Awliya Ul-Kiram Essay Archive

8/8/2019 Awliya Ul-Kiram Essay Archive

1/24

Awliya ul-Kiram Essay Archive :75 Momentous Years in RetrospectDr. Y. Najmuddin, Rector, Al Jamea tus SaifiyahIndexForwardPrefaceThe BackdropHerald of the Glad Tidings

Education and UpbringingMisaq Laqab and Moomin BalighElevation to Rank of Al-Mazoon and Appointment as SuccessorBlessings in the Trail of NominationMansur-el-YemenDawah in India Enlightened PolicyThe Great GriefRaudat TaherahThe Smooth TransitionRecognition by International Institutions of LearningHostility, Disruption and SubversionAl-Jameatus-Saifiyah

Inauguration of Raudat Taherah First International GatheringRediscovery of Al-MaghrebChanges in Yemen -- The Vigilant LeaderAl Multaqa -- The Epoch EventMultaqa ResultsAlJame Al-AnwarMagnetic Personality and Constructive ActivityThe Islamic Education Movement LaunchedA Constructive, Positive CelebrationThe Gentle, Dignified FamilyIn Allah's Eternal Care

FOREWARD"75 Momentous Years in Retrospect" presents with essential backgroundinformation important vignettes from the life of Dr. Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin, 52nd incumbent in the Office of Al-Dai-al-Mutlaq.The Book will give the reader not only an understanding of the basic ethos ofthe Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community, but also an insight to an incumbent, hiscommitment to Islam, his great courage in times of crisis, his compassion forthe wellbeing of man, his steadfastness, his eruditions, his piety and hisgeneal warmthof personality.The Author is ideally qualified to narrate the range of events, problems,challenges and achievements of the Fatimi Dawah, which our reader must find

informative and inspire them to a realisation of our blessings andopportunities.Dr. Yusuf Najmuddin is an esteemed brother of 52nd Al-Dai-al-Fatimi and hisclose associate and confidant. He has personal knowledge and experience of thehistory of the Fatimi Dawah covering the period under consideration. He haswitnessed almost all the events barring the two or three recorded in the Bookand was an active participant, being in the thick of all of them with but a fewexceptions.More, Dr. Najmuddin is a brilliant and versatile personality. He is endowed withall the rich qualities that in combination make him unique -- scholar, teacher,thinker, orator, author; wit, courage, memory, discernment and reverence.One and all hail him as in intellectual in the sense that in his very makeup

intellect predominates. His Book is the product of conviction and presents alucid, cogent and moving narration.Tyebally A. Dawoodbhoy


2/24

M.D.H.Attorney-at-Law.

PREFACEAllah be priased. He has endowed man with eyes, the faculty of sight and seeing

and with reason (Al' Aql), the faculty of thinking and discernment. As a resultof this divine endowment, man, is the owner of a process of seeing and thinkingwhich he possesses and uses. And additional blessing is the gift of a vehiclefor expression of the results of that process of sight and reflection. It is themedium for sharing the benefits of the process with fellow human beings.However difficulty does arise in achieveing a wavelenth which could be commonlyshared and understood, because in spite of the advantage of the great facilitythere is always the problem of the mould for the thought process. The mediumthrough which the product of thought process is to be conveyed must be in tunewith what the author sees and experiences. The vehicle to convey it and share it

with others, therefore, requires an appropriate language and apt selection ofterminology. That language due to its inadequacy may not convey what isperceived.Our subject matter is rooted in the Arabic language and the Islamic thoughtprocess. The expression in a foreign tongue has its problems, unsurmountable forone, who does not possess the level of scholarly authorship required for thepurpose. In any case, one must, however, try and strive and indeed that is theonly satisfaction I derive from this presentation, of reminiscences of the lifeof the 52nd Fatimi Dai, in Book form.For a student of history, it will be of interest to learn that the 75 yearscovered fit well into the canvas-story of the Seclusion period, preperation forwhich also stretched over 75 years.

Y. NajmuddinD.Litt.

THE BACKDROPThe writing of this Book is related to the celebration of the 75th Birthday ofthe 52nd Dai-el-Mutlaq. To reminiscence on the life of this great incumbent ofan august office it becomes imperative that one is familiar with the historicalbackground of this religious head of the Dawoodi Bohra brotherhood, which tracesits spiritual heritage from Prophet Mohammed (S.A.) and his Vasi AmirulMoumeneen Moulana Ali (S.A.), son-in-law of the Prophet, and continuing throughthe Imams (A.S.), the progent of Fatima (S.A.), the daughter of Prophet Mohammed(S.A) and Moulana Ali (S.A.). After the epic tragedy of the grandson of theProphet at Kerbala the Fatimi Imams eschewed physical control over territory.However, before the end of the third centruy Fatimi suzerainty was established,when Imam Abdullah Al-Mehdi Billah (297-322 A.H./909-934 A.D.) set out for NorthAfrica and established his religious kingdom in Tunisia and the adjacentterritories. He was succeeded by three Imams and fourth, the celebrated ImamAl-Moiz LeDinillah (341-365 /952-975) established his seat of authority in Egyptin (358/969).

The flourishing kingdom these Imams founded, the noble traditions of thought andphilosophy they fostered, the immense wealth of literature they produced and


3/24

guarded, the resplendent civilisation they established and the wise way of lifethey pursued have all come to be called 'Fatimi' after Fatima, the daughter ofProphet Mohammed (S.A.) and the consort of Imam Ali (S.A.), thus linking twovenerable personalities together.The Fatimi Imams, reigning in glory in Egypt, founded the City of Al-Qahira(Cairo) in the year 358/969 started the renowned centre of learning, Al AzharUniversity, which is the oldest institution of its kind in the world to exist to

this day, and wrote into Egyptian history the unforgettable Fatimi era. Thisperiod and its unrivalled efflorescence of thought, art and culture oweeverything to the Fatimi Imams who were inspired leaders, great builders andlofty thinkers, eminent scholars and writers. It is well established that thehistory of this particular group should really be traced back to the day ofProphet Mohammed (S.A.) himself. One can, however, satisfy himself by choosingthe more restricted canvas and begin from the advent of what is known as theseclusion period which commenced nine centuries ago. It is the seclusion of the21st Imam, Al-Imam al-Tayyib (S.A.) around whom the faith of the Dawoodi Bohrasrevolves.This Fatimi Realm had been functioning for two centuries with Cairo as its

capital. Yet the 18th Imam Al Mustansir Billah (427-487/1035-1094) set afoot thepreparations for the oncoming seclusion period and took definite steps for thatpurpose. The 21st Imam Al-Tayyib left Cairo and chose to stay way from thepublic gaze.It is an article of the Fatimi faith that the Imamat shall continue from 21stImam, in his progent, father to son, and that today an Imam from that augustline exists and that the Dai-el-Mutlaq or El Dai-el-Fatimi, is his vicegerent.This Dai exercises the powers of the Imam.The Fatimi Dawah was now conducted under the leadership of the Imam's deputyknown as 'Dai-el-Mutlaq'. What was undertaken in the form of preparation forthis eventful transfer involved an extended period of nearly seventyfive yearsbecause it meant transfer of religious lore, transfer of a vast manuscript

library, transfer of language, literature and traditions. A significant featureof the Yemen setup was strict avoidance of political activity by the Dawah. Thisnew arrangement would secure for those who belonged to the fold all the benefitswhich they had received under the Fatimi realm in Egypt and much more. What wasconceived was the elimination of political conflicts so that those within thefold function in accordance with the religious beliefs shunning at all timespolitical tensions which are usually linked with the established rule over aterritory or a country. The continuous contentment of the followers would beensured by enforcing a strict code of behaviour. This enforcement would ensurethat the faithful will now conduct their lives in a manner which would ensurefor them all the bounties they had hitherto enjoyed under the Fatimi realm inEgypt. In fact under the new arrangement they will enjoy greater cohesion andstronger brotherly interactions.It was natural that this arrangement itself would be challenged by those whowould take over the power of the Fatimi realm after the departure form Cairo ofthe 21st Imam Al-Tayyib (A.S.). Their attempt to deny the existence of the 21stImam was shrewdly anticipated and enough evidence was established, to prove theexistence of the Imam in seclusion, by the transfer of the Imam's authority tohis deputy who shall function as his vicegerent during the period of seclusionand who shall secure the relationship of the follower with the Imam through theDai's intervention.All through the nine centuries of the seclusion period, through the various upsand downs of history, the community had to face challenges posed as a result of

people attempting to prove the non-existence of the Imam and thereby denying theauthority of his deputy. For nine centuries, the organisation stood up to these


4/24

attempts and proves its strength and resilience to survive through and overcomethese challenges.The 50th Dai-el-Mutlaq, Syedna Abdulla Badruddin (d.1333/1915) appointed Dr.Syedna Taher Saifuddin, who was then only 28 years as the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq. Itwas felt by the forces opposed to the Dawah that, in the circumstances that were

prevailing then, it would not be possible for this young incumbent toconsolidate his position, let apart face the onslaught mounted against him.Syedna Abdulla Badruddin, the 50th in line of Dai-el-Mutlaqs died on 10th ofRabi-el-Awwal 1333/1915. While appointing his successor, the 51st in line, hehad predicted great commotion in Dawah because he foresaw the gathering ofominous clouds.The Dawah organisation simultaneously faced a calculated campaing, set afoot bydisgruntled elements. An attempt was made to cast doubts in the mind of thebeliever, and to the validity of the appointment of 47th Dai Syedna AbdulqadirNajmuddin. Through disbelief and doubt, it was hoped that an open revolt wouldresult.The period from 10th of Rabi-el-Awwal to 20th of Rabi-el-Aakhar, as per

tradition, constituted the 40 day period of mourning for 50th Dai-el-Mutlaq. Onthe 20th of Rabi-el-Aakhar, therefore, the 51st Dai officially sat on the 'gadi'of the Dawah. The new incumbent, Syedna Taher Saifuddin, had no son born to himas yet and therefore no "Kunyah" was taken by him. Precisely on this day ofaccession the son was born. He was given the name of Mohammed and thereupon theillustrious father took for himself the Kunyah of 'Abu Mohammed'.

HERALD OF THE GLAD TIDINGSIn the year 1333 AH on Saturday, the 20th of Rabi-el-Akher (6th March, 1915)Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, a newly born child, opened his eyes and was greatly

favoured to fill his sight with the radiance that emanated from the glowingcountenance of the illustrious father, Syedna Taher Saifuddin. One can onlyremotely guess how much gratified to Allah, the father would have been onreceiving this meaningful bounty.It was indeed a telling omen for Fatimi history. The commencement of thevicegerency of the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq, with all its challenges, and his historicefforts in meeting those challenges, his great accomplishment in taking theDawah organisation to its highest pinnacle, all this was destined to coincidewith the commencement of the life of a successor now under his father's care andtraining. Allah had planned the course of history in such a way that every smalldetail of its canvas seemed to fit in admirably. The commencement of the rule ofthe most illustrious Dai, the 51st in line, and the commencement of the youngsuccessor's life, both were interwined and complementary to each other. It isthis view of a historical fact -- not a mere coincidence -- that is presentedthrough the narration of important milestones in the 75 years' period of thelife of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, the 52nd Dai-el-Mutlaq. The narrationcovers two phases. The first phase relates to the 53 years spent alongside theillustrious father, being trained personally by him while sitting next to himand witnessing the great ascendancy of the Dawah, in an unprecendented way.The second phase relates to the period after the sad demise of the 51st

Dai-el-Mutlaq, Syedna Taher Saifuddin, on the 12th November, 1965. To succeedhim and fulfill the great expectations of the followers who already were raisedto a position never before acquired by the community in its history of nine


5/24

centuries; educationally properly equipped, economically well organised andabove all, religiously firmly rooted. This could be regarded as the takeoffstage for the vicegerancy of the 52nd Dai-el-Mutlaq. It would require all theskill and all the sophistication to preside over the destiny, of an enlightenedcommunity and satisfy all their aroused expectations.

EDUCATION AND UPBRINGINGThe father, with all his erudition and scholarly grasp of subjects, was planninga monumental upsurge of educational activity, for the followers. He hadenvisioned a master plan of education institututions in every community centre,and for this reality prepared the followers in sincerity and achievement. Inthat atmosphere he desired that the education and uprbringing of his son shouldalso proceed. Realising that for these two tasks no one was better suited thanhe himself, he resolved to go forth and find the required time for theselaudable objectives. Never was a day missed. The teaching was a continuousprocess maintained with clockwise precision.

Education in general and especially the erudition in Islamic lore with a firmgrasp over the difficult and complicated Arabic language, is, for all time, akeystone for the educational progress of the community. The success or otherwiseof such activity would always depend upon how people from their differingenvironments would take to the learning of Islamic subjects and the Arabiclanguage. Indeed it is always a battle which must be fought and won.However, on account of activity inimical to the Dawah for over hundred years, apollution had occured resulting in an attempt to weaken the grip over the vasttreasure which was the scintillating heritage of the Dawah. Indiscriminate, evenwrongful interpretation, almost become the order of the day. People with scantybackground and with distorted knowledge of the Arabic language and Fatimi

literature claimed for themselves the right of scholarly erudition. Often in thepast, the Dais going along with the times, did not want a collusion with suchupstarts and gave them a long rope. Now was the time for the 51st incumbent tocry halt and take unto himself the entire orbit of the vast teaching mechanism.He set about forming 'Halqas' and himself undertook to teach them, everyconveivable manuscript, from cover to cover. He would go about it from earlymorning till midnight covering almost over twentyfive "Halqas" per day. Besides,a discourse every Thursday, a ceremonial prayer every Friday and a waaz sermonevery Sunday became the practice.

MISAQ LAQAB AND MOOMIN BALIGHThis process takes us to the age of fifteen which is considered amongst theMuslims, as the age of puberty. This is the stage when every Dawoodi Bohra givesMisaq, the oath of allegiance. It is an event of great jubilation and ceremony.For Syedna Taher Saifuddin, the 51st incumbent, it was indeed more than that.Syedna Taher Saifuddin had in the year 1347 AH completed fourteen yeras of hisDaiship. He had succeeded in consolidating the Dawah by successfully meetingseveral challenges in the judicial field. The very famous Chandabhai Galla caseover, resulting in acknowledgement by the judge concerned of the rightfulappointment of the 47th Dai-el-Mutlaq, Syedna Abdul Qadir Najmuddin. Yet, this

was but one of the fronts on which the enemies of the Dawah operated. There wereseveral cases pending. Most important of them was the Hakimiyah Dargah case at


6/24

Burhanpur. Undeterred by the pincer movement of the opposition onslaught, SyednaTaher Saifuddin now decided to celebrate the Misaq of his son, to coincide withthe commencement of the great educational uplift of the Bohra community. Forthis he chose the city of Surat, the official seat of the Dawah, and in which hehimself would be personally involved. Surat being the Centre of the Dawah and

being the home of the great Arabic Academy was ideally suited for this purpose.On Misaq being administered he was given the laqab of Burhanuddin and elevatedto the rank of 'Moomin Baligh'. The year 1349 marks another milestone in theprogress of the beloved progeny. On the completion of this training period, hewas elevated to the high rank of the 'Haddiyah'. Syedna Taher Saifuddin gives avivid description of how the elevation of the son to the higher pedestal wasachieved. He says :-O, Moomineen!I must relate to you my gratitude to Allah for His Bounty in making it possiblefor me that I should personally undertake the education of my son who I hadnamed Mohammed. When he reached the age of puberty, I had administered the oathof allegiance unto him and raised him to the rank of Moumin Baligh. In the same

year he performed the Haj and Ziyarat of Karbala and Najaf. (Then follows thedescription of the books of Fatimi philosophy which the son was taught by theillustrious father). I then selection him to give a discourse in 'ShehreRamadhan' at the great Masjid which I have constructed. His discourses weregreatly appreciated. People have particularly liked his recitation of theQuraan, strictly conforming with the style and rulesof 'Tajweed'. Especiallywhen he recites the 'Verses of Light' (Ayat-el-Noor) he shines like a brightstar.It is Allah's special bounty unto me that I have been attending the training ofmy son personally despite the enormous burden of work which keeps me verypreoccupied. This year in a congregation of Momeneen, I have raised my sonMohammed Burhanuddin to the high rank of 'Haddiyah' and I administered unto himthe homily. O, young man, show your chivalry in the service of the progeny of

the Prophet. May Allah keep you in His care. Be a good Heir to a goodPredecessor. And remember that the followers of the faith are my children. Inthat way they are your brothers. Give them your pure affection. That is thedemand of your faith.My son today is of 17 years of age. That was my age when I was raised by mypredecessor to the high rank of 'Haddiyah'.We now come to the year 1352. Syedna Taher Saifuddin's great leadership hadtaken the community along the path of success in several fields. The fuits ofhis great effort in the field of education were now reaped. Besides he travelledthroughout the length and breadth of those parts of India where the followers ofthe faith resided. At every center he established an educational unit almostovernight. Such great educational effort to eradicate illiteracy from thecommunity of one million strong both men and women, is indeed without aparallel. Nearly 350 educational units were established through this ardouseducational endeavour.On the other hand, the second stage of the process of education and upbringingof the young son was being very carefully and meticulously attended to by theillustrious father. There was the Arabic and Islamic books -- the fountainsource from which he must drink. There were other aspects of worldly training tomake him accomplished in many a faculty of nowledge, apt in many a field ofsport and physical fitness. For every branch of learning and skill a specialistwas called. The religious side received the chief priority.


7/24

ELEVATION TO RANK OF AL-MAZOON AND APPOINTMENT AS SUCCESSORIn 1352 AH, the process reached a significant stage. The Fatimi Dai raised himto the highest pedestal in the religious heirarchy on the 27th of the month ofRajab. On this auspicious day 13 centuries ago the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.) wasawakened to the call of Allah to convey Allah's message unto mankind. A fewyears later, on the evening of that very day, the Prophet at night was takenfrom Masjide Haram (Ka'aba) to Masjide Aqsa, and from there was taken aloft in

(Me'raj), to beyond the celestial infinity. This was, therefore the mostauspicious day and was so aptly selected. On this day in the city of Surat at agathering of Momeneen at Waaz (sermon) he raised his son to the highest rank ofAl-Mazoon and designated him to be his successor. The entire event is of suchgreat significance and consequence for the Fatimi history that a quotation fromSyedna Taher Saifuddin, though only in abridged form, may be appropriatelyrecorded here:Allah has said: "If you try to count Allah's Bounty, you will not be able to doso". However, He has ordained us to mention Allah's Nemat (bounty). Thismentioning is tantamount to tanksgiving. It is therefore that I am mentioningthe bounties which Allah has endowed me -- How great many they are!The one He has granted me ow is that of enabling me to raise my Luminoous son in

the highest rank of Deen. My son having the name Mohammed and title Burhanuddin,similar to that of my illustrious father -- Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (49thDai) has, indeed, acquired a noble character and very holy roots. With'Bismillah el-Rahman el-Rahim' I started his education, endowing him with thebest in our culture, taught him good manners and enriched him with the landmarksof Islamic philosophy, chapter by chapter, books after books. He has strivedwith me having reached the position from where I took him to the final phase ofthe 'treasures of knowledge' reposed in us by the Fatimi Imams. All this I didwhile the demands on my time were heavy facing the enemies whom the Dawah had to

encounter. I am happy that I have now brought him to the stage, when by Allah'sGrace, he wil become like me.He performed Haj and Ziyarat to Madina, Karbala and Najaf while he was only ofthe age of 15. Since a year he longed to commit to memory Al-Quraan and tilltoday (1352/1934) he has memories one half of the entire Al-Quraan and I am surehe will complete it before long. I hope and pray that Allah may help him tocomplete this commitment fast.When this young man become a perfect learned scholar, I raised him the highestrank of Deen. This was on the day of Mabath that follows the night of Meraj. Ihave also appointed him as my successor and by Allah's grace, he will becomelike me. After me he will take charge of Dawah and shall guide the Moomineen onthe right path.This Luminious son is a perfect man, a man of knowledge and action, a nobleshaikh, having collected numerous merits and above all, having angeliccharacteristics and attributes. By Allah's Grace, he becomes today the "Treasureof Deen", the "Reliance for believers", the "Pride of Mazoons". After me, my sonwill shine out as Dai in the horizon of Dawah calling towards Allah by His will.

BLESSINGS IN THE TRAIL OF NOMINATIONThe appointment of the successor by Syedna Taher Saifuddin brought to the Dawah

great many cleestial blessings. Within a year from that day, the 51st Dai wasenabled to perform the Ziyarat of Karbala and Najaf in Iraq. In itself it was agreat event. But along with celestial honour received in that visit, Syedna


8/24

Taher Saifuddin, with the impact of his great personality, was able to removeseveral misgivings which were prevalent about the Fatimi faith in the minds ofthe learned among the Shias of Iraq.Further, during the auspicious visit he took a memontous decision. The consentof the Government of Iraq was obtained to fabricate in India the silver and goldmausolea for the Mashhad of Imam Husain (S.A.) and Ameerul Mumeneen Ali (S.A.)

and present them to the two sacred shrines.Upon returning to India in a few months' time, another great triumph for theDawah was registered. The Burhanpur suit appeal now pending before the HighCourt of Judicature at Nagpur came for hearing. The learned judge delivered ahistoric judgement ackowledging the Nus (appointment proclamation) of the 46thDai upon the 47th Dai. This big event coincided with the heir apprent havingcompleted the commitment of Al-Quraan by heart. Describing all this, the 51stDai-el-Mutlaq once again writes:Ever since I have appointed my son to be my successor, Allah has gathered for methe bounties of this world and the Hereafter. Because shortly after that I wasfortunate in performing the Ziyarat at Karbala and Najaf.

Thereafter, Allah gave us this great victory in the Court of Law. All this is aresult of the auspiciousness of this young man, Burhanuddin. Indeed, he has nowcommitted Al-Quraan completely to heart. Last year he had completed half of it.May Allah keep him as a source of happiness for the Imam, and as a shining jewelon the forehead of the Dawah.These accounts of events show that ever since the appointment of the successor,all manner of achievements were registered and the glory of the Dawah enhancedseveral fold. Mention must be made to a decision of Syedna Taher Saifuddin. Itwas of great significance and one which had a very far reaching result.

MANSUR-el-YEMENThe Yemen, from where the seat of the Dawah was transferred four centuries ago,was under the rule of a Zaidi Imam. The followers of the Fatimi faith theresuffered great hardships. For nearly seventyfive years, they were prevented fromany significant contacts with the center of Dawah, now situated in India.For the Dawoodi Bohras in Yemen, under a severe autocratic policy, it was aperiod of severe hardship, persecution and repression. Several Bohra leaderswere tortued and put in prison. The Mausoleum of Syedna Hatim, the 3rd FatimiDai was demolished by the authorities, signifying their intolerance of Fatimifaith and its followers.While this was happening, it is also true, and events of later years have provedit, that a pollution in the beliefs had also crept in with some who happened tobe the leaders of the faith in Yemen.Little was known at that time at the Dawah Headquarters in India that the deputyof the Dai-el-Mutlaq, a person known as 'Naib' had himself been subjected tothis pollution. In fact, the Naib gave the 'Bai'ah' (pledge of allegiance) tothe Zaidi Imam. When this was known to Syedna Taher Saifuddin, he pronouncedgreat resentment. However, not much could be done to remedy the situation due tothe attitude of persecution by the Zaidi regime. This incident really took placebefore 1355 AH. Syedna Taher Saifuddin went for Haj in the year 1355. He took

the occassion to call the Naib from Yemen to Mecca and strongly reprimanded himfor his serious act of commission when he gave the 'Bai'ah' to the Zaidi Imambehind the back of the Dai in India.


9/24

The center of the Dawah was transferred to India from Yemen 400 years ago. Afterthat no Fatimi Dai had visited Hamdan or Heraz. The situation for the faithfulwas full of tension and fear. The regime kept itself aloof from all foreigncontact. In this atmosphere Syedna Taher Saifuddin decided 1392/1961 to allowhis son, the heir apprent, to visist the Yemen, to perform the Ziyarat of theFatimi Dais there and to meet the followers. Several cables were sent to the

Yemen authorities seeking visas and requesting for ordinary courtesies duringthe visit. No response was forthcoming. At this point, Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin who had already arrived at Aden was directed to proceed over theland route, depending on Allah alone. On crossing the Yemen border at a placecalled Raheda, the border guards were observed. They were standing at attention.Naturally the land rover caravan was halted. After a few exchanges it becameclear that the guards had instructions to welcome a prince from India. SyednaBurhanuddin thereupon was received as the guest of the Zaidi Imam.Taiz, the temporary capital of the Zaidi Imam, was the first city on the way.Here the contacts with Imam's emissary resulted in the pronouncement by theDeputy Foregin Minister, that the guests were welcome in Yemen and would be the

Imam's guests throughout the journey in Yemen. A special car and a securityofficer will remain in attendance. Nearly 25 days of laborious journey proved tobe a forerunner for what happened in Yemen thereafter. In fact, later historyconfirmed that the tremendous risk of undertaking the journey was not onlyworthwhile but also of great historic value for the Fatimi Dawah.There was great jubiliation amongst the followers all over the world over thisvisit. It was the first visit after 400 years since the Center of the Dawah wastransferred from Yemen to India, undertaken by a dignitory of the Dawah destinedto become a Dai himself.A programme was arranged that Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin returning from Yemenvia Aden, would visit Karachi for a few days. From Karachi he would fly direct

to Delhi and from Delhi, he would travel by train and alight at Surat whereSyedna Taher Saifuddin will receive him and accord him a welcome befitting thegreat historic journey undertaken.Once again there was a very happy coincidence: A litigation was pending in theIndian Supreme Court where the Dawah was involved, and a prayer was made that aparticular Act called the 'Prevention of ex-communication Act' was ultra viresthe Constitution of India. The plea was heard and the judges of the SupremeCourt upheld the plea. This was, in fact, the day when Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin reached Delhi by air from Karachi. As he landed at the Airport, thelawyer form Bombay, who had gone there to plead on behalf of the Dawah, wasobserved at the departure lounge. In fact, he was there to catch the eveningplane to Bombay. He shouted from where he was and gave the good news of thegreat victory of the Dawah in the Supreme Court.Of course, this added to the jubilation. The occassion of welcoming the HeirApparent also became an occasion to rejoice over a great victory.The welcome at Surat was historic and the celebrations continued when the 51stDai-el-Mutlaq brought his son along with him to Bombay. Here at a greatgathering of the followers, he conferred on the Heir Apparent the title of'Mansur-el-Yemen', a significant title meaning 'the one who was given allsuccour by Allah, in Yemen'.

DAWAH IN INDIA ENLIGHTENED POLICYThe 21st Imam left Cairo around 526 A.H., almost nine centuries ago and

transferred the Dawah to the Yemen, restricting jurisdiction to the threeterritories of the Yemen, the Sind and the Hind. These three territories hadbeen already clubbed together by the 18th Al Mustansir Billah (A.S.) as one


10/24

single administrative unit. Ever since then, the followers of the Dawah, now inits restricted role, were bound together by the common bond of religiousdiscipline. They now constituted a cosely knit society. The strict code ofbehaviour laid down ensured for it a very purposeful and peaceful existence inthis world and the emancipation in the hereafter.Leaders of the community (Dai-el-Mutlaq) always urged the followers that theylive together as a group. Even when the followers spread out to new centers,

they were encouraged to opt for a group-existence, in new centers. This enabledthem to conduct themselves as a religious entity strict in the observances offaith, enterprising in commerce, trade and industry and always mindful of theireducational needs as an enlightened community.After the transfer of the Dawah from Yemen to India, there arose the possibilityof spreading out from limited centres in the Western and Northern parts ofGujarat. The followers were advised to move in groups, say, not less thanfifteen families. In their new location they were asked to build a Masjid oftheir own, a Madrasah for educating their children, a Jamaatkhana for communityobservances, and a Musafirkhana as a service to fellow members who would comethere either to settle down or in furtherance of their commercial activities.

They were further advised to occupy themselves in trade and business and as faras possible avoid service-oriented occupations. Of course, it was in theirinterest and so they were advised, never to get involved in political pulls orconfrontations against the powers that be. Their trade units were to function asa model for others to follow. Higher principles should not be forsaken orsacrificed for the sake of temporary or momentary gains. In this way they earneduniversal renown and repute as a community of good and honest traders. In fact,commerce and trade almost became a part of the community character and aheritage. This, of course, required very excellent education. Provision for itwas always made in accordance with the requirements of the times. In social andreligious matters as well as in consultations for promotion of trade and

commerce it was always the central authority, the Dai-el-Mutlaq to whom thefollowers looked up to and from where emanated the benevolent and valuableguidance and advice.It was to preside over this very enlightened community at a crucial juncture ofits history that a leader was chosen, with special qualities of head and heart,who would lead them from one height onward to yet more heights, unprecedented inits long chequered history.

THE GREAT GRIEFSyedna Taher Saifuddin, the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq, having been the first Dai tocomplete 53 yeras of illustrious incumbency at the age of 80, in the year1385/1965 on the eve of Friday, at midnight, on 19th of Rajab (12 March 1965)left this world. The departure was so sudden and so unexpected that the entirecommunity was engulfed in an unprecedented grief. The whole setup of the Dawah,as it were, was embroiled in turmoil. The 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq had in his 53 yerasof Daiship, brought his followers in faith, in sincerity, in loyalty, so closeto him that it was not only a relationship of the leader and the followers butmore than that. A father so loving, so caring, so worrying about the smallest oftheir problems, suddenly left them. In grief, in astonishment and inuncertainty, the followers felt orphaned.

But soon a sooting call came from Syedna Mohammed Burnauddin, after he hadbrought the body of Syedna Taher Saifuddin, from Matheran where he died, to hisresidence at Bombay -- "Saifee Mahal". He addressed a crowd of thousands who had


11/24

gathered there. He, of course, made reference to the sad departure of the 51stincumbent. But he was quick to ad, "for you -- the 52nd Dai-el-Mutlaq is here!"The pressure of the sudden passing away of Syedna Taher Saifuddin and theawareness of the enromous call to duty which engulfed the new incumbent, isindeed difficult to conceive even more so to describe in words. However, onecould see that he wasw an embodiment of courage and determination. He kept his

gaze steadfastly on the immediate tasks. This was the time when he stood like arock in the midst of pounding and blinding waves of emotion and despair.The choice of the burial place was the first important decision to make. In thecity of Bombay, the proper place had to be found. All sorts of suggestions wereput across. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, fully in command of the situation,reserved to himself the choice and announced it himself. One felt that acelestial light guided him on to the spot where years ago the sacred Mausolea ofAmeer-el-Momeneen (A.S.) and Imam Husain (A.S.) were fabricated. Allah guidedthe Imam's deputy to select this place for the burial of his predecessor, whowas undoubtedly the most illustrious Dai-el-Mutlaq of all times.Peopel from all walks of life who came to comform and to offer sympathy

especially the followers in their thousands, found in the new Head of theCommunity solace and inspiration.Forty days of mourning ended with the onset of Shehre Ramazan and thereforethirty more days were added to the reciatation of the Quraan for the sould ofthe beloved 51st Dai.In the month of Ramazan, the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq was accustomed to hecticactivity in all fields. The 52nd Dai-el-Mutlaq, followed in the footsteps of hisfather and continued with all the traditions and practices without any changewhatsoever.

RAUDAT TAHERAYet one of the first major decisions was to conceive the design and thedimensions of the mausoleum that has since then become renowned as RaudatTaherah. He gave the architect his own concept. It was to be a Mausoleum inwhite marble, a simple structure, incorporating many interesting features ofFatimi architecture and calligraphy. Yet it would be a unique structure of greatsignificance and unprecedented architectural achievement.The design and feature of the Mausoleum were conceived to record the Dai's greatpersonality, his scholarship in Islamic lore, his philosophy in the conduct ofthe Dawah, the outstanding events of his life and his special effort to trainand mould a successor like unto him. On the four walls the inscription of theentire Quraan was planned. A manuscript copy of the Quraan engraved in goldwhich the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq regularly recited, was selected for transcribing onthe four walls, page after page, from the beginning to the end. This in itselfwas an admirable feat. Below the Quraan were engraved his Arabic writings, bothprose and poetry. The selection of appropriate quotations was a meaningfulprocess of educational value so much so that sitting even today in the masouleumand perusing the inscribed treasure, one comprehends in depth the 51st Dai'sphilosophy rooted in the teachings of the Quraan. The 51-feet square base andthe 80-feet height of Raudat Taherah indicate the length of his incumbancy andhis age respectively.

The adjacent Fatimi Masjid with seventeen mehrabs signify the composite fivecompulsory prayers of night and day.The Fatimi architectural features incorporated in Raudat Taherah pay eloquent


12/24

tribute to Fatimi Egypt and a Fatimi Dai, ten centuries remore in time formFatimi Imams, yet splendidly blended into one long uninterrupted chain oflearning, piety and dedication to Islam.

THE SMOOTH TRANSITION

It must be remembers that during 53 years, the 51st Dai-el-Mutlaq, with tenacityof purpose had fashined an administrative mechanism for the functioning of theDawah and the management and control of the community's assets and property. Theexpectations of the followers, now raised to the highest pitch in the history ofthe community, had to be fulfilled. All this required a rare quality of skilland personal charisma. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin brought these virtues toserve the Dawah and so ensured a smooth and effective transition. In fact, thethousands of visitors who came to Saifee Mahal found the same environment, thesame sagacity, the same fatherly approach. Many amongst them failed to notice

that a new incumbent was in charge. In the history of the 850-year old seclusionperiod, this could be recorded as the smoothest and most efficient transitionperiod from one Dai to another.Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin was not oblivious to the purity of the soul and mindof the follower. He demanded true loyalty and honesty of belief and action. Thefollowers responded richly to the relentless teaching and guidance of their Dai.They became more than ever before, aware of their obligations under the faithand their rights as sincere followers and good citizens. They yearned to live afull and purposeful life whilst at the same time exerting their utmost for thewellbeing of Allah's creation without distinction of align or creed. This was

the new atmosphere discernable everywhere by any good observer.

RECOGNITION BY INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OF LEARNINGIn 1385/1965, 52nd Fatimi Dai visited Cairo, on the special invitation of theEgyptian Government. The oldest University of the world and the renowned seat ofIslamic learning, Al-Azhar, conferred and Syedna Burhanuddin a Doctorate(Honoris Causa). The citation read:The President has graciously issued a decree to grant the Sultan, the degree ofAalamiyah (Doctorate) in Islamic Sciences (Honoris Causa). It originated on therequest made to him by the University of Al-Azhar of its keeness to honour theSultan of Bohra, and the Bohras in general, represented truly in their mostexcellent leader and lofty Sultan.He continued:the Bohras (by whatever Allah has graced them of wealth) intend to help thepoor, educate the illiterate, succour the bereft and engage in devoutness andcharity of people who embrace the loyalty and fidelity for Allah's Messenger andrecognition of his Ahle-Bait's (progeny's) right.Portraying Dr. Syedna Taher Saifuddin in detail, he said:The late Sultan, besides his generosity for good causes was an authority onIslamic and Arabic sciences. Addedly he was a man of letters and a poet whoseworks flow with love for Ahl-e-Bait and in their glorification, and approxmation

to Allah through this love. Above all, he was the Chancellor of the MuslimUniversity of Aligarh.


13/24

Proceeding further he said of Dr. Syedna Burhanuddin:Gentlemen, if the son is true to his father as the experiences testify, then theImam, the Sultan Mohammed Burhanuddin has broadness of vision, interest inlearning and knowledge, sincerity in Allah and keeness in approximity of Islamicsects. These make the hope in him stronger and the good expected of him and that

will make him a good successor to a good predecessor, Insha Allah.The late Sultan, as I know, stood for a rational call for the approximity of theIslamic sects in spite of their differences in their schools of Fiqh. It was hiskeen desire that man of learning should turn away from in-fighting and divertattention to dispelling the doubts against Islam cast by the enemies of Islam.With this generous spirit and good hope I announce the Presidential decree bywhich he has granted the degree of Aalamiyah (Doctorate) Honoris Causa, from theUniversity of Al-Azhar to El-Syed, Al-Ustaz Al-Allamah Mohammed Burhanuddin, the

Imam of the Bohra Muslim Community.Likewise Aligarh Muslim University, India, held a special convocation to confera Doctorate (Honoris Causa). On that occassion the Vice Chancellor said:His Holiness belongs to an illustrious family, the custodians of the Fatimitradition. That tradition stands for the highest moral and spiritual values inlife and constitutes the basis of a society governed by high principles ofconduct. A scion of the Fatimi Imams who founded Al-Azhar University in Cairo,the oldest university in the world, Syedna is himself the embodiment of learningand piety. In recognition of these great qualities, it was in the fitness ofthings that Al-Azhar University itself should have been the first to confer upon

him, the very year, the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Islamic Sciences.Besides being himself a scholar, His Holiness is a patron of learning who hasbeen brought up in the traditions of his great father and has, therefore, bothinherited and himself cultivated a broad and liberal humanism. This qualitypermeates the conduct of his high spiritual office, his bearing as a person andhis relations with men. I seed due recognition of his eminence by thisUniversity.That recognition of the 52nd Fatimi Dai's scholarship and erudition followed asimilar tributed paid to the father and predecessor in office. Dr. Syedna TaherSaifuddin earned international distinction as a savant, scholar, educationist,writer and master of the Arabic language and Islamic lore. From early age to theend of his life he strived ceaselessly to make his followers cent per centliterate. For this he onducted alignes and delivered discourses and establishedinstitutions of learning at all levels. He gave munificently and continuously tothe cause of public education. He wrote Arabic prose and poetry, voluminously.So outstanding a personality was chosen by the Aligarh Muslim University to beits distinguished Chancellor not once, but for four consecutive terms and thattoo uncontested.And when he was no more, the University published a special gazette to tell theworld that--His Holiness entered upon the high office of the spiritual head (51stDai-el-Mutlaq) of the Dawoodi Bohras, an enterprising community of just over amillion spread all over the world, in 1915. Since assuming the spiritual

leadership of his community. His Holiness attempted to introduce modernisationon the basis of constructive work and accomplished success to a remarkabledegree. He pursued a programme of reconstruction and development. Removal of


14/24

illiteracy, provision of facilities for education, introduction of technicalbias in schools, training for worthwhile occupations, crafts and trades, accenton a life of sweat, self-reliance and devoted service to fellowmen, medical aidand relief, stimulus to cooperative enterprise and the steady diversion oftalent and resource to industry were some of the major aspects of thedevelopmental work he had been carrying on.His Holiness was a reputed scholar, thinker, writer, having numerous works of

spiritual and philosophic significance to his credit. A fluent writer in Arabic,his writings have evoked wide admiration.His Holiness was greatly respected not only in India, but also in many othercountries, particularly in the countries of West Asia, North and East Africa andSouth-east Asia. His Holiness had widely travelled and keeping in touch with hisfollowers in various parts of the world.His Holiness was an outstanding philantrophist.In theis resounding way, father and son, the 51st and 52nd Dais exemplified the1400 years old Fatimi traditions of learning and scholarship.

HOSTILITY, DISRUPTION AND SUBVERSIONMeanwhile, in the hostile camp there was an upsurge of new venomous activity.They were jubilant over the passing away of Dr. Syedna Taher Saifuddin. Secretmeetings were held at Surat and Bombay, and a decision taken to attack the newHead of the Community swiftly and vigorously. In their estimation, he did nothave the capacity for meeting a united onslaught. It is known that some of thosewho came from Yemen, ostensibly to offer condolences, also got involved in theseintrigues and malicious deliberations. To all this, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin

responded with composure and fortitude. He placed total reliance on Allah'sgrace and the inspiration of the Imam and went about managing the affairs of thecommunity with firmness and consolidated the position. The hostile camp ofdisbelievers had a coterie inside the ranks of Aljameatus Saifiyah ArabicAcademy, located at Surat. This goup consisted of a few of the top rankingteachers who had successfully concealed their inimical beliefs and attitudes forfour decades. For forty years they had, under the disguise of scholars, teachersand even obedient followers, carried on an unobtrusive and subversive campaign.Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin was the first to become aware of this subversiveAljamea group. He discerned the infidelity which was at the root of theiractivities. However, this was a case that called for extra caution. Top-ladderteachers at the Academy of long standing were involved. But fate aided a pureDai. Events unfolded in quick succession. The power of Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin's luminous personality and his serene and sagacious approach createdan atmosphere which forced the guilty members' consciences to confess theirsins. It was truy a miraculous development and milestone in the recent historyof the Dawah. Syedna in this way purged the Academy and the Dawah of rot anddecay. The cancer was excised and a new course set for the onward progress of arenowned and historic Academy.

AL-JAMEATUS-SAIFIYAHWhen the centre of the Dawah was transferred from Yemen to India, it also meant


15/24

the transposing of the literary treasures of the Dawah to the new location.These treasures consisted of very valuable manuscripts brought from Egypt toYemen and continually augmented thereafter. This transfer, however, was mademore difficult and entailed more strenous efforts. It was a transfer to anon-Arabic area, being undertaken for the first time. It was more like atransplant, as it meany carrying even the appropriate soil along with thesapling.

Yet those who undertook it, did so with great devotion and care. But in Indiathey were faced with challenges of teaching Arabic to non-Arab students also.For this purpose they evolved a methodology of their own, with great success.In India the teaching institutde was always located where the seat of Dawahwould be. One hundred and fifty years ago it was brought to Surat where the seatof the Dawah came by the 43rd Dai-el-Fatimi Syedna Abdeali Saifuddin (A.Q.). Itwas known as El-Dars-el-Saifi.This oldest centre of Islamic learning in the sub-continent, nay Far East wasgiven a new light by the 51st Dai-el-Fatimi, when he initiated a new educationalupsurge and freed it from the clutches of the so called self-styled Ulemas.

El-Dars-el-Saifi was developed on new lines. In tune with the Fatimi philosophyof blending the old and eternal with the new and beneficial, a philosophy knownas SUNNAT THALETHA the (third tradition) along with the traditional subjects,new and modern subjects covering social and physical sciences, English languageand literature were introduced. Probably it was the first Islamic Institute inIndia to introduce such subjects. With such a wide range of subjects and variedactivities it became aptly known as Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah. It has to its creditmany firsts, and one significant amongst them is the revival of Fatimi art andarchitecture, and a new trend in the study of Fatimi heritage.Aljamea is the central institute, responsible under the direct supervision ofFatimi Dai for the turn-out of community leaders and intellectual wealth. Assuch it was rightly deemed as custodian of the community's intellectual growth.Syedna Burhanuddin's munificence to this Academy was far greater in every

respect. The Academy was beneficiary of a rebuilding programme chalked out bySyedna Taher Saifuddin. A new masjid for the Academy was built by him. SyednaMohammed Burhnauddin continued the building process under which 180years oldstructures will be replaced and an enlarged campus suited to the moderneducational needs created. In this way a worthy successor has provided amonumental upsurge for the Fatimi philosophy of learning and upbringing assignified by Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah.He also made it known internationally by its participation in internationalseminars and conferences, by its degrees being recognized by variousuniversities and academies, and by its programme of expansion of its teachingservices.Syedna Burhanuddin like his illustrious predecessor not only takes keen interestin the many faceted develpments of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah but also conducts andguides its annual examination, which by itself is an event of literary andcultural merit.

INAUGURATION OF RAUDAT TAHERAH FIRST INTERNATIONAL GATHERINGMeanwhile the construction work at the Mausoleum in Bombay was nearingcompletion. The opening ceremony befitted the granduer of a unique monumnet everconceived. The President of India came for the inauguration. Ministers,dignitaries and scholars from the Islamic world assembled to pay their homage to

the great departed leader. The solemnity and atmosphere of this memorablededication was expressed by Syedna Burhanuddin and His Excellency Fakhruddin Ali


16/24

Ahmed respectively in the following words.Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin addressed the interational gathering ofdistinguished guests. He said:You, the great and worthy sons of your respective lands, your visit is both agracious gesture of goodwill and inspiration to our people and a demonstrationof that magnanimity of heart, which has brought you here to pay remembrance

posthumously to the late leader. I pray to Allah for conferment of His favoursupon you for this tender act of friendship.Mr. President and honourable guests, Raudat Taherah, which includes a masjid andthe mausoleum, is a unique piece of architecture in the annals of our ancientcountry. It is a deliberate, composite combination of the eminent architecturalstyles of bygone centuries woven in to the present in a meaningful way. Just asRaudat Taherah combines the essence of the Fatimi teachings, tradition andarchitecture, so did the versatile personality of His late Holiness reflect theembodiment of the tenents of our religious faith and the essence of itscontinuity. Every brick, stone, word and tone of this mausoleum bears testimonyto the love and lobour of more than half a million people. Here significant

personalities of several friendly countries and of India have come togetherunder your Presidentship. This would have been impossible without the active andbenevolent cooperation of the Government of our great democracy. We express ourhearty thanks to the leaders of the Government of India through you. Let thisauspicious day usher in more success in your eventful life.Dear guests, my father, and predecessor who is buried here, was the 51stDai-el-Mutlaq (Spiritual Head) of our fellowship. He held this high office forfiftythree years continuously, an honour that was vouchsafed to him alone in ourhistory of eight centuries. He employed well this divine opportunity to spreadthe message of common good and world peace; he generated an atmosphere ofself-confidence and mutual help; his benevolence knew no bounds of caste and

creed, embraced the different Muslim sects and instilled the wisdom that DawoodiBohras must follow his example in dealing with their compatriots; must earntheir confidence and participate equally in their festive or restive moods.Thus, a small community attained social prestice and earned a position tohounour in India and the Muslim world at large. They grew in numbers and staturetoo.Mr. President and dear friends, permit me to interpret a fact and expressappreciation of a reality. The coming together of this concourse of guests andfreinds from various lands and faiths to join us and share in the happiness ofthis memorable event is both an encouragement to a minorty community and amanifestation of your solicitude for the Muslims of India. That is the patentfact. The reality is that this fact is a practical manifestation of the workingof Indian secularism vis-a-vis organised religious institutions in the so calledmodern and irreligious world.His Excellency the President said:I had the privilege of knowning Syedna Saifuddin Saheb intimately. He was a manof great personal charm, erudition, ripe wisdom and high moral character. Thisdistinguished gathering that has assembled here today stands testimony to hispopularity not only in India but also abroad. He always tried to strengthen thebonds of friendship between India and the Arab world and also between Asians andAfricans in East Africa. The unique Mausoleum in which the whole of Holy Quraan

is engraved is indeed an appropriate tribute to the memory of this man of pietyand learning.The Dawoodi Bohra Community came to India about four centuries ago. They chose


17/24

to cast their lot with India in view of the religious tolerance prevailing inthis country. I am happy to say that you have completely integrated yourselveswith India's body-politic, adopted the indigenous language as your mothertongue. It give me great pleasure to visit this Mausoleum and to pay my homageto His Holiness the late Dr. Syedna Taher Saifuddin. This is a fitting memorialto Syedna Saifuddin Saheb, who throughout his life served the cause of religionwith devotion and dedication and strove hard to strengthen the bonds of

friendship among the peoples of world.

REDISCOVERY OF AL-MAGHREBSyedna Taher Saifuddin was the first Dai to visit Al-Qaherah (Cairo) after theseclusion of the 21st Imam. Likewise, Syedna Burhanuddin was the first Dai everto travel to North Africa in the year 1389/1969 and familiarised himself withthe Fatimi history of the countries over which the Imams rules before theironward march to Egypt (358.969). Libya, Tunisa and Algeirs were visited. Thegovernments of each of these countries accorded the heir to the Fatimi rule anofficial welcome and provided all the facilities for an indepth study tour. It

was noteworthy to observe that the experts of these lands aided the Fatimi Daito locate historic sites, availing of information contained in manuscripts ofthe Dawah library brought from India by the Dai. In this way the trip to NorthAfrica undertaken after the Haj became a voyage of discovery of significanthistoric and educational value for the students of Fatimi history andliterature.

CHANGES IN YEMENTHE VIGILANT LEADERSyedna Mohammed Burhanuddin who was now popularly known by the rare title ofMansur-el-Yemen, next turned his special attention to the followers in Yemen.

Their isolation and lukewarm attitude to Deen and Aqeedah had to be corrected.The greatest obstacle to change would come from one who was the Dai's deputy inYemen. Although the Zaidi regime was overthrown and a new Revolutionary Republicestablished, the deputy and those around him refused to move with the newsituation and continued in practices totally unwarranted in the changedcircumstances. Syedna Burhanuddin took a bold decision and took away theauthority of the deputy. Earlier he sent his son, Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin toYemen with specific instructions that after obtaining the permission of the newGovernment, he should start the rebuilding of the mausoleum of Syedna Hatim, the3rd Dai-el-Mutlaq at Al-Hutaib-al-Mubarak. This construction was a signal forthe truthful followers, that their affairs would now take a positive turn. Therewas great jubilation over the dedication of the rebuilt mausoleum. ShahzadaSaifuddin was given the title of 'Aqeeq-el-Yemen'. In this way the ravages ofdilution and pollution of faith taking place for over a century, were checked.An all round yearning for progress in all fields was discernible.Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin took charge of the office of the Dai-el-Mutlaq at atime when India as well as other nascent nationas were on the threshold of avery gigantic development process. Foreign domination was ended. The aspirationsof the populace soared sky-high. There were formidable stresses and strains.Everything seemed to be moving towards a new orientation. Every institution

battled with the forces of change and development.The far flung centers of the Dawoodi Bohra Community too had to speedily marchforward and fulfill hopes and aspirations, but without injury to their tap rots


18/24

of faith and well tried traditions. To achieve that for a brotherhood comprisingof many diversified nationalities and environments, required a vigilantleadership with sophitication in management. The training provided by SyednaTaher Saifuddin, with care and concern, was now put to the test. Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin's suave personality was not found wanting. He provided the needed

leadership, well and admirably.

AL MULTAQA -- THE EPOCH EVENTIt is always the anxiety of a good religious leader to provide proper and timelyadvice and guidance. More so, the Dai of a minuscule denomination has to ensurethe practice of a prstine faith free of dilution and pollution. Towards thisgoal Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin addressed himself. A "Multaqa" was called atAljamea-tus-Saifiyah in the year 1399/1978. This was an international gatheringto which Dawoodi Bohras from all walks of life were invited. Open debate and

discussion were combined with freedom to ask questions which were answered.Inaugurating that Seminar, in his lucid address, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddinvery aptly pointed out:I have called you together at this Multaqa, to provide through it, thatsustenance which will nourish you in this world and the hereafter.I foresee for this Multaqa a position of eminence today and for the morrow. Itshall open the gates to guidance and provide ways and means to discharge theduty of obedience to Allah, His prophets and the Vali-ul-Amr. They are thechosen of Allah, worthy of obedience. By Allah's grace and of Ilham ofImam-el-Zaman, I endeavour to edify through this Multaqa and such other Multaqasin the future.Today, we face scientific and technical advance, the result of man's learning

and research. The achievement in reality is the work of the Creator, the Wiseand in consonance with the Will of the Almighty, the Omniscient. What shouldfollow and reason requires it, is that man's devotion and humility to the powerof Allah and submission to it should be strengthened. But man was beguiled bySatan.He denied the Creator and went astray. Profiting from the bounties of Allah andderiving the maximum advantage from the wonders of Creation, man yet renouncedthe Creator and obedience to Him. Not merely that but more, man matchesdisobedience with further disobedience and stumbles in error, turning fromobedience to allah to worship of Satan. He taints society with his false andungrateful ideology and ventures of mislead and oppress, perpetrating a sin. Hisopposition to Allah extends even to the persecution of the faithful servant ofAllah. He threatens the Deen of Allah and its believers. He glorifies in hisignorance by denying to the faithful knowledge of things he himself is ingonrantof.We also face another group; those who are zealous for Deen but lack intellectualconsciousness and apprehension. Their faith stands on a shaky foundation. Theyreject the wonders of Allah and His Omnipotence and refuse to even think aboutit. In this frame, they inadvertently aid the foes of Allah's Deen and those whohave a vested interest in plotting against it.Therefore the believer is obliged to tend both these spheres. He must combine

the knowledge that ensures fulfilment in this world with the knowledge thatguarantees the Hereafter. That knowledge requires a comprehension andconsciousness of the rairities of the arts and encompasses learning and wisdom,


19/24

particularly gnosis of the religious need and of Shariah.I urge the faithful believers who have rallied round the banner of this Multaqa,to carefully study that which the noble Fatimi guides have prescribed for a pureand happy life in this world and for emancipation in the hereafter, leading toan eternal blissful life.

Know ye, that the acquision of life in this world of sublimity and baseness, isbut death; but, for him who dies in the fold of Deen, is life. So strive toacuire that which gives life over life and eschew that which is death and indeedthe death. Heeding what the true sages have said that the world is nothing; havethe wisdom to gain something from nothing.As votaries of the truth, we must comprehend the wisdom of Imam Al Moiz:If Truth was a path, and if Falsehood was a path, both would claim on equalstatus, giving to each a basis. And Falsehood, if granted a basis, would knockdown Truth. The basis is but for Truth only. Falsehood is nullified, denied thebasis.

Misled are those who allege that Islamic Shariah has not inherent within it thatwhich does harmonize with the needs of their times. Thus they hope to establishthe imperfection of the Shairah, which we know is the perfect most of allShariah, the most complete and thenobles. The detractors engage in a comparisonof the Shariah with man-made social orders that they have attempted to perfect.Their is a claim of perfection, the claim of those who themselves are imprefect,transitory and perish even before they can witness the end result of theirhandiwork. Truly the Shariah is laid down to eliminate human imperfection. Itsobjective is to usher in betterment, wellbeing and contentment.The purpose of Shariah is :

to preserve spiritual health and to regain such lost health.the reaping of the rewards of both Deen and Duniya and the good and bettermentof Creation.emancipation of the soul from the burden of the world and the depredations ofman and attachment of eternal peace and the bliss of the inhabitants ofParadise.Biased attacks on the Shariah and subversive activity against it is the resultof evil thought, imperfect beliefs, short-sightedness, inertia, lack ofcomprehension to receive that which is beyond their capacity and the attempt toknow before attaining the ability to absorb. The knowledge of Shariah must beimbibed from those whom Allah has chosen as its torch bearers and who hold thekeys to its kingdom. Learning through the proper channel is easy, and whengained otherwise, proves to be the cause of harm and danger of going astray.

MULTAQA RESULTSMultaqa proved most beneficial and had far reaching consequences indeed. Thecommunity, as a result, had not to embark also upon the process of purifyingtheir trade practices so as to become free of interest-oriented transactions.The giving of interest and taking of it is aboslutely prohibited by Islam.Whatever pollution that had come about in trading practice because of theconstraints of the times had to be cleansed. For many business houses it meant acomplete orientation so as to conform with strict Islamic practices.

This was indeed a painful and deterring challenge. Yet, under the sure guidanceof Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, his determination and his help, a great manybusiness houses set about achieving the goal and finally succeeded. it is


20/24

interesting to note the fact that those who accepted the challenge and persistedwith faith and will, very quickly found prosperity coming their way. Not asingle case of failure was recorded.Along with the strict observance of Quranic injunction on 'riba' (interest) wasalso introduced the economic philosophy of Qarzan Hasanah (Good Loan) soemphatically preached by Islam.

So strong was the urge and will to honour Islam, that Syedna MohammedBurhanuddin has the singular distinction of being the pioneer ininstitutionalising Qarzan Hasanah. He established public trusts, donated largesums towards their corpus and spelt out the primary object as the grant ofQarzan Hasanah. These trusts now fruitfully function in many countries of theworld. The aggregate capital today of these Trusts would amount to crores ofrupees.

ALJAME AL-ANWARThis narration would not be complete without mention of the monumental

contribution by the 52nd Fatimi Dai in renovating and restoring the Masjid knownas 'ALJAME AL-ANWAR'.This masjid was constructed in the year 380/981. Further extension commenced in393/995 and was completed in 403/1005. It is the fourth biggest throughout theIslamic World and Second largest in Cairo. It has 4000 metres of Quranicinscription running along the walls of the Masjid. It is one of the rarestarchitectural wonders of the Islamic World and is revered as the 'Gem of FatimiCairo'.Its restoration and renovation was indeed the biggest undertaking in themovement for resuscitation of Fatimi relics. In Egypt, there are nearly 100archealogical teams from various Christian and Western Sources. Under SyednaMohammed Burnauddin's direction this was the only Islamic group coming from the

East.Even UNESCO hesitated to undertake the work because of its extraordinaryresponsibility. Research was involved, the architectural affinity and the spiritof that age had to be strictly observed and Fatimi kufi script re-written. Theinitial removal of dirt, debris and squalor of nearly 29,000 cubic metersfilling the edifice, in itself meant a painful job. However, notwithstanding allthe impediments and bottlenecks, work was carried out in the face of challengeswith dedication and determination. The then Presiden of Egypt performed theinauguration at the onset of the 15th Century (Hijrah), of the renovated andre-furbished masjid. The know-how employed in this major undertaking camelargely from India.

MAGNETIC PERSONALITY AND CONSTRUCTIVE ACTIVITYThe personality of the 52nd Dai has a magnetism of its own. Wherever he goes hedraws huge crowds who come to receive his blessings and seek his guidance andadvice. There are also those who merely desire to observe his celestialcountenance and find the celestial glow in comform form its saintly glowenhanced by a serene smile. Physically he has evolved a life style which allowshim enough time, even after his prayers and religious programme, to deal withthe files that are submitted for his directions. It is said that no file everremains with him for more than 24 hours.

Crisis of every kind found him unruflled. Decisions being part of prayer aretaken calmly, deliberately and sure in the knowledge of receiving the grace ofthe Imam.


21/24

Syedna Taher Saifuddin had advised followers to seek out new areas ofsettlement. He visited quite a few of them especially in the Far East and theMiddle East, and East Africa. But after the second world war, settlement grew inthe Western world, U.K., France and U.S. and Canada attracted quite a sizeablenumber of followers. But U.K. and particularly London, had by far the largestamong them all. By repeated visits to London, Syedna Burhanuddin has so

galvanised the community there, that one finds them second to none in theirsteadfastness to religious observances, keenly interested in developingcommunity institutions and even in the western atmosphere and environmentstrictly regulated by the dictates of their faith.Among the institutions founded by the predecessor was the 'Saifee Foundation'established in many parts of the world with generous endowments. The successorhas followed the pattern of public charity and established 'MemorialFoundations', 'Burhani Foundations' and the 'Qarzan-Hasanah Foundations'. Thelast one is unique in its concept and application in the family of philantropicinstitutions the world over.The impact of the extraordinary character and qualities of the Dai, both inbornand acquired, have taken the Dawah as an organisation and the followers as a

very enlightened community leagues forward from the take-off point, in theeducational economic, social and religious fields.Besides, this was an apt stage to share the benefits of community experienceswith Muslims as a whole and with others, religion notwithstanding.

THE ISLAMIC EDUCATION MOVEMENT LAUNCHEDA very substantive contribution by Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin (T.U.S.) toIslamic education was made beginning with his call for "Islamic English" at theMultaqa held in Surat. But in Karachi, on the occasion of the inauguration ofAljamea-tus-Saifiyah, Arabic Academy, he gave a new dimention to Islamiceducation and established a public charitable Foundation for that purpose with

an initial donation of Rs10 million. In view of its great importance theStatement of Intent is quoted :The dawn of the fifteenth century Hijrah has witnessed an unprecedented Islamicresurgency amongst a billion members of the Muslim Ummah. They are acutelybecoming aware that the beginning of another century must be made a truly solemnoccasion for a renewal of the Muslim's profound "commitment to the fundamentalbeliefs, principals and the concepts of Islam and to strive for ushering in theera of a dynamic Muslim civilisation that will promote liberty, equality,justice, universal peace, progress and happiness for all mankind.Muslim countries which were under western domination, inherited a system ofeducation that was oriented to the needs of the ruling power. Therefore, thatsystem designed and imposed by the ruler did not take into consideration Islamicthought, belief and methodology. In the entire system of teaching and upbringingof a Muslim child, the commitment to Islam was missing, as also the Islamicenvironment.With the advent of freedom, the opportunity came for the Muslims to endeavour toattain their inborn and cherished desire to mould their political, social andeducational institutions in accord with the teachings of their faith. Todayevery Muslim country desires that within its boundaries a Muslim society shouldcome into being. That is to say, a people whose way of life and values arederived from the Islamic source. The awareness is also prevalent that this

fundamental object is attainable only through a re-orintation of the system ofTarbiyah-and-Taalim (upbringing and learning). A sine qua non for achieving this


22/24

objective is to break away from the bonds of the educational system imposed bythe colonial powers. It is clear that it will not do to tinker with theprevailing system or graft on to it religious knowledge and subjects. A totalbreak away is needed. An approach ab initio is essential.The first concrete step in the new direction is to establish a commonlyacceptable and comprehensive Secondary Certificate Course which will include all

modern sciences. That course must be designed to attain the highest standard ofexcellence. Yet, it must be founded on the philosophy of Islam and thecommandments of Al-Quraan which says:'Read in the name of your Lord who created:Who taught to write with the pen,Who taught man what he knew not'.In the world of Islam, this thought process has already developed and this needadequately realised and appreciated. Different institutions of learning, in manycountries, have done commendable work and research on this new concept. Now isthe appropriate time to centralise the common search and raise the experiment to

an international level in the Muslim world.Basically, this sytem must be Islamic Universal Acceptable to the Muslimcountries. An international team of educationsits, intellectuals, scientists andulemas needs to be constituted to evolve the Islamic system ofTarbiyah-and-Taalim. This team must be conscious of the need and urgency and theresponsibility it will shoulder.It is but proper that this new movement of Islamic education should originate inPakistan, which enjoys the respect and admiration of the world of Islam for itspositive and practical steps towards Islamisation, which is the foundation ofthe state policy.

We are deeply concerned with this basic and urgent need of Muslims. We givepraise and thanks to Allah, the Omniscient, the Creator of all Knowledge, formaking possible the setting up of Al Jamea-tus-Saifiyah, Karachi. It is our wishto commemorate its completion and inauguration by taking the first step to planta sapling which, with Allah's grace, will bloom and flower. We desire to endow asum of Pakistan Rupees Ten Million which would be the initial corpus of a publiccharitable Trust that will act as a catalyst to bring about the required changein the system of education in the world of Islam.

A CONSTRUCTIVE, POSITIVE CELEBRATIONThe year 1405/1985 witnessed a twin celebration: the 1400th birth anniversary ofImam Husain (S.A.) and the 100th birth anniversary of Syedna Taher Saifuddin. Tocommemorate the 1400th birth anniversary of Imam Husain (S.A.) devotees in manyparts of the world held seminars, conferences and learned discourses. SyednaBurhanuddin directed the followers of the faith to arrange for the twincelebrations in the form of raising an edifice of Islamic thought and behaviour.

For this he laid down five important principles. Every thinking follower haslearnt the name of MIRATH-EL-BARAKAT. It is a unique form of commemoration andcelebration. Once again it provided for the community a new drive towards


23/24

greater Islamic heights.The five principles are :1. To follow and obey with firm faith Allah's chosen guides and to cling to theMohammedi Shariyah and be bound by it.2. To derive light through Islamic learning.3. To earn a good reward and tgather rich blesings by placing trust in theCommandment of Allah regarding injunctions of "Qarzan Hasahan" (Good Loan).

4. To strive to earn lawful livelihood.5. To undertake acts of charity.The celebrations planned for observing the 75th Birthday of 52nd AlDai-el-Mutlaq must, therefore, give weightage to these five laudable principles.

THE GENTLE, DIGNIFIED FAMILY52nd Dai, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin is destined to attain unprecedentedheights. The Dai is in every way helped by sons and daughters, all graduates andwell qualified even by Western standards. They provide for the youth of the

Community a worthy example of how secular education should be blended withIslami lore, and how acquired knowledge must be reflected in deeds and actionsthat takes man to the goal of purposeful living. The dear children shine asluminous in the firmament of the Dawah, as they truly reflect the virtues ofhumility, dignity, complete acceptance of the dictates of Allah in modernconditions, and dedicating all to the glory of Dawah. It is indeed Allah'sspecial blessing for Syedna Burhanuddin that each one of the progeny is showingenthusiasm to imbibe the great lofty traditions obediently and ready tosacrifice every thing for the great cause.

IN ALLAH'S ETERNAL CARE

A million of the faithful yearn to greet their Moula on his 75th Birthday. Thatyearning is spontaneous and full of fervour, born out of the knowledge andrealisation that the monumental caring and concern of their beloved Dai and hismany faceted schemes for their well-being have taken them in a leap forwardstride along as Sirat el-Mustaqeem as also social and economic distinction. Thatyearning naturally must vary in degree and approach yet every throbbing heart onthis auspicious day, beseiges Allah with the true prayer to keep our leader inAllah's care for ever.Allah says :

Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and is a moomin; verily we will givea life, a pure life, and we will bestow on such their reward according to thebest of their deeds.He most graciously listens to the prayers of every Moomin and answers it. Thatis His promise.

Our Lord! Lo! we have heard a crier calling unto Faith: "Believe ye in yourLord!" So we believed. Our Lord! Therefore forgive us our sins, and remit fromus our evil deeds, and make us die the death of the righteous.

by: Published by : Al Jamea-tus-Saifiyah, Surat.

Printed by : Manika Printers, Mumbai 400 005. 2001-2007 Mumineen.orgAll content is distributed under the following Creative Commons License


24/24

Mumineen.org has served Dawoodi Bohras worldwide since 1997 with the raza anddua mubarak of His Holiness, the 52nd Dai al-Mutlaq, Syedna Mohammed BurhanuddinSaheb (TUS). Mumineen.org is not an official organ of Dawat e Hadiyah, nor doits activities reflect the opinions or policies of Dawat e Hadiyah.

Documents

Awliya Ul-Kiram Essay Archive