Muhammad Elyass
In the current era of moral confusion and spiritual darkness, where temptations and distractions have engulfed a major part of the Muslim Ummah, there are still some blessed personalities who shine like beacons, guiding people towards the straight path of Allah. Among such revered and spiritually elevated scholars is Mufti Nazir Ahmad Qasmi Sahib of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, whose very presence is a source of blessing, extending far beyond the valley to the wider Muslim Ummah. Today, I take the honour of expressing my deep admiration and heartfelt gratitude for this noble servant of Allah, whose presence, teachings, and character have had a profound impact on countless lives, including my own.
Mufti Nazir Ahmad Qasmi Sahib currently serves as the Grand Mufti and Shaykhul Hadith at the esteemed Darul Uloom Raheemyah, Bandipora. His scholarship and leadership have garnered him immense respect in religious and academic spheres both within the region and beyond. He is also a founding member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and the General Secretary of Majlis-e-Fiqah, Jammu and Kashmir—institutions that hold significant roles in safeguarding and interpreting Islamic laws in India. These designations are not merely titles but a reflection of his dedication, deep insight, and unwavering commitment to Islam and its accurate understanding.
He stands as a towering Islamic scholar, an unmatched jurist, a wise teacher, and a sincere spiritual guide whose life revolves entirely around the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His mastery over Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), prophetic traditions (Hadith), Qur’anic exegesis (Tafsir), and other Islamic sciences is not just theoretical but deeply practical. He not only teaches these disciplines at the highest academic levels but also embodies them in his daily life, exemplifying the essence of what he preaches. His teachings are meticulously rooted in authentic Islamic sources, the Qur’an, and the esteemed Hadith collections such as Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and Jami’ al-Tirmidhi. This dedication to authenticity is complemented by his tireless research and ability to delve deep into complex subjects, leading many to marvel at how he balances such rigorous intellectual pursuits with the basic necessities of life.
What truly distinguishes him is not just his academic brilliance or his eloquent sermons, but his immense humility, simplicity, and sincerity. Despite his lofty status and widespread recognition, he remains grounded, always attributing every achievement and every quality to the mercy and blessings of Allah. He consistently emphasizes the importance of Taqwa (God consciousness), and gratitude—Shukr—towards Allah for His countless blessings, especially the blessing of Emaan (faith), which he refers to as the most precious gift. His reminder of this often-unappreciated blessing humbles even the most heedless hearts, urging everyone to reassess their spiritual priorities.
His personality is not only scholarly but profoundly spiritual. His deep love for Allah, His Prophet (peace be upon him), and the Qur’an is evident in his words, his actions, and his lifestyle. His devotion in prayers, his regular remembrance of Allah, and his habit of supplicating for the Ummah radiate from his being, touching hearts and awakening souls. His sermons carry a weight of truth and sincerity, penetrating the hearts, softening the hardened, and often moving listeners to tears and reflection. There is an undeniable spiritual power in his words—soft yet firm, gentle yet impactful. When he speaks, it feels as though divine light is descending through his words, and the mercy of Allah is enveloping the entire space.
It is widely believed that when a servant sincerely obeys Allah and His Messenger (PBUH), Allah blesses their words, actions, and every breath with a special impact, elevates their standing, and illuminates their presence – Mufti Sahib is seen by many as a testament to this divine favour. He is a concerned voice for the youth of Kashmir and the wider Muslim Ummah, often expressing deep sorrow over their deviation from the path of Islam and Islamic principles. It’s not uncommon for his eyes to well up with tears while speaking about the conditions of today’s youth or the spiritual state of the Ummah — his pain is visible, his concern is sincere, and his commitment to reform is unwavering.
He recently narrated a heart-breaking dream someone shared with him wherein the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) expressed deep sorrow that his heart has been shattered by the misdeeds of the youth of Kashmir. This dream struck not just him but all of us who heard it—reminding us how far we have strayed and how desperately we need to return to the path of righteousness. Such narrations serve as stark warnings, prompting introspection on our path, and the urgent need to repent and return to righteousness and piety, lest we face severe consequences. He often emphasizes that while Allah, in His infinite mercy, may forgive transgressions against His commands, actions that hurt the beloved Prophet (PBUH) can invoke divine displeasure more swiftly—a reality we are perhaps witnessing in the myriad difficulties facing the Ummah.
He is a staunch advocate for environmental consciousness and believes that protecting nature is not merely a social duty but a religious obligation for all humankind. He frequently highlights the responsibility of preserving natural resources as part of Islamic teachings, aligning it beautifully with Qur’anic commands and Prophetic traditions. He also holds a positive view of modern sciences and their role in understanding the divine creation. His balanced approach allows him to relate Islamic teachings with scientific understanding in a way that is both logical and spiritually uplifting, strengthening the faith of those who are academically inclined.
In an era where many religious leaders tend to remain within the traditional boundaries, Mufti Sahib opens doors—reaching out to people across generations and intellectual levels. His words serve as a healing balm for the wounded hearts of the Ummah. His presence exudes dignity, his gestures reflect sincerity, and his personality commands respect. Every expression he makes, every verse he explains, and every ruling he gives is filled with wisdom and authenticity. He truly is a living embodiment of Islamic teachings in their purest and most compassionate form.
He has authored several important works addressing contemporary issues, providing guidance rooted in Shariah while responding to modern-day challenges. These books and fatwas have been instrumental in defending Islamic values and offering clarity to those confused by modern ideologies. His disciplined lifestyle and Allah’s special blessings upon him are clear signs of divine acceptance.
Unfortunately, many of us fail to fully appreciate and benefit from such rare personalities. We ignore, neglect, or even disrespect the very people whom Allah has sent as lights to guide us through the darkness. The loss, undoubtedly, will be ours. These scholars are not only sources of knowledge but guardians of our spiritual well-being. It is high time we reconnect with such noble individuals, hold fast to their advice, and allow their wisdom to shape our lives before the opportunity is lost forever.
He is not just a scholar—he is a movement, a reminder, a torchbearer of divine light. His contributions, his life, and his words are a precious treasure for all of us. We must thank Allah for this blessing and make sincere efforts to draw closer to such pious personalities who reflect the light of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in this world. I pray that Allah preserves Mufti Sahib for a long time, increases him in knowledge, health, and honour, and extends his guidance to generations to come. May Allah allow us all to take full benefit from his teachings, implement them in our lives, and raise a generation that can carry forward this torch of faith, humility, and divine guidance.
Muhammad Elyass
