِ خدمت)
I will briefly discuss all these with a view that we derive lessons from them. As mentioned above there are many other facets to the inspiring life of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) that could be written on and I hope others will be writing on them but I am leaving them out to focus on these important and practical traits for the masses.
- Compassion (شفقت) towards Students of Knowledge (طلبة العلم)
I witnessed this from my very first face to face meet with Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) when I arrived at Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi to enrol onto the Ifta programme with a specific focus (as mentioned above). The first meet I still remember was very pleasant, friendly and heart warming whilst sitting in the office of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). It felt like I knew Hazrat for a long time.
After this initial meet throughout the year I could visibly notice the compassion of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) in every facet of Darul Uloom life from a student perspective. This is a very big compliment from an observant student. This observation, sentiment and feeling is shared by all the students of Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi. Hence, a very powerful testimony of this trait by the Students of Knowledge (طلبة العلم).
The compassion of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was visible and evident through his interactions with students. It was full of loving-kindness, consideration, empathy and much more. You could feel all these things when you spent time with Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) and observed with keen eyes. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) despite his high position would listen to students, try to emphasise with them and take interest in what they had to say.
The compassion of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) for the Students of Knowledge (طلبة العلم) was visible and evident with the world class facilities he made available for students so they could study with ease and have all the adequate facilities that can help them totally focus on their primary goal of studying (تحصيلِ علم). The living quarters, the supply of constant water, special living arrangements for foreign students, food, all other facilities, etc included. There was a lot of thought and attention given behind every facility at the Darul Uloom.
I have already briefly touched on the empathy and compassion Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) showed towards me during the passing of my beloved eldest brother, I have mentioned this in my eulogy of my late brother (RA) too.
The take and lesson from this trait for all the heads, principles and teachers of Darul Ulooms is to embody and display genuine and real compassion backed by action towards the Students of Knowledge (طلبة العلم) both in word and deed as they are also your beneficiaries and providing you with an opportunity to impart the knowledge of Deen. Hence, their respect is also equally necessary.
وہ عزم و استقامت و ہمت کی داستاں
وہ عفّت و وقار ومروّت کی داستاں
وہ شفقت و خلوص و محبت کی داستاں
(فانی صوابوی)
- Simplicity (سادگی)
Simplicity (سادگی) was evident in all facets of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) life. It seemed it was a natural part of his life. It permeated and oozed from every action, interaction and spheres of personal, spiritual and academic life. Hence, there was no excess formalities, excess observance of etiquette or pretending and acting (Takalkuf / تكلّف). Takalluf (تكلّف) was absent from the equation. I liked that and have always admired that in the scholars (or anyone) who possesses this great Sunnah. Simplicity (سادگی) was the order of the day (everyday).
I first noticed and gleaned this great trait of simplicity in Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) when I first studied one of his writings. This was the book titled ‘Ilm As-Seegah (علم الصّيغة) Urdu’ in the second year of the Dars-e-Nizami syllabus. The book has been made easy due to Hazrat’s approach to make it simple and easy to digest.
Simplicity was also evident in the spoken word of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). His lectures and speeches were logical and simple but full of wisdom and depth. This indicates his grasp of what he was explaining. To explain something complex in a simple and easy to understand way is not easy. It demands deep understanding and then clear and coherent articulation.
Simplicity was also evident and visible in his interactions with the students and staff at the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi. You could never feel this impression from Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) even thought he was the head of this big organisation. It felt as two equals were conversing. The conversations were always so cheerful and of an understanding and friendly nature.
I had witnessed this great trait of simplicity during my first meet with Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). And then throughout the year at the Darul Uloom it became clear how deeply ingrained this great character was. This simplicity was ever present whether he was in Karachi or visiting any country overseas.
During Ramadhan I would routinely see Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) sat in the corridor of the masjid next to the courtyard reciting his Hifz to someone after Asar and at other times. It was a scene to be witnessed. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was a Hafiz of the Holy Quran too. The first 15 paras were completed at Darul Uloom Deoband and the renaming in Karachi.
Also, witnessing the simplicity in the way the two great brothers (شيخين) would meet, converse and sit or stand talking to each other in the masjid was a heart-warming experience.
Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was full of simplicity and humility to the core. It was my first observation and it remained till the end.
It should be noted that this level of simplicity is being displayed by someone who is the Grand Mufti of Pakistan (مفتی اعظم پاکستان), Head of Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi (صدر جامعہ دار العلوم کراچی), a great Faqeeh, a great Muhaddith, a great Sufi, a great scholar, a great teacher, a great writer, a great orator and a great human being. This is how our great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband were. True greatness brings true and real humility. I had noticed this level of simplicity in my respected teachers at Darul Uloom Deoband despite them being giants of knowledge and piety (جبال العلم و التقوىٰ). An outsider would not be able to gauge the level of excellence due to their simplicity.
It should be noted that this kind of Simplicity (سادگی) is a great Prophetic practice and behaviour. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was characterising this trait to emulate this great Prophetic practice.
- Moderation & Balance (اعتدال)
This trait I believe Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) (and also his younger brother Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (حفظه الله)) learnt from their illustrious and great father the former Grand Mufti of Pakistan Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) who had in tern learnt this great character from his great mentor Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA). Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafi Sahib Usmani (RA) was a great and senior disciple of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA).
By Moderation & Balance (اعتدال) I mean to enact every action, interaction, saying, dealing, academic discourse, Fatwa ruling, writings, etc as required by the Shariah in the manner required by it in a consistent manner without hopping from one extreme to another based on emotions (جذبات) of any kind (happiness, anger, etc).
Anyone who knew Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) knows well that everything and I mean everything was done in a measured and balanced way. For example, the issuing of Fatwa by Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) and under his and Hazrat Sheik-ul-Islam (حفظه الله) leadership was undertaken in a very measured and balanced way. The verdicts would not be influenced by emotions or swayed by external factors. They would be rational and based on the moderate teaching required and defined by the Shariah. There were never any verdicts issued on emotions known as Jazbati Fatwa (جذباتی فتوىٰ).
The dealings and interactions of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) with those we differ with in terms of Maslak and Mashrab was measured and balanced. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was willing to work with them on issues that affected the collective Muslim Ummah on collective goals (مقاصد عامّة). Also, the way he would handle differences with those scholars from different sects was a display of refined character coupled with firmness on our own Maslak and Mashrab. A skill and an art that is acquired after a lot of effort and practice.
It is worth noting Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) was actively involved in uniting the various sects and groups within Pakistan. This programme was known as Wahdat-Ummah (وحدتِ امّت). It is an initiative his great father had started for the prosperity of Muslims living and residing in Pakistan so it can become a beacon of Islam and a source of strength for Muslims around the globe.
Also, the style and substance of the speeches and written works of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) would always be measured with the right choice of words and considered how to raise any issue (sensitive or not) in the right way that is correct and appropriate.
I have just highlighted three key areas (where there is lack of this amongst the wider academic community). There are many other areas that can be highlighted as this trait also permeated every aspect of the life of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب).
Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) would also discuss the need to adhering to the rights of Allah Ta’ala (حقوق الله), rights related to human beings (حقوق العباد) and boundaries of Allah Ta’ala (حدود الله) in general. These are the foundations that develop Moderation & Balance (اعتدال) in the believer.
وہ رہبرِ شفیق، سراپا وہ اعتدال
(فانی صوابوی)
Interestingly this trait of Moderation & Balance (اعتدال) has been discussed in the middle too. There are two traits on either side of it. This is also in a subtle way indicating what Moderation & Balance (اعتدال) is.
- Firmness on the Maslak of Ulama Deoband (مسلك علماء ديوبند پر تثبّت)
Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) himself was very firm on only treading the path of the Maslak of Ulama Deoband and an ardent believer this was the safest way for the safety and protection of our Deen and the Deen of our future generations. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) would not accept any compromise on this.
This message was something Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) repeatedly emphasised to students and scholars in various discourses.
There was love, reverence and admiration for all the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband that was expressed by Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA). However, love, reverence and admiration for one particular great scholar stands out the most. That is Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA). This is a visible feature of the Usmani family (خانوادہ عثمانی). They have done immensely in preserving, promoting and publishing the vast books of Hakeem-Ul-Ummah Mujaddid-Ul-Millat Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) alongside some other notable organisations in Pakistan. A highly commendable and invaluable service to the Muslim Ummah. This love for this great scholar and Mujaddid of his time also transpires in the names given to their sons with the suffix of Ashraf attached to the names. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) son is named (Mufti) Muhammad Zubair Ashraf. Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Islam Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani Sahib (DB) sons are called (Mufti) Muhammad Imran Ashraf and (Moulana) Muhammad Hassan Ashraf. Another notable nephew is called (Mufti) Mahmood Ashraf. A grandson is called (Moulana) Muaz Ashraf.
The take and lesson from this trait for all the students of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) in particular and all those scholars and Muslims who subscribe to the Ahlus-Sunnah in the manner explained by the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband is to stick to the teachings of these great scholars and the guidelines they have given us in all the areas of Deen at all cost whether you understand or not (due to it being a lack in your intellectual capacity or due to your lack into the insights of the beautiful Deen. Do not let inferiority complex get the better of you due to the various niceties or worldly benefits that can be gained by subscribing to new ways or ways of other groups that are springing up or other school of thoughts, etc who misconstrue the Deen or by individuals influenced by them whether they claim they are associated with the Maslak of Darul Uloom Deoband.
There is an alarming rate of unhealthy influence from a range of dubious groups and people occurring in young scholars (graduates) or scholars who lack connection to the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband. Sticking to the Maslak of the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband is our safety net. This covers all areas of the Deen including academia too. Follow the understanding and interpretation they have shared via their countless and invaluable books on all aspects of the beautiful Deen of Islam.
Usually the younger generation of graduates (فضلاء) are lacking knowledge and close association with the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband leading them to be open to unhealthy influence of external and devious groups. There is a key element of ignorance in those who are influenced. They are ignorant of the deep knowledge of the Deen, the insights and the teachings of the great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband. This great and vast knowledge in our great scholars was coupled with the highest level of integrity and Taqwa. Hence, there is no need for inferiority complex.
We can remain firm on the Maslak of Ulama Deoband and strengthen our connection with them by engaging in the following practices:
- Study the Maslak of Ulama Deoband and what that means.
- Study the biographies of the great scholars of Ulama Deoband like Hazrat Nānowtwī, Hazrat Gangohi, Sheikh-ul-Hind, Hazrat Moulana Yaqoob Nānowtwī, Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi, Allamah Anwar Shah Kashmiri, Hazrat Moulana Husain Ahmad Madanī (Allah Ta’ala send abundant mercies on their graves and elevate their status). Aameen!
- Study the numerous and invaluable books written on Tafseer; commentaries on Hadeeth; Fiqh and Fatawa; Tazkiyah; Aqeedah and all the Islamic sciences. You will appreciate the depth more when you can compare them with books and works of other reputable scholars. These new deviants are of no comparison. Some are just that as there is no scope to justify any disrespect to any one Companion (Sahabi / صحابى) of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace, blessings and salutations be upon him) – Allah be pleased with them all.
- Stay connected with the current senior scholars of the Maslak of Ulama Deoband locally and from the sub-continent. Both connections are very important.
- Avoid falling into this illusion and deluding yourself that you know and understand the Deen better than these host of great scholars of Darul Uloom Deoband. Each one is of such high calibre that you can only dream of if you studied their life and works and saw how incredibly smart, intellectual giants; aware of the world and the current needs and understanding of human psychology and needs they possessed.
There is no blind following blind in this as is the case that is happening to people from our maslak due to their own ignorance who are opting to follow others from different inclinations. That is a typical case of blind following blind.
- Excellent Administration (حُسنِِ انتظام) & Excellent Servitude (حُسنِ خدمت)
A striking and salient feature and characteristic of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) life that was highly visible to students and staff at the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi was the Excellent Administration (حُسنِِ انتظام) which was coupled, infused and underpinned by Excellent Servitude (حُسنِ خدمت). Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was truly a visionary leader and head of a great Darul Uloom. Everything that was happening within the vast complex was part of a well thought out strategic plan.
Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi is one of the largest of its kind in the Indian sub-continent in terms of its sheer size and number of students. It has 10,000 students. It is on a sprawling area that covers 73 acres (or maybe more) land. The Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi has a number of unique things about its incredible administration and running of it. This credit primarily leads to Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). It is aptly described as a city within a city. It has all the facilities on the campus and within the complex a student can possibly need. It has shops that sell basic amenities. It has a post office. It has a bank and cash machines. It has book shops. It has a cafeteria. And much more.
The daily running cost of this big Darul Uloom is phenomenal besides all the big construction projects. And the great thing is the Darul Uloom never does any public chanda (seek public donation). Well-wishers come and donate generously. I have witnessed that myself. It requires incredible reliance and trust on Allah Ta’ala to operate like this. May this continue!
There are many different departments within the Jamiah and each one is run and executed with excellence under the leadership of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). All the individual departments and the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi as a whole is a well run and highly organised institute. The organisation oozes discipline and order. This stems from the highly disciplined and highly organised leadership of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب).
Any building work (تعمیری کام) that is undertaken in the vast complex is done under the careful and meticulous eye and guidance of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). The outcome, quality and class is visible to see for those who have visited this great seat of learning. The pictures of the Jamiah is worth looking up online.
All the building work is done with the view to create comfort and ease for students, teaching staff (اساتذہ) and the admin and other staff (عملہ). That is the primary mindset. Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) servitude to the well-being of the students and all the staff through the provision of all the facilities was evident on all students and staff.
معمار چل بسا تو عمارت ہے سوگ میں
دیوار اشکبار ہے اور در اداس ہے
خونِ جگر سے مفتئ اعظم کے جو سجا
تصویرِ جامعہ کا وہ منظر اداس ہے
دارالعلوم! تیری یتیمی کا سانحہ
اس سانحے پہ اَس٘وَد و اَح٘مَر اداس ہے
(ابو الحسین آزاد)
All the staff at the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi were a paid a minimum living wage that is needed to live satisfactorily. Hence, there is a minimum anount every staff will be given regardless of their role by default. Thereafter, depending on their role and additional responsibilities there will be additional remuneration. Everything is done in a fair and transparent manner. There are different scales for teaching and non teaching staff with the higher scale for the teaching staff generally speaking. There are various allowances for staff including inflation allowance on top of their salaries. This is incredible. This is care and compassion for all the staff.
Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was very careful with the handling of the money of the Darul Uloom. Any amount he would be given directly (instead of the signposted places) would be noted down there and then and which category (mudd / مد) it should be placed in (Zakaat, Lillah, etc). Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) was cautious of this to the extent that if he was given the money for the Darul Uloom at his home he would make the note immediately as mentioned. And before leaving home he would write a note that there was x amount of Darul Uloom money on him whilst he was heading to his office (few minutes walk from the home). So in the event he was to die in these few minutes people would know the amount and give it to the Darul Uloom and not assume it was his own. Such was the caution and transparency in the financial matters and dealings.
The cleanliness regime at the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi was impeccable. This was evident in all the areas from the roads to the kitchen (مطبخ) to the toilets to the Wuzu Khana (وضوء خانہ) to the offices to the classrooms (درسگاہوں) to the masjid. This was led from the top. This was a clear demonstration that reflected the mindset of the Darul Uloom leadership of placing high importance to cleanliness. It was refreshing and unique to see this level of cleanliness in such a big organisation. This was done for the well-being of all the students, staff and visitors. It was to demonstrate the practice of cleanliness and its important role in Islam.
There is much more that can be written in regards to this area in the life of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب). I hope someone does write in depth for the benefits it contains. This particular area in the life of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) contains numerous lessons for those in a similar role (head, principal or management of any Darul Uloom). It is an area that requires a lot of improvement.
It can be confidently said that Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) was capable of running a whole country and would have executed and discharged that role beautifully and with excellence.
The take and lesson from this trait of Hazrat Sadar Sahib (صدر صاحب) for all those in similar roles is the need to discharge this responsibility of running a Darul Uloom with excellence whilst displaying servitude to the students and all the staff (teaching and non-teaching) and all those that are part of the efficient and successful running of the Darul Uloom.
I pray Allah Ta’ala grant us all the taufeeq to internalise and characterise these five great traits into our lives and that we continue to pass it over to our future generations of students, scholars and followers. Aameen!
Conclude
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) died as he lived i.e. in the study and teaching of Islamic knowledge, by serving and propagating the Deen of Islam and surrounded by students of knowledge.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) is survived by his learned son Mufti Muhammad Zubair Ashraf (DB), siblings, and other family members. I pray Allah Ta’ala grant them all beautiful patience and the taufeeq to continue the legacy of their great father, brother, uncle, etc.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) also leaves behind students in their tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands. And also many mentees in the path of Sulook & Tazkiyah.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) also leaves behind a collection of valuable books and works that the Muslim Ummah can benefit for a long time to come. I think this is a miracle to do alongside all the administrative duties and responsibilities.
I would request the readers to at least recite Surat Ikhlas three times and grant the reward to Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA). This is the least we can do and also to do this whenever you can.
Also, another great way to benefit Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) is by practicing and internalising these great five traits and passing them over to your students.
Supplication
O Allah Ta’ala! Reward Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) on our behalf for all the selfless services he has provided to the Deen his entire life.
O Allah Ta’ala! Grant the students, the staff, the Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi and the Muslim Ummah a better replacement (ni’m-al-badl).
O Allah Ta’ala! Accept all the tireless efforts of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) for Your Deen over his entire lifetime. And continue his Faiz till the Day of Judgement.
O Allah Ta’ala! Forgive the shortcomings of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) and have mercy on him.
O Allah Ta’ala! Make the resting place of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) a garden of Paradise and shower him with your eternal and intense mercies.
O Allah Ta’ala! Be please with Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA) and make all the stages of the Hereafter easy for him.
O Allah Ta’ala! Grant the family of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani (RA), students, those connected with him and the entire Muslim Ummah (RA) with patience and strength at this difficult time.
O Allah Ta’ala! Protect Jamiah Darul Uloom Karachi and the Muslim Ummah at large from all types of Fitnah.
آمین یارب العلمین بجاہ سیدالمرسلین علیہ الصلوۃ والتسلیم
و صلى الله على النبى الحبيب الشفيع الرؤوف الرحيم
*Email: course.correspondence@gmail.com
(After Isha, Monday 21st November 2022 – night of 28th Rabi-ul-Aakhir 1444 A.H)
