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Mufti Khalil Khan Barkati (1920-1985) was a revered Sunni Islamic scholar known for his extensive contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and literature. Founder of Darul Uloom Ahsan al-Barkat, he authored over 60 works and issued 18,000 fatwas. His teachings and spiritual guidance shaped generations of scholars.
Main points
1.Islamic Scholar and Author: Mufti Khalil Khan Barkati authored over 60 books on Islamic law, issuing around 18,000 fatwas during his lifetime.
2.Founder of Darul Uloom Ahsan al-Barkat: He established the first Islamic seminary in Hyderabad, Pakistan, which has now expanded to multiple branches.
3.Influential Teacher: Hundreds of scholars studied under his guidance, and his works are part of religious curriculums.
4.Poetic Contributions: He was also a poet, with his diwan Jamal-e-Khalil showcasing his love for the Prophet Muhammad.
5.Spiritual Leadership: He was a prominent figure in the Qadiri Razvi order and continued the legacy of spiritual and scholarly leadership.
Mufti Muhammad Khalil Khan Barkati, also known as Mufti Muhammad Khalil Khan al-Barkaati al-Qadiri, was a renowned Islamic scholar and a towering figure in Sunni Islamic scholarship. Born in 1920, in the village of Khariri, District Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, he was an influential scholar of the Hanafi school of thought, known for his deep contributions to Islamic literature and jurisprudence. He authored numerous works that have had a lasting impact on Islamic scholarship, earning him the honorary title ‘Khalil al-Ulama.’
Early Life and Education
Mufti Khalil was born in Dhul-Qa’dah 1338 AH (July 1920). Tragically, he lost his father just six days after his birth, and shortly thereafter, his grandfather, who initially cared for him, also passed away. Raised by his maternal family in Marehra, Uttar Pradesh, Mufti Khalil experienced loss early in life, including the passing of his mother. His uncle then took responsibility for his upbringing.
Mufti Khalil’s early education began in Marehra, where he completed his middle schooling in 1934. In 1935, he moved to Aligarh and enrolled in Madrasa Hafiziya Saeediya, where he studied under the esteemed Sadr al-Shariah Faqih-e-Azam, Mufti Amjad Ali Aazmi. He graduated in 1945, receiving a Hadith certification from Mufti-e-Azam Hind, Maulana Muhammad Mustafa Raza Khan.
Life and Contributions
In 1950, Mufti Khalil migrated to Pakistan with his family and settled in Hyderabad, Sindh. By 1952, he had founded Darul Uloom Ahsan al-Barkat, the first religious institution of its kind in the city. This institution played a vital role in religious education in Hyderabad, and Mufti Khalil’s contributions continued to shape the community. Under his leadership, Darul Uloom Ahsan al-Barkat grew, and now has multiple branches across Pakistan.
Mufti Khalil was a scholar and jurist. He issued over 18,000 fatwas during his lifetime, which were compiled into twelve volumes. He also authored nearly sixty books on various aspects of Islamic law and spirituality, with some still awaiting publication. His works, such as Hamara Islam (a five-volume set) and Bahare Nisban (focused on women’s rights and responsibilities), have been widely influential. Some of his books are even part of the curriculum in Tanzim al-Madaris Pakistan.
Poetry and Spirituality
Beyond his academic contributions, Mufti Khalil was a gifted poet. Writing under the pen name “Khalil,” his poetic compositions, particularly his diwan titled Jamal-e-Khalil, reflect his deep spiritual connection and love for the Prophet Muhammad. In his early years, Mufti Khalil pledged spiritual allegiance to Taj al-Ulama, Hazrat Syed Aulad Rasul Muhammad Mian Qadri, and later received Khilafah (spiritual succession) in the Qadiri Razvi order from Hazrat Allama Mufti Muhammad Mustafa Raza Khan Nuri.
Teachers and Disciples
Mufti Khalil studied under several prominent scholars, including his primary teacher, Sadr al-Shariah Faqih-e-Azam Mufti Amjad Ali Aazmi. His students have continued his legacy, with many becoming influential scholars in their own right. Some of his most notable disciples include Maulana Habibur Rahman Shah, Maulana Ghulam Muhammad, and Maulana Ghulam Mustafa.
Character and Legacy
Mufti Khalil was known for his humility and simplicity, despite his vast knowledge and scholarly achievements. His commitment to the welfare of his students and his community was exemplary. Hundreds of scholars and students were guided by him, and his seminary continues to educate and shape new generations of scholars.
Demise and Legacy
Mufti Muhammad Khalil Khan Barkati passed away on June 18, 1985 (28th Ramadan 1405 AH) at the age of 65. His funeral was led by Mufti Muhammad Waqaaruddin Qadri, and he was laid to rest at the shrine of Hazrat Sufi Syed Abdul Wahab Shah Jilani. His legacy lives on through his extensive writings, fatwas, and the educational institutions he established, including the Darul Uloom Ahsan al-Barkat.