A Scholarly Journey and Legacy
In the tapestry of Islamic scholarship, Hazrat Mufti Rafi Usmani (Rahimahullah) emerges as a shining star, distinguished by profound knowledge, unwavering adherence to tradition, and a life marked by moderation and discipline. His legacy, rooted in the wisdom of the past, continues to inspire scholars and seekers on the path of enlightenment.
Early Life and Education
Muhammad Rafi Usmani, born on July 21, 1936, into the esteemed Usmani family of Deoband in British India, embarked on a distinguished path in Islamic scholarship. Initiated into the world of learning, he was named Muḥammad Rafī by Ashraf Ali Thanwi. His father, Muhammad Shafi Deobandi, a Grand Mufti of Darul Uloom Deoband and a key figure in the Pakistan Movement, laid the foundation for his educational pursuits. His younger brother, Muhammad Taqi Usmani, also became a senior scholar.
Involvement in Soviet-Afghan War
In the late 1980s, Muhammad Rafi Usmani actively participated in the jihad against the Soviets with Harkat-ul-Jihad al-Islami (HUJI). His memoirs from this period were documented in various Urdu publications, later compiled into the book titled “Ye Tere Pur-Asrār Bande” (transl. These Incredible Servants of Yours).
Academic Achievements
Muhammad Rafi Usmani’s educational journey included memorizing half of the Quran at Darul Uloom Deoband before migrating to Pakistan in 1948. He completed his Quranic memorization at Masjid Bab al-Islam in Aram Bagh and entered Darul Uloom Karachi in 1951. Graduating in the traditional “dars-e-nizami” in 1960, he further specialized in Islamic jurisprudence (ifta) at Darul Uloom Karachi.
Career and Contributions
Usmani’s contributions extended across various roles and institutions. He served as a member of All Pakistan Ulema Council, Council of Islamic Ideology, Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, and Zakat Council of the Government of Sindh. Additionally, he advised the Shariat Appellate Bench, Supreme Court of Pakistan. Notably, he became the third president of Darul Uloom Karachi after the death of Abdul Hai Arifi in 1986. As an educator, he taught a range of subjects, including sciences of hadith and ifta, at Darul Uloom Karachi. His commitment to keeping students away from politics reflected his focus on nurturing a scholarly and apolitical environment.
Literary Legacy
Muhammad Rafi Usmani’s literary contributions encompass approximately 27 books in Arabic and Urdu. His works, such as “Ahkām-e-Zakāt,” “Alāmāt-i qiyāmat aur nuzūl-i Masīḥ,” and “Islām mai aurat ki hukmrāni,” showcase his diverse expertise and commitment to disseminating knowledge.
Recognition and Title
Usmani was honored with the title of Mufti-e-Azam (Grand Mufti) through consensus for his scholarly contributions. Scholars representing the Deoband school of thought appointed him Grand Mufti in 1995. His reputation as a learned scholar, jurist, muhaddith, researcher, author, administrator, teacher, and lecturer resonated within the Islamic scholarly community.
Legacy and Demise
Muhammad Rafi Usmani’s invaluable scholarship left an indelible mark on the Islamic world. His teachings continue to be part of the traditional dars-e-nizami curriculum in madrasas globally. After battling health issues post-COVID-19, he passed away on November 18, 2022, in Karachi at the age of 86. His demise was mourned by political figures, religious scholars, and admirers alike, acknowledging the profound loss to the Islamic world.