P1 Chapter 2 Religious Invokers & Reformers

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SECTION 1 RELIGIOUS REFORMERS OF MUSLIMS

CHAPTER 2
Pakistan Studies 2059
History & Culture of Pakistan
Chapter Number 2
SHAH WALIULLAH - HAJI SHARIAT ULLAH - SYED AHMED BRALVI
TABLE OF CONTENT
o TIMELINE FOR CHAPTER
o CHAPTER SUMMARY
o KEY DETAILS & FACTS
o EXPECTED QUESTIONS CHECKLIST
o EXAMPLE SOURCE BASED QUESTIONS
o MARKING SCHEME FOR CHAPTER
AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR
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CHAPTER 2
TIMELINE OF CHAPTER
1703 – Birth of Shah Walli Ullah.

1707 -- Death of Aurangzeb marked the start of decline of Muslims in Sub-continent.
1719 – Death of Shah Walli Ullah’s father Shah abdur rahim.
1731 -- Visited Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Islamic learnings.
1761 – Martha attacked Delhi Shah Walli Ullah wrote letter to Ahmed Shah
1738 – Shah Walli Ullah translated Quran
1762 - Death of Shah Walli Ullah
1786 – Birth of Syed Ahmed Brailvi
1820 – Formation of Jihad movement
1826 – Battle of Okaro
1831 – Battle of Balakot
1831 – Death of Syed Ahmed Brailvi
1781-- Birth of Haji Shariat Ullah
1818-- Formation of Faraizi movement
1819-- Birth of Mohsin-ud-din
1840-- Death of Haji Shariat Ullah
1862-- Death of Mohsin-ud-din
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Decline of the Mughal empire marked decline for the Muslim cultural, traditional, social, political
and religious influence in the sub-continent as well during 18th century. After the death of
Aurangzeb in 1707 who is recognized in the books of history as the last stable Mughal monarch
of Muslim rule in sub-continent between the years 1205-1857, Muslims started to face various
challenges as a civilization in India among them the greatest was the threat to religious life from
the non-Muslims in areas like Punjab, Bengal and Central India besides that massive
demoralization of the masses in the society was also not letting Muslims to confront the problems
effectively. The lack of understanding and attachment with Islam, suppression from British and
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Hindu administration in Bengal or Sikh domination of Muslims in Kashmir or Punjab led the
Muslims who were not only the trend setters of the sub-continent for many centuries but also the
director of every political, social and economic aspect of this land in its medieval history to face a
rapid decline during the first half of the 18 th century.
In those hours of necessity few religious revivalists stood up for the reformation of the Muslim
community in India and contributed in many ways to reform, uplift, motivate and revive the Muslim
community to face and defeat those challenges. These spiritual figures did not only try to
revolutionaries the Muslim community through their services but also established an Islamic
renaissance in sub-continent during 18th and 19th century. Religious reformers like Shah Walli
Ullah, Syed Ahmed Bralvi and Haji Sharait Ullah assisted the Muslims towards path of stability as
a community through the literary physical or spiritual services they performed during lifetime which
is the core objective of this chapter to discuss in detail and also to identify that how these religious
reformers were the core influence behind the revivalism of Islam and Muslims through their
contributions as reformers, which did not provided religious political and social motivation to the
Muslims only but also became one of the major factor behind origin of the freedom movement of
the Muslims for Pakistan during later half of the 18th and 19th century.
KEY DETAILS & FACTS FROM THE CHAPTER 2:
Key information which is required to answer this chapter is based on understanding:
1. Decline of the Muslims in Sub-continent from 1707 to 1757.
2. Biography, contributions and impacts of Shah Walli Ullah on revivalism of Islam and
Muslims in sub-continent.
3. Biography, contributions and impacts of Syed Ahmed Bralvi on revivalism of Islam and
Muslims in sub-continent.
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4. Biography, contributions and impacts of Haji Sharait Ullah & Mohsin-ud-din on revivalism
of Islam and Muslims in sub-continent.
SHAH WALIULLAH (1703-1762)
BIOGRAPHY: Shah Wali Ullah Muhaddis Dehlvi was a religious reformer, writer, theologian,
invoker and a spiritual leader of 18 th century from India who was born on February 21, 1703 at
Delhi, just when the reign of Aurangzeb was nearing its end. He was named Qutb-ud-Din, but is
better known by his title of Wali Ullah, given to him by virtue of his goodness and piety. His father,
Shah Abdul Rahim, was a Sufi and theologian of great repute. He was the founding member and
teacher of the Madrasa-i-Rahimiyah in Delhi. Shah Abdul Rahim was associated with the
completion of the famous Islamic legal text, Fatawa-i-Alamgiri.
Shah Wali Ullah received his academic and spiritual education from his father. He memorized the
Holy Quran and gained knowledge of Tafseer, Hadith, spiritualism, mysticism, metaphysics, logic,
and Ilm-ul-Kalam while still in his boyhood. After mastering these subjects, he turned his attention
to the Sahih Bukhari and Islamic Jurisprudence. He also studied medicine and tibb. After acquiring
this knowledge, he taught at his father’s Madrasa for 12 years. He left for Arabia in 1730 for higher
education. During his stay in Arabia, he was influenced by Sheikh Abu Tahir bin Ibrahim, a
renowned scholar of the time. He studied in Medina for 14 years, where he obtained his Sanad
in Hadith. It is believed that while Shah Wali Ullah was in Arabia, he was blessed with a vision of
the Holy Prophet (SAW), and tidings that he would be influential in organizing the reform of
Muslims in India. Shah Walli Ullah played key role in invoking of the Muslims during the decline
of their rule in Sub-continent through waging Jihad bil Qalam and rendered many services for this
mission which played influential role in revivalism of Islam and Muslims during first half of the 18th
century.
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SERVICES AS RELIGIOUS REFORMER: Following are the important services of Shah Walli
Ullah for the revivalism of the Islam and Muslim community during their decline after 1707.
 Translated Quran into Persian during 1738.
 Mentored plethora of religious scholars through Madras-e-Rahimya.
 Wrote 51 books on Shariah & Islamic Fiqah.
 Safeguarded Delhi against Maratha invasion by calling Ahmed Shah Durani.
 Wrote Biography of Rightly guided Caliphs.
 Work in bringing social justice
 Uniting Muslim Community against external threats of Marathas and Sikh
 Identified the reasons of problems of Muslims Community
Translated Quran into Persian during 1738: Shah Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to
translate the Qur’an into the Persian language that was widely spoken among the learned circles
in India at that time. It was his initiative, and his example, that later inspired translations of the
Qur’an into Urdu and other Indian languages. His sons were the first to translate the Qur’an into
Urdu. He trained a large number of scholars and teachers whose influence in northern India and
Pakistan was felt throughout the 19 th century. The native language of the Muslims at that time as
per Mughal empires language was Persian but Quran was available in Arabic which was widely
not known to the community so to popularize and make Quran understand able, he translated it
into the local language of India for the convenience in consultation.
Mentored plethora of religious scholars through madras-e-Rahimya: Through the platform
of Madras-e-Rahimiya Shah Walli Ullah mentored many religious scholars of India who played
key role in Islamization of India later on. After the death of his father Shah Walli Ullah took charge
of Madrasah and managed it till his death under his leadership Madras-e-Rahimiya flourished and
produced many literary works which resulted into growth of influence of Madrasah-e-Rahimiya in
central part of India specially in the surroundings of Delhi.

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Wrote 51 books on shariah & Islamic fiqah: Shah Walli Ullah being the keen supporter of Jihad
bil Qalm wrote many books to enlighten the Muslim community during 18 th century. His famous
works were produced in Arabic and Persian which played educational role in Sub-continent. The
books like Hujjat-Alfah, Izalat-Akhfa and Al-Baligah were produced by him to popularize Islamic
Shairah and Fiqah so that Muslims can practice and observe Islam more comprehensively. He
discussed the advance and critical topics of Islamic Shariah to unfold true teachings of Islam for
the people of Sub-continent.
Safeguarded Delhi against Maratha invasion by calling Ahmed shah Durani: Observing the
week status of Mughal rule in Sub-continent Maratha who were a powerful Hindu group from
Deccan Hyderabad planned to invade Delhi and to mark end of the Mughal rule during 1761.
During this challenge SWU wrote letters to various Islamic empires in the different parts of the
world like Turkey, Afghanistan and Iran in response to which Ahmed Shah Abdali the Muslim
emperor of Afghanistan marched to Delhi with his 90000 army and fought Maratha army in Panipat
during 1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them.
Wrote biography of rightly guided caliphs: As per Shah Walli Ullah’s vision the major problem
faced by Muslims pushing them towards their decline is sectarianism which had its roots in the
era of rightly guided Caliphs in Islam and Muslims were at distance because of the Shia and Sunni
rift among them so to address this issue he wrote biographies of the rightly guided caliphs which
were neutral in approach and were accepted by all sectarian groups in Islam either Shia or Sunni.
Workinfluence
have in bringing
in social justice: His writings brought him great fame and prestige and enabled him to
United Muslim community against external threats of Marathas and Sikh: His one of the
most important contribution to the Muslim community was his organization of opposition to the
Sikh and Maratha who were threatening to overrun the Mughal empire from the south and north
of India. SWU wrote to the all-Muslim nobles calling on them to join together to save the Mughal
empire it was partly his influence which helped to persuade Ahmed Shah to interfere.
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Identified the reasons of problems of Muslim community: He believed that many of the
problems of the Muslims resulted from there incomplete knowledge of Quran and the Islam in
general and it was necessary that Quranic teaching become more access able for the Muslims
of India further all he believed that all political social and economic behavior should be based on
Islamic principles as per SWU it was essential to follow the moral and spiritual principles of Islam
in order to create a good society. Un-Islamic principles were not acceptable in any area of the
society weather politics economics or just the day-to-day life of the Muslims he moreover stated
that a major problem for the Muslim community was the way it was divided into sectarian groups
such as Sunni and Shia. Shah Wali Ullah wanted them to concentrate on the fundamental
principles of Islam like Justice equality tolerance patience and put aside their differences believing
that this would create a more united community.
IMPACTS OF HIS SERVICES: His reforms triggered a revivalist movement in sub-continent
and had many valuable impacts on the Muslim community and Islam such as:
 Translation of Quran into Persian increased awareness about Islamic teachings
 1st Thinker to address the root cause of all Muslim Problems
 Madrassa Rahimiya played a vital role in teaching Islamic principle
 Writing books on Caliphs increased unity and harmony between Sunnis and Shias
Translation of Quran into Persian increased awareness about Islamic teachings: Islam
suggest Quran as the solution to all problems of the Muslims but unfortunately majority of the
Muslims were uneducated and were not able to read and understand Quran in Arabic so this
contribution fuel the process of Islamization of India his literary services also were now available
in the local language that was Persian for the large number of Muslims to consult and refer. This
service helped the Muslims to understand Islam and its teachings more comprehensibly and
worked as barrier between Muslims and social evils by living life through Islamic customs. He
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CHAPTER 2
became inspiration for many Muslims in living a pure life as per Islam which strengthened Islam
in central parts of India during 18 th century.
1st Thinker to address the root cause of all Muslim Problems: He triggered moral and spiritual
regeneration and reformation of the Muslims of India through his works like writing 51 books on
Shariah and Fiqah of Islam and became the 1st thinker of that phase of Indian history by
addressing the root cause of all the Muslims problems because of distance from Deen, disunity
and lack of knowledge. His invoking helped the Muslims to release that their success only
depends of followship of Islamic principles which led to the political and social progress of Muslim
community even during the freedom movement.
Madrassa Rahimiya played a vital role in teaching Islamic principle: His headship at Madras-
e-Rahimiya helped the organization to develop in Islamic research and teachings of the Islamic
principles. His contributions helped the Madrasah Rahimiya to flourish intellectually and assisted
in preparing many great scholars of the future from the platform. Haji Shariat Ullah, Shah Abdul
Aziz and Maulana Mamluk Ali were the prominent students of his institution this madrasa-e-
Rahimiya also further assisted in development of Darul-alum-Deoband as well.
Writing books on Caliphs increased unity and harmony between Sunnis and Shias: He
through writing the biographical lives of the Caliphs suggested the Muslims that their revivalism
could be only possible if they are going to show acceptance for the sectarian groups among
Muslims. It helped the Muslims to avoid conflicts among them on this base and tried to be a bridge
between different sectarian groups to unite the community.
EXPECTED 4 MARKS QUESTIONS FROM TOPIC
1. Who was Shah Abdul Rahim?
2. What was Madrasa-e-Rahimya?
3. Who was Qutab-ud-din?
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4. Who was Ahmed Shah Durani?
5. Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam
1. Explain Why Shah Waliullah translates Quran into Persian language?
2. Why was Shah Waliullah an important influence on the revivalism of the Islam in Sub-
continent?
3. Explain why Shah Waliullah is important for Muslims in sub-continent?
1. How important was Shah Wali Ullah in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent before
1850? Explain your answer.
2. Was the work of Shah Wali Ullah the most important factor in the revival of Islam in the
sub-continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give reasons for your
answer.
3. Did Shah Wali Ullah contribute more to the spread of Islam than anyone else in the
subcontinent before 1850? Explain your answer
ANSWERS FOR EXPECTED QUESTIONS FROM CHAPTER
4 MARKS
1. Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam?
Shah Wali Ullah had many achievements in the struggle for the revivalism of Islam in India during
18th century. Like Translation of Quran into Persian by him increased awareness about Islamic
teachings moreover he became the 1st Thinker to address the root cause of all Muslim Problems
besides that under him Madrassa Rahimiya played a vital role in teaching Islamic principle further
Writing books on Caliphs increased unity and harmony between Sunnis and Shias.
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Shah Abdur Rahim (1644-1719) was an Islamic scholar and a writer who assisted in the
compilation of Fatawa-e-Alamgiri, the voluminous code of Islamic law. He was the father of the
Muslim philosopher Shah Waliullah Dehlawi. He became a disciple of Khwaja Khurd son of
Khawaja Baqi billah a revered Sufi of Delhi. He established Madrasa Rahimiyya in Delhi, a
theological college which later played a part in the religious emancipation of Muslim India and
became the breeding ground of religious reformers and mujahideen like Shah Waliullah and Shah
Abdul Aziz. His religious and literary contributions helped Shah Walli Ullah to trigger his revivalist
movement for Muslims in Sub-continent during mid half of the 18 th century.
The Madrasah-i Rahimiyah is an Islamic seminary located in Delhi, India. It was founded by Shah
Abdur Rahim, the father of Shah Waliullah Dehlawi, during the reign of Mughal
Emperor Aurangzeb. After the death of Shah Abdur Rahim in 1718 Shah Waliullah started
teaching at the Madrasah. It became a leading institute of Islamic learning and was acknowledged
as the most influential seminary in the Indian subcontinent. Madrash-e-Rahimya played influential
rule in the revivalism of Islam during 18 th century under Shah Walli Ullah through its literary and
scholarly contributions.
Shah Wali Ullah Muhaddis Dehlvi was born on February 21, 1703 at Delhi, just when the reign of
Aurangzeb was nearing its end. He was named Qutb-ud-Din, but is better known by his title of
Wali Ullah, given to him by virtue of his goodness and piety. His father, Shah Abdul Rahim, was
a sufi and theologian of great repute. He was the founding member and teacher of the Madrasa-
i-Rahimiyah in Delhi. Shah Abdul Rahim was associated with the completion of the famous Islamic
legal text, Fatawa-i-Alamgir. Shah Wali Ullah received his academic and spiritual education from
his father. He memorized the Holy Quran and gained knowledge of Tafseer, Hadith, spiritualism,
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CHAPTER 2
mysticism, metaphysics, logic, and Ilm-ul-Kalam while still in his boyhood. After mastering these
subjects, he turned his attention to the Sahih Bukhari and Islamic Jurisprudence. He also studied
medicine and tibb. After acquiring this knowledge, he taught at his father’s Madrasa for 12 years.
Ahmad Shah Abdali, later known as Ahmad Shah Durrani, was the founder of modern
Afghanistan. He was elected king in 1747, Abdali was a cavalry general before fighting his way
to the throne. Ahmad Shah Durrani invaded India eight times between 1748 and 1767. When
Shah Walli Ullah wrote letter to Ahmed Shah Abdali the Muslim emperor of Afghanistan in 1761
upon which he marched to Delhi with his 90000 army and fought Maratha army in Panipat during
1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them.
7 MARKS
Shah Wali Ullah Muhaddis Dehlvi was a religious reformer, writer, theologian, invoker and a
spiritual leader of 18th century from India who was born on February 21, 1703 at Delhi, just when
the reign of Aurangzeb was nearing its end. Shah Walli Ullah played key role in invoking of the
Muslims during the decline of their rule in Sub-continent through waging Jihad bil Qalam and
rendered many services for this mission which played influential role in revivalism of Islam and
Muslims during first half of the 18 th century like Shah Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to
in India at that time for many reasons firstly Islam suggest Quran as the solution to all problems
of the Muslims but unfortunately majority of the Muslims were uneducated and were not able to
read and understand Quran in Arabic so this contribution fuel the process of Islamization of India
his this services also were now available in the local language that was Persian for the large
number of Muslims to consult and refer. This service helped the Muslims to understand Islam and
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its teachings more comprehensibly and worked as barrier between Muslims and social evils by
living life through Quranic teachings. He became inspiration for many Muslims in living a pure life
as per Islam which strengthened Islam in central parts of India during 18th century.
Secondly, he translated Quran as he believed that many of the problems of the Muslims resulted
from there incomplete knowledge of Quran and the Islam in general and it was necessary that
Quranic teaching become more access able for the Muslims of India further all he believed that
all political social and economic behavior should be based on Islamic and Quran principles as per
SWU it was essential to follow the moral and spiritual principles of Quran Islam in order to create
a good society. Un-Islamic principles were not acceptable in any area of the society either politics
economics or just the day-to-day life of the Muslims.
Lastly, Shah Wali Ullah wanted Muslims of India to concentrate on the fundamental principles of
Islam and Quran like Justice equality tolerance patience and put aside their differences believing
that this would create a more united community which was only possible if Muslim masses of
India would keep themselves in close contact to Quran so his this serves helped the community
to attain this objective for reviving themselves
continent?
Shah Walli Ullah played key role in invoking of the Muslims during the decline of their rule in Sub-
continent through waging Jihad bil Qalam and rendered many services for this mission which
played influential role in revivalism of Islam and Muslims during first half of the 18th century like
Islam suggest Quran as the solution to all problems of the Muslims but unfortunately majority of
the Muslims were uneducated and were not able to read and understand Quran in Arabic so this
contribution fuel the process of Islamization of India his literary services also were now available
in the local language that was Persian for the large number of Muslims to consult and refer. This
`
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CHAPTER 2
service helped the Muslims to understand Islam and its teachings more comprehensibly and
worked as barrier between Muslims and social evils by living life through Islamic customs. He
became inspiration for many Muslims in living a pure life as per Islam which strengthened Islam
in central parts of India during 18 th century.
Further, He triggered moral and spiritual regeneration and reformation of the Muslims of India
through his works like writing 51 books on Shariah and Fiqah of Islam and became the 1st thinker
of that phase of Indian history by addressing the root cause of all the Muslims problems because
of distance from Deen, disunity and lack of knowledge. His invoking helped the Muslims to release
that their success only depends of followship of Islamic principles which led to the political and
social progress of Muslim community even during the freedom movement.
Lastly, His headship at Madras-e-Rahimiya helped the organization to develop in Islamic research
and teachings of the Islamic principles. His contributions helped the Madrasah Rahimiya to
flourish intellectually and assisted in preparing many great scholars of the future from the platform.
Haji Shariat Ullah, Shah Abdul Aziz and Maulana Mamluk Ali were the prominent students of his
institution this madrasa-e-Rahimiya also further assisted in development of Darul-alum-Deoband
as well.
3. Explain why Shah Waliullah is important for Muslims in sub-continent?
Muslims during first half of the 18th century like Shah Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to
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CHAPTER 2
Pakistan was felt throughout the 19th century. The native language of the Muslims at that time as
Further Shah Walli Ullah being the keen supporter of Jihad bil Qalm wrote 51 books to enlighten
the Muslim community during 18 th century. His famous works were produced in Arabic and
Persian which played educational role in Sub-continent. The books like Hujjat-Alfah, Izalat-Akhfa
and Al-Baligah were produced by him to popularize Islamic Shairah and Fiqah so that Muslims
can practice and observe Islam more comprehensively. He discussed the advance and critical
topics of Islamic Shariah to unfold true teachings of Islam for the people of Sub-continent.
Lastly, Observing the week status of Mughal rule in Sub-continent Maratha who were a powerful
Hindu group from Deccan Hyderabad planned to invade Delhi and to mark end of the Mughal rule
during 1761. During this challenge SWU wrote letters to various Islamic empires in the different
parts of the world like Turkey, Afghanistan and Iran in response to which Ahmed Shah Abdali the
Muslim emperor of Afghanistan marched to Delhi with his 90000 army and fought Maratha army
in Panipat during 1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them.
14 MARKS
1. How important was Shah Wali Ullah in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent before
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CHAPTER 2
Muslims during first half of the 18th century like Shah Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to
Pakistan was felt throughout the 19th century. The native language of the Muslims at that time as
Moreover, Observing the week status of Mughal rule in Sub-continent Maratha who were a
powerful Hindu group from Deccan Hyderabad planned to invade Delhi and to mark end of the
Mughal rule during 1761. During this challenge SWU wrote letters to various Islamic empires in
the different parts of the world like Turkey, Afghanistan and Iran in response to which Ahmed
Shah Abdali the Muslim emperor of Afghanistan marched to Delhi with his 90000 army and fought
Maratha army in Panipat during 1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them.
Besides that, as per Shah Walli Ullah’s vision the major problem faced by Muslims pushing them
towards their decline is sectarianism which had its roots in the era of rightly guided Caliphs in
Islam and Muslims were at distance because of the Shia and Sunni rift among them so to address
`
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CHAPTER 2
this issue he wrote biographies of the rightly guided caliphs which were neutral in approach and
were accepted by all sectarian groups in Islam either Shia or Sunni.
Lastly, Through the platform of Madras-e-Rahimiya Shah Walli Ullah mentored many religious
scholars of India who played key role in Islamization of India later on. After the death of his father
Shah Walli Ullah took charge of Madrasah and managed it till his death under his leadership
Madras-e-Rahimiya flourished and produced many literary works which resulted into growth of
influence of Madrasah-e-Rahimiya in central part of India specially in the surroundings of Delhi.
2. Was the work of Shah Wali Ullah the most influential factor in the revival of Islam in the
sub-continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give reasons for your
answer.
Shah Walli Ullah played key role in invoking of the Muslims during the decline of their rule in Sub-
continent through waging Jihad bil Qalam and rendered many services for this mission which
played influential role as one of the factor in revivalism of Islam and Muslims during first half of
the 18th century and 19th century like Shah Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to translate
the Qur’an into the Persian language that was widely spoken among the learned circles in India
at that time. It was his initiative, and his example, that later inspired translations of the Qur’an into
Urdu and other Indian languages. His sons were the first to translate the Qur’an into Urdu. He
trained a large number of scholars and teachers whose influence in northern India and Pakistan
was felt throughout the 19 th century. The native language of the Muslims at that time as per
Mughal empires language was Persian but Quran was available in Arabic which was widely not
known to the community so to popularize and make Quran understand able, he translated it into
the local language of India for the convenience in consultation.
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CHAPTER 2
Maratha army in Panipat during 1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them. Apart
from this factor behind the revivalism of Islam other religious reforms of that phase like Syed
Ahmed Bralvi’s contributions were also quite influential as Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi spread
Islam through the Jihad Movement Syed Ahmad was greatly impressed by the preaching and
thoughts of Shah Waliullah. He joined the private army of Nawab Amir Khan of Tonk state where
he learnt the art of war. He also learnt about the European weaponry including the art of artillery.
Syed Ahmad Shaheed started preaching true Islam (as Shah Waliullah did). But he was of the
opinion that there should be a political power behind the preaching for the revival of Islam and
Muslim power in India. He founded the Jihad Movement for the restoration and revival of Muslim
power in India. His main objective was the establishment of an Islamic state on proper Islamic
principles. Also, the aim of the Jihad Movement was to liberate the Muslims of the Punjab and
N.W.F.P from the Sikh rule. Syed Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future Muslim
generations. The efforts of Haji Shariat Ullah were also very important. Haji Shariat Ullah started
the faraizi movement to restore the pride of the Muslims and to remove what he thought were the
Hindu practices had crept into their worship. The faraizi movement was important because it gave
encouragement to the Muslims at the time when they were demoralized by the oppression they
suffered from the Hindus and the British. It brought about a spiritual revival which led to a revival
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in the Islamic religion in East Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the Islamic practices.
It also had an important political and economic impact. The Bengal peasants became united
against the harsh treatment they received. They became aware of their rights and the political
unity began to grow amongst them.
subcontinent before 1850? Explain your answer
Muslims during first half of the 18 th century like translation of Quran into Persian language Shah
Waliullah was the first in the subcontinent to translate the Qur’an into the Persian language that
was widely spoken among the learned circles in India at that time. It was his initiative, and his
example, that later inspired translations of the Qur’an into Urdu and other Indian languages. His
sons were the first to translate the Qur’an into Urdu. He trained a large number of scholars and
teachers whose influence in northern India and Pakistan was felt throughout the 19 th century. The
native language of the Muslims at that time as per Mughal empires language was Persian but
Quran was available in Arabic which was widely not known to the community so to popularize and
make Quran understand able, he translated it into the local language of India for the convenience
in consultation.
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CHAPTER 2
Maratha army in Panipat during 1761 and defeated them to save Mughal empire from them.
Despite the contributions of Shah Walli Ullah in this process others religious reforms of the 18 th
and 19th century also rendered services and were important in this context likewise Syed Ahmed
Bralvi in this regard performed many contributions and played important role in revivalism of Islam
before 1850. Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi spread Islam through the Jihad Movement Syed
Ahmad was greatly impressed by the preaching and thoughts of Shah Waliullah. He joined the
private army of Nawab Amir Khan of Tonk state where he learnt the art of war. He also learnt
about the European weaponry including the art of artillery. Syed Ahmad Shaheed started
preaching true Islam (as Shah Waliullah did). But he was of the opinion that there should be a
political power behind the preaching for the revival of Islam and Muslim power in India. He founded
the Jihad Movement for the restoration and revival of Muslim power in India. His main objective
was the establishment of an Islamic state on proper Islamic principles. Also, the aim of the Jihad
Movement was to liberate the Muslims of the Punjab and N.W.F.P from the Sikh rule. Syed
Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future Muslim generations. The efforts of Haji Shariat
Ullah were also very important. Haji Shariat Ullah started the faraizi movement to restore the pride
of the Muslims and to remove what he thought were the Hindu practices had crept into their
worship. The faraizi movement was important because it gave encouragement to the Muslims at
the time when they were demoralized by the oppression they suffered from the Hindus and the
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British. It brought about a spiritual revival which led to a revival in the Islamic religion in East
Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the Islamic practices. It also had an important
political and economic impact. The Bengal peasants became united against the harsh treatment
they received. They became aware of their rights and the political unity began to grow amongst
them.
SYED AHMED BRALVI SHAHEED (1786-1831)
BIOGRAPHY: Syed Ahmed Bralvi Shaheed was not only a religious reformer, intellectual or a
freedom fighter and a revolutionary but also a man of actions and circumstances who stood up
for the cause of Muslim community during first half of the 19 th century through his contributions
and services in this regard. He did not only observe the critical condition of the Muslims under the
Sikh rule in Sub-continent but also strived for the religious liberty of the Muslims in various areas
of the modern-day Pakistan like Hazara Kashmir and NWFP. The Jihad movement founded by
him uplifted the Muslims of sub-continent against their social, political and religious exploitation
done by the other communities during the decline of the Muslims in the India but also, he invoked
the Muslims of sub-continent for safeguarding their religious and social identity and existence in
that phase of Indian history. Syed Ahmad was born in a small town of Rai Bareli near Lucknow.
He moved in Delhi in 1806 and Studied in Madrassa Rahimya for two years. In 1810 in joined a
Pathan Military Leader and learned to use European weaponry which was a turning point in his
life as he started armed struggle against the challenges faced by the Muslims later on through
this exposure of his early career.
SERVICES AS RELIGIOUS REFORMER: Following are the important services of the Syed
Ahmed Bralvi for the revivalism of the Islam and Muslim community in response to British and
Sikh suppression in Punjab and N.W.F.P.
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 Formation of Jihad movement in 1820
 Battle of Okara 1826
 Battle of Balakot 1831
 Wanted freedom of Kashmir and Hazara
 United Muslims against Sikh and British rule in Sub-continent
Formation of Jihad movement in 1820: Syed Ahmed Bralvi was a strong believer of Jihad bil
Saaf as a solution to the problems faced by Muslims during 19 th century and suppression or
victimization done by the Sikhs and British in various areas of sub-continent so for this reason,
He went for Hajj in 1821; before going he traveled across India and convened meeting in order to
spread the message of Jihad. He returned from Arabia in 1823 and was ready to take action. At
that time, Punjab was under the control of Sikh government of Raja Ranjit Singh. Ranjit had
extended his authority into the North West Frontier. Muslims were suffering under Sikh rule
because they were not able to carry out many of their religious practices. At some places call to
prayer was banned for Muslims.
This was not bearable for him and decided to launch Jihad under the Jihad movement against
the non-Muslims especially Sikh rule in the Punjab. He toured the Punjab and North West Frontier
to enlist men to fight against the Sikh rule. He traveled many hundreds of miles to raise
a Mujahidin force. During 1820 to 1824 Syed Ahmed Bralvi under Jihad movement
visited Rajasthan, Sindh, Baluchistan and entered into the Afghanistan which resulted in to
gathering of a large force of Mujahedeen approximately 80000 Muslims to wage jihad again British
and Sikh religious and social victimization. Under Jihad movement SAB fought Battle of Okara
1826 and Balakot in 1831 to liberate Muslims of Kashmir and Hazara against enemies of Islam.
Battle of Okara 1826: Under the Jihad movement of Syed Ahmed Bralvi The first battle against
the Sikhs was fought on December 21, 1826 near Okara. The Sikhs were defeated in this war by
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the Mujahedeen led by Syed Ahmed Bralvi. This war and victory were the first major success of
the jihad movement and proved as a moment of the relief for the Muslims in the Punjab against
the victimizing rule of Raja Ranjit Singh against them. Victory in the battle of Okara 1826
established the reputation of the Syed Ahmed Bralvi as the savior of the Muslims in surrounding
areas of Punjab providing more strength to his aims and objectives and revivalism of Muslims in
Sub-continent.
Battle of Balakot 1831: The Battle of Balakot was fought between the forces of Maharaja Ranjit
Singh and Syed Ahmad Barelvi in Balakot, Mansehra District on 6 May 1831. Barelvi
declared jihad against the Sikhs and established a camp in Balakot along with Shah Ismail
Dehlvi and his tribesmen. Sikhs were led by their prince Sher Singh in this war who made
a surprise attack on the forces of Syed Ahmad. The battle of Balakot was a fiercely contested
one. Mujahidin fought bravely but Sikh Army was in large number and Mujaheddins were unable
to resist the Sikhs. Nearly six hundred Mujahidin soldiers were killed in the battle and because of
the betrayal by his own fellow Yar Muhammad who was bribed by the Sikhs He and his forces
lost the war and he was martyred which marked end to his Jihad movement as well.
Wanted freedom of Kashmir and Hazara: Syed Ahmed Bralvi was the strong supporter of
liberation of Kashmir and Hazara from the Sikh rule as the Sikhs were making the religious life of
the Muslims difficult in those areas for this purpose he did not only settle in Kashmir and made a
headquarter in Kashmir & Panjtrar to mobilize the Muslims towards Jihad in these areas but also
fought Battle of Balakot and Hazorthe in these areas during his Jihad movement to liberate these
regions from Sikh domination. To see Kashmir as a free area from Sikh expansionism Syed
Ahmed Bralvi even lost his life during Batlle of Balakot in 1831.
United Muslims against Sikh and British rule in Sub-continent: As a student of Madrasa-e
Rahimya of Shah Walli Ullah and inspired by his teachings Syed Ahmed Bralvi besides his
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contributions in the battle fields also served as their imam and urged Muslims to unite themselves
against the opponents of Muslim liberty and freedom in Sub-continent which were mainly British
or Sikh at that time. In 1827 he started to mobilize Muslims towards their religious reformation by
advocating advice of living a simple life for the and rejection of the use of innovation in Islam and
to stay close to the concept of Toheed.
IMPACT OF HIS SERVICES: His reforms triggered a revivalist movement in sub-continent
and had many valuable impacts on the Muslim community and Islam such as:
 Jihad movement prepared Muslims for Pakistan movement in future
 Pioneered the resistance of Muslims against Sikh and British
 Accelerated Islamization of Muslim community
Jihad movement prepared Muslims for Pakistan movement in future: Syed Ahmed had a
great influence in the revival of Islam. He was the First person to fight against the foreign power
and rule and the first example in Indian history to free Muslims from the tyranny of foreign rule.
The jihad movement of Syed Ahmed is a uniting force for Muslims This movement was not aimed
to place a particular person on a throne but to achieve religious and spiritual freedom. The fact
that Syed Ahmed and his followers were prepared to die for their cause was an inspiration to
many Muslims. This movement is also regarded as a very important move towards achieving an
independent and separate state for Muslims even though this was very ahead of that time. Syed
Ahmed's efforts were an inspiration to all Muslims in defending their religion and culture. Those
Muslims who in the future worked for a separate independent state saw Syed Ahmed as an
example because even he wanted a separate independent state for the Muslims.
Pioneered the resistance of Muslims against Sikh and British: After the decline of Mughal
empire in sub-continent Sikh and British started to strengthen their control in Sub-continent and
even Sikhs were aiming to expand their empire under Ranjit Singh towards tribal areas connected
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with Afghanistan and Sindh on the other hand Christian missionaries were busy in exploitation of
the local religious believes especially Islam in various areas of Punjab so his revivalism efforts
helped the Muslims of these areas to form a resistive force against them under Jihad movement
and rest of the efforts done by him as religious reformer. Syed Ahmed Bralvi indeed pioneered
the resistance in the Muslim community against the propaganda campaigns of the non-Muslims.
Accelerated Islamization of Muslim community: He launched the Jihad movement to revive
Islam among the Muslims of the subcontinent. He realized that the freedom of Muslims could
come as a result of armed struggle against Muslim. He launched the Jihad movement so that
Islam could be rejuvenated and rescued from customs that contradicted Islamic beliefs which had
crept in a Muslim's everyday life which accelerated the islamization of the Muslim community
further this movement gathered Muslims of Punjab NWFP and Kashmir under the flag of Islamic
principle of Jihad which motivated the Muslims to be closer to their religious ideas rather than
political to attain liberation from non-Muslim rule during 19th century. He launched the Jihad
movement to revive Islam among the Muslims of the subcontinent.
1. What was Jihad movement of Syed Ahmed Bralvi?
2. What was Battle of Balakot 1831?
3. Write a note on Battle of Okara 1826?
4. Who was Shah Ismail?
5. Who was Yar Muhammad?
1. Explain Why Syed Ahmed Bravli was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-continent?
Contributions of SAB will be discussed.
Example: Why was Syed Ahmed Bralvi an important influence on the revivalism of Islam during
the 19th century.
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2. Why Jihad movement was founded by Syed Ahmed Bralvi?
3. Why Jihad movement was important for the revivalism of Islam during the 19 th century in
Sub-continent
1. Was the work of Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi the most important factor in the revival of
Islam in the sub-continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give reasons for
your answer.
2. Who of the following was the most important in the spread of Islam during the seventeenth
and eighteenth centuries:
Shah Wali Ullah;
Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi
Hajji Shariat Ullah
Explain your answer with reference to all of the above
3. How important was Syed Ahmed Brailvi in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent before
4 MARKS
Syed Ahmed Bralvi as a religious revivalist coined the concept of Jihad movement in 1820 under
which he trained and recruited 80 thousand Mujahidin to fight the suppressive Sikh rule in Punjab
and NWFP. This was a religious movement started by him under the concept of physical jihad of
Islam for which he traveled many parts of India to mobilize Muslims against the challenges faced
by them. Under this famous Jihad movement Muslims fought Battle of Balakot and Okara against
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Sikh rule in various parts of sub-continent. Jihad movement saw its peak during 1820 to 1830 and
declined with the death of Syed Ahmed Bralvi.
The Battle of Balakot was fought between the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Syed Ahmad
Barelvi in Balakot, Mansehra District on 6 May 1831. Barelvi declared jihad against the Sikhs and
established a camp in Balakot along with Shah Ismail Dehlvi and his tribesmen. Sikhs were led
by their prince Sher Singh in this war who made a surprise attack on the forces of Syed Ahmad.
The battle of Balakot was a fiercely contested one. Mujahidin fought bravely but Sikh Army was
in large number and Mujaheddins were unable to resist the Sikhs. Nearly six hundred Mujahidin
soldiers were killed in the battle and because of the betrayal by his own fellow Yar Muhammad
who was bribed by the Sikhs He and his forces lost the war and he was martyred which marked
end to his Jihad movement as well
Under the Jihad movement of Syed Ahmed Bralvi The first battle against the Sikhs was fought on
December 21, 1826 near Okara. The Sikhs were defeated in this war by the Mujahedeen led by
Syed Ahmed Bralvi. This war and victory were the first major success of the jihad movement and
proved as a moment of the relief for the Muslims in the Punjab against the victimizing rule of Raja
Ranjit Singh against them. Victory in the battle of Okara 1826 established the reputation of the
Syed Ahmed Bralvi as the savior of the Muslims in surrounding areas of Punjab providing more
strength to his aims and objectives and revivalism of Muslims in Sub-continent.
4. Who was Yar Muhammad?
Yar Muhammad was a pathan chief of Syed Ahmed Bralvi’s band of Mujahadeen who betrayed
him and became the reason for the loss of Battle of Balakot in 1831 by Muslims against Sikhs.
He was bribed by Sikh ruler of that time in this area Sher Singh upon which he did not shared the
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information about plans of the Muslims in battle of Balakot but also about Syed Ahmed Bralvi. His
treachery resulted into decline of Syed Ahmed Bralvi’s Jihad movement as well.
5. Who was Shah Ismail?
Shah ismail Delhvi was an Indian Islamic scholar and Salafi-oriented Sufi reformer. He was an
active member in the jihad proclaimed by Sayyid Ahmad of Raebareli with the support of Pashtun
tribes against the Sikh Empire, which ruled northwest India with their base in Punjab in the early
half of the 19th century. He is considered as an important influence on the Ahl-i
Hadith and Deobandi reform movements. Shah Ismail embraced martyred in 1831 during the
battle of Balakot along with Syed Ahmed Bralvi and is remembered as one of the most trusted
followers of Jihad movement led by Syed Ahmed during 1820-1831.
7 MARKS
1. Explain Why Syed Ahmed Bravli was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-
continent?
Syed Ahmed Bralvi Shaheed was not only a religious reformer, intellectual or a freedom fighter
and a revolutionary but also a man of actions and circumstances who stood up for the cause of
Muslim community during first half of the 19 th century through his contributions and services in
this regard. He was relevant and important for the revivalism of Islam in sub-continent in many
ways like Syed Ahmed Bralvi was a strong believer of Jihad bil Saaf as a solution to the problems
faced by Muslims during 19 th century and suppression or victimization done by the Sikhs and
British in various areas of sub-continent so for this reason, He went for Hajj in 1821; before going
he traveled across India and convened meeting in order to spread the message of Jihad. He
returned from Arabia in 1823 and was ready to take action. At that time, Punjab was under the
control of Sikh government of Raja Ranjit Singh. Ranjit had extended his authority into the North
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West Frontier. Muslims were suffering under Sikh rule because they were not able to carry out
many of their religious practices. At some places call to prayer was banned for Muslims.
1826 and Balakot in 1831 to liberate Muslims of Kashmir and Hazara against enemies of Islam
Further As a student of Madrasa-e Rahimya of Shah Walli Ullah and inspired by his teachings
Syed Ahmed Barelvi besides his contributions in the battle fields also served as their imam and
urged Muslims to unite themselves against the opponents of Muslim liberty and freedom in Sub-
continent which were mainly British or Sikh at that time. In 1827 he started to mobilize Muslims
towards their religious reformation by advocating advice of living a simple life for the and rejection
of the use of innovation in Islam and to stay close to the concept of Toheed.
Syed Ahmed Barelvi as the religious reformer for the Muslim community founded Jihad movement
in 1820 while keeping many objectives and aims in his mind likewise Muslim’s peasants were
leading oppressed lives under the exploitation of Hindu landlords and tax collectors. They were
humiliated and ill-treated. Their properties, lives and dignity were not safe from the hands of
Hindus and Sikhs.
Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi (SASB) wanted to restore their pride, respect and living conditions.
That is why he started Jihad to win freedom for the Muslims so that they could lead lives according
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to their own wishes. Further In the Sikh regime under Ranjit Singh in Punjab, Muslims had
restrictions in practicing their faith - even the call to prayers was banned in some places. This was
intolerable, because Muslim culture, values and religion were in danger. Syed Ahmed believed
that an independent state was necessary for having religious liberty. Therefore, he started armed
struggle (Jihad) to get rid of Sikh rulers.
Lastly SAB was a great religious leader who wanted to uproot the evils that had corrupted the
Islamic society. He wanted to purify the Muslim society from Hindu customs, beliefs, myths,
influences and practices that had crept into their worship and daily lives. He wanted to clean the
Muslims from social and moral evils. But spiritual upbringing and purification of their beliefs were
not possible under the control of Sikhs and Hindus. For this purpose, he launched Jihad
Movement and revived the desire of Jihad in the Muslims of India. He made an army of volunteers
and gave them military training.
3. Why Jihad movement was important for the revivalism of Islam during the 19th century
in Sub-continent?
Syed Ahmed Bralvi Shaheed was not only a religious reformer, intellectual or a freedom fighter
and a revolutionary but also a man of actions and circumstances who stood up for the cause of
Muslim community during first half of the 19 th century through his contributions and services in
this regard. He was relevant and important for the revivalism of Islam in sub-continent in many
ways like Syed Ahmed had a great influence in the revival of Islam. He was the First person to
fight against the foreign power and rule and the first example in Indian history to free Muslims
from the tyranny of foreign rule. The jihad movement of Syed Ahmed is a uniting force for Muslims
This movement was not aimed to place a particular person on a throne but to achieve religious
and spiritual freedom. The fact that Syed Ahmed and his followers were prepared to die for their
cause was an inspiration to many Muslims. This movement is also regarded as a very important
move towards achieving an independent and separate state for Muslims even though this was
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very ahead of that time. Syed Ahmed's efforts were an inspiration to all Muslims in defending their
religion and culture. Those Muslims who in the future worked for a separate independent state
saw Syed Ahmed as an example because even he wanted a separate independent state for the
Muslims.
Further he launched the Jihad movement to revive Islam among the Muslims of the subcontinent.
He realized that the freedom of Muslims could come as a result of armed struggle against Muslim.
He launched the Jihad movement so that Islam could be rejuvenated and rescued from customs
that contradicted Islamic beliefs which had crept in a Muslim's everyday life which accelerated the
Islamization of the Muslim community further this movement gathered Muslims of Punjab NWFP
and Kashmir under the flag of Islamic principle of Jihad which motivated the Muslims to be closer
to their religious ideas rather than political to attain liberation from non-Muslim rule during 19th
century. He launched the Jihad movement to revive Islam among the Muslims of the subcontinent.
14 MARKS
1. Was the work of Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi the most important factor in the revival
of Islam in the sub-continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give
reasons for your answer.
During the eighteenth and nineteenth century many religious reformers contributed in the
revivalism of Islam in Sub-continent who were very influential in their missions and objectives
among them Syed Ahmed Bralvi was the most prominent one and his contributions in this regard
earned a valuable place in this regard. Syed Ahmad was greatly impressed by the preaching and
thoughts of Shah Waliullah. He joined the private army of Nawab Amir Khan of Tonk state where
he learnt the art of war. He also learnt about the European weaponry including the art of artillery.
Syed Ahmad Shaheed started preaching true Islam (as Shah Waliullah did). But he was of the
opinion that there should be a political power behind the preaching for the revival of Islam and
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Muslim power in India. He founded the Jihad Movement for the restoration and revival of Muslim
power in India. His main objective was the establishment of an Islamic state on proper Islamic
principles. Also, the aim of the Jihad Movement was to liberate the Muslims of the Punjab and
N.W.F.P from the Sikh rule. Syed Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future Muslim
generations Further the efforts of Haji Shariat Ullah were also very important. Haji Shariat Ullah
started the faraizi movement to restore the pride of the Muslims and to remove what he thought
were the Hindu practices had crept into their worship. The faraizi movement was important
because it gave encouragement to the Muslims at the time when they were demoralized by the
oppression they suffered from the Hindus and the British. It brought about a spiritual revival which
led to a revival in the Islamic religion in East Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the
Islamic practices. It also had an important political and economic impact. The Bengal peasants
became united against the harsh treatment they received. They became aware of their rights and
the political unity began to grow amongst them. Moreover, during this phase another name is well
admired and he is Shah Waliullah as he thought deeply about the problems faced by Muslims.
He saw that the decline of Mughal Empire and Islam was due to the fact that the Muslims had left
the true path of Islam. So, Shah Waliullah translated the Holy Quran into Persian which was the
language of educated Muslims at that time. He also wrote an account about the first four Caliphs
of Islam in a way in which it was acceptable to both Shias and Sunnis. He hoped that this would
help to heel the division between them. Shah Waliullah wrote letters to the rulers of Muslim states
asking them to unite and rise against the non-Muslim forces. He invited Ahmad Shah Abdali to
deal with Marathas who were threatening Muslims in Punjab and N.W.F.P. Ahmad Shah Abdali
defeated Marathas at the battle of Panipat in 1761 so that they were never able to rise again.
All these religious reformers did not only give realization to the Muslim community about
weaknesses in their ranks but also tried to see them on better position in sub-continent against
all challenges they were facing in presence of Sikh British or Hindu rulers during 18 th & 19th
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century. Muslims were equipped with resistance, meeting the challenges, motivation and a new
spirit of struggle by these religious invokes which later on helped the Muslims of India to street
line their freedom struggle during 1857-1947 as well.
2. Who of the following was the most important in the spread of Islam during the eighteen
and nineteenth centuries:
I. Shah Wali Ullah;
II. Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi
III. Hajji Shariat Ullah
among them Shah Wali Ullah was one of the most important one as he thought deeply about the
problems faced by Muslims. He saw that the decline of Mughal Empire and Islam was due to the
fact that the Muslims had left the true path of Islam. So, Shah Waliullah translated the Holy Quran
into Persian which was the language of educated Muslims at that time. He also wrote an account
about the first four Caliphs of Islam in a way in which it was acceptable to both Shias and Sunnis.
He hoped that this would help to heel the division between them. Shah Waliullah wrote letters to
the rulers of Muslim states asking them to unite and rise against the non-Muslim forces. He invited
Ahmad Shah Abdali to deal with Marathas who were threatening Muslims in Punjab and N.W.F.P.
Ahmad Shah Abdali defeated Marathas at the battle of Panipat in 1761 so that they were never
able to rise again. Besides Shah Waliullah another important religious reformer who played vital
role in the revivalism of Islam during 19 th century was Syed Ahmed Bralvi. Syed Ahmad was
greatly impressed by the preaching and thoughts of Shah Waliullah. He joined the private army
of Nawab Amir Khan of Tonk state where he learnt the art of war. He also learnt about the
European weaponry including the art of artillery. Syed Ahmad Shaheed started preaching true
Islam (as Shah Waliullah did). But he was of the opinion that there should be a political power
`
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CHAPTER 2
behind the preaching for the revival of Islam and Muslim power in India. He founded the Jihad
Movement for the restoration and revival of Muslim power in India. His main objective was the
establishment of an Islamic state on proper Islamic principles. Also, the aim of the Jihad
Movement was to liberate the Muslims of the Punjab and N.W.F.P from the Sikh rule. Syed
Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future Muslim generations Further the efforts of Haji
Shariat Ullah were also very important. Haji Shariat Ullah started the faraizi movement to restore
the pride of the Muslims and to remove what he thought were the Hindu practices had crept into
their worship. The faraizi movement was important because it gave encouragement to the
Muslims at the time when they were demoralized by the oppression they suffered from the Hindus
and the British. It brought about a spiritual revival which led to a revival in the Islamic religion in
East Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the Islamic practices. It also had an important
them.
all challenges they were facing in presence of Sikh British or Hindu rulers during 18th & 19th
3. How important was Syed Ahmed Brailvi in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent
before 1850? Explain your answer.
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among them Syed Ahmed Bralvi was the most prominent one and his contributions in this regard
earned a valuable place in this regard. Syed Ahmed Bralvi was a strong believer of Jihad bil Saaf
as a solution to the problems faced by Muslims during 19 th century and suppression or
victimization done by the Sikhs and British in various areas of sub-continent so for this reason,
He went for Hajj in 1821; before going he traveled across India and convened meeting in order to
spread the message of Jihad. He returned from Arabia in 1823 and was ready to take action. At
that time, Punjab was under the control of Sikh government of Raja Ranjit Singh. Ranjit had
extended his authority into the North West Frontier. Muslims were suffering under Sikh rule
because they were not able to carry out many of their religious practices. At some places call to
prayer was banned for Muslims.
1826 and Balakot in 1831 to liberate Muslims of Kashmir and Hazara against enemies of Islam
Further As a student of Madrasa-e Rahimya of Shah Walli Ullah and inspired by his teachings
Syed Ahmed Bralvi besides his contributions in the battle fields also served as their imam and
urged Muslims to unite themselves against the opponents of Muslim liberty and freedom in Sub-
continent which were mainly British or Sikh at that time. In 1827 he started to mobilize Muslims
towards their religious reformation by advocating advice of living a simple life for the and rejection
of the use of innovation in Islam and to stay close to the concept of Toheed.
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Besides that, Syed Ahmed Bralvi was the strong supporter of liberation of Kashmir and Hazara
from the Sikh rule as the Sikhs were making the religious life of the Muslims difficult in those areas
for this purpose he did not only settle in Kashmir and made a headquarter in Kashmir & Panjtrar
to mobilize the Muslims towards Jihad in these areas but also fought Battle of Balakot and
Hazorthe in these areas during his Jihad movement to liberate these regions from Sikh
domination. To see Kashmir as a free area from Sikh expansionism Syed Ahmed Bralvi even lost
his life during Batlle of Balakot in 1831.
Lastly, Under the Jihad movement of Syed Ahmed Bralvi The first battle against the Sikhs was
fought on December 21, 1826 near Okara. The Sikhs were defeated in this war by the
Mujahedeen led by Syed Ahmed Bralvi. This war and victory were the first major success of the
jihad movement and proved as a moment of the relief for the Muslims in the Punjab against the
victimizing rule of Raja Ranjit Singh against them. Victory in the battle of Okara 1826 established
the reputation of the Syed Ahmed Bralvi as the savior of the Muslims in surrounding areas of
Punjab providing more strength to his aims and objectives and revivalism of Muslims in Sub-
continent.
HAJI SHARIAT ULLAH (1781-1840)
BIOGRAPHY: Haji Shariat Ullah was a prominent religious leader and Islamic scholar from
Bengal in the eastern subcontinent, who is best known as the founder of the Faraizi movement
and an important religious reformer of the Muslims during their decline in Sub-continent after the
fall of Mughal empire. Haji Shariat Ullah was born in Faridpur district, in 1781 and continued his
services for the Islamic revivalism in Bengal till his death in 1840. After getting his early education
from his village, he went to Arabia to perform Hajj at an early age of 18 years. He stayed there
from 1799 to 1818 and got his religious education. He learnt Arabic and Persian from his teacher,
Maulana Basharat. During his stay in Arabia, he came into close contact with Wahabism started
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by Muhammad bin Abdul Wahab. On his return to Bengal, he sought to purify Islam that was
impaired by the Hindu influence through his contributions. His son Mohsin-ud-din kept his legacy
alive and played key role in the development of freedom movement in east Bengal after the war
of independence 1857. Both these figures along with Titu mir of Bengal are considered as the
monumental figures in Islamic and Muslim uprising during the struggle for the social political
economic and religious rights of the Muslims in Sub-continent under the British colonial rule.
SERVICES AS RELIGIOUS REFORMER: Following are the important services of the Haji
Shariat Ullah for the revivalism of the Islam and Muslim community in response to British and
Hindu suppression in Bengal.
 Faraizi movement
 The concept of Darl-ul-Harb & Sub-continent
 Caliphs in Bengal
 Invoking Muslim peasants against Hindu and British landlords
 No taxation policy without representation
 Islamization in Bengal
Faraizi movement: Haji Shariat Ullah founded the Faraizi movement in 1818 which was a
religious reform movement in the 19th century for Bengali Muslims. The objective was to revive
Islam and to improve the condition of Muslim peasants who were opposed by Hindu and British
landlords, to revive Islam and to improve the condition of Muslim peasants who were opposed by
Hindu and British landlords. Under this movement he advised followers to act upon basics of Islam
like prayer, fasting, zakat and Hajj. He struggled for farm workers against economic oppression
of Land lords and wanted to purify Islam from Hindu customs. The Faraizi movement was widely
received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur, Barisal, Mymensingh and Comilla. The British along
with the Hindu landlords of the region undertook a smear campaign against his movement which
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was largely successful to ignite revivalism of Muslims and Islam in Bengal during first half of the
19th century. It encouraged de-moralized Muslims. Brought a Spiritual revival and Hindu
influences of Islamic practices were removed. It was politically and economically important.
Muslims rose against their harsh treatments and it is called to be seeding Pakistan Movement.
The concept of Darl-ul-Harb and Sub-continent: He believed that the miserable condition of
the Muslims in India has led to the country being Dar-Ul-Harb (Country under Foreign Rule).
Under this concept he urged Muslims to wage Jihad against non-Islamic practices and to purify
India from the foreign rule. Further Friday prayers and other religious practices should not be
offered on a impure place that has been because of the presence of a non-Muslim rule in Bengal
until the Muslims are not going to purify this land from impure rule of the British. This philosophy
of Haji Sharait Ullah boosted religious revivalism in sub-continent and created a resistive force
against the British and Hindu ruling classes of east Bengal on the primary bases and on the
secondary bases west Bengal.
Caliphs in Bengal: He categorized East Bengal into areas called circles, with their own Khalifa,
who was responsible for their wealth, religious representation and political existence in the
presence of dominating Hindu masses and taught the Muslims of the area not to obey the orders
of British or Hindu landlords or Zamindars but to follow the directions of the Caliphs of those
circles. This service of Haji Shariat Ullah played key role in the protection of political social and
religious rights of the Muslims of Bengal as those Khalifa’s were serving the community as
mentors in different walks of lives of the Muslim population of Bengal. This system provided
alternate leadership to the Muslims based on their own people instead of Hindu landlords or British
administrators.
Invoking Muslim peasants against Hindus and British landlords: Until the 1750s, Muslims
were the ruling class, but everything changed after the British took over. The British were working
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with the ‘Zamindars’ who were the landowners and tax collectors. By 1800s, nearly all Zamindars
were Hindus. The Muslims were mistreated by their British Rulers and oppressed by the
Zamindars. Haji Shariat Ullah regarded British domination in Bengal as detrimental to the religious
life of Muslims. He advocated unity awareness and religious obedience in the Bengali peasant’s
community a The Hindus were troubled by the unity of the Muslim peasants and opposed Haji
Sahab. The Hindus put false allegations against him and forced him to leave Dhaka. Haji Sahab
returned to Faridpur and continued his fight.
No taxation without representation: Haji Sharait Ullah motivated Bengali peasants and Muslims
to not pay taxes to the Hindu landlords or British colonial rule as the same money has been used
for the further exploitation of the local community of Bengal by them. He raised the slogan of no
taxation without representation and urged the Muslims to be aware of the economic exploitation
of their resources by the hands of British landlords. This policy helped the Muslim peasants to
unite against their opponents in Bengal which later on became the motivational force behind birth
of nationalist ideas in that part of sub-continent during 1857-1947.
IMPACTS OF HIS SERVICES: His reforms triggered a revivalist movement in Bengal and
had many valuable impacts on the Muslim community and Islam such as:
 Farazi movement united Muslims in Bengal against British and Hindu domination
 Invoked Bengali nationalism
 Motivated Muslim peasants to resistance against exploitation of the others
 Seeded Pakistan movement in Bengal
Motivated Muslim peasants to resistance against exploitation of the others: It was the
objective of Faraizi Movement, to improve the religious political social and moral status of the
Muslims of Bengal and safeguard the rights of the tenants. Muslims had lost confidence due to
non-Islamic ways of life adopted by them, especially Muslim’s farmers of Bengal were leading a
`
39
CHAPTER 2
miserable life, due to exploitation of Hindu land-lords. Haji Shariat Ullah made the Muslim tenants
realize that they needed to get their rights from the Hindu landlords. They started a struggle
against their masters and soon, with the guidance of Haji Shariat Ullah, they started to struggle
for all their rights and in this way, they improved their moral political and social status besides
religious which triggered sense of nationalism in east Bengal mainly and on the secondary bases
in west Bengal against British supervision during the freedom movement of Pakistan.
Farazi movement united Muslims in Bengal against British and Hindu domination: His
Farazi movement united the Muslims of east Bengal against Hindu and British suppression during
mid half of the 19th century under the Farazi movement started by Haji Sharait Ullah and carried
by Mohsin ud din which helped them to stream line their political and social demands against the
British during the freedom movement. The contributions of Haji Shariat Ullah assisted Muslims of
Bengal in unifying under the umbrella of Farazi movement which inculcated the spirit of self-
confidence among the Muslims during the freedom struggle.
Seeded Pakistan movement in Bengal: The Faraizi movement was important for creation of
Pakistan because it gave encouragement to the Muslims at the time when they were demoralized
by the oppression they suffered from the British. It brought about a spiritual and political revivalism
which led to a revival in the Islamic religion in East Bengal aiding two nation theory as well. The
Faraizi movement was widely received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur, Barisal, Mymensingh
and Comilla which became strong hold of Muslim league and its support during 1906-47 playing
key role in the creation of Pakistan during freedom movement.
1. Who was Mohsin-ud-din?
2. What was Farazi movement?
3. Who was Dadu Main?
`
40
CHAPTER 2
4. Discuss Caliphate system of Haji Sharit Ullah?
5. Describe the achievements of Haji Sharit Ullah in reviving Islam.
1. Why Haji Shariat Ullah and Mohsin-ud-din were imprisoned by British?
2. Why Farazi movement was started by Haji Sharait Ullah?
3. Explain Why Haji Shariat Ullah was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-continent?
4. Why Farazi movement was important for the creation of Pakistan?
1. Did Haji Shariat Ullah contribute more to the spread of Islam than anyone else in the sub-
continent before 1850? Explain your answer
2. How important was Haji Shariat Ullah in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent before
Haji Sharait Ullah
Shah Waliullah
4 MARKS
Moḥsin-ud-dīn Ahmad (1819–1862), better known as Dudu Miyān, was a leader of the Faraizi
Movement in Bengal and Son of Haji Sharait Ullah. He played an active role in the Indian Rebellion
of 1857 and kept alive the legacy of his father alive by keeping his works active during his lifetime.
`
41
CHAPTER 2
Dadu Mian or Mohsin-un-din was considered as a face of resistance against British and Hindu
landlords and their victimizing rule in Bengal against Muslims. He was imprisoned by British
multiple times because of his resistive attitude towards their rule. He was the leader of the Farazi
rebellion. Farazis were the followers of a Muslim sect founded by Haji Shariat Ullah of Faridpur in
eastern Bengal. They advocated religious, social and political changes in Bengal under British
rule.
Haji Shariat Ullah founded the Faraizi movement in 1818 which was a religious
reform movement in the 19th century for Bengali Muslims. The objective was to revive Islam and
to improve the condition of Muslim peasants who were opposed by Hindu and British landlords,
to revive Islam and to improve the condition of Muslim peasants who were opposed by Hindu and
British landlords. Under this movement he advised followers to act upon basics of Islam like
prayer, fasting, zakat and Hajj. He struggled for farm workers against economic oppression of
Land lords and wanted to purify Islam from Hindu customs. The Faraizi movement was widely
received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur, Barisal, Mymensingh and Comilla.
Muḥsin-ud-dīn Ahmad (1819–1862), better known as Dudu Miyān, was a leader of the Faraizi
Movement in Bengal and Son of Haji Sharait Ullah. He played an active role in the Indian Rebellion
of 1857 and kept alive the legacy of his father alive by keeping his works active during his lifetime.
Dadu Mian or Mohsin-un-din was considered as a face of resistance against British and Hindu
landlords and their victimizing rule in Bengal against Muslims. He was imprisoned by British
multiple times because of his resistive attitude towards their rule. He was the leader of the Farazi
rebellion. Farazis were the followers of a Muslim sect founded by Haji Shariat Ullah of Faridpur in
eastern Bengal. They advocated religious, social and political changes in Bengal under British
rule.
`
42
CHAPTER 2
He categorized East Bengal into areas called circles, with their own Khalifa, who was responsible
for their wealth, religious representation and political existence in the presence of dominating
Hindu masses and taught the Muslims of the area not to obey the orders of British or Hindu
landlords or Zamindars but to follow the directions of the Caliphs of those circles. This service of
Haji Shariat Ullah played key role in the protection of political social and religious rights of the
Muslims of Bengal as those Khalifa’s were serving the community as mentors in different walks
of lives of the Muslim population of Bengal. This system provided alternate leadership to the
Muslims based on their own people instead of Hindu landlords or British administrators.
5. Describe the achievements of Haji Sharit Ullah in reviving Islam?
He thought deeply about the problems faced by Muslims. Haji Shariat Ullah started the faraizi
movement to restore the pride of the Muslims and to remove what he thought were the Hindu
practices had crept into their worship. The faraizi movement was important because it gave
suffered from the Hindus and the British. It brought about a spiritual revival which led to a revival
in the Islamic religion in East Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the Islamic practices.
It also had an important political and economic impact. The Bengal peasants became united
against the harsh treatment they received. They became aware of their rights and the political
unity began to grow amongst them.
7 MARKS
1. Why Mohsin-ud-din was imprisoned by British in 1860?
Son of Haji Shariat Ullah who carried his legacy of the faraizi movement was arrested by British
in 1860 and imprisoned for many reasons like he as per Haji Shariat Ullah’s vision categorized
`
43
CHAPTER 2
East Bengal into areas called circles, with their own Khalifa, who was responsible for their wealth,
religious representation and political existence in the presence of dominating Hindu masses and
taught the Muslims of the area not to obey the orders of British or Hindu landlords or Zamindars
but to follow the directions of the Caliphs of those circles. It was a direct challenge to the authority
of the British empire which was never welcomed by the British in east Bengal and imprisoned him.
Further Until the 1750s, Muslims were the ruling class, but everything changed after the British
took over. The British were working with the ‘Zamindars’ who were the landowners and tax
collectors. By 1860s, nearly all Zamindars were Hindus. The Muslims were mistreated by their
British Rulers and oppressed by the Zamindars. Mohsin-ud-din regarded British domination in
Bengal as detrimental to the religious life of Muslims. He advocated unity awareness and religious
obedience in the Bengali peasant’s community The British were troubled by the unity of the
Muslim peasants and opposed Mohsin-ud-din hence resulted into his imprisonment.
Lastly, he motivated Bengali peasants and Muslims to not pay taxes to the Hindu landlords or
British colonial rule as the same money has been used for the further exploitation of the local
community of Bengal by them. He raised the slogan of no taxation without representation and
urged the Muslims to be aware of the economic exploitation of their resources by the hands of
British landlords which was a direct threat to the main objective of the British empire in India so
when British felt threatened from this approach, they imprisoned him in 1860 after which faraizi
movement declined.
`
44
CHAPTER 2
Land lords and wanted to purify Islam from Hindu customs. This movement was mainly founded
for the reasons like Haji Shariat Ullah was obsessed with deplorable conditions of Muslims
peasants of East Bengal who were oppressed by Hindu Zamindars and British landlords. He
believed that the main reason of their deterioration was negligence of their fazaiz or Islamic
Duties. He declared India as Dar-ul-Harb and thought some kind of physical struggle was
essential.
Further, Haji Shariat Ullah begins to his Faraizi movement to revive Islam and its practices. He
urged Muslims that not to take their religious obligations for granted. He gave them Muslims that
encouragement which they needed. Faraizi movement also revive Islamic practices in Bengal
also and make aware to British and Hindus that the flames and struggle from the Muslims had
not completely put out. Lastly, Haji Shariat Ullah regarded British domination in Bengal as
detrimental to the religious life of Muslims he believed Muslims should purify their lives of the
Hindu practices, to gain spiritual confidence and to revive Islam, to defend Islam against the
peasant of Bengal who were oppressing the Muslims in east Bengal.
3. Explain Why Haji Shariat Ullah was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-
continent?
Haji Shariat Ullah was very important for the revivalism of Islam during first half of the 19 th century
as he performed many services In this regard for the Muslims of Bengal likewise, he categorized
but to follow the directions of the Caliphs of those circles. This service of Haji Shariat Ullah played
key role in the protection of political social and religious rights of the Muslims of Bengal as those
`
45
CHAPTER 2
Khalifa’s were serving the community as mentors in different walks of lives of the Muslim
population of Bengal. This system provided alternate leadership to the Muslims based on their
own people instead of Hindu landlords or British administrators.
Further, Until the 1750s, Muslims were the ruling class, but everything changed after the British
British Rulers and oppressed by the Zamindars. Haji Shariat Ullah regarded British domination in
obedience in the Bengali peasant’s community a The Hindus were troubled by the unity of the
Muslim peasants and opposed Haji Sahab. The Hindus put false allegations against him and
forced him to leave Dhaka. Haji Sahab returned to Faridpur and continued his fight.
Lastly, Haji Sharait Ullah motivated Bengali peasants and Muslims to not pay taxes to the Hindu
landlords or British colonial rule as the same money has been used for the further exploitation of
the local community of Bengal by them. He raised the slogan of no taxation without representation
and urged the Muslims to be aware of the economic exploitation of their resources by the hands
of British landlords. This policy helped the Muslim peasants to unite against their opponents in
Bengal which later on became the motivational force behind birth of nationalist ideas in that part
of sub-continent during 1857-1947.
British landlords. This movement continued till 1860 and played key role in the creation of Pakistan
`
46
CHAPTER 2
as well in many ways likewise It was the objective of Faraizi Movement, to improve the religious
political social and moral status of the Muslims of Bengal and safeguard the rights of the tenants.
Muslims had lost confidence due to non-Islamic ways of life adopted by them, especially Muslim’s
farmers of Bengal were leading a miserable life, due to exploitation of Hindu land-lords. Haji
Shariat Ullah made the Muslim tenants realize that they needed to get their rights from the Hindu
landlords. They started a struggle against their masters and soon, with the guidance of Haji
Shariat Ullah, they started to struggle for all their rights and in this way, they improved their moral
political and social status besides religious which triggered sense of nationalism in east Bengal
mainly and on the secondary bases in west Bengal against British supervision during the freedom
movement of Pakistan.
His Farazi movement united the Muslims of east Bengal against Hindu and British suppression
during mid half of the 19th century under the Farazi movement started by Haji Sharait Ullah and
carried by Mohsin ud din which helped them to stream line their political and social demands
against the British during the freedom movement. The contributions of Haji Shariat Ullah assisted
Muslims of Bengal in unifying under the umbrella of Farazi movement which inculcated the spirit
of self-confidence among the Muslims during the freedom struggle.
Lastly, The Faraizi movement was important for creation of Pakistan because it gave
suffered from the British. It brought about a spiritual and political revivalism which led to a revival
in the Islamic religion in East Bengal aiding two nation theory as well. The Faraizi movement was
widely received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur, Barisal, Mymensingh and Comilla which
became strong hold of Muslim league and its support during 1906-47 playing key role in the
creation of Pakistan during freedom movement.
`
47
CHAPTER 2
14 MARKS
4. Did Haji Shariat Ullah contribute more to the spread of Islam than anyone else in the
sub-continent before 1850? Explain your answer
as he performed many services in this regard for the Muslims of Bengal likewise, until the 1750s,
Muslims were the ruling class, but everything changed after the British took over. The British were
working with the ‘Zamindars’ who were the landowners and tax collectors. By 1800s, nearly all
Zamindars were Hindus. The Muslims were mistreated by their British Rulers and oppressed by
the Zamindars. Haji Shariat Ullah regarded British domination in Bengal as detrimental to the
religious life of Muslims. He advocated unity awareness and religious obedience in the Bengali
peasant’s community a The Hindus were troubled by the unity of the Muslim peasants and
opposed Haji Sahab. The Hindus put false allegations against him and forced him to leave Dhaka.
Haji Sahab returned to Faridpur and continued his fight. Haji Shariat Ullah founded the Faraizi
movement in 1818 which was a religious reform movement in the 19th century for Bengali
Muslims. The objective was to revive Islam and to improve the condition of Muslim peasants who
were opposed by Hindu and British landlords, to revive Islam and to improve the condition of
Muslim peasants who were opposed by Hindu and British landlords. Under this movement
he advised followers to act upon basics of Islam like prayer, fasting, zakat and Hajj. He struggled
for farm workers against economic oppression of Land lords and wanted to purify Islam from
Hindu customs. The Faraizi movement was widely received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur,
Barisal, Mymensingh and Comilla. The British along with the Hindu landlords of the region
undertook a smear campaign against his movement which was largely successful to ignite
revivalism of Muslims and Islam in Bengal during first half of the 19 th century. It encouraged de-
moralized Muslims. Brought a Spiritual revival and Hindu influences of Islamic practices were
`
48
CHAPTER 2
removed. It was politically and economically important. Muslims rose against their harsh
treatments and it is called to be seeding Pakistan Movement Moreover, during this phase another
name is well admired and he is Shah Waliullah as he thought deeply about the problems faced
by Muslims. He saw that the decline of Mughal Empire and Islam was due to the fact that the
Muslims had left the true path of Islam. So, Shah Waliullah translated the Holy Quran into Persian
which was the language of educated Muslims at that time. He also wrote an account about the
first four Caliphs of Islam in a way in which it was acceptable to both Shias and Sunnis. He hoped
that this would help to heel the division between them. Shah Waliullah wrote letters to the rulers
of Muslim states asking them to unite and rise against the non-Muslim forces. He invited Ahmad
Shah Abdali to deal with Marathas who were threatening Muslims in Punjab and N.W.F.P. Ahmad
Shah Abdali defeated Marathas at the battle of Panipat in 1761 so that they were never able to
rise again. The efforts of Syed Ahmed Bralvi were also very important as he spread Islam through
the Jihad Movement Syed Ahmad was greatly impressed by the preaching and thoughts of Shah
Waliullah. He joined the private army of Nawab Amir Khan of Tonk state where he learnt the art
of war. He also learnt about the European weaponry including the art of artillery. Syed Ahmad
Shaheed started preaching true Islam (as Shah Waliullah did). But he was of the opinion that
there should be a political power behind the preaching for the revival of Islam and Muslim power
in India. He founded the Jihad Movement for the restoration and revival of Muslim power in India.
His main objective was the establishment of an Islamic state on proper Islamic principles. Also,
the aim of the Jihad Movement was to liberate the Muslims of the Punjab and N.W.F.P from the
Sikh rule. Syed Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future Muslim generations.
5. How important was Haji Shariat Ullah in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent
before 1850? Explain your answer.
as he performed many services In this regard for the Muslims of Bengal likewise, he categorized
`
49
CHAPTER 2
but to follow the directions of the Caliphs of those circles. This service of Haji Shariat Ullah played
key role in the protection of political social and religious rights of the Muslims of Bengal as those
Khalifa’s were serving the community as mentors in different walks of lives of the Muslim
population of Bengal. This system provided alternate leadership to the Muslims based on their
own people instead of Hindu landlords or British administrators.
Further, Until the 1750s, Muslims were the ruling class, but everything changed after the British
British Rulers and oppressed by the Zamindars. Haji Shariat Ullah regarded British domination in
obedience in the Bengali peasant’s community a The Hindus were troubled by the unity of the
Muslim peasants and opposed Haji Sahab. The Hindus put false allegations against him and
forced him to leave Dhaka. Haji Sahab returned to Faridpur and continued his fight.
Moreover, Haji Sharait Ullah motivated Bengali peasants and Muslims to not pay taxes to the
Hindu landlords or British colonial rule as the same money has been used for the further
exploitation of the local community of Bengal by them. He raised the slogan of no taxation without
representation and urged the Muslims to be aware of the economic exploitation of their resources
by the hands of British landlords. This policy helped the Muslim peasants to unite against their
opponents in Bengal which later on became the motivational force behind birth of nationalist ideas
in that part of sub-continent during 1857-1947.
`
50
CHAPTER 2
Lastly, Haji Shariat Ullah founded the Faraizi movement in 1818 which was a religious
Land lords and wanted to purify Islam from Hindu customs. The Faraizi movement was widely
received in the districts of Dhaka, Faridpur, Barisal, Mymensingh and Comilla. The British along
with the Hindu landlords of the region undertook a smear campaign against his movement which
was largely successful to ignite revivalism of Muslims and Islam in Bengal during first half of the
19th century. It encouraged de-moralized Muslims. Brought a Spiritual revival and Hindu
influences of Islamic practices were removed. It was politically and economically important.
Muslims rose against their harsh treatments and it is called to be seeding Pakistan Movement.
6. Who of the following was the most important in the spread of Islam during the
seventeenth and eighteenth centuries:
Haji Sharait Ullah
Shah Waliullah
among them Haji Sharait Ullah was one of the most important one as he thought deeply about
the problems faced by Muslims. Haji Shariat Ullah started the faraizi movement to restore the
pride of the Muslims and to remove what he thought were the Hindu practices had crept into their
worship. The faraizi movement was important because it gave encouragement to the Muslims at
`
51
CHAPTER 2
the time when they were demoralized by the oppression they suffered from the Hindus and the
British. It brought about a spiritual revival which led to a revival in the Islamic religion in East
Bengal. Hindu influences were removed from the Islamic practices. It also had an important
them.
Besides Sharait Ullah another important religious reformer who played vital role in the revivalism
of Islam during 19th century was Syed Ahmed Bralvi. Syed Ahmad was greatly impressed by the
preaching and thoughts of Shah Waliullah. He joined the private army of Nawab Amir Khan of
Tonk state where he learnt the art of war. He also learnt about the European weaponry including
the art of artillery. Syed Ahmad Shaheed started preaching true Islam (as Shah Waliullah did).
But he was of the opinion that there should be a political power behind the preaching for the
revival of Islam and Muslim power in India. He founded the Jihad Movement for the restoration
and revival of Muslim power in India. His main objective was the establishment of an Islamic state
on proper Islamic principles. Also, the aim of the Jihad Movement was to liberate the Muslims of
the Punjab and N.W.F.P from the Sikh rule. Syed Ahmad’s example continued to inspire the future
Muslim generations
Further the efforts of Shah Walli Ullah were also very important. He saw that the decline of Mughal
Empire and Islam was due to the fact that the Muslims had left the true path of Islam. So, Shah
Waliullah translated the Holy Quran into Persian which was the language of educated Muslims at
that time. He also wrote an account about the first four Caliphs of Islam in a way in which it was
acceptable to both Shias and Sunnis. He hoped that this would help to heel the division between
them. Shah Waliullah wrote letters to the rulers of Muslim states asking them to unite and rise
against the non-Muslim forces. He invited Ahmad Shah Abdali to deal with Marathas who were
`
52
CHAPTER 2
threatening Muslims in Punjab and N.W.F.P. Ahmad Shah Abdali defeated Marathas at the battle
of Panipat in 1761 so that they were never able to rise again
all challenges they were facing in presence of Sikh British or Hindu rulers during 18 th & 19th
`
53
CHAPTER 2
EXPECTED 4 MARKS QUESTIONS CHECKLIST
1. Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam.
9. Who was Shah Ismail or Yar Muhammad?
10. Describe the achievements of Haji Shariat Ullah in reviving Islam.
EXPECTED 7 MARKS QUESTIONS
Reasons behind translation of Quran by SWU will be discussed.
continent?
Contributions of SWU will be discussed.
Example: Explain why Shah Waliullah is important for Muslims in sub-continent?
`
54
CHAPTER 2
17. Explain Why Syed Ahmed Bravli was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-continent?
Contributions of SAB will be discussed.
Example: Why was Syed Ahmed Bralvi an important influence on the revivalism of Islam during the
19th century.
19. Why Jihad movement was important for the revivalism of Islam during the 19 th century in
Sub-continent
20. Why Haji Shariat Ullah and Mohsin-ud-din were imprisoned by British?
22. Explain Why Haji Shariat Ullah was important for the revivalism of Islam in Sub-continent?
24. Why were there attempts to revive Islam in the sub-continent during the eighteenth and
early nineteenth centuries?
EXPECTED 14 MARKS QUESTIONS
1. How important was Shah Wali Ullah in the spread of Islam in the Sub-Continent before 1850?
Explain your answer.
2. Was the work of Shah Wali Ullah the most important factor in the revival of Islam in the sub-
continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give reasons for your answer.
subcontinent before 1850? Explain your answer.
`
55
CHAPTER 2
4. Was the work of Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi the most important factor in the revival of
Islam in the sub-continent during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? Give reasons for
your answer.
5. Did Haji Shariat Ullah contribute more to the spread of Islam than anyone else in the sub-
continent before 1850? Explain your answer
i. Shah Wali Ullah;
ii. Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barailvi
iii. Hajji Shariat Ullah
Explain your answer with reference to all three of the above.
`
56
CHAPTER 2
MARKING SCHEMES ON CHAPTER
`
57
CHAPTER 2
`
58
CHAPTER 2
`
59
CHAPTER 2

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1

SECTION 1 RELIGIOUS REFORMERS OF MUSLIMS

Pakistan Studies 2059

History & Culture of Pakistan

SHAH WALIULLAH - HAJI SHARIAT ULLAH - SYED AHMED BRALVI

o TIMELINE FOR CHAPTER

o KEY DETAILS & FACTS

o EXPECTED QUESTIONS CHECKLIST

o EXAMPLE SOURCE BASED QUESTIONS

o MARKING SCHEME FOR CHAPTER

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

1703 – Birth of Shah Walli Ullah.

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

rapid decline during the first half of the 18 th century.

KEY DETAILS & FACTS FROM THE CHAPTER 2:

Key information which is required to answer this chapter is based on understanding:

1. Decline of the Muslims in Sub-continent from 1707 to 1757.

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

of Islam and Muslims in sub-continent.

SHAH WALIULLAH (1703-1762)

completion of the famous Islamic legal text, Fatawa-i-Alamgiri.

 Translated Quran into Persian during 1738.

 Mentored plethora of religious scholars through Madras-e-Rahimya.

 Wrote 51 books on Shariah & Islamic Fiqah.

 Safeguarded Delhi against Maratha invasion by calling Ahmed Shah Durani.

 Wrote Biography of Rightly guided Caliphs.

 Work in bringing social justice

 Uniting Muslim Community against external threats of Marathas and Sikh

 Identified the reasons of problems of Muslims Community

into the local language of India for the convenience in consultation.

Mentored plethora of religious scholars through madras-e-Rahimya: Through the platform

central part of India specially in the surroundings of Delhi.

the people of Sub-continent.

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

that this would create a more united community.

IMPACTS OF HIS SERVICES: His reforms triggered a revivalist movement in sub-continent

 Translation of Quran into Persian increased awareness about Islamic teachings

 1st Thinker to address the root cause of all Muslim Problems

 Madrassa Rahimiya played a vital role in teaching Islamic principle

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

in central parts of India during 18 th century.

community even during the freedom movement.

Rahimiya also further assisted in development of Darul-alum-Deoband as well.

between different sectarian groups to unite the community.

EXPECTED 4 MARKS QUESTIONS FROM TOPIC

1. Who was Shah Abdul Rahim?

2. What was Madrasa-e-Rahimya?

3. Who was Qutab-ud-din?

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR

5. Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam

EXPECTED 7 MARKS QUESTIONS FROM TOPIC

1. Explain Why Shah Waliullah translates Quran into Persian language?

3. Explain why Shah Waliullah is important for Muslims in sub-continent?

EXPECTED 14 MARKS QUESTIONS FROM TOPIC

1850? Explain your answer.

1. Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam?

AID TO LEARN BY MR ZUNAIR