Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (Ali Hujwiri): The Great Sufi of Lahore
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali ibn Usman Al-Hujwiri (RA) (c. 1009–1077 CE) was a renowned Persian Sufi saint, scholar, and spiritual teacher. He is famously known as “Data Ganj Bakhsh” (the Bestower of Treasures) and is credited with introducing Sufism to the Indian subcontinent.
His shrine in Lahore, Pakistan, remains one of the most visited Sufi shrines in South Asia, attracting millions of devotees from all religious backgrounds. His book, “Kashf-ul-Mahjoob” (The Unveiling of the Veiled), is the earliest known Persian treatise on Sufism and continues to be a guiding light for spiritual seekers.
Early Life and Education
1. Birth and Family
Hazrat Ali Hujwiri was born around 1009 CE in Ghazni (present-day Afghanistan). His family belonged to the noble Sayyid lineage, meaning they were direct descendants of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
2. Early Education
He received formal education in:
- Quranic sciences
- Hadith (Prophetic traditions)
- Fiqh (Islamic law)
- Tasawwuf (Sufism and spirituality)
His thirst for knowledge led him to travel across the Islamic world, seeking wisdom from the greatest scholars and Sufi saints of his time.
Spiritual Journey and Search for Truth
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh traveled extensively across Persia, Central Asia, Iraq, and the Indian subcontinent, engaging in deep spiritual training and gaining firsthand knowledge from:
- Hazrat Abu Saeed Abul Khair
- Hazrat Shaykh Junaid Baghdadi (his teachings)
- Hazrat Abu’l-Qasim al-Qushayri
Through these experiences, he developed a deep understanding of Sufism, blending knowledge with practical spiritual realization.
Arrival in Lahore and Spreading Sufism
In the 11th century, Hazrat Ali Hujwiri arrived in Lahore, which was then under Ghaznavid rule. He found that:
- The people lacked spiritual awareness.
- Sufism was not yet widespread in the region.
With his wisdom and love, he introduced the people to Sufism, emphasizing:
- Love for Allah and His creation
- Service to humanity
- Spiritual purification
His influence transformed Lahore into a center of Islamic learning and Sufism.
“Kashf-ul-Mahjoob” – A Masterpiece of Sufism
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh wrote “Kashf-ul-Mahjoob” (The Unveiling of the Veiled), which is considered:
- The first Persian book on Sufism
- A timeless guide for seekers of spiritual truth
- A source of knowledge for scholars and saints
Key Teachings in “Kashf-ul-Mahjoob”
- The Importance of a Spiritual Guide (Murshid):
- A true Sufi must have a pious teacher for guidance.
- Love for Allah and His Creation:
- Spiritual elevation comes from pure love and devotion.
- Balance Between Shariah (Islamic Law) and Sufism:
- One must follow the Quran and Sunnah while practicing Sufism.
- The Concept of Fanaa (Annihilation of the Self):
- A true seeker must erase their ego to become one with divine love.
- The Role of Sufi Saints in Society:
- Saints are guides who help people connect with Allah.
Teachings and Sufi Philosophy
1. Service to Humanity (Khidmat-e-Khalq)
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh believed that serving others is the highest form of worship. His Khanqah (spiritual center) was open to everyone, offering:
- Food for the hungry (Langar)
- Shelter for the needy
- Spiritual guidance for seekers
2. Love and Tolerance
He promoted interfaith harmony, welcoming people from different religions. He taught that:
- True faith is in the heart, not just rituals.
- One must love and respect all of Allah’s creation.
3. The Power of Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh emphasized the importance of continuous remembrance (Dhikr) through:
- Recitation of Allah’s names
- Deep meditation and reflection
4. The Path of Self-Purification
He taught that a Sufi must:
- Control their desires (Nafs)
- Practice humility and patience
- Dedicate their life to seeking divine closeness
Miracles (Karamat) of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh
- Feeding Thousands Miraculously
- His Langar (free kitchen) fed countless people daily, and the food never ran out.
- Healing the Sick and Needy
- Many who came to him in distress were cured through his prayers.
- His Presence in Lahore Even After His Passing
- People report feeling his spiritual presence at his shrine, even today.
Demise and Legacy
1. Passing Away (Urs Mubarak)
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh passed away in 1077 CE in Lahore. His Urs (anniversary of his passing) is celebrated every year at his shrine, where millions gather for blessings.
2. Shrine of Data Darbar in Lahore
His mausoleum (Data Darbar) is one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia, visited by:
- Devotees from all religions
- Sufi scholars and spiritual seekers
3. Influence on Sufism
His teachings inspired countless Sufi saints, including:
- Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (Ajmer, India)
- Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar (Pakpattan, Pakistan)
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti famously said:
“Data Ganj Bakhsh is a treasure for seekers of divine knowledge. His shrine is a source of spiritual light.”
Conclusion
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh was not just a Sufi scholar but a spiritual luminary whose teachings continue to guide millions. His message of love, humility, and service to humanity remains relevant today.
His life teaches us that:
- True spirituality lies in serving others.
- Knowledge must be combined with love and action.
- Divine wisdom is available to those who sincerely seek it.
May Allah bless his soul and grant us the ability to follow his teachings of love, service, and devotion. Ameen.