The global Islamic community mourned the passing of Dr. Abdul Haq Ansari on October 3rd. His death marks the departure of a towering figure in Islamic thought and education, a man who dedicated his life to fostering a deeper understanding of Islam and its foundational texts. Dr. Ansari’s contributions, particularly in making the language of the Qur’an accessible to a wider audience, remain a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Dr. Ansari returned to India on September 18th after a prolonged stay in the United States. While his health seemed stable, he experienced chest pain after his Zuhr prayer on the day of his passing. Despite efforts to reach the hospital, his soul peacefully departed. The funeral prayer, led by Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umari, was held the following morning at Jama Masjid in Sir Syed Nagar, and Dr. Ansari was laid to rest in Showkat Manzil Qabristan, attended by a large assembly of mourners who recognized the immense loss his death represented.
The loss of Dr. Ansari is deeply felt, especially within the Islamic movement he served intellectually and educationally for so many years. His intellectual guidance and dedication to nurturing minds were invaluable. The hope now rests on finding someone who can carry forward his mission and continue the vital work he began.
Born in Tamkohi, eastern Uttar Pradesh, in 1931, Dr. Ansari was the eldest son of Mr. Alimuddin Ansari. His early education began in a local Madrasa, followed by intermediate studies at Islamia College in 1949. It was during this period that he first connected with the Islamic movement, a connection that would shape his life’s trajectory. He furthered his religious studies at Nadwa, completing Almiyat, and then spent three formative years (1951-53) at Darsgah Islami in Rampur, learning from esteemed scholars like Maulana Sadruddin Islahi and Maulana Abdus Sami Qidwai. His academic pursuits led him to Aligarh Muslim University, where he earned BA and MA degrees in Philosophy in 1957 and 1959 respectively, culminating in a doctorate on “Ethical Philosophy of Ibn Mishkawi.” He lectured at Shanti Niketan in West Bengal before an encounter with Wilfered Cantewell Smith led him to Harvard University, where he obtained a Masters in Theological Studies in 1972.
Dr. Ansari’s academic journey was extensive and diverse. He held teaching positions both in India and internationally, including in Sudan and Saudi Arabia. His linguistic abilities were remarkable, extending beyond English, Hindi, and Arabic to include German, French, Sanskrit, Greek, and Hebrew, acquired as needed for his scholarly endeavors.
Dr. Abdul Haq Ansari, a respected Islamic scholar and educator dedicated to Qur’anic studies.
His involvement with the Islamic movement began in his student years and deepened throughout his life. He maintained close ties with figures like Mr. Abdul Fattah, then Ameer Halqa of West Bengal, and actively participated in movement activities across West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh.
Dr. Ansari’s scholarly contributions spanned a wide spectrum, encompassing philosophy, ethics, Sufism, Islamic renaissance, and spiritual purification. He authored numerous books in English, Arabic, and Urdu, addressing the intellectual and spiritual needs of the Islamic movement. His papers for seminars and symposiums at various universities and colleges explored diverse themes such as ‘Islamic Philosophy, Ethics and Sufism,’ ‘Religions,’ and ‘Mujaddideen-e-Ummat and Sufia-e-Karam.’ He was a sought-after speaker at national and international forums, offering unique perspectives on complex issues.
Driven by a deep desire to address pressing questions and solve complex problems, Dr. Ansari immersed himself in research. His work was distinguished by the integration of his research with his ideological convictions, imbuing it with a sense of purpose and lasting relevance, akin to the works of Iqbal and Maulana Maudoodi. Dr. Ansari was a researcher with a clear ideology, ensuring his scholarship would continue to serve the needs of Islamic movements for years to come. A thorough understanding of his insights requires a deep engagement with his extensive writings.
In an era where the very purpose of human existence can seem obscured, Dr. Ansari’s book, ‘Maqsad-e-Zindigi Ka Islami Tasawwur’ (The Islamic Concept of the Purpose of Life), offers a lucid exposition of our creation’s purpose. He skillfully differentiated true Sufism from extremism and balanced spirituality with reasoned thought, presenting practical and moderate approaches to both. ‘Tasawwuf aur Shariat’ (Sufism and Islamic Law) stands out as a seminal work, critically examining aspects of Sufism while affirming its positive dimensions with textual evidence. His extensive research on the Mujaddidin-e-Ummat (Renewers of the Ummah) resulted in significant works on figures like Ibn-e-Taymiya, Ghazali, Mujaddid-e-Alf-e-Saani, and Shah Waliullah Dehlvi, becoming invaluable resources for understanding Islamic intellectual history. ‘Mujaddidin-e-Ummat aur Tasawwuf’ (Renewers of the Ummah and Sufism) exemplifies his insightful analysis of prominent Islamic scholars’ thoughts. Later, recognizing Maulana Maudoodi’s contributions, he included him among the Mujaddidin, as explored in his book ‘Afadat-e-Maudoodi’ (The Contributions of Maudoodi). Dr. Ansari emphasized the importance of studying the works of these four Mujaddidin – Ibn-e-Taymiya, Imam Ghazali, Shah Waliullah Dehlvi, and Maulana Maudoodi – for the contemporary Islamic renaissance, urging youth to critically engage with their ideas, promoting intellectual rigor and collaborative discourse. His book ‘Qaumi Yakjahti aur Islam’ (National Integration and Islam) provides a framework for religious harmony in India’s diverse society. His selection of Imam Ibn-e-Taymiya for in-depth study reflects his profound engagement with thinkers who offered comprehensive social and political systems rooted in Islamic principles.
Despite his extended periods abroad, Dr. Ansari remained deeply connected to the realities of Dawah work in India. Upon his return, he actively observed Dawah activities across different regions, seeking to understand various approaches. He championed comparative religion as a valuable Dawah methodology, drawing upon his expertise to address misconceptions in Hinduism and Christianity. He focused on the concept of God and His oneness in Hinduism, and the doctrine of the Trinity in Christianity, presenting the Islamic perspective on Jesus (peace be upon him) based on the Holy Qur’an.
He revitalized the concept of humans as vicegerents of God, drawing on Ibn-e-Taymiya’s teachings to highlight the role of morality and ethical discernment in fulfilling this role. In Tazkiya (spiritual purification), he emphasized the Prophetic method. His scholarly contributions extended to works on Al-Farabi, Ibn-e-Taymiya, and Al-Tahawi. Notably, his English writings are considered to possess greater depth and have garnered wider international recognition. His articles and books have been published by reputable institutions and publishers, with his article ‘Mysticism and Islam’ receiving particular acclaim.
Dr. Ansari’s wife, Rabia, was a constant source of support throughout his life. Her unwavering dedication to managing their household and caring for his well-being allowed him to fully dedicate himself to his scholarly pursuits and service to Islam.
Dr. Ansari embodied the Prophetic description of a Mumin (believer) as kind and soft-hearted. He was known for his gentle demeanor and cautious approach when discussing individuals. He valued punctuality and addressed pressing issues facing the Islamic movement promptly, rather than dwelling on single issues. His emphasis on the educational and ideological development of individuals reflected his belief in the essential integration of Ilm (knowledge) and Amal (action).
While known for his strength and composure, Dr. Ansari was deeply moved by matters of faith. Mention of Allah would bring tears to his eyes, and the story of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) being cast into the fire would cause him to tremble. Similarly, recounting the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) words in Ghar-e-Thaur, “Don’t be afraid. Allah is with us,” would evoke a similar emotional response. He understood and exemplified the principle that “Ilm (knowledge) is the leader of Amal (actions) and Amal is its follower,” emphasizing the necessity of both for a complete Islamic life.
One of Dr. Ansari’s most significant undertakings was the preparation of individuals for Dawah. He recognized the critical need for people equipped with knowledge of Arabic, Islamic Studies, and comparative religions to effectively convey the message of Islam. He envisioned an educational approach blending modern and Islamic education, encouraging educated youth to participate. Upon returning from Saudi Arabia, he established the Center for Religious Studies and Guidance (CRSG) in Aligarh. A key element of this initiative was his book, Learning the Language of Qur’ān. This book became central to the CRSG curriculum, which was structured in three parts: Arabic Language and Literature, Tafseer-e-Qur’ān and Ahadees, and in-depth study of six major religions.
Dr. Ansari was a remarkable teacher, known for his love, affection, and ability to inspire his students to dedicate their lives to Islam. He instilled in them the habit of consulting the Qur’an and Ahadees in all matters, emphasizing the Arabic language as the key to understanding Islamic texts. He echoed Maulana Maudoodi’s belief that Arabic could be learned in six months with sincere dedication. He was deeply committed to his students’ progress, offering both stern reprimands for poor performance and affectionate guidance to improve. He consistently emphasized three core principles: Relationship with Allah, Educational and Ideological Elevation, and Ethical Elevation.
Following the passing of Dr. Fazlur Rahman Faridi, the death of Dr. Ansari is another profound loss for the Islamic movement. The movement needs individuals like Dr. Ansari who selflessly dedicate themselves to the cause of Islam. Serving the Deen (religion) is the highest calling. Dr. Ansari’s peaceful countenance after his passing reflected a life well-lived, a life dedicated to service and learning.
