A Great Religious Scholar, Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani — A Living Example of the Elders and Predecessors! In Darul Uloom Deoband, there were capable and worthy personages present, such as the students of Hazrat Husain Ahmad Madani (RA), senior teachers, and the Chief Instructor (Sadr-ul-Mudarriseen). However, the honor of teaching Hadith Sharif to the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan and leading the prayers and recitation on the occasion of his turban-tying ceremony (Dastar-e-Fazilat) fell to Hazrat Maulana Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani Sahib (May his blessings continue). This matter is certainly enviable and astonishing. In the 160-year history of Darul Uloom Deoband, he is the only personality who holds the honor of being both the Vice-Chancellor (Mohtamim / Director General) and the Grand Master of Hadith (Shaikh-ul-Hadith / Chief Traditionist) simultaneously — and that too with utmost dignity and comprehensiveness. Today, we only hear and see his success and honor, but perhaps we do not know how many sacrifices he has made, how much hard work he has put in to reach this position, and is still doing today. Before coming to Darul Uloom Deoband, where Hazrat was rendering his teaching services, there was a better arrangement of salary and perks from the government. However, he refused to take a monthly salary of around one lakh rupees and remained engaged in the service of religion on a nominal stipend. Since he belongs to a joint family system, he also had to give some time to the optometry (eyeglass making) business that had been ongoing since his respected father's time. Consequently, the education of his only son had to be suspended for about five years. How difficult this sacrifice must have been for a religious, wise father—we probably cannot estimate. Later, the son completed his education. Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), he is also pious, God-fearing, and possessor of insight, as very few sons of scholars are nowadays. After finishing his education, the son also took over the business. During this time, Hazrat was appointed as the Mohtamim of Darul Uloom Deoband. Even now, Hazrat's father's old business is established, and the son also has a vast business spread within the country and abroad. However, since Corona, Hazrat stopped taking any money given by his son. Not out of anger, but because he no longer feels the need for it. Similarly, the nominal stipend he used to receive from Darul Uloom Deoband, he stopped taking that as well after becoming the Shaikh-ul-Hadith. Most of us think that if someone becomes the Mohtamim or Shaikh-ul-Hadith of a Madrasa, there will be a large income. But look at these personages; the higher their position becomes, the more their abstinence, piety, and connection with Allah increase. They bow before Allah with gratitude and humility. This is the difference between them and us! That is why they are successful, and we are deprived. This is just one aspect of the life of this personality of knowledge, action, abstinence, and piety. Countless stories of such sacrifices and selflessness exist in Hazrat's life. People close to him know that one of Hazrat's daughters is severely ill — since childhood. She needs complete care. Even today, Hazrat, his wife, and that same daughter — this is their small, peaceful family. Resigned to fate and destiny, overflowing with contentment and peace of mind. Hazrat often says: "Whatever you see in me, it is all the blessing of serving this very daughter." And this is the real secret of Hazrat's success and blessing! May Allah Almighty grant Hazrat Shaikh a long and blessed life with health and safety. Ameen, O Lord of the Worlds!
