Ahmad Raza Khan, known as Ala Hazrat, was a prominent Islamic scholar, theologian, and jurist in 19th and early 20th century British India. Born in Bareilly, India, in 1856, he vigorously defended traditional Sunni beliefs and practices, particularly within the Hanafi school of jurisprudence, against modernist and reformist challenges. Ala Hazrat authored numerous works on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Sufism, advocating for adherence to orthodox Sunni beliefs. He founded the Barelvi movement, which emphasizes traditional Sunni teachings, and his influence extended globally, particularly in South Asia. Despite controversy surrounding his opposition to certain reformist movements, Ahmad Raza Khan’s legacy endures in Islamic scholarship and jurisprudence, shaping the religious landscape of South Asia and beyond, and earning him recognition as a revered saint and spiritual leader among his followers.

Ahmad Raza Khan Quotes

01. “Lovers of God see through the light of God all the hidden things in the heaven and earth. Therefore don’t think yourself like of them.”
— Ahmad Raza Khan

02. “In respect of death anniversary (urs) of the spiritualists, he said: “The spirits of auliya Allah, on the day of their death become attentive to their tombs. Thus, the specific time of their death is more suitable for drawing spiritual inspiration from them.” Despite being attached to Qadiriyya order, he (Ahmad Raza) would always think the shrines of the saints of Chishtiyya order as important centers for the acquisition of spiritual beneficence and blessings and considered true and esoteric discipleship as key to attain inspiration.”
— Ahmad Raza Khan

03. “His servants (Sufis) make attainment of sustenance easy. They drive off tribulation, confer elevated ranks, administer affairs of the world. They cause rain to fall and the earth is sustained due to their presence.”
— Ahmad Raza Khan