A Profile of Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri

Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri was born in 1951 in the city of Jhang, Pakistan, hailing from a family of Islamic scholars and teachers. His formal religious education was initiated in Medina at the age of 12. During his stay in Medina, Shaykh-ul-Islam often visited Madrasa al-‘Ulum al-Shar‘iyya, a traditional school situated in the blessed house of the Companion of the Prophet Muhammad (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him), Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (may Allah be well pleased with him), opposite the Green Dome. He completed the traditional studies of classical and Arabic sciences under the tutelage of his father and other eminent scholars of the time. He continued to travel around the Islamic world in pursuit of sacred knowledge, and studied under many eminent scholars of Mecca, Medina, Syria, Baghdad, Lebanon, the Maghreb, India and Pakistan, and received around five hundred authorities and chains of transmission from them in hadith and classical Islamic and spiritual sciences. Amongst them is an unprecedented, unique and highly honoured chain of authority which connects him, through five teachers, to al-Ghawth al-A‘zam al-Shaykh ‘Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani (of Baghdad), al-Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyi al-Din b. ‘Arabi—the author of al-Futuhat al-Makkiyya—(Damascus) and al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalani, the great hadith authority of Egypt. Through another chain he is linked to Imam Yusuf b. Isma‘il al-Nabhani directly via only one teacher. His chains of transmission are published in two of his thabts (detailed lists): al-Jawahir al-Bahira fi al-Asanid al-Tahira and al-Subul al-Wahabiyya fi al-Asanid al-Dhahabiyya.

Teaching and Authorship

In the academic sphere, Shaykh-ul-Islam received a First-Class Honours Degree from the University of the Punjab in 1970. After earning his MA in Islamic studies with University Gold Medal in 1972 and achieving his LLB in 1974, Shaykh-ul-Islam began to practise law in the district courts of Jhang. He moved to Lahore in 1978 and joined the University of the Punjab as a lecturer in law and completed his doctorate in Islamic Law. He was later appointed as a professor of Islamic Law and was head of the department of Islamic legislation for LLM.

Shaykh-ul-Islam was also a jurist advisor to the Federal Shariat Court and Appellate Shariah Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and advisor on the development of Islamic Curricula to the Federal Ministry of Education. Within a short span of time, Shaykh-ul-Islam emerged as one of Pakistan’s leading Islamic jurists and scholars and one of the world’s most renowned and leading authorities on Islam. A prolific author, researcher and orator, Shaykh-ul-Islam has written around one thousand books, of which over six hundred and fifty have been published as of 2024; and has delivered over seven thousand lectures (in Urdu, English and Arabic) on a wide range of subjects.

In 2018, Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri launched his magnanimous Qur’anic Encyclopaedia. This encyclopaedia is the accumulation of his fifty-year long effort in studying the Qur’an and it comprises eight volumes consisting of around five thousand subjects. The subjects have been worded according to contemporary requirements and needs. From the encyclopaedia’s unique features, one will find modern, scientific and philosophic subjects addressed. It is impossible to encompass all the subjects and topics that are discussed in the Qur’an. However, the Qur’anic Encyclopaedia, with its approximately five thousand subjects, is exhaustive and comprehensive in terms of contemporary needs and requirements. The last three volumes contain a comprehensive index of Qur’anic words. This index will facilitate in accessing the shoreless oceans of meaning in the Qur’an.

In the history of Qur’anic translations, translators have only translated the Qur’an into their mother tongue or national language, which would then be rendered into other languages. Shaykh-ul-Islam completed the Urdu translation of the Qur’an, i.e. ‘Irfan al-Qur’an, in 2005. Later, in 2006, the English version of this Urdu translation was published with the title ‘The Glorious Qur’an’. Available English translations of the Qur’an that existed in the market at that time consisted of pre-modern literary styles of English and not in the style of contemporary modern usage. In this regard, The Glorious Qur’an holds the distinction of being an outstanding contemporary English translation of the Qur’an. Then after 17 years since ‘The Glorious Qur’an’ was published, a new and modern translation was needed for the next generation of youths in the Western world in order to understand the meanings of the Qur’an. It was in light of this need that Shaykh-ul-Islam translated the Qur’an anew directly from its Arabic text in a modern linguistic style with the name The Manifest Qur’an. This is the first time that an exegete has attained the unprecedented honour of translating the Holy Qur’an into two languages, directly from its Arabic text. Furthermore, ‘Irfan al-Qur’an has been published in Norwegian, Finnish, Greek, Danish, Hindi, Sindhi, Pashto, Bengali and Kashmiri. Translations of ‘Irfan al-Qur’an into French and Gujarati are also currently underway. These translations reflect the lexical, grammatical, literary, scholarly, doctrinal and scientific characteristics of the divine discourse of the Holy Qur’an. In several aspects, they are more comprehensive and unique compared to other contemporary translations.

Shaykh-ul-Islam has successfully completed another remarkable chapter in the service of the Qur’an by authoring a grand Qur’anic exegesis in Arabic language, comprising 42 volumes. This unparalleled exegesis is prefaced by a comprehensive two-volume introduction titled al-Fath al-Kabir fi ‘Ilm al-Tafsir, which represents a significant and unique contribution to the science of Qur’anic exegesis (‘ilm al-tafsir). This introduction comprehensively covers the principles and foundational discussions of the Qur’anic sciences exegesis from every perspective, covering all relevant dimensions. Moreover, an entire volume is dedicated solely to the interpretation of Sura al-Fatiha.

The methodology of this exegesis follows the al-Ittijah al-Jami‘i (comprehensive approach), integrating both tafsir bi’l-ma’thur (exegesis based on transmitted reports) and tafsir bi’l-ra’y (exegesis based on reasoning). It presents a profound synthesis of rational and traditional approaches, offering a balanced and comprehensive interpretive framework.

This tafsir will be published separately under the following distinct titles:

1. The complete comprehensive tafsir, titled Fawatih al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Qur’an [al-Tafsirat al-Qadiriyya]. This edition will span 25 volumes and will encompass multifaceted exegetical insights, addressing theological, jurisprudential, scientific, intellectual, theoretical and mystical aspects as needed. It represents a masterful synthesis of both rational and transmitted dimensions of tafsir.

2. al-Jawhar al-Naqi fi al-Tafsir al-Tarbawi: A 10-volume exegetical work that focuses on the educational aspects of each verse. It provides a concise yet insightful presentation of the Qur’an’s reformative and educational themes.

3. Mukhtasar al-Bayan fi Ma‘ani Ayat al-Qur’an: A 5-volume exegetical work dedicated to a detailed analysis of the meanings of the Qur’anic words, offering an in-depth linguistic and semantic exploration of the text.

This monumental work marks a significant advancement in the study of Qur’anic exegesis, providing scholars and readers alike with a diverse and enriched understanding of the divine message.

Undertaking such a massive and ground-breaking commentary, especially by a non-Arab, is truly remarkable. Scholars readily acknowledge the vast knowledge and expertise required to interpret the Qur’an. A proficient interpreter must possess mastery of Arabic grammar, thorough understanding of pre-Islamic poetry and comprehensive knowledge of various related sciences.

Shaykh-ul-Islam has undertaken a monumental work in the field of hadith sciences in Arabic titled al-Mawsu‘a al-Qadiriyya fi al-‘Ulum al-Hadithiyya (Encyclopaedia of Hadith Studies) in eight volumes. While works on this subject existed up to the time of Imam al-Sakhawi and Imam al-Suyuti, such extensive efforts were not made in the past two to three centuries. Now this encyclopaedia is an unparalleled gift for hadith-scholars, researchers, teachers, students and enthusiasts of hadith studies from every school of thought and intellectual tradition.

Among Shaykh-ul-Islam’s works currently undergoing publication is the Encyclopaedia of Sunna. This extensive collection of his printed works on hadith will consist of 60 volumes. It aims to gather all of Shaykh-ul-Islam’s hadith-related work, both published and unpublished. Encyclopaedia of Hadith Studies is the preface to this magnanimous work. Other notable examples include:

Minhaj al-Sunna: This massive multi-volume book covers chapters on virtues, including those of worship and individuals. It also delves into the five pillars of faith and other important topics. Shaykh-ul-Islam aimed to tailor these discussions to the needs of the contemporary Muslim community.

Jami‘ al-Ahkam min Ahadith Khayr al-Anam (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him): This ten-volume book focuses on collecting legal rulings related to acts of worship, pillars of Islam, transactions and contemporary issues, all within the framework of the Hanafi school of thought. It argues for the Hanafi position by citing evidence from the Qur’an, Sunna and the verdicts of the Companions, Successors and righteous predecessors. This book is considered unique and highly beneficial.

al-Rawd al-Basim min Khuluq al-Nabi al-Khatim (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him): This four-volume masterpiece compiles more than 2,000 hadiths about the Holy Prophet’s character, citing verses from the Qur’an, sayings of the Companions and Successors and the righteous predecessors, presents the true concept of morality and noble conduct for a Muslim. It aims to illustrate the Holy Prophet’s noble morals. This book serves as a guiding light, illustrating the noble virtues that Muslims should adopt as a way of life and highlighting the reprehensible traits that must be avoided.

Rawda al-Rayhan min al-Ahadith al-Sihah wa al-Hisan is a concise version of the Jami‘ al-Kabir by Imam al-Suyuti. However, Shaykh-ul-Islam added new traditions and arranged it in alphabetical order, and he did not just take the text of the Jami‘ al-Kabir, but he took the hadiths from the original sources and relied on them. In this book, you will find about five thousand hadiths with complete references. This book is distinguished by the fact that Shaykh-ul-Islam adhered to taking only the sound (sahih) and fair (hasan) hadiths.

Musnad al-Imam ‘Ali (peace be upon him): By compiling the narrations of Imam ‘Ali (peace be upon him), Shaykh-ul-Islam addressed and rectified issues of conflicting reports that had been circulating for centuries. He gathered around 12,000 hadiths attributed to ‘Ali (peace be upon him), whereas previously, less than 600 hadiths were attributed to him. This book encompasses everything reported from ‘Ali b. Abi Talib (peace be upon him), including hadiths and athar (sayings). It stands as a unique and extensive collection of his narrations.

From these books above, the Encyclopaedia of Sunna is formed, comprising about 60 volumes. It is important to know that all of these academic projects of Shaykh-ul-Islam confirm the beliefs of Ahl al-Sunna wa’l-Jama‘a and guide people to tolerance and moderation in their thoughts and actions keeping them away from extremism and rigidity in opinions, as they contain the statements of the correct creed, which is the creed of the mainstream of the Umma.

Shaykh al-Islam has authored a unique and comprehensive Arabic commentary on Sahih al-Bukhari, titled Hady al-Bari fi Sharh Sahih al-Bukhari, addressing the needs and requirements of the contemporary era.

Following the style of Riyad al-Salihin by Imam al-Nawawi and Mishkat al-Masabih by Khatib al-Tibrizi, the magnum opus of Shaykh-ul-Islam, al-Minhaj al-Sawi min al-Hadith al-Nabawi, has received widespread acclaim from scholars and the general public worldwide. This book has been published in Urdu, English, Hindi and Sindhi, with translations into other languages currently underway.

Similarly, inspired by al-Shifa of al-Qadi ‘Iyad, a remarkable Arabic scholarly masterpiece titled Makana al-Risala al-Muhammadiyya is currently in the process of publication. This work is a beautiful compilation of the virtues and unique attributes of the Prophet Muhammad (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him).

In the Urdu language, Shaykh al-Islam has also authored the most comprehensive and voluminous twelve-volume biography of the Prophet (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him)—an outstanding masterpiece of scholarship.

More than 33 of his books and writings on the virtues, merits and biographies of the Pure Household of the Prophet (blessings of Allah and peace be upon him) have been published, achieving widespread acceptance and enduring fame.

Shaykh-ul-Islam’s distinguished research collection in Arabic, titled Majmu‘ al-‘Ulum wa’l-Afkar, is nearing completion. This monumental work is expected to span approximately 30 volumes.

In addition, numerous translations of Shaykh-ul-Islam’s works on topics such as faith, theology, Sufism and spirituality, economics and politics, science and contemporary issues are being undertaken in various national and international languages around the world.

Establishment of Minhaj-ul-Quran International for the Revival of Religion and Welfare and Humanitarian Services

Shaykh-ul-Islam is also the founder and head of Minhaj-ul-Quran International (MQI), an organisation with branches and centres in more than ninety countries around the globe; he is the chairman of the Board of Governors of Minhaj University Lahore (MUL), which is chartered by the Government of Pakistan; he is the founder of Minhaj Education Society (MES), which has established more than 610 schools and colleges in Pakistan; and he is the chairman of Minhaj Welfare Foundation (MWF), an organisation involved in humanitarian and social welfare activities globally.

Development of a Structured System for the Self-Purification

Shaykh-ul-Islam has spent his life, in an indefatigable effort to counter religious extremism and promote peace and harmony between communities. His painstaking research into the Qur’an, hadith and classical Islamic authorities has resulted in landmark works, many published, and others soon to be published, demonstrating Islam as a religion that not only safeguards human rights, but promotes peace, tolerance and socioeconomic progress. He has travelled extensively to lecture at the invitation of government and non-government institutions and has organised and took part in international conferences in order to promote peace. He has arrayed spiritual and educational training programmes across the Western world with a focus on addressing the roots of religious extremism. He is recognised for his commitment to interfaith dialogue, with over 12,000 people attending his Peace for Humanity Conference in 2011, probably the largest interfaith gathering ever held in the UK, and which announced the London Declaration, a charter for world peace, signed online by a quarter of a million people. He has been politically active in his native Pakistan, organising massive pro-democracy and anti-corruption demonstrations. When not travelling, he is based in Canada, busy in his research activities and producing vital works of Islamic scholarship relevant to Muslims in this day and age.

Participation in International Conferences, Seminars, and Workshops, and Addresses to Global Think Tanks

Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri has participated in and delivered lectures at various seminars, conferences and workshops around the world. Whether it was at the George Washington University in the United States, the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., or the Global Peace & Unity (GPU) event in the United Kingdom, Shaykh al-Islam has spread pearls of knowledge and wisdom at all these notable world-renowned institutions. So, the scope of his services has spread from the east to the west. He has also addressed the New South Wales Parliament in Australia. Similarly, Shaykh-ul-Islam is also a member of the Royal Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought in Jordan. He has also given lectures at the oldest university in the Islamic world, al-Azhar University.

In connection with the efforts being made for the establishment of peace in Afghanistan, several meetings were held in Turkey. In these conferences organised by the Afghan Advisory Board of The Project for Islamic Cooperation for a Peaceful Future in Afghanistan, Shaykh-ul-Islam not only participated but also presented effective and workable solutions for the establishment of peace in Afghanistan.

Islamic Curriculum on Peace and Counter-Terrorism

In 2010, Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri issued his historic and world-renowned fatwa on the critical matter of suicide bombings and terrorism carried out in the name of Islam. It has been regarded as a significant and historic step—the first time that such an explicit and unequivocal decree against the perpetrators of terror has been broadcast so widely. The original fatwa written in Urdu comprises 600 pages of research and references from the Qur’an, hadith, the verdicts of the Companions (may Allah be well pleased with them) and the widely accepted classical texts of Islamic scholarship. This historic work has been published in English, Arabic, Norwegian, French, Malaysian, Bahasa Indonesia, Hindi, Sindhi, Persian, while translation in Danish, Spanish, Malayalam, Bengali, Turkish and other major languages is also in process. The Islamic Research Academy of Jamia al-Azhar Egypt wrote a detailed description of the fatwa and verified its contents. It gained worldwide media attention and acclaim as an indispensable tool in the intellectual and ideological struggle against violent extremism.

In April 2019, an international conference on the role of education in preventing extremism and terrorism, entitled The International Conference on the Role of Education in Preventing Extremism and Terrorism: Pioneering Experiences in Inculcating the Values of Tolerance and Coexistence, was held in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia under the auspices of the OIC. A joint statement was issued at the end of this two-day conference, in which Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri was named and his great services on this front were appreciated. In particular, Shaykh-ul-Islam was highly praised for the Fatwa issued against terrorism and suicide bombings in 2010 and for compiling the Islamic Curriculum on Peace and Counter-Terrorism in 2015, which consists of more than 5o books.

Through his participation in these international conferences and seminars, Shaykh-ul-Islam has played a significant role in promoting Islamic thought and values around the world. He has also been a strong advocate for peace and tolerance, and his work has helped to counter extremism and terrorism.