Introduction
Israr Ahmad (26 April 1932 – 14 April 2010) was a prominent Pakistani Islamic scholar, orator, and theologian, celebrated for his noteworthy contributions to Islam and his native country. The following is a comprehensive overview of his life, beliefs, and enduring legacy:
Family
Dr Israr Ahmed have 4 sons named Akif Saeed, Arif Rasheed, Asif Hameed & Atif Waheed and 5 daughters. Dr Israr Ahmed son Akif Saeed was born in 1958 in Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan. Dr Israr Ahmed son Akif Saeed then took over leadership of the organization and ran it from 2002 to August 2020.
Early Life and Education:
Israr Ahmad was born on 26 April 1932, in Hisar, Punjab, to a father who served as a civil servant in the British government. After completing his secondary education, Ahmad relocated to Lahore in 1950 to pursue medical studies at the King Edward Medical University, graduating with an MBBS degree in 1954. Additionally, he obtained a master’s degree in Islamic Studies from the University of Karachi in 1965.
Influences:
Israr Ahmad’s perspective on Islam was shaped by diverse sources, including Syed Abul A’la Maududi, Amin Ahsan Islahi, Shah Waliullah Dehlawi, Mahmud Hasan Deobandi, and Shabbir Ahmad Usmani.
Political Involvement:
Initially associated with Jamaat-e-Islami, Ahmad parted ways in 1956 over differences regarding the party’s engagement in electoral politics. Subsequently, he founded Tanzeem-e-Islami, with a focus on implementing Islamic principles in all facets of life. Ahmad contested the concept of modern democracy, asserting that in an authentic Islamic state, the ruler should possess the authority to overturn majority decisions.
Views on Caliphate:
In contrast to some Sunni activists, Israr Ahmad believed that the foundation for the caliphate should be established in Pakistan, deviating from traditional locations like Hijaz or Baghdad.
Television and Public Influence:
Ahmad gained significant visibility when President Zia-ul-Haq granted him a weekly show on state-owned Pakistan Television (PTV) in 1981, substantially amplifying his influence. He played a pivotal role in advocating for changes on PTV, including the promotion of modest dress for women and the encouragement of the hijab.
Publications:
Israr Ahmad authored over 60 books in Urdu on Islam and Pakistan, with some translated into English. His literary works spanned various topics, encompassing Islamic philosophy, political ideology, and Quranic teachings.
Controversial Views:
Ahmad took a stance against Shi’i Islam and, in the 1980s, aligned himself with Saudi Arabia’s anti-Shiite campaign, contributing to sectarian tensions in Pakistan. Controversy arose when he asserted in 1982 that women should be restricted from all professions except medicine and teaching.
Anti-Semitic Views:
Known for propagating conspiracy theories about Jews and Israel destabilizing Pakistani society, Ahmad referred to the “Jew World Order” and made derogatory remarks about Jews.
Death and Legacy:
Due to declining health, Israr Ahmad stepped down from leading Tanzeem-e-Islami in 2002 and passed away on 14 April 2010, at the age of 78. He left behind a legacy of organizations, including Anjuman-i-Khuddamul Quran, Tanzeem-i-Islami, and Tehrik-i-Khilafat, with followers in Pakistan, India, and Gulf countries. Ahmad received the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the third-highest civilian award of Pakistan, in 1981.
Awards and Recognition:
He was honored with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) award by the president of Pakistan in 1981 for his significant contributions to the field of religion.
It’s crucial to note that while Israr Ahmad made a substantial impact on Islamic discourse, his views were contentious, and not all members of the Muslim community shared or endorsed his perspectives.