Hazrat Imam Ja`far as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Hazrat Imam Ja`far as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Name: Hazrat Sayyiduna Imam Jafar bin Muhammad as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)
Titles: Saadiq, Faadil and Taahir
Predecessor: Hazrat Sayyiduna Imam Baaqir رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
Successor: Hazrat Bayazid al-Bistami رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
Date of Birth: Monday, the 7th of Rabi-ul-Awwal, 83 Hijri in Madinah Munawwarah
Date of Wisaal: Friday, the 15th of Rajab, 148 Hijri at Madinah Munawwarah
Resting at: Jannat al-Baqi in Madinah Munawwarah

HIS LINEAGE:

The son of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), son of al-Imam Zain al-`Abidin(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), son of al-Husayn(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), son of `Ali bin Abi Talib(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). His mother was the daughter of Hazrat al-Qassim(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) , whose great grandfather was Hazrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ).

He spent his life in worship and acts of piety for the sake of Allah. He rejected all positions of fame in favor of `uzla or isolation from the lower world. One of his contemporaries, `Umar ibn Abi-l-Muqdam(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), said, "When I look at Ja`far bin Muhammad(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) I see the lineage and the secret of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), united in him."

He received from the Prophet two lines of inheritance: the secret of the Prophet(صلى الله عليه وسلم), through 'Ali(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and the secret of the Prophet(صلى الله عليه وسلم), through Abu Bakr(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) . In him the two lineages met and for that reason he was called "The Inheritor of the Prophetic Station (Maqam an-Nubuwwa) and the Inheritor of the Truthful Station (Maqam as-Siddiqiyya)." In him was reflected the light of the knowledge of Truth and Reality. That light shone forth and that knowledge was spread widely through him during his lifetime.

HIS FEATURES:

He was very handsome and had a radiant appearance. He had the perfect height, and was tan in complexion. He encompassed the exemplary qualities his forefathers. Haafiz Abu Nuaim Isfahani narrates in Khalifatul Abraar on the authority of Umar bin Midqaam, “When I used to look at Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu then I used to immediately feel that he was from amongst the descendants of the Prophets”

EXCELLENCE:

He was without doubt the true successor to the Muslim empire and one of the greatest Imams of his era. Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu was a great Aabid and Sufi. Many secrets of Tasawwuf were explained by him. It is in Tabqaatul Abraar, that he received the authority of Hadith from his blessed father, from Imam Zuhri and Naaf’i and ibn Munkadir etc. and Sufyaan Sawri, Ibn Ainiyyah, Shu’ba, Yahya Al Qataan, Imam Maalik and his son Imam Moosa Kaazim (ridwaanullahi ta aala alaihim ajmaeen) attained this authority of Hadith from him. Allama Ibn Hajar Makki Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu writes in Sawaa’iq Muhariqa . “The exalted Imams such as Yahya Bin Saeed, Ibn Jareeh, Imam Maalik ibn Anas, Imam Sufyaan Sawri, Sufyan bin Ainiyyah, Imam Abu Hanifa and Abu Ayoob Sajistani (ridwaanullahi ta aala alaihim ajmaeen) took Hadith from him.” [Masaalik as-Saalikeen]

HIS CHARACTER:

He was a very exalted and pious personality. His inner and outer appearance exuded brightness and radiance. He addressed the poor and the downtrodden with great love. Once he called all his servants and said, “Let us give our hands in the hands of one another and promise that whichever one of us first receives salvation on the day of Qiyaamah, he will intercede for the rest of us.” On hearing this, they said, “O Ibn Rasool SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam! For what reason do you need our intercession, when your beloved forefather Rasoolullah SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam will intercede for the entire creation?”.

HIS IBAADAT:

He was well known for his ibaadat, and his striving in the Court of Allah. Hadrat Imam Malik Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu says, “I spent a very long time serving him, and I always found him in one of three Ibaadats. Either he was in namaaz, or engrossed in recitation of the Quran, or he would be fasting.” He never narrated any Hadith Shareef without wudhu. [Tazkirat al-Awliyah]

HIS DUA:

He was without doubt a faithful servant of Allah, and he always attained everything that he asked for from the Court of Allah. Abul Qasim Tabri narrates from Wahab, that he heard Laith bin Sa’ad Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu saying, “I was on my way to Hajj by foot in 113 Hijri and I reached Makkah Muazammah. I reached Jabl Abu Qais close to the time of Asr Salaah. There, I saw a pious man sitting (in seclusion), making dua. He was saying ‘Ya Rabbi Ya Rabbi’ so many times, that breathing became difficult. Then in the same way, he said ‘Ya Hayy Ya Hayy’ then ‘Ya Rab’bahu Ya Rab’bahu, then in the same say, he said ‘Ya Allah Ya Allah’ in one breath continuously. He then said ‘Ya Rahmaanu Ya Rahmaanu, Ya Raheemu Ya Raheemu’ and then he went on to say ‘Ya Arhamar Raahimeen’. He then said, “O Allah I desire to eat grapes. Please bless me with some, and my clothes have become old and tattered Please give me new ones.”

Hadrat Laith says, “By Allah, he was still competing his dua, when I saw a basket of grapes kept before him, whereas it was not event the grape season and I did not see an grapes near him before his dua. I also saw that there were two pieces of cloth kept near the grapes. I have never seen such beautiful material before. He then sat down to eat the grapes. I went up to him and said, Huzoor! May I also have a part in this?, and he asked how this was so, so I said, I was saying Aameen as you made the dua. He said, ‘Well then, step forward and join me.’ I also began to partake in the grapes. They were so tasty, that never have I eaten such delicious grapes. I ate until I was satisfied, but the basket still remained as it was before, full of grapes. He then offered on piece of cloth to me, and I said that I had no need for it, so he tied one around his waist, and he draped the other over his shoulder. He then descended from the mountain and I followed him. As he drew close to Saffa and Marwa, a beggar called out to him and said, ‘O Descendant of the Prophet SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam! Give these clothes to me and Allah will dress you in the clothes of Jannat.” He immediately gave the two pieces of cloth to the beggar. (On seeing this), I enquired about the identity of this pious man from the beggar, who informed me that he was Hadrat Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. I then looked for him so that I may listen to some words of wisdom from him and attain his blessings, but he had disappeared from my sight.” [Tazkirat al-Awliyah, Page 12]

Once, some people saw that Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu was wearing a very expensive robe. One of them walked up to him and said, “Huzoor! It is not good for the Ahle Bait to wear such expensive clothing.” He caught hold of the man’s hand and thrust it into his sleeves. The man was amazed when he found that a Hadrat was wearing clothes make from sacks under his robe. Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu then said, “The one inside is for my Creator and the one on top is for the creation.”

A man once lost his purse which contained one thousand dinaars. Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu was walking close to him, so he held the hand of the Imam and accused him of stealing his money. Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu asked how much he had in his money bag, and the man said that he had one thousand dinaars. Hadrat took him home and gave him one thousand dinaars from his wealth. The next day, the man found his money bag, and came rushing to Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu to return the money he had taken from him. Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said, “We do not take back what we have already given.” The man then asked some people who this person was, and he was told that it was Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. When he heard this, he became very sad and regretted his behavior. [Tazkirat al-Awliyah]

DEBATE WITH AN ATHEIST:

Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu spent a lot of his time spreading the word of Allah and His Rasool SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam. He always spoke against those who did not believe in Allah. An atheist from Egypt came to Hadrat Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu whilst he was in Makkah. Hadrat Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu asked his name and he said that his name was Abdul Malik and he was also known as Abdullah. On hearing this Hadrat said, “Malik, whose servant you are, is he from the Kingdom of the Skies or the Kingdom of the earth, the Lord that is the Lord of your son, is he the Lord of the skies or the Lord of the Earths?” The atheist could not answer this question. Hadrat then said, “Did you ever journey under the earth? Do you know what is beyond it?” He replied in the negative and said, “I think there is nothing beyond it.” Hadrat then said to him, “Thinking is not sufficient! However, have you ever flown into the skies and journeyed beyond the skies?” Again he replied in the negative. Hadrat said, “Did you ever travel the entire East and West and did you realise anything about the future from this?” Again he answered in the negative. Hadrat said, “I am amazed, that you are not aware of the earth and what is beneath it, and the sky and what is beyond it, and in this state of ignorance, you still have the arrogance to reject the existence of Allah. O Ignorant man! There is no argument for one who is naive about that which is a reality. The sun, the moon, the night and day, are all in a specific pattern. Verily they are within some divine control. If they were free, then they would move as they willed and would sometimes go to an appointed spot and not return. Why is it that the night does not take the place of day and the day does not take the place of night? Do you not ponder upon the reality of the skies and the earth? Why does the sky not come to the earth and why is it that the earth is not flattened by the sky? There is definitely ONE, who has all this in His Divine Control. It is He (Allah) who is All Powerful. It is He, who is our and their Lord.” When the atheist heard this, he immediately accepted Islam and had faith in the existence of Allah.

HIS KNOWLEDGE:

Hazrat Imam Ja`far as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was famed for his depth and breadth of knowldege. In addition to his knowledge of Islamic sciences, Hazrat Imam Ja`far as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was well educated in natural sciences, mathematics, philosophy , astronomy , anatomy , chemistry (alchemy), and other subjects. The foremost Islamic alchemist Jabir bin Hayyan (known in Europe as Geber) was his most prominent student. Imam Jafar was known for his liberal views on learning, and was keen to debate with scholars of different faiths and of different beliefs. Imam Abu Hanifa is quoted by many souces as having said "My knowledge extends to only two years. The two I spent with Imam Jafar Sadiq". Imam Jafar also attained a surpassing knowledge in astronomy and in the science of medicine. It is said that he wrote more than five hundred books on health care which were compiled and annotated by another great scholar and scientist of Islam, Jabir bin Hayyan.

Click here to download a pdf which details about the discoveries and philosophies of Hazrat Imam Ja`far as-Sadiq (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

HAZRAT BAYAZID AL-BISTAMI رحمتہ اللہ علیہ:

Hadrat Ba Yazeed Bustaami Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu used to distribute water in the Darbaar of Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. Hadrat placed his saintly sight on Hadrat Bayazeed Bustaami Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu once, and he became one of the greatest mystics of his time. He then served in the Court of Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu and became one of the greatest Awliyah.

IMAM ABU HANIFA رحمتہ اللہ علیہ:

Hadrat Imam Azam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu attained great blessings from Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. It is narrated that once he asked Imam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu concerning who is an intelligent person. Hadrat Imam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said, “He who can differentiate between good and evil is an intelligent man.” Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said, “Even animals have the ability to differentiate. It can differentiate between those who love them, beat them or instill fear in them?” Imam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu then said, “O Hadrat! Would you please explain who is truly intelligent?” Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said, “An intelligent person, is one who can differentiate between two good things and two evils, so that he may choose the better of two good things and that he may be able to repel the worse of two evils.”

KARAAMATS:

Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu is an example for Muslims in every way. His greatest Karaamat was his firmness on the Shariat. His every step was in accordance with the Sunnat of the Prophet SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam. A few of his Karaamats are being quoted below.

A MANSION IN JANNAH:

Once, a man came to Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu before journeying for Hajj. He gave Hadrat 10,000 dirhams, and asked him to purchase a mansion for him before he returned. Instead of purchasing a mansion, Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu distributed the entire 10,000 dirhams in the way of Allah. After the man returned from Hajj, he went to meet Hadrat Imam Jaafar Saadiq Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. Hadrat Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu told him that he had purchased his mansion and then handed the title deed over to him. The title deed read as follows : “One wall of the house is adjoined to the house of the Prophet SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam, the other wall is adjoined to the house of Hadrat Ali Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu, the third wall is adjoined to the house of Imam Hassan Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu and the fourth wall is adjoined to the house of Imam Hussain Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu.” The man took this title deed, and asked his family members to place it in his grave when he passed away. After his demise, his family members found the title deed on the top of his grave and on the rear of the title deed the following words were written, “Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu was honest and loyal in what he said.” [Masaalik as-Saalikeen, Vol.1, Page 220]

AMAZING INCIDENT:

Once, he was on his way to Hajj, when he stopped to rest under a date tree which was completely dried out. At the time of Chasht, he asked the tree to present him with some dates. Immediately, the tree became green and lush and full of dates. Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu then ate from it. A villager was passing by and saw this. He saw this great karaamat and said that it was magic. Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said, “This is not magic. Almighty Allah has blessed me with such a quality, that he accepts all my duas. If I make dua, even you can be transformed into a dog.” Hadrat had not yet completed what he was saying, when the villager began to resemble a dog. He quickly repented and asked Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu to forgive him. Hadrat made dua for him, and he was transformed to his normal self. [Masaalik as-Saalikeen, Vol.1, Page 223]

KHALIFA MANSOOR:

Khalifa Mansoor once sent one of his ministers to summon Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu to his Court. He informed his servants that when Imam Jaafar arrived, they should wait for him (Mansoor) to remove his crown. The moment he did this, they should martyr Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. When the minister heard this, he was not pleased and thus tried to explain to Mansoor, how wrong it was to kill a pious person, who is also a Sayyid. The Khalifa did not take heed and had Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu summoned. When Hadrat Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu arrived, the servants waited for their cue, so that they may martyr Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu. Instead, Mansoor woke up from his throne and rushed towards the Imam. He brought him towards his throne and allowed him to sit on it with great respect, whilst he sat on the ground in front of the great Imam. The servants and ministers were surprised to see this sudden change in plan. Mansoor then asked the Imam if he had any requests. Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu said,"In future you should not summon me to your court, as I wish to remain engrossed in Ibaadat."

When he heard these words, his body began to tremble and he allowed the Imam to leave with respect. When the Imam left, the minister asked about the sudden change in plan and Mansoor said, "When Imam Jaafar Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu entered my court, I saw a huge python with him. The python had its one lip over my throne and one under my throne, and it spoke to me and said that if I tried to ever harm the Imam, then he would consume me with my throne, and that is why I behaved in the manner which I did."

HIS CHILDREN:

He was blessed with six sons and one daughter. Their names are :
1. Hadrat Ismaeel رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
2. Hadrat Muhammad رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
3. Hadrat Ali رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
4. Hadrat Abdullah رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
5. Hadrat Ishaaq رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
6. Hadrat Moosa Kaazim رحمتہ اللہ علیہ
7. Bibi Umm-e-Fardah (Ridwaanullahi Ta’ala Alaihim Ajma’een) 

HIS KHULAFA:

If one studies the books of history, then one will learn about his Khulafa, and how exalted each one of them was and how they had attained his blessings. Some of them are: 1. Hadrat Imam Moosa Kaazim Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu 2. Hadrat Imam Azam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu 3. Hadrat Sultaan Bayazeed Bustaami Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu.

HIS WORDS OF WISDOM:

1. He would often make the following dua : "O Allah bless me with respect which is in your obedience and do not disgrace me due to my shortcomings. O Allah let me assist him through your grace and Mercy, whose sustenance you have decreased, for you have blessed me in abundance." 
2. There is not provision greater than piety. There is nothing better than silence, and there is no enemy more dangerous than ones ignorance and there is no disease worse than lies. 
3. He who has attained the closeness to Allah divorces himself from everything in the world. 
4. There is no Ibaadat without repentance, since Allah has caused repentance to be above Ibaadat. 
5. He who sits in the companionship of all types of people will not be safe. 
6. One who walks on the wrong path will always arouse suspicion. 
7. Whoever attacks a matter without knowledge cuts off his own nose. 
8. Intellect is the guide of the believer. 
9. The perfection of intellect is in three (things): Humbleness for Allah, Good certainty, and silence except for good. 
10. Ignorance is in three (things): Arrogance, the intensity of dispute, and the ignorance about Allah. 
11. Certainly, knowledge is a lock and its key is the question. 
12. When the believer becomes angry, his anger should not take him out of the truth; and when he becomes satisfied, his satisfaction should not bring him into falsehood. 
13. Some manners of the ignorant are: the answer before he hears, the opposition before he understands, and the judgment with what he does not know. 
14. One who cannot keep his tongue in control will always be disgraced. 
15. Stay away from five kinds of people: 1. A liar, as he will also betray you, 2. A witless person, as he will try to benefit you, but will always cause you harm, 3. A miser, for he will cause you intense loss in order to gain even the slightest benefit, 4. A coward who will leave you in distress during a difficult situation, 5. A man who is involved in illicit dealings, for he will sell you for one morsel and will still be hopeful of even less than that. 
16. Dishonest and untruthful people never find favor while jealous people never find content.Rude and vulgar people never find acceptance and brotherhood in leadership or amongst citizens. 
17. Whosoever holds affection towards the creator then he is horribly frightened of the creation.
18.  For the sake of the creator save yourself so that you may become a true worshipper (‘Aabid) and that which fate had decreed, has occurred then accepts that as well. 
19. Do not keep the company of an open sinful person since you would be overcome by sin and disobedience. Consult and seek advise from only those who are constantly obeying Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala. 
20. To seek forgiveness is simple but to leave sin is difficult. 
21. The concealment of sins is the direct consequences of mans destruction. 
22. Not to show greed to somebody else’s wealth is also a form of charity. 
23. The eye of the heart opens with ibadat (prayers) and its access is infinite (La Makan – up in the ‘Arsh and beyond) and nothing in the entire World remains a secret to him. 
24. Man has also such power that he can gaze into the future and it only awakens when the 5 other senses are asleep and the mind is free from observations. 
25. Changing perceptions in this World. Somewhere clouds are forming or pearls. At others tears are changing the rays into darkness while still darkness is changing into light. 
26. A man has freedom of deeds and actions but these are also restricted because according to his comprehension he may be suspicious or doubtful of its might or force. 
27. Too much credence and ecliance is destructful and excessive criticisms unfortunate. 
28. Holding the power of revenge yet drinking up ones anger is an excellent form of Jihad. 
29. Strokes of misfortune or temptation are a rank, therefore the specific of truth are involved with it.
30. Nafs (desires) are in direct conflict with Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala therefore the best opposition to you nafs is becoming friends with Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala. 
31. The reality of Taqwa is this, that if you have expose what’s in your heart, place it on a tray and take it to the market then you should not be ashamed of a single item you have displayed. 
32. Jihad with ones wealth is better than Jihad with a sword. 
33. Food is the sustenance of the body while contentment comforts the soul.
34. Fortunate is he whose heart becomes knowledgeable, whose body becomes patient and he is content with what he has present. 
35. Respect the young for they have lesser sins to their name because of their age in comparison to you. Revelation is not made for destruction but as an examination. 
36. Kindness or favors is incomplete without these 3 things – If you regard it as minor it becomes great – or you keep it hidden or concealed this it becomes whole and sufficient or by doing it quickly one finds pleasure in it. 
37. Sin is a sore; if it is not stopped it spreads. 
38. To complain is to stop being patient. 
39. The person who keeps the company of all types of people is not safe. 
40. The person who traverses upon the wrong path is accused and suspicion descends upon him.
41. The person who cannot control his tongue becomes disgraced. 
42. A criminal and a remorseful sinner become submissive. 
43. Flatterers are the origin of pride and arrogance. 
44. Someone once asked who is better, a patient dervish or a grateful wealthy person? He said: The patient dervish because the heart of the rich is stuck in his pocket while the heart of the dervish is stuck on Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala. 
45. Prayers without repentance are not appropriate for Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala has made repentance the preamble upon prayers. 
46. Besides the fervor of Sufism there is no other road to follow the Qur’an and Sunnah. 
47. The poverty of the ‘Ulema is by choice while that of the ignorant is forced or uncontrolled. 
48. A mans fortunes are also in his enemy being clever. 
49. A boastful worshipper is a sinner and a sinner is he who finds every possible excuse not to worship. 
50. It is happiness for him who, though he sees a pleasurable thing yet he does not desire it with his heart. 
51. Our religion is completely respected. That person who does not consider this will be very disappointed. 
52. A very great Zahid (One who remembers Allah SubHanuhu wa Ta’ala excessively) is he who withdraws from the people. 
53. Although there is excellence in congregation there is safety in seclusion. 
54. Complete satisfaction of the stomach and starving are both hindrances of worship. 
55. To openly display your animosity is better than to hypocritically agree. 
56. In difficult times the search for rest and peace enhances that difficulty.

Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar ‎(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar ‎(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Name: Sheikh Sharafuddeen

Titles: Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar

Silsila: Qalanderi

Date of Birth: 1209 CE 

Date of Wisaal: 1324 CE

Date of Urs: 26th Rabi-ul-Awwal

Resting at: Panipat Shareef, Haryana, India.

His name was Sheikh Sharfuddin and Boo Ali Shah the title. His father, Sheikh Fakharuddin was a great scholar and saint of his time. The mother, Bibi Hafiza Jamal, was the daughter of Maulana Syed Nematullah Hamdani. His father came from Iraq in the year 600 Hijri and settled down in Panipat. His lineage with several links reaches to Hazrat Imam Abu Hanifa. He was born in Panipat in 606 Hijri.

Studies: He completed his studies at an early age and taught near the Qutub Minar in Delhi for 20 years. He was counted among renowned scholars, and the top ranking teachers regarded him with great respect.

Absorbed in Wonder: Once during the studies he was lost in absorption and wonder. He got up and threw all the books into the river and trudged into the forest and busied in prayers and meditation there.

Prayer and Meditation: He undertook severe penance and meditation, stood in a state of absorption for several days in water till the fish ate away flesh form his calves. One day he was engaged in meditation, a voice he heard. It said, "Sharfuddin, we granted you your prayer, say, what do you want?" He said, "I need none save you. I will give away my life in love while standing at this place." The voice again descended, "Get out of the water, you have to do much more." He replied,

"I will not emerge myself from the river of love. If you want it, then do it." Saying this he was lost again. He witnessed, in the state, that a saint appeared and lifted him out of the river and placed him on the bank.

Several chroniclers opine that the saint was Hazrat Ali, R.A., himself. He taught him some divine secrets and disappeared. From that day he was regularly lost in spiritual wonderment. His heart was filled with heavenly light. From that day he is called 'Boo Ali Shah'.

Still some chroniclers say that he did not pledge obedience to a holy man but was admitted directly into the fold by Hazrat Ali, R.A.. Some link him to Mahboob-e Elahi, whereas others bind him to Hazrat Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Ka'aki, R.A/. and Sheikh Shahabuuddin Suharwardy.

His stay in Panipat: He lived in Panipat till his death, and served the people from there. Hundreds drew spiritual or divine benefits from him. Besides, he undertook regular teaching and propagation of Islam. Hundreds embraced Islam because of him. The Rajputs, who lived around, were the great beneficiaries. He left a deep impact on the royal dynasty of Dehli Sultanet, and preached them of good conduct.

Revelation and Mysteries: One day a disciple of Shamsuddin Turk went to the city on an errand and saw Boo Ali Shah riding a lion and re-told the episode to his teacher. Shamsuddin Turk said to his disciple, "Go to the residence of Boo Ali Shah, and if you see him riding the lion, tell him: "The lion should live in the jungle." The disciple obeyed, found Hazrat Boo Ali Shah in the condition and conveyed his teacher's message. He rose from his place immediately and went to Ghote.

Death: It is mentioned in 'Sair-Ul-Akhtab' that he died on 17, Ramzanul Mubarak 724 Hijri, at Budha Khera, but lay to rest in Panipat instead.

He wrote the famous couplet in Farsi about Hazrat Ali:

Hayderium,Qalandrum, Mustam

Banda-e-Murtuza Ali Hastum

Peshwa-e-Tamaam Rindan Num

Kay Sagae kuo-e-Sher-e-Yazdan Num

Translation:

I am Haideri (a follower of Haider, aka Ali ibn Abi Talib), I am a Qalandar and I am intoxicated (with inspiration).

I am a servant of Ali Murtaza (aka Ali ibn Abi Talib)

I am leader of all saints

Because I am a dog of the lane of "Allah's Lion" (referring to Maula Ali Murtaza)

Hazrat Sheikh Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ).

Hazrat Sheikh Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ).

Name: Hazrat Sheikh Alauddin Ali Ahmed

Titles: Sabir, Khatumul Arwaah, Sultane Aulia, Aghyase Hind

Silsila: Chisti sabri

Predecessor: Hazrat Sheikh Fariduddin Masood Ganjshakar (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Successor: Hazrat Khawaja Shamsuddin Turk Panipati (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)

Date of Birth: 19 Rabi-Ul-Awwal (592 Hijri)

Date of Wisaal: 13 Rabi-ul-Awwal (690 Hijri)

Date of Urs: 13th, 14th, and 15th of Rabi-ul-awwal

Resting at: Kaliyar, Uttarakhand, India

Hazrat Sheikh Alauddin Ali Ahmed As-Sabir‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was an Islamic Sufi. He was in the Chisti Silsila of Khawaja Gharib Nawaz Ajmeri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). He was a Sufi of Great Stature and is revered by both Hindus and Muslims. The place where he is taking rest is Kaliyar, in Roorkee town of Uttarakhand India.

The son of Ghous Pak‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Hazrat Saif-ud-din Abdul Wahab‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), was born on the 17th Shahban 512 Hijri in between the two evening prayers Maghrib and Isha. In eleven years he acquired and completed all the worldly and spiritual knowledge from Ghous Pak‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and started teaching himself later. His followers are also called Sabri. His Urs is celebrated by millions of people every year in Kaliyar.

Birth:

The name “Ali Ahmed” was selected in accordance with the prediction of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad, Hazrat Ali Haider-e-Kar’rar and Hazrat Khizar. His father died after few years of his birth. Then Hazrat Sabir's mother carried him to her brother, Baba Fareed, in Pak Pattan Sharif. There he pledged discipleship on the hands of Baba Fareed.

Family:

The father of Hazrat Ali Ahmed Sabir Kaliyari‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was Hazrat Abdul Raheem Abdul Salam Shah‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and the grandfather was Syed Abdul Wahab‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). Syed Abdul Wahab‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was the son of Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani Meboob-e-Subhani Hasan-o-Hussaini‎‎ (رضي الله عنه). Hazrat Sabir‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) Pak was the nephew, disciple (Mureed), son-in-law and successor (Khalifa) of Hazrat Baba Fareed-ud-Din Masood Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). The paternal genealogy of Hazrat Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) belongs to Hazrat Umer Farooq ‎(رضي الله عنه) according to some historians, while others trace his lineage back to Abdullah, the son of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir ‎(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), the grandson of Imam Hussain ‎(رضي الله عنه).

Marriage:

The story of his marriage is very interesting. After a long time his mother came from Harat and requested her brother to marry his daughter to her son. Baba Farid(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) replied, "He has nothing to do with marriage. He is lost in meditation and awe- some ness." The sister said. "This is an excuse since he is an orphan, you decline the request." Baba Farid(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), upon this, married away his daughter, Khadija(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), to him. During the night when the bride entered the room, she found him lost in prayers. When finished, he asked who she was. She replied, "your wife!"

Hazrat Makhdoom (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) said. "How can he accommodate two in my heart? I have already it to one." As he uttered the words a fire burned the bride to ashes.

Becoming Sabri:

Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) entrusted him the duty of distribution of food (Langar). He accepted this duty happily and in between engaged himself in prayers. He dispensed with his duties well and also attended the discourse of Baba Freed Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). He did not partake a single morsel from food (Langer), kept fasts and went to the jungle and ate wild berries and leaves. He did his duties for 12 years. He prayed continuously and his abstentions were never disrupted. Frequent and continuous fasting and eating leaves and wild food made him weak. When his mother came back again and saw him, she complained to his brother (Baba Fareed) of his weakness. Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) called upon him and asked the reason. Sabir Pak‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) replied “You ordered me to distribute the food and not to partake from it”. Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) embraced him happily and remarked “He is SABIR (Patient)”. From that day forth He became famous with the name of “SABIR”.

Spiritual Education:

He spent many years of his life with Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and got religious and spiritual aspiration from Baba Fareed‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). Then Baba Fareed Masood Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)appointed him Khalifa(Successor) and sent him to Kaliyar (An Indian city situated in the province of Uttarakhand). At that time the King was Ala-ud-Din Khilji. His person was the source of many Miracles. His tomb is also known as “Piran-e-Kaliyar Sharif” stands at Kaliyar besides the Ganges River and seven kilometers from “Roorkee”. His shrine is the central spiritual point and source of blessings for Saints, Successors, Followers and people of all over the world. This order is known as “Chisti Sabri Order” by his reference and relation.

Silsila:

The Silsila Chishtia Sabria: The Chishti Sabri Order The order (Silsila-e-wala`et) started from Hazrat Ali Haider-e-Kar’rar ‎(رضي الله عنه) and then this spiritual order continued through Khawaja Hasan Basri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). This spiritual order further came to Chisht (name of a town) through successors of Khawaja Hasan Basri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). Khawaja Abu Ishaq Shami Chishti‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)was one of the saints of this order and also head of the Chishti Order. He was also called “Sar-e-Chishtian”. Khawaja Abu Ishaq Shami Chishti‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) belonged to a town “Chisht” and called Chishti because of it. After many stages and through famous saints this Chisti Order reached a great saint Khawaja Moen-ud-Din Hasan Chishti Ajmeri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and his successors Khawaja Qutab-ud-Din Bukhtiar Kaki Aoshi‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and Baba Fareed-ud-Din Masood Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) of Pak Pattan Sharif.

There are many successors of Baba Fareed-ud-Din Masood Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and it is impossible to count them. But the “Qutabs” (religious mendicants) of Baba Fareed Ganje Shakar‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) are twenty-two (22). The most famous religious and spiritual Qutabs are Sultan-ul-Aolia Khatum-ul-Arwah Syed Makhdum Ala-ud-Din Ali Ahmed Sabir Kaliyari‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and Mehboob-e-Elahi Khawaja Nizam-ud-Din Aulia‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ).

The successors and followers of Khawaja Nizam-ud-Din Aulia are called “Chishti Nizami”. The successors and followers of Makhdum Ala-ud-Din Ali Ahmed Sabir‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) are called “Chishti Sabri”.

Followings of Silsila:

This Chishti Sabri Order and its blessings reached to Hazrat Pir Saidan Shah Sabri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)of Kalas Sharif near Malikwal, District Sargodha (Pakistan) through Syed Mardan Ali Shah Chishti Sabri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), who was a successor of Syed Ahmed Shah‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). Darbar Sabri Kalas Sharif is spreading the blessings and spirituality of Chishti Sabri Order to its followers and people. Pir Saidan Shah Sabri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and his son Pir Gulzar Hussain Shah Sabri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) continued the mission of Hazrat Makhdum Sabir Pak. They spent their whole life to complete this mission. The present Pir Shamim Sabir Sabri (Saint of Darbar Sabri Kalas Sharif), the son of Pir Gulzar Hussain Shah Sabri‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) is spreading the spiritual graces of the Chishti Sabri Order to the lovers of Makhdum Sabir Piya. In fact “Kalas Sharif” is attached directly to “Kaliyar Sharif” and is a sacred place for the grace and blessings of Makhdum Sabir Piya.

In Pakistan and throughout the world, the Sabri Silsila is also being spread through Hazrat Abu Anees Muhammad Barkat Ali‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), rector of Darulehsan, Faisalabad. He has had a complete biography of Hazrat Sabir‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) (whom he calls his 'spiritual guide') written by one of his mureeds (namely Haji Mohammed Bashir Ambalvi) which is available in both Urdu and English.

Successors:

His successors include Khawaja Shams-ud-Din Turk Pani Pati‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)(Panipat), Shah Abdul Qud’doos Gangohi‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Hazrat Shah Jalal-ud-Din‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Hazrat Noor-ul-Haq Ahmed Abdul Haq‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Hazrat Shah Mohammad Arif‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Mustafa Ahmed Abdul Haq‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Hazrat Khawaja Qmar-ud-Din‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), Sayed Ahmed Shah‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and Hazrat Abu Anees Mohammed Barkat Ali‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). However, only Hazrat Khawaja Shams-Ud-Din Turk Pani Pati‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) was made Khalifa (successor) in his lifetime. He used to ask Hazrat Sabir Piya‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) the difference between Fana (End of Life) and Ba’qa (Existence). Hazrat Sabir Piya told him that when he will perform his first Karamat that day I will die.

Fana and Ba'qa:

Most of the time Sufi-Saints who teaches there disciple the lesson and the meaning of Fana and Ba’qa the story or the example comes from the clear incident of Hazrat Sabir Piya‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ). The story or the example of Fana (Extinction, Annihilation) and Ba’qa (Eternal life in union with Allah) is explained with example of Hazrat Sabir Pak‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) because of his death incident. Before he died he commanded his disciples that when he (Sabir Piya) dies no one should touch his body. No one will give burial bath and no one will bury him, but they (disciples) should wait until a man will come riding on horse in white color clothes and he shall give bath to his body, before that no one should touch the body least they shall die. On his funeral day, it happened in the same way he commanded the disciples remains questioned who is that person who will give him a burial bath etc. thinking they did not do anything. After an hour the people there his congregations who have been appointed for his funeral they heard a sound of horse coming and within few minutes they saw there was a person in white clothing and he was on horse. The horse man came down and took the dead body of Hazrat Sabir Piya‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) and went inside a cottage and took some water and gave him the burial bath, everyone was shocked and puzzled who is he and what is going on inside the cottage. After a while he alone brings the dead body out and started making rows for offering his burial prayer and after reciting the prayer he then buried his dead body and was ready to leave. At that moment of Sabir's disciple stopped him and asked, "Who are you oh lucky person, who gave bath to our master, please show us your face", but that horse man doesn't agree on showing his face, remaining adamant about it they asked again. So the horse man removes his curtain over the face and the congregation saw, it was none other but Sabir Piya‎(رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) himself. They asked "Hazrat what is this", then Hazrat Sabir Piya‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ)replied and taught them the meaning of the question Fana and Ba’qa, that what you just saw the body that’s (Fana) it has to be layer with soil again and it shall perish, but this what you see now is (Ba’qa) never perishing the spirit, spirit that Allah gave me which came from heaven and saying this he disappeared. So this was the answer to the question that one of his disciples asked him one day what is the meaning of Fana and Ba’qa so he fulfilled it and showed them the meaning on his funeral.

Quotes:

1. Shairah is wonderful, draws one from presence to intimacy.

2. The beggar, who visits the rich, is hypocrite.

3. If desire greatness, be simple and truthful.

4. The guide should have the ability to correct the weakness of the seeker of truth.

5. Renunciation means to renounce the undesirable activities.

6. Illiterate and greedy mystic is Satan's clown

Urs Celebration:

Every Urs is celebrated with a lot of fanfare on three main dates of 13th, 14th, and 15th in the Holy month of Rabi-ul-awwal in Kaliyar Sharif. After a glimpse of the moon of Rabi-ul-awwal, the head priest goes to his old house (in Kaliyar village). Inside the room, he reads the Khatam Sharif and walks out with a plate on his head. The plate has Mehandi and Dori in it. Next he goes to the Dargah and reads the Fatiha. After this the Dori is distributed to everyone. Qawwali-e-Makhdum Ali Ahmed Sabir Kaliyari‎ (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ) (Salaam on Hazrat Sabir Piya) take place at the Dargah and the mood is festive.

THE VOLUNTARY / ADDITIONAL (NAWAFIL) PRAYERS.

THE VOLUNTARY / ADDITIONAL (NAWAFIL) PRAYERS.

Besides the Obligatory and Essential Prayers, the Holy Prophet () used to make arrangements for the Voluntary (Nawafil) Prayers too. It is mentioned in the Hadith that Voluntary Worship is a means of attaining proximity to Allah.

It is better to offer Sunnah and Voluntary Prayers at home – however it is better to offerTaraweeh, Tahiyat ulMasjid (Prayers offered as a mark of respect upon entering the mosque), and the Voluntary Prayers upon returning from a journey, in a mosque. If preoccupation or lack of interest or laziness prevents one from offering these Prayers at home, then these should be offered in the mosque.

A brief summary of some of the Voluntary Prayers, which the Holy Prophet () stressed upon is mentioned hereunder.

Tahiyyat ulWuzu (Mark of respect after performing ablution)

It is recommended to offer 2 Cycles (Rakaats) Voluntary Prayer immediately after performing ablution, before the water on the body dries up. Similarly it is after taking a bath. The Holy Prophet () has stated: “Anyone who performs a good ablution and offers 2 Cycles of Prayer with proper external and internal concentration i.e. with complete sincerity – Paradise becomes mandatory for him.”

Tahiyyat ulMasjid (Prayers offered as a mark of respect upon entering the mosque)

It is Sunnah to offer 2 Cycles of Prayer upon entering the mosque, and to offer 4 Cycles is recommended. If one offers the Obligatory, Essential or Sunnah Prayers, he is deemed to have offered the Tahiyyat ulMasjid Prayer also, even if he did not make an intention for it.

If one enters the mosque at a time when Prayers are prohibited, he must make Remembrance (Zikr) of Allah, or recite Salutations – the rights of the mosque will have been offered.

The Tahajjud Prayers

Voluntary Prayers offered after the Night (Isha) Prayers are called “Salaat ul-Layl” (The Night-time Prayers). Voluntary Prayers offered during the night are better than those offered during the day. The Tahajjud Prayer is a kind of Salaat ul-Layl. The Tahajjudconsists of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 Cycles. When a person sleeps after offering Isha and gets up at any time during the night, it is the time for Tahajjud - and the best time for this is the final third part of the night.

The Ishraaq Prayer

The Ishraaq Prayer consists of 2 Cycles. It is better to wait after offering the Dawn Prayer and remain engrossed in the Remembrance of Allah or Salutations on the Holy Prophet (), and offer this at least 20 minutes after sunrise. The Hadith gives glad tidings of a reward equal to one Hajj and one Umrah to whoever offers this Prayer.

The Chaasht Prayer

The Chaasht Prayer consist of a minimum of 2 Cycles and a maximum of 12 Cycles, and 12 Cycles are best. The time for this starts from the sun’s ascent in the morning till the beginning of the meridian period (at Zawaal or beginning of Zohv Kubra). The Hadith gives glad tidings of a reward of Forgiveness and a golden palace in Paradise to whoever offers this Prayer regularly.

The Awwaabeen Prayer

Offering 6 Cycles Prayer is recommended after the Sunset (Maghrib) Prayer, and better to offer it in groups of 2 Cycles each. This is called the Awwaabeen Prayer. The Holy Prophet () has also encouraged performing this Prayer.

All Voluntary (Nawafil) Prayers can be offered while sitting, even without a valid excuse, but the reward of offering them while standing is double.

The Journey Prayer

Before starting out on a journey, it is recommended to offer 2 Cycles of Voluntary Prayer at home. The Holy Prophet () has stated: “No person leaves among his household anything better than the 2 Cycles of Prayer which he offers there prior to going on a journey.” While on the journey, one must offer 2 Cycles at the place where he stayed, and upon returning go home after offering 2 Cycles in the local mosque. This was the practice of the Holy Prophet ().

The Prayer of Repentance

Humans are prone to committing errors, but whenever one commits a sin, one should immediately turn towards his Compassionate and Merciful Lord, and with a remorseful conscience in order to seek forgiveness from Him, offer 2 Cycles of Prayer. This is recommended (Mustahab). The Holy Prophet () has said: “When one commits a sin, one must do an ablution and offer 2 Cycles of Voluntary Prayers and seek forgiveness of one’s sins from one’s Compassionate Lord. His Lord will forgive him.”

The “Tasbeeh” Prayer

The Holy Prophet () taught this Prayer to his uncle, Syedna Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him).

In the 1^st Cycle (Rakaat) after the “Sanaa” (but in the 2^nd Cycle before the “Tasmiyah”) recite the following “Tasbeeh” 15 times:

Subhaana Allahe wa alHamdu lillahe wa laa ilaaha illa Allahu wa Allahu Akbar.

Pure is Allah, and all Praise is for Allah, and there is no God except Allah, and

Allah is Great.

(It is better to recite the entire 3^rd Kalemah). Then after reciting the “Taawuz”, “Tasmiyah”, Surah alFatehah and any small Surah (or equivalent) recite the above “Tasbeeh” 10 times. Then in the bow (Ruku) recite it 10 times after the normal “Tasbeeh”. Then in the Qawmahrecite it 10 times after having recited the “Tasmeey” and Tahmeed. Then 10 times after the normal “Tasbeeh” in the prostration. Then 10 times in the Jalsah and another 10 times after the normal “Tasbeeh” in the second prostration. Continue in the same manner for all the 4 Cycles. In this way the “Tasbeeh” will have been recited a total of 300 times.

The Holy Prophet () has said: “If possible, offer this Prayer every day or else offer it every Friday. If unable to do this, then once a month or else once a year. If unable to do even this, then offer it at least once in a lifetime. Due to its blessedness, Allah the Supreme will forgive all (minor) sins – the earlier and the latter, the old and the new, whether committed on purpose or by mistake.” (Sunan Tirmizi).

The Need Prayer (Salaat ulHaajat)

The Holy Prophet () said: “Whoever has some need to be fulfilled from Allah or any bondman, must offer 2 Cycles of Prayer after a good ablution, then should praise & glorify Allah and send salutations upon me and then recite the following supplication:

Laa ilaaha illa Allahu alHaleemu alKareemu Subhaana Allahe Rabbe alArshe alAzeem; wa alHamdu Lillahe Rabbe alAlameen; asaluka moojibate rahmateka wa azaaema maghfirateka wa alganeemata min kulle birrin wa alSalaamata min kulle ismin laa tad’a lee zamban illa gafartahoo wa laa hamman illa farrajtahoo wa laa haajatan heya laka ridhan illa qadhaytaha yaa arhama alRahemeen.”

“There is no God except Allah, Who is Most Forbearing, Most Generous – Pure is Allah the Lord of the Great Throne; and all praise is to Allah, the Lord of the Creation; O Lord !! I seek from you the means of Your mercy, and the means of Your forgiveness - and I seek a share in every good deed and shelter from every sin; O Lord !! Forgive every sin of mine and remove all my sorrows; and fulfil my need which conforms with Your pleasure, O the Most Merciful of all !!” (Tirmizi, Ibn Majah)

A blind Companion (Sahabi) requested the Holy Prophet () to supplicate for his cure. The Holy Prophet () replied: “If you wish I shall supplicate for you - or you may patiently bear, and this is better for you.” He submitted, “Kindly supplicate for me.” The Holy Prophet () commanded him to make a good ablution and offer 2 Cycles of Prayer and then supplicate as follows:

Allahumma innee asaluka wa atawajjahu ilayka benabiyyeka Mohammedin nabiyyi alRahmahte -Yaa Rasool Allahe innee qad tawajjahtu beka ilaa rabbee fee hajatee hazehee letuqdaa lee – Allahumma faShaffeyhu fee.

“O Allah !! I seek from You and incline towards You through the means of Your Prophet Mohammed - the Merciful Prophet; O the Noble Messenger of Allah - I have, through you, inclined towards my Lord for this need of mine in order that it may be fulfilled !! O Allah – accept his intercession for me.”

When the blind man had completed his supplication, Allah restored him his eyesight as if he had never been blind. (Hakim, Tirmizi, Nasai, Ibn Majah, Tibrani, Baihaqi).

The Istikharah Prayer (for knowing what is suitable).

The Holy Prophet () used to teach his Companions the Istikharah supplication with great care and emphasis, just like a verse of the Holy Quran. He has said: “Whenever you intend any matter, offer 2 Cycles of Voluntary Prayer, and then supplicate as follows:

Allahumma innee astakheeroka be-ilmeka wa astaqderoka be-qudrateka wa as-aluka min fadleka al-Azeeme fa-innaka taqderu wa laa aqderu wa ta-lamu wa laa aa-lamu wa anta allamu al-guyoob. Allahumma in kunta ta-lamu anna haza al-amra khairun lee fee deenee wa ma-aashee wa aa-qebate amree faqdurhu lee wa yasserhu lee summa barek lee feehe wa in kunta ta-lamu anna haza al-amra sharrun lee fee deenee wa ma-aashee wa aa-qebate amree fasrifhu annee wasrifnee anhu waqdur leya al-khaira haysu kaana summa ardhinee behe.”

“O Allah !! I seek to know the suitability by Your knowledge, and by Your Power seek power from You, and seek Your great Munificence from You – for You are All-Powerful and I am weak, and You are All-Knowing and I do not know, and You also know the defects. O Allah if, as per Your knowledge, this matter of mine is better for me religion-wise, money-wise and in the hereafter – then destine it for me and make it easy for me, and then place blessings in it for me. And if, as per Your knowledge, this matter of mine is harmful for me religion-wise, money-wise and in the hereafter – then turn it away from me and turn me away from it, and destine good for me wherever it may be and make me happy with it.” (Bukhari)

In this supplication instead of the words “haza al-amru” mention your need or just think about it. It is better to perform Istikharah seven times, for it is mentioned in one Hadith: “O Anas !! When you intend any matter, seek to know its suitability from your Lord seven times – then reflect upon what transpires in your heart, indeed that only is better.”

Some Shuyukh have said that after this supplication, one should go to sleep, with ablution facing the “Qiblah”. If he sees green or white colour in a dream, then the matter is good for him – and if one sees black or red colour, then the matter is harmful for him, and he must avoid it.

The time for Istkharah lasts up to the time one’s heart gets convinced upon one decision.