Who was Hadhrat Faqeeh-ul-Ummat رحمة الله عليه? Born to pious parents in the town of Gangoh in the year 1325 A.H. he lived to become one of the greatest luminaries of his time. Nevertheless, describing the personality of Hadhrat Mufti Sahib رحمة الله عليه is an almost impossible task. The most eloquent words would hopelessly fail in truly describing the knowledge, brilliance, piety, kindness, compassion, humility, and the numerous other qualities which he embodied. He was an ustaaz to thousands of students, a mentor to thousands of disciples and a kind and compassionate father to all who came into contact with him.
His compassion and kindness knew no bounds. It was indeed his fundamental nature. Every year he personally took care of the monthly expenses of numerous students of Darul Uloom Deoband, Saharanpur and other institutions. And he also saw to their various needs. There were instances when he gave away his valuable, personal kitaabs and there were occasions where he even gave away the clothing he had been wearing at that time. Despite this, he never regarded himself as having shown any favour to anyone. He greatly loved the poor, he loved being with them and he loved living and had a desire of even passing away like them. Hadhrat رحمة الله عليه was also forever concerned about the deeni progress of others, especially the poor.
It was the normal practice of Hadhrat Mufti Sahib رحمة الله عليه for many years that he would recite 15 paras or more daily in salaah. During the month of Ramadhaan, he would complete one Qur’aan daily.
Hadhrat Mufti Sahib رحمة الله عليه taught Bukhaari Shareef for many years at Kanpur as well as at Darul Uloom Deoband. Besides teaching Bukhaari Shareef and other books of hadeeth at Deoband, he also graced the distinguished position of Grand Mufti of that august institution for many years.
His fataawa (Islamic verdicts) have been compiled into 29 volumes each of which spans over hundreds of pages. Besides the fatwas, he authored several books and booklets. Upon his instruction the publication of many magazines and newsletters was undertaken by various institutions. Together with this Hadhrat Mufti Sahib رحمة الله عليه travelled to many countries for the purpose of disseminating the deen of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). South Africa was particularly fortunate in that Hadhrat Mufti Sahib رحمة الله عليه repeatedly blessed our shores with his presence and benefited the ummah with his teachings. It was also the good fortune of South Africa that this country was blessed with his company during the last days of his earthly life.
May Allah Ta’ala allow this publication to be a source of guidance for the entire ummah.