Definition and Meaning
Barelwi, Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan (d. 1831) was a prominent North Indian reformer and activist known for his opposition to practices derived from Sufism, Shii doctrine, and local customs that he believed compromised the unity of God. Educated and well-born, he was associated with the family of Shah Wali Allah of Delhi from 1806 to 1811. Sayyid Ahmad Khan launched a mass-based jihad movement to combat Sikh domination in Punjab. He also is known as Sayyed Ahmed Shadid. He died in Balakot (now in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan) with approximately six hundred followers during a jihad against the Sikhs. His legacy continues to be significant within the Sunni orthodoxy, often associated with the Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah.
Comprehensive Definition
Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan was a dynamic figure in the context of 19th-century Indian Islam. His mission targeted practices he perceived as innovations (bid’ah), drawing a clear line between traditional Sunni doctrines and what he saw as corruptions from external influences. His work was rooted in the teachings of Shah Wali Allah, emphasizing a return to pure monotheism (Tawhid).
Etymology and Background
The term Barelwi comes from Bareilly, a town in North India where he and his followers originally centered their reformist activities. The surname Reza Khan, or رضا خان in Persian script, indicates his noble standing and scholarly heritage.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1806-1811: Associated with the family of Shah Wali Allah of Delhi, receiving crucial theological and ideological grounding.
- 1826: Formed his jihad movement.
- 1831: Died at the Battle of Balakot with about six hundred followers.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Sayyid Ahmad’s movement shared similarities with other Islamic revivalist movements such as the Wahhabi movement in Arabia, which also sought a return to early Islamic practices. However, the Barelwi movement was specifically focused on the context and conditions of North Indian Islam.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Sayyid Ahmed Shadid
- Mujahid (warrior of jihad)
Antonyms:
- Sufi mystic
- Local custom adherent
Related Terms:
- Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah: Community adhering to the practices of the Prophet Muhammad
- Tawhid: The oneness of God in Islam
- Bid’ah: Innovation in religious matters
Exciting Facts
- Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan’s movement is considered one of the earliest organized Islamic responses to colonial pressures in India.
- His efforts and narrative laid the groundwork for later Islamic reform movements in the subcontinent.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“When the sword of truth and the staff of faith push forward together, a light of resistance ignites the path towards justice.” — Ali Hasan, historian of Islamic movements
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “Islamic Revival in British India: Deoband, 1860-1900” by Barbara D. Metcalf
- “Shah Wali Allah and His Times” by Ghulamur Rahman
- “Uncrossed Bridges: Jihad and Resistance Movements in North-West Pakistan” by Muhammad Wasim
Translations
- Arabic: بيرلوي، السيد أحمد رضا خان
- Urdu: بریلوی، سید احمد رضا خان
- Persian/Farsi: برلوی، سید احمد رضا خان
- Indonesian/Malay: Barelwi, Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan
- Turkish: Barelvi, Seyyid Ahmed Reza Khan
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
In studying the life and mission of Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan, we unearth a narrative that compels us to reflect on the undying struggle for faith and justice within our histories. May his story inspire us to seek knowledge, stand firm in our convictions, and tirelessly work for a truthful and just world.
