By Sahil Razvi, New Age Islam
28 January 2025.
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji, a revered scholar and Sufi saint, was a Mureed of Hazrat Shaikh Baha-ud-Deen Qadri. His shrine, located in Delhi, remains a spiritual haven for devotees during Urs and Fatiha ceremonies.
Main Points:
1. Born in Iraj, he was a distinguished scholar of Shariat and Tariqat.
2. Mureed and Khalifa of Hazrat Shaikh Baha-ud-Deen Qadri.
3. Renowned as the 26th Sheikh of the Qadri order.
4. His shrine is within Dargah Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi.
5. The shrine opens on special occasions like Urs and Fatiha.
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Bahre Ibrahim Hum Pe Nare Gham Gulzar Kar
Bheek De Data Bhikhari Badshah Ke Vaaste
“O Ocean of Ibrahim, turn our sorrows into blooming gardens,
Grant alms, O Giver, For the sake of the king (SAW).”
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji, a revered Islamic scholar and Sufi saint, holds a prominent place in the spiritual and intellectual history of the Indian subcontinent. Known as "Irji" due to his ancestral connection with the place Iraj, his genealogy traces back to noble origins: Syed Ibrahim Irji, son of Hazrat Syed Moin, son of Syed Abdul Qadir, son of Syed Murtaza. His lineage reflects a legacy of spirituality and scholarship.
Early Life and Education
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji was born in Iraj, a region that became synonymous with his name. From a young age, he exhibited a deep inclination towards Islamic sciences. He completed his traditional Islamic education under the guidance of Hazrat Sheikh Aleemuddin Muhaddith (Quddisa Sirruhu), mastering Sharia (Islamic law) and Tariqa (spiritual way). Seeking further enlightenment, he pursued the mystical sciences under Hazrat Sheikh Bahauddin Qadri Shattari (Quddisa Sirruhu), who also wrote the treatise Azkar-o-Ashghal later referred to as Risala Shattaria exclusively for him.
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim was granted Khilafat (spiritual successorship) by Sheikh Bahauddin Qadri Shattari, marking him as a prominent spiritual leader. He became the 26th Imam and Sheikh-o-Tariqat of the Qadiriyya, Barkaatia, and Rizvia orders, further strengthening his influence in the spiritual domain.
Intellectual and Spiritual Legacy
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim was a beacon of intellectual and spiritual wisdom, excelling in both traditional and mystical knowledge. He was known for his ability to simplify complex theological and philosophical texts, making them accessible even to those with limited academic training.
Historians and scholars, including Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Haq Muhaddith Dehlvi (Quddisa Sirruhu), have documented his unparalleled contributions. In his renowned book Akhbar-ul-Akhyar, Abdul Haq Dehlvi describes Hazrat Syed Ibrahim as an unmatched scholar and philosopher of his era. Despite the indifference and ignorance of some contemporaries, his dedication to scholarship and teaching remained steadfast.
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim would often seclude himself to focus on his studies and writings, distancing himself from those who lacked sincerity in seeking knowledge. He shared his vast library only with devoted students. Many of his handwritten books, filled with valuable insights, were discovered after his passing, further highlighting his scholarly dedication.
Prominent Disciples
Among his notable disciples were Hazrat Nizam-ud-Deen Shah Bhikari (Kakori), Hazrat Sheikh Rukn-ud-Deen bin Abdul Quddoos, Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Hasan etc.
These individuals carried forward his teachings and spiritual practices, ensuring that his legacy continued to illuminate the lives of future generations.
A Memorable Incident
One significant event exemplifies Hazrat Syed Ibrahim’s spiritual insight and wisdom. His disciple, Sheikh Rukn-ud-Deen bin Abdul Quddoos Gangohi, once requested him to attend the Urs of Khwaja Qutb-ud-Deen Bakhtiar Kaaki (may Allah have mercy on him) in Delhi. Instead of accompanying him, Hazrat Syed Ibrahim instructed Sheikh Rukn-ud-Deen to attend the gathering, perform Zeyarat, and focus on the spirituality of the saint.
During the visit, Sheikh Rukn-ud-Deen witnessed a vision of Khwaja Qutb-ud-Deen Bakhtiar Kaaki expressing his displeasure with the disruptive practices during the event. Upon returning, Sheikh Rukn-ud-Deen shared his experience with Hazrat Syed Ibrahim, who smiled and affirmed the inappropriateness of such gatherings involving excessive music and distractions. This incident reflects Hazrat Syed Ibrahim's emphasis on sincerity and spirituality over ritualistic practices.
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji passed away on the 5th of Rabi-al-Thani, 953 AH (approximately 1546 CE). His shrine is situated within the sacred premises of the Dargah Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya (Quddisa Sirruhu) in Delhi, a place of immense spiritual significance.
Sacred Shrine
Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji's blessed shrine is located in the sacred complex of Dargah Hazrat Sultan-ul-Mashaikh Mehboob-e-Ilahi Nizamuddin Auliya (may Allah have mercy on him) in Delhi. It rests at the feet of Hazrat Khwaja Abul Hasan Amir Khusrau (may Allah have mercy on him), reflecting a profound spiritual connection and reverence.
The door to this sacred shrine often remains closed and is typically opened during special occasions such as Fatiha (prayers for the departed soul) and Urs (commemoration ceremonies). During these moments, devotees gather to offer their respects, recite prayers, and seek blessings from this revered site.
His contributions to Islamic scholarship, his spiritual teachings, and his commitment to preserving and propagating the true essence of Islam continue to inspire countless followers to this day. Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Irji remains a guiding light for those seeking knowledge and spiritual growth.
References:
Tazkira-e-Mashaikh-e-Qadiriyya Barkatiyya Razviyya
Akhbar-ul-Akhyar
Tazkira-e-Ulama-e-Hind
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A regular contributor to New Age Islam, Sahil Razvi is a research scholar specialising in Sufism and Islamic History. He is an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia.
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