The Power of Alim: A Journey of Enlightenment and Humility

In 1975, the vibrant and spiritual atmosphere at the Kakrail Mosque in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was palpable. Thousands of Arab muballegeen (preachers) gathered in anticipation of their next missions in the path of Allah. Among them was a towering figure with imposing facial features, Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim, an Egyptian ‘alim (scholar) whose transparent personal charm immediately drew attention. Little did anyone know that his journey to becoming an influential figure in the Tablighi Jamaat would be a testament to the transformative power of humility and divine guidance.

What is an Alim?

The term ‘alim’ derives from the Arabic word ‘ilm’, meaning knowledge. An ‘alim’ is someone deeply learned in Islamic theology, law, and jurisprudence. More than just a scholar, an alim is a servant of knowledge, dedicated to the pursuit and dissemination of divine wisdom. This title is highly revered in the Muslim world, symbolizing a lifetime commitment to understanding and living by the teachings of Islam.

In the context of the 99 Names of Allah, ‘Alim’ (العليم) is one of the most significant. It means “The All-Knowing” or “The Omniscient”. This attribute of Allah underscores His infinite knowledge and understanding of all things, both seen and unseen. For a human to be called an ‘alim’ is to strive towards embodying a fraction of this divine attribute, acknowledging that true knowledge belongs only to Allah.

The Humble Beginnings of Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim

Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim’s story is a remarkable journey of self-discovery and transformation. After graduating from a religious school in Egypt, he joined the Department of Awqaaf, where his eloquence and command over words quickly gained him recognition. He became a familiar voice on the official radio channel, discussing various topics of Islamic relevance. However, with fame came a growing sense of self-importance, a trait subtly creeping into his heart.

Allah Ta’ala, in His infinite wisdom, decided to bring about a profound change in Abdullah Mu’nim’s life. A close friend, already involved in the Tablighi Jamaat, invited him to attend an ijtema (concourse) in Amman, Jordan, in 1977. Curious and somewhat intrigued, Abdullah agreed to join the gathering, not knowing that this decision would alter the course of his life.

The Divine Encounter in Amman

The ijtema in Amman was a melting pot of devout Muslims from different parts of the world, united by their dedication to the Tablighi Jamaat’s mission. The highlight of this gathering was a discourse by Shaikh Muhammad Umar Palanpuri, an Indian preacher renowned for his mastery of classical Arabic and his compelling oratory skills.

Shaikh Muhammad Umar’s sermon was a blend of profound theological insights and heartfelt appeals. He spoke of the sacrifices of the Sahaba (companions of the Prophet Muhammad) and their relentless efforts to propagate Islam. His words resonated deeply with the listeners, creating an emotional crescendo that left many in tears.

For Abdullah Mu’nim, this speech was more than just inspirational; it was a divine intervention. As Shaikh Muhammad Umar elaborated on the eternal rewards promised in the Quran for those who strive in Allah’s path, Abdullah felt a spiritual awakening. He entered a trance-like state, losing consciousness of his surroundings, overwhelmed by the sheer power of the message. When he regained his senses, he was determined to meet the speaker and seek guidance on his newfound calling.

The Journey to India and Pakistan

Upon meeting Shaikh Muhammad Umar Palanpuri, Abdullah Mu’nim was advised to travel to India and Pakistan to immerse himself in the Tablighi Jamaat’s work. Driven by a sense of purpose and devotion, Abdullah embarked on this journey, spending his first four months in khuruj (a spiritual expedition) at Basti Hadrat Nizamuddin near Delhi, India.

At Nizamuddin, Abdullah found a mentor in Shaikh Muhammad Umar. He attended the daily bayans (discussions) after Fajr prayer, where Shaikh Umar’s teachings were translated from Urdu to Arabic for the benefit of Arab guests. These sessions were a deep well of spiritual nourishment, blending rigorous theological discourse with practical advice on living a life of humility and service.

Embracing a Life of Service

The time spent in India and Pakistan profoundly influenced Abdullah Mu’nim. He developed close relationships with other prominent figures in the Tablighi Jamaat, such as Shaikh Inam ul Hasan, Shaikh Jamshed, and Shaikh Ehsanul Haque. These interactions enriched his understanding of the movement’s mission and the immense spiritual power it wielded.

Abdullah’s experience in Raiwind, the spiritual hub of the Tablighi Jamaat in Pakistan, was equally transformative. There, he met Haji Abdul Wahab Sahab, a charismatic leader whose dedication and spiritual fervor were infectious. This period of intense learning and spiritual practice solidified Abdullah’s commitment to the Tablighi Jamaat’s cause.

The Legacy of Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim

Today, Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim is a revered member of the Shura (consultative council) in Egypt, dedicating his life to the Tablighi Jamaat’s mission. His story is a powerful reminder of how Allah’s guidance can transform an individual’s life, steering them towards a path of humility, service, and true knowledge.

Abdullah’s journey underscores the essence of being an ‘alim’. It is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about embodying it through action, humility, and dedication to serving Allah and the Muslim ummah. His life is a testament to the power of divine intervention and the profound impact of the Tablighi Jamaat in rekindling the spirit of Islamic devotion and brotherhood.

Embracing the True Meaning of Alim

The story of Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim illustrates the transformative power of true knowledge and divine guidance. As Muslims, we are reminded that the pursuit of ‘ilm (knowledge) is a lifelong journey, one that requires humility, dedication, and a sincere intention to serve Allah. Being an ‘alim is not just about scholarly achievements but about living a life that reflects the teachings of Islam in every action and decision.

In the end, the power of an ‘alim lies in their ability to inspire and guide others, drawing from the infinite well of divine knowledge that Allah, Alim, has bestowed upon humanity. Shaikh Abdullah Mu’nim’s journey from a self-important radio speaker to a humble servant of Allah’s path is a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who seek to follow in his footsteps. May we all strive to embody the true spirit of ‘alim, serving as conduits of Allah’s wisdom and compassion in the world.